History of ASAPS Versions
Listed below are the main versions of ASAPS that have been publically released since 1988, along with information on the major changes made in those versions.
| Version | Release Date | New/Revised Features |
|---|---|---|
| 6.1 | 2012 |
Several customers have reported difficulty saving prediction files when running ASAPS under Windows 7. We suggest they change the ASAPS user directory path to the application data path under their user account directory. For example, under Databases -> Configuration -> User Directory, change "C:\PROGRAM FILES\IPS\ASAPS6" to "C:\Users\yourusername\AppData\" ASAPS dialogues are now centred under the ASAPS application window, rather than the centre of the screen. This will help users running multiple applications on large, high resolution monitors. The input of frequency for surface-wave calculations is now restricted to the range 15 kHz to 50000 kHz. The input of "Required % Days" is now restricted to the practical range 10 to 90%. Improved algorithm for interpolating atmospheric noise model across time blocks. Improved manual entry and saving of 3D antenna gain patterns. The magnetic field model has been updated to IGRF 2011. Improved atmospheric noise model. Other improvements and bug fixes to increase the useability and stability of the program. |
| 6.0 | 2011 |
The option to activate real-time propagation predictions based upon T-index updates accessed from the IPS FTP server. These T-index updates are issued with a cadence of 20 minutes and are estimated from observed ionospheric support during the preceding 1-2 h ours. Digital HF area predictions of dominant mode, frequency of dominant mode, frequency with interference, main interfering mode, multipath interference, basic reception reliability and overall reception reliability. User-selectable digital HF multipath tolerances within the Station Configuration dialogue. Tolerances which can be changed include the signal interference ratio, the delay spread, and the frequency spread. GRAFEX-style predictions of digital HF parameters for base-to-base circuits. Export of area prediction results in KMZ file format for importing as an information layer within Google Earth. Improved base-to-base and area prediction input dialogues including more user selectable regional geographic maps. Up to 200 x 200 grid cells within the user selectable area of interest provides spatial resolution exceeding that required for most area prediction scenarios. New high spatial resolution land mass outlines within the area prediction charts. Great circle paths connecting the Tx and Rx in the base-to-base prediction dialogue. The option to overlay range markers (circles) at preset intervals from the Tx in area prediction charts. The option to overlay the dusk and dawn twilight regions in the area prediction charts. Latest ITU-R recommended method for calculating the total noise by combining atmospheric, galactic and man-made noise levels. Implementation of a faster multi-surface algorithm in the surface-wave prediction module. All the familiar features of ASAPS 5.4, including GRAFEX-style daily prediction plans remain in ASAPS 6.0. Revised HTML User Guide. |
| 5 | 2003 |
ASAPS V5 is a 32-bit application, making it suitable for use on a wider range of Microsoft Operating Systems. A geographical map of the world for use in generating predictions - terminals, circuits and areas of interest can now be selected quickly and easily via "point and click". When running either Field Strength (Point to Point) or Area predictions:
Frequency Set Selection or Test, allowing you to predict the optimum frequency set for the HF circuits you operate, or to assess the suitability of your current frequency sets for those circuits. Surface wave range contour maps for Area predictions. An on-line Tutorial that guides the user through the key features of the program, and how to interpret the output formats. A monthly reminder for the update of ionospheric T indices, with the ability to do this automatically via the web. An option to customise the colour palette for easier interpretation of Area Prediction plots. The ability to view multiple Area Predictions (0 - 3UT, 4 - 7UT, etc) on a single screen. Colour plots of BUF Modes for Area Predictions. Frequency sets may be entered in either MHz or KHz. The ability to delete individual circuits from a prediction file or to delete the complete prediction file, together with all other output files that are linked to the deleted file. The ability to specify the top margin when printing GRAFEX or Field Strength predictions. Installation software available exclusively via CD format |
| 4 | 1998 |
Point to area predictions 3-D antenna gain patterns Printed tutorial |
| 3.2 | 1996 |
Delete predictions added Noise values and other data outputs Batch file mode Text to clipboard Unwanted global change fixed |
| 3.1 | 1996 |
Floating point error fixed when doing a prediction Best Usable Frequency (BUF) reports Include mils in reports when selected |
| 3.0 | 1996 |
All DOS functions now presented in a Windows environment All reports now printable |
| 2.4 | 1995 |
Last release of DOS ASAPS - Version 2.4 |
| 1.0 | 1988 |
Initial release of DOS ASAPS |
