At LST Tech, we pride ourselves on having a team of dedicated and innovative professionals who push the boundaries of technology. One such individual is Tommy Walls, whose recent project showcases his exceptional technical skills and creativity.
Tommy Walls recently tackled a challenging project that involved adding an internet remote control to an antenna rotator. The project was driven by the need to rotate a hexbeam antenna from a remote operating position 200 miles away. The existing RCA VH226E rotator and controller did not offer wireless connectivity, presenting a significant challenge.
Tommy’s solution was both ingenious and practical. He utilized an inexpensive infrared Wi-Fi hub to bridge the gap between the rotator controller and the internet. By training the hub to send compatible pulses of light from its infrared emitter, Tommy was able to control the rotator remotely using the Tuya app on his smartphone. This app allowed him to send commands to the Wi-Fi hub, which in turn controlled the rotator via infrared signals.
Tommy also installed two internet-linked video cameras at the remote site to ensure the system was functioning correctly. This setup allowed him to monitor the rotator and controller in real-time. Additionally, he found a way to turn the VH226E controller on and off remotely by using a Kasa Smart internet-controlled AC outlet, further enhancing the system’s functionality.
We shared Tommy’s work on LST Live, our weekly company-wide call. “I was excited to see the article get published. Thanks for the kind words; you made me smile with pride and joy. I hope the article inspires other Hams to think outside the box. I have already been helping other Hams set up their rotators. It is a pleasure to have them say, ‘It works, and thanks for this setup,'” Tommy said.
Tommy’s background in Ham radio has been instrumental in his success. In 1994, he engineered and installed all of China’s CAAC air-to-ground radio systems while working for AT&T Government Solutions, Bell Labs. Before his involvement, the CAAC had minimal communication capabilities with planes, often relying on a single radio in a tower. Remarkably, all installations were completed without site surveys, with Tommy handling most of the physical work and engineering on site. This extensive project involved eleven systems installed in just 40 days.
Tommy encourages others to become Hams, noting, “It is interesting to hear and talk to other Hams from various careers, professions, and countries. It is a very diverse hobby and open to all who can pass the tests.”
Tommy’s innovative approach solved the immediate problem and demonstrated his ability to think outside the box and leverage available technology to create effective solutions. His work exemplifies the expertise and dedication that LST Tech values in its employees.
We are proud to have Tommy Walls on our team and look forward to seeing more of his groundbreaking work.
