| NAVTEX
Hud,
If you're got software that can decode SITOR-FEC, and have a decent reciever (and antenna) for 518khz....then you're home....
No other software is "needed".....
But, I cannot see many doing this.....since those that need NAVTEX weather broadcasts will find the < $500 dedicated receivers are what they'll want.....
However, if you do wish to receive NAVTEX weather, it's pretty easy....
You can read the forecasts and other data, as it's transmitted....
Transmitted continuously (on a set, sequenced schedule) on 518khz.....
Some things that you'll need to make sure of:
1) You know when your area's forecast is transmitted....
OR,
2) You leave the receiver and computer ON and receiving data, and read/record ALL the forecasts.....a VERY POWER HUNGRY approach, in my opinion.....
And,
3) That your computer/software can store these forecasts, so that you don't have "listen" live......
And,
4) You'd not have the advantage of having your receiver "filter out" all weather info for areas outside your location, and provide you with just "your" weather.......
This IS a feature of most (all ???) NAVTEX receivers, and I'm not sure what RTTY/AMTOR/SITOR software (if any) that has this feature......
I'm NOT trying to discourage you, or anybody else, from getting as much weather data/forecasts as they desire/need......
Rather, I'm just pointing out why a dedicated NAVTEX receiver (or a NAVTEX rec built-in to a WeFax unit, such as my Alden Marine FaxIV) may be a much better idea for those wanting NAVTEX weather.....
John
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