What it means on the air: SSTV is slow-scan television: amateur image transmission using audio-frequency tones within a voice-channel-width signal, commonly on HF and VHF.
Why operators use it
Modes such as Martin and Scottie use different line timing and color encoding. One image can occupy a transmitter for many seconds, creating a substantial duty cycle.
Where the contact goes wrong
Sending copyrighted, prohibited, unidentified, or needlessly repeated images is still subject to amateur rules, and excessive audio drive distorts color and sync.
A cleaner operating method
Choose the accepted frequency and exact SSTV mode, identify properly, set clean audio and reduced power, monitor the channel, transmit an appropriate image once, and confirm reception.
Operating boundary
Use current software and radio documentation, published band plans, applicable licensing rules, and the lowest power that closes the path. A decode, map position, or automated exchange does not by itself prove end-to-end communication.
