Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
from
omegaci
on
September 24, 2005
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I want to get a ham license and buy ham radios for my
family and a few friends so that we may communicate in
an emergency. They too will get basic ham licenses.
I want
to know if anyone can recommend some basic equipment
for this task. This means it doesn't have to be very fancy,
as we will only use it in an emergency. I have a place
where I can setup up a large antenna with power and
even a back up generator.
I imagine individuals carrying
handhelds or mobile units and there being one mobile rig
with an antenna and as much power as needed. Which
bands (2m, 6m, etc) would be ideal for this task? And
given the band what kind of range can one expect from a
5-watt HT?
While I am in a technical field, the acronyms here and
elsewhere are not always obvious so please remember I
am a newbie.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by W8WZ on September 24, 2005
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As you study to get your ham license you will learn more about what can be done on the different Amateur Frequencies and what equiptment will serve your needs.
Focus on getting your ticket, then figure out what gear to get after you learn more about the details of our hobby.
A big factor will be how far you are from the people you want to communicate with. If you are under 50 miles away you will likely be able to use VHF which means that you will only need a Technician license.
If you want to reliabily communicate over 50 miles at any given time you will want to use HF and have at least a General class ticket.
Best Wishes as you enter our hobby!
Carl
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC8WUC on September 24, 2005
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Congratulations on your decision to join the ranks of amateur radio. I think that you will find that amateur radio is not only an enjoyable hobby, but also a rewarding one, especially if you become active in your local amateur club. As the previous poster noted, a 5W HT will get out about 20mi, although under certain circumstances, such as higher elevations with some atmospheric conditions and a clear line of sight, clear skies, your signal could transmit much further. A good mobile unit with 50W or higher (like the Icom 208H or V8000)will put out a very strong signal that will easily transmit 20mi or better. I would recommend getting an HT with both 2m and 70cm, as most emergency operations typically rely on use of repeaters to run nets and are often linked; a mobile capable of crossband repeat would be helpful here. Check out some of the previous articles on eHam that talk about emergency preparedness and "go" kits (emergency radios). CQ also has had a number of articles about assembling an emergency radio kit.
73,
Michael KC8WUC
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N3DRK on September 24, 2005
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This is way past redundancy. First it was "What is the best cw rig" and then it was "What is the best phone rig" and then "Which is the best HF transceiver for Emergency Use" and now "What is the best portable/mobile rig for Emergency Use?
I AM READY TO SCREAM! Give it up with all these stupid topics. How many times is this question going to be asked in all its nuances?
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by K0BG on September 24, 2005
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Keep in mind that handhelds, sans a repeater, have a very limited range. This range can be increased by using SSB, but only a couple of handhelds ever had this mode. Although we have become accustomed to the reliability of amateur repeaters, the true fact is, you need capabilities beyond their use for very obvious reasons. This is why the General class ticket is the minimum when confronted with wide spread emergency situations like Katrina and Rita.
Alan, KØBG
www.k0bg.com
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC8WUC on September 24, 2005
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K0BG:
True, on a large scale disaster requiring mobilization from outside of one's state, such as the recent hurricanes, HF is the way to go, however, on smaller and more localized disasters, such as the events of 9/11, mobile and HT's with local emergency nets worked well. Back up power, either battery or generator, should be considered, regardless of the frequency or mode of communication in the event that normal means of communication are broken or disrupted by loss of power.
73,
Michael KC8WUC
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by K8MHZ on September 24, 2005
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"I AM READY TO SCREAM! Give it up with all these stupid topics. How many times is this question going to be asked in all its nuances?"
What is the difference how many times it is asked?
Please note that the responses in favor of HF rigs have increased after Katrina. The answer to this question will change over time. So why not keep current? Also, look at the coverage a 60 year old antenna (NVIS) is now getting.
Indeed, this is a question that can't be asked enough.
