diff --git a/operator.md b/operator.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1f4fedf --- /dev/null +++ b/operator.md @@ -0,0 +1,49 @@ +Hi! + +Many thanks for joining the galmon.eu project as a station operator! + +Here are some things to think about: + + * Please ask bert@hubertnet.nl or [ahu on + IRC](https://webchat.oftc.net/?channels=galileo) or + [@PowerDNS_Bert](https://twitter.com/PowerDNS_Bert) for a station id. + * Please do not randomly pick a station ID!! + * The rule is: one station ID per receiver. Do not under any circumstances + use the same ID on multiple receivers, even if you think it should be + fine. We have 2^64 IDs available, just ask for more IDs + * Even if you think it should be fine to reuse the same ID, for example + because your observer page on galmon.eu will look nicer, DO NOT DO IT. It + messes up our algorithms which track the clock of your receiver. + * You can set --owner and --remark fields, which helps with administration. + These fields will show up on https://galmon.eu/observers.html + * Ublox8 based receivers support GPS/Galileo + BeiDou OR GLONASS. You can't + do all four at the same time. GPS and Galileo share a slot. If you want + to know if you should add BeiDou or GLONASS, you can either use your own + preference or ask us what we are missing in your region. + +Downtime +-------- +The project is grateful for every bit you can provide. Don't feel bad about +downtime either because your family needs the power plug for Christmas +decorations (this happened) or for whatever reason. + +A good way to increase uptime is to use the Systemd file to ensure automatic +startup on reboots. Some stations with bad power, bad hardware or bad cables +have had great success enabling the Raspberry Pi watchdog. + +(need instruction here how to do that for various Raspberries, it differs) + +Upgrades +-------- +From time to time we upgrade the ubxtool receiver software. Old data also +works but typically if you upgrade, the value to the network increases. + +Improving reception +------------------- +A good view of the sky can help tremendously, although as noted, we are +happy with every bit we receive. It helps to put your receiver on a "ground +plate" which is a fancy word for a piece of metal (or mesh even). + +In addition, if you are in a northerly region, your view to the south is +most important. Conversely, if you are in the south, more action will be to +the north.