Need help?Do you have a question about the DXPatrol QO-100 and is the answer not in the manual?
List of required components for connecting the ground station.
Step-by-step instructions for connecting cables and power.
How to turn on the device and view the initial splash screen and status.
How to scroll through various menu screens like Welcome, Satellite Input, Information, GPS, and System Info.
Understanding the LOCK indications and conditions for starting satellite use.
Details on activating TX mode, power output, SWR, and alarms.
How to adjust the input and RX gain levels for maximum versatility.
Information on adjusting power and SWR meter levels with proper equipment.
Visual inspection of internal components like the power amplifier and main board.
The DX-Patrol QO-100 Ground Station is an integrated, all-in-one device designed for easy operation with the QO-100 geostationary amateur radio satellite. It functions as a complete ground station, handling both reception and transmission for satellite communications. The device is housed in a compact, teal-colored metal case with two tilt feet on the front for convenient access and viewing.
At its core, the QO-100 Ground Station acts as a linear up and down converter for both transmit (TX) and receive (RX) operations. It takes an intermediate frequency (IF) signal, typically from a UHF SSB radio, and converts it to the appropriate satellite frequencies for transmission, and vice-versa for reception. The device incorporates a 10W power amplifier for transmission, ensuring a strong signal to the satellite.
A key feature is its internal 10MHz reference, which is locked to a GPS signal, providing high frequency stability essential for satellite communication. The system includes a double-balanced mixer (ADE-35+) for efficient frequency conversion. For transmission, it utilizes a VOX (Voice Operated Switch) PTT system, automatically switching between RX and TX modes when an RF signal is detected from the connected radio, eliminating the need for a separate PTT cable or switch.
The device also integrates various monitoring and protection features. It provides indications for satellite signal strength, output power in Watts and a bar graph, and SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) with both a bar graph and ratio display. Thermal protection is built-in, activating if the internal temperature exceeds 60°C, and SWR protection engages if the SWR ratio exceeds 1:3. High voltage input protection is also included.
Operating the QO-100 Ground Station is designed to be straightforward. The front panel features an OLED screen for displaying operational information and a menu button for navigation. To power on the device, a switch on the right side of the front panel is used. Upon startup, a splash screen with the DXPatrol logo appears, followed by the main operational display.
The main display typically shows the current mode (RX), power and SWR readings (initially 0.0 PWR 0.0 SWR), the UTC clock, and a "Wait" indicator. The "Wait" indicator flashes while the internal oven-controlled crystal oscillator (OCXO) warms up, which can take a few minutes, ensuring frequency stability. The UTC clock becomes visible once GPS satellites are in range.
The menu button allows users to scroll through various information pages. These include:
Once both the PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) and GPS indicators show "Lock" on the screen, the station is ready for operation. For reception, the device is designed to work effectively with various dish sizes, even small ones (e.g., 30cm), when paired with the included modified DXPatrol LNB. For transmission, a minimum 60cm dish and an efficient antenna feed (like a Helix or Patch antenna) with low-loss, short coaxial cables are recommended for a clear signal.
Transmission is initiated automatically by the VOX system when an RF signal (as low as 250mW) is detected from the connected UHF SSB radio. The display will show "TX" mode, along with the output power in Watts and a bar graph. If reflected power is detected, the SWR bar and ratio will be displayed. An alarm will activate if the SWR exceeds 1:3, and a "High SWR" warning will be shown. To clear SWR or temperature alarms, the menu button can be pressed.
The QO-100 Ground Station offers some internal adjustment capabilities for fine-tuning, though these are generally factory-set and not intended for regular user modification without specialized equipment.
The device's rear panel provides clear connections for DC power, IF input, TX Out, LNB cables (LO UP to LNB's input LO, and SIG IN to LNB'S SIG), and the GPS antenna. A critical warning is provided: Never make connections with the Ground Station ON, as the LNB cables carry 12V Phantom Power, and a short-circuit can damage the device. The GPS antenna should be placed outdoors with clear visibility to the sky, and while waterproof, it's recommended to protect it from rain with a plastic bag.
The internal design includes a 12V to 28V converter and a top board housing the RF components. For advanced users, the F6 connector on the PCB board can be used for PTT switching from the radio, though this requires soldering.
The included parts list specifies a modified DXPatrol LNB and a DXPatrol GPS + Glonass antenna, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with the ground station.
General| Input Connector | N-type female |
|---|---|
| Output Connector | SMA female |
| Power Supply | 12V DC |
| Input Voltage | 12V DC |
| Connector Type | N-type, SMA |
To Next Page