73,
Mark K8MHZ
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 24, 2005
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omegaci --
sounds like when you say a basic license you are referring to a Technician No Code since all you are trying to do is communicate between you and a few friends.. the test is super easy to take -- all the answers are published and all you have to do is memorize a few of them...
as for handhelds (HTs) if you don't have use of a repeater then you can get about 5 miles point to point .. the rough rule of thumb is about 0.8 a mile a watt .. so a mobile unit with a good antenna and putting out about 45 watts can go about 30 miles...
Also a Tecnician no code license does not require you learning code (a requirement that the FCC is about to drop after 70 years) but will restrict you in 50 mhz and higher... or in other words .. about a 50 mile radius in transmitting ...
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N3LJS on September 24, 2005
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http://webpages.atlanticbb.net/~n3ljs/jumpbox.htm
This is what I use, planning to upgrade the 10M to a 10 -80M HF rig.
73 N3LJS
Rob
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AA4PB on September 24, 2005
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I beg to differ with these claims to get 5 miles or 20 miles with a 5W, 2 meter HT. It depends very much on your terrain and where exactly your are located and how reliable you need it to be.
You are likely to get 20 miles to a good repeater station. You might sometimes get 5 miles ground to ground, depending on the terrain. It will not be very clear nor will it be very reliable. In my experience (both ham and commercial) you can generally count on getting about 1 to 2 miles reliable, clear communications with two 5W HTs held by two persons standing on the ground. At least thats how it works here in Virginia.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N4ZOU on September 24, 2005
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As we have seen in the latest disasters you can't depend on a repeater to be available. Most all the amateur radio operators that activated immediately after Katrina were using low power battery operated CW only transceivers. These transceivers are small and will operate from common automobile batteries available in abandoned vehicles in the disaster area for many days. Your generator will be a nice addition except for the fact that it will require gasoline or diesel fuel that may not be available for a considerable amount of time as noted in the conditions after Katrina. You should look into building a gasifier as an alternate fuel source for the generator. The fuel for the gasifier is wood or paper, which will be available in great quantities in the form of wood frame members from destroyed houses or in the form of cardboard stacked in compressed blocks behind large retail stores. In addition to your generator and backup gasifier you should have an electric chain saw for processing whatever biomass fuel source you may utilize. You may also convert an older (pre catalytic converter vehicles) truck with it's own attached gasifier so your not stuck on the road with an empty fuel tank as has been seen with the Rita evacuation. Here is the link to the FEMA modern design gasifier.
http://www.gengas.nu/byggbes/index.shtml
This is the simplest to construct and use modern gasifier design and allows multiple biomass fuel sources to be utilized.
All modern gasifier designs are available at this link.
http://www.netl.doe.gov/coal/gasification/description/gasifiers.html
Most of these designs are for commercial plants producing synthetic vapor gas that can be utilized by equipment designed to use Natural Gas.
As a minimum you will need at least a General class license and you will need to become proficient at Morse code. This became an absolute necessity in the aftermath of Katrina.
Don't forget to take a bicycle with you! No one thinks about a bicycle as necessary emergency equipment. A bicycle will allow you to travel many more miles at a much faster pace and carry loads not possible when trying to get out of a bad situation and your vehicle is unusable.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC0BUS on September 24, 2005
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This is one of the many reasons why I hate, no, loathe cellphones! Cellphones are truly useless in an emergency situation. If the cell network doesn't go down from physical forces first, it will when it becomes jambed by every Tom, Dick and Marry trying to use their phones all at the same time. I know I wouldn't trust my life to a cellphone. That's one of the many reason's I have a ham ticket. So if you think your cellphone will get you out of a jam, don't fool yourself. 2 meters FM without a repeater (and in an emergency situation your repeater will be down, period), has a very limited range. If you get 20 miles range, consider yourself lucky (the guy that said 50 miles must live in the desert without any obstructions in every direction and a linear amplifier and a giant beam antenna). 2 meters single-sideband radios will greatly extend your range but are very expensive to buy so you might as well spend the money on an HF rig wich cost the same and has even greater range. Forget 6 meters. It's way too unpredictable. So go ahead and get your General ticket. If not, then get the highest power 2 meter FM rigs you can find, and even better yet, get some high-power 2 meter linear amplifiers and put up the largest 2 meter antennas (preferably beams wherever possible) as high as possible and you should be able to cover your area pretty well.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLBOOSTER on September 24, 2005
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I think you would be well advised to purchase a Heathkit HW-7 rig. This unit is easy to work on and learn about circuitry, as well as very rewarding to operate. You can find them on Ebay or I will sell you one of mine for only $250.00. I also have a fine homebrew power supply made from the power supply from an Apple II E that I will throw in.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N0IU on September 24, 2005
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Just like the other thread on the very same subject, I think there is far too much emphasis on equipment and little to no emphasis on what to do in an emergency. Really, there isn't a whole lot of difference in equipment any more. I happen to like Icom gear and I am sure there are others who will tell you to buy a particular Yaesu or Kenwood rig. The bottom line is that anything will work.
