Slow Scan and Fast Scan TV

SSTV

The Martello Tower Group operate two SSTV repeaters, both using the callsign MB7TV. We cater for traditional analogue SSTV by using MMSSTV in replay mode on 144.500 MHz FM and digital SSTV using EasyPal as a replay on 432.525 MHz FM.

To access the analogue on 2m repeater, transmit a 1750Hz tone burst, wait for the CW ident and then send your picture within ten seconds.  The repeater will recognise the tone burst, store the picture and then re-transmit it.

In early February 2018, all the equipment for MB7TV was stolen from the site in central Clacton-on-Sea.  The kit was replaced and rebuilt by the Martello Tower Group within a couple of weeks and the repeater was relocated to a very secure site, the top of the Martello Tower at Point Clear, Essex. (JO01mt).

On the 22nd December 2019, the PC running MB7TV catastrophically failed and we had to buy a replacement system.  We bought a Dell Optiplex 3050 to replace it and it was put back on air on the 30th December.

Our 70cms replay went live on the 7th June 2020 at around 14:30z.

You can find out more about SSTV by reading the excellent primer by Michael Tondee, W4HIJ by clicking here.

FSTV

The GB3CZ FSTV beacon returned to active service on 13th November 2010 on 2.432GHz.

It is located in JO01ot, grid reference TM218172 and at 80m ASL.

It runs 5 watts ERP, horizontally polarised through an Alford Slot antenna.