MacProp is a specialized forecasting software designed for Macintosh users to predict propagation patterns.
One of the key features of MacProp is its ability to calculate the Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) for propagation between your location and over 2500 points across the entire globe. This information is displayed on a convenient map which allows you to visualize and analyze the radio wave propagation conditions in real-time.
To get the most out of MacProp, it's important to set up your Preferences from the Edit menu. This involves entering your geographic location (EAST longitude and NORTH latitude), as well as your offset from UTC and the current Sunspot Number (SSN) or Solar Flux. This information is then stored in a file in your Preferences folder.
MacProp also uses an algorithm to convert the Solar Flux to the SSN. So, if you don't have the SSN, you can still use the Solar Flux to get an accurate estimation of the MUF.
Updating your display is easy with MacProp. Simply select Update from the menu, and the MUFs will be re-calculated and updated on the display. Please note that this process is computationally-intensive and may take longer on devices with lower processing power.
One of the most useful features of MacProp is the ability to find the MUF to any area of the world by moving the cursor around the map. The display at the top of the screen shows the time of the last MUF calculation (in UTC), the Sunspot Number entered in the Preferences, and the coordinates of the cursor above the map along with the MUF and FOT at that location. Each location on the map is shaded based on its MUF, with darker shading indicating higher frequencies.
Finally, it's worth noting that Mac Prop's MUF represents the maximum frequency that the application can use. However, users can also take advantage of FOT (Frequency of Optimum Traffic), which is usually about 85% of the MUF.
In terms of system requirements, MacProp requires a color monitor capable of at least 640 by 480 resolution. It should also be noted that MacProp runs on Mac OS Classic only.
In summary, MacProp is a must-have tool for amateur radio enthusiasts looking to track radio wave propagation conditions in real-time. With its powerful capabilities and user-friendly interface, it's easy to see why MacProp is a favorite among users worldwide.
Version 2.5.1: N/A