Of course the different modes to be transmitted by the beacon mean that Amateurs will have the opportunity to compare the relative performance of different modes under changing conditions. The transmitter, which covers 160m to 20m, is a converted commercial unit, adapted to Amateur bands. A more intelligent computer controlled DDS VFO with bandswitching is in the development pipeline. The work is being undertaken by ZL1BPU when time permits, although assistance and donations toward the project have been made, and more would be very welcome. Power level switching is practical with the new keyer.
Further suggestions are welcome.
Other modes are possible using a PC keyer. Offers to construct and manage similar beacons in other countries would also be welcome. Grateful thanks to those who have already contributed to the project. The keyer is very versatile, and was designed so that at a later date we can run other experiments using other techniques and modes. As can be seen in the picture above, the keyer also sends telemetry giving data about the transmitter, power supply and antenna.