Portsdown on Raspbian Buster - Limited Release

[G8GKQ]

I have just published the initial version of Portsdown software that runs on Raspbian Buster, the operating system that is replacing Stretch.

There is lots of testing to do and I am only releasing a limited number of capabilities for use as I refine and test each one. The new release is intended to be used with a LimeSDR Mini loaded with custom DVB firmware. The only modes that work at the moment are the H264 DVB-S2 outputs using this custom firmware. Specifically it suupports the new repeater transmission standard of DVB-S2 1MS FEC 2/3 H264 using an EasyCap for video and audio input.

I do not recommend that you use this build on your main transmitter yet. However, I would welcome comments from anybody who has the time to build a second SD Card, load this build, and then test the LimeDVB firmware modes.

I am only going to support a limited subset of hardware with this build, so if you have something that works with Portsdown Stretch, stick with it and don't replace it with this! Specifically, I will not be supporting the LimeSDR USB, or any webcams apart from the Logitech C920.

The software is on GitHub here: https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevi ... own-buster and the released features are described on the Wiki here: https://wiki.batc.org.uk/Portsdown_2020_Buster_Software.

Dave, G8GKQ

[G8GKQ]

Hi

I've just posted a new version of this software. If you had downloaded a previous version, you will need to start again from scratch as the update functionality did not work. My apologies.

For clarification, the LimeSDR USB is the LimeSDR with 10 or so RF leads. The LimeSDR Mini is the small dongle-like version with 2 SMA sockets.

Dave

[F4DVK]

Hi Dave,

With the 7 inch screen, it remains on the image "The Portsdown DATV Transmitter".

When I connect in ssh, I have this message:
* failed to add service - already in use?

Stephane.

[G8GKQ]

Hi Stephane

Thanks for trying it. I have not seen that problem and have a 7 inch screen Portsdown working here. I have not seen that error message before.

What version of Raspbian did you use? Buster Lite?

73

Dave

[F4DVK]

Yes, Buster lite 2019-09-26

[F4DVK]

Sorry Dave, I just understood, I thought this version was compatible with the raspberry PI 4...

[G8GKQ]

Hi Stephane

That would explain it! This build is a stepping stone towards having something that will work on the Raspberry Pi 4, but the existing touchscreen software is not supported on the RPi 4.

Once I have made Portsdown work properly with Buster, I will then start on the Raspberry Pi 4. I have already identified a promising replacement for the old touchscreen software.

Dave

[F4DVK]

Ok Dave,

Thanks for all this work!

Stephane.