Hello from Nova Scotia

[RadarOps]

Thanks for all the replies.  That download was a big help.  I think I'll start out with the dongle for $20 and go from there.  Nice and compact and mobile.

Even installed ADSBScope last night and don't have anything owned or hooked up yet. 

[Anmer]

Let us know how you get on.

[IanH]

Personally I think a dongle is a good choice to start. If you do move on to more sophisticated kit later, you could still use the dongle for airband radio - something else you mentioned in your initial post. Take a look at SDR# (http://sdrsharp.com/#download) for that.

And there are ways of using any of the display software with a dongle 

Not a good example of numbers of aircraft but showing dongle connected to BaseStation.

[Attachment deleted by Admin to save file space]

[IanH]

Poor coverage in the screenshot because the antenna is in a downstairs window so the dongle can be connected to the PC.

And that is something you will need to consider - whether you use a dongle or a Puck, they both connect via USB. Ideally the antenna is up high but that means the signal has to get to your PC via a longish cable - there are repeater USB cables that allow longer distances. Something to consider and others may have suggestions. My receivers have ethernet connections so I'm not up to speed on USB receivers.

Ian

[Anmer]

For USB Mode-S receivers (Puck, SBS-1, RadarBox) I was able to connect via WiFi using a Silex SX-DS-3000.  But it doesn't work for DVB-T "dongles".

http://www.silexeurope.com/en/home/products/usb-device-servers/sx-ds-3000wan.html

[RadarOps]

Will the dongle work with the USB / Cat 5 extension cord that you had listed in your review?

[Anmer]

Will the dongle work with the USB / Cat 5 extension cord that you had listed in your review?

I don't know but would think it should.  I sold the extenders so can't test for you.

[Keef]

Hi RadarOps,

A belated welcome from me. I have a friend who lives in Dartmouth and I've visited a few times, it's a nice part of the world.

I use a 10m USB active repeater cable with one of my dongles without any problems, the cable I've got is:

http://www.play.com/stores/Digiflex/listing/973094054

I'm not recommending that particular cable or web shop, but it's the cable I've had installed for 2 years now so I know it works.
I would think an active repeater cable from any reputable supplier would do the job.

Cheers,

Keef.

[RadarOps]

Hi and thanks. 

I must say that this forum is definatley a wealth of info.  Thanks for all the recommendations.  Waiting for payday and ordering myself a dongle and see what we get. 

[birdie]

Hello all on this fine clear chilly morning.

I just wanted to say hello and ask for a bit of help on the decision to buy into this hobby.  What I am looking for is a receiver, antenna and software to be able to plug into my laptop and know what is flying over head as opposed to seeing the contrails and silver shapes.

You can use the suggestions Anmer gave.

But, do NOT ever buy a AirNav RadarBox. The CHIEF THIEF of Airnav will STEAL Data from your RadarBox and SELL it BACK to you. The STOLEN Data is also used to feed www.radarbox24.com.

Can I suggest you change the GBP 100 into pennies - threw them one-by-one into the sea near Nova Scotia - you will hear a "thomp" sound as each coin enters the water.

I have consigned my RadarBox into my Cat's litter bin - for the last 9 months, my Cats refused to piss or pooh onto the RadarBox.

( Oppss ... someone is going to flame me again ! Run and hide ... LOL )

[RadarOps]

Wooooo  everything is finally here.  Got a puck and an outdoor antenna.  I guess next will the questions on setting up the Basestation software. 

[Anmer]

I guess next will the questions on setting up the Basestation software. 

Check out the Guides section:

http://radarspotting.com/forum/index.php?action=tpmod;dl=item5