Questions about the MT-AIO
Noah,
All good questions. I will be adding a FAQ to the manual ( the product has only been out for a day or so, so I am not sure what questions will be frequent yet!) Good call on the dimensions. Will advise. The power output is not under software control, so the trimmer pot is the only way to control the output power ( well, actually lowering the supply voltage will result in lower power too)
The primary purpose for the MT-AIO was for portable operations, like SAR use, or as part of a bail-out kit. SAR people get wet a lot, and having the switch in a water-tight, tamper-proof container was an element of the design criteria. I can see how this would not be optimal for flying. It would not be hard to add a couple of external switches to switch DC and RF power if necessary. Personally, I believe that 8 watts airborne is not too much, and on the ground, its just enough.
This version of the MT-AIO requires that you unplug the GPS connector while programming the unit. The GPS stays on the board while you do this. Of course, our intention is that this unit is going to be factory programmed with your data. Many hams are afraid of computers-no one knows why....You can also plug the chip into another TinyTrack/Micro-Trak device for programming if you want to tweak your program parameters.
The GPS, once it initially synchs up with the sky, is remarkably liberal about reacquiring signals. It works fine sitting on the desk in my office in almost any position. The newer gen Siirf Star 3 chip GPS sets are amazing.
Best regards,
Allen
VHS