If you really want to help out during an emergency, my advice is to become active in your local EOC (Emergency Operations Center - usually at the county level), ARES or RACES group. Many of these groups also have storm spotting classes given by the local NOAA office. Your local police or sheriff's department may have classes for civilian preparedness in a disaster. If you really want to help, take the three ARRL Certification and Continuing Education (C-CE) Amateur Radio Emergency Communications courses. The URL is http://www.arrl.org/cce/
I can not over emphasize enough that having a great radio/antenna setup is almost totally worthless if you don't know what to do with it when a disaster strikes.
NØIU
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by W6TH on September 24, 2005
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.
from omegaci
I want to get a ham license and buy ham radios for my family and a few friends so that we may communicate in an emergency. They too will get basic ham licenses.
=======================================================
Should you decide to go all out and get your ham ticket, but not so for your friends, then what?
It would be more beneficial to have your ham ticket first and then can decide for your necessities.
( A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush )
Good Luck
.:
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by WR1TX on September 24, 2005
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To omegaci...
Congratulations on wanting to get into our hobby! I think you'll enjoy it and make a lot of new friends in the process!
Now for the equipment: It really doesn't matter what equipemnt you use, for that will all depend on the terrain, the power used, and the intended purpose. But there are many types of equipment that will work nicely for you. Figure out what you might need, and compare size, price, and capabilities. Newer is not always better; some of the older equipment will work just fine!
As far as frequencies to use, I do suggest that you work your way up to General, for your operating capabilities and options will greatly expand as a result. 6 meters, 2 meters, and 440 can be used in a very localized setting if using simplex (non-repeater) frequencies, and using a repeater can help increase your operating range. But it's not a given that repeaters will be available in an emergency, depending on what has happened during such a event.
It is also very important that you learn how to act/react in an emergency communications situation, and there is plenty of material around to help you understand how. Joining an ARES or RACES group is certainly a viable option that you certainly can consider.
Feel free to send me an email if you desire; I was an ARRL EC in my local area several years ago. I can give you some tips if you want them.
PS: To the poster that said he was "ABOUT TO SCREAM":
These questions will always come up, especially among those who are either brand-new to our hobby or are seriously considering it. We must be helpful to them, no matter how many times the questiosn are asked.
It seems to me that you have forgotten the fact that you had to start somewhere in our hobby; we all had to start somewhere. But if you don't like these questions asked by those who ask them, if it's too much for you to see them over and over again, then go to another forum where you won't see them.
We should be part of the solution, and not part of the problem, don't you think?
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N5EAT on September 24, 2005
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N3LJS: I'm not big on emergency/portable setup containers, but I have to say, when I saw the power connections and the FAN in the box, I was impressed.
Now, I have done very little emergency communications, but my novice license training came in very useful. I can suggest a few things. Learn how to make an antenna (any frequency) out of nothing but coax, or coax and wire. The antenna must be resonant. Learn to use CW. Yes, CW. I reported an automobile wreck near Ouray Colorado a few years ago via CW. Someone in IOWA called the local police for me.
Know what the favorite local simplex 2 meter FM frequency is. Also, I can recommend having 2 meter SSB capability. In populated areas, you can generally count upon some ham monitoring 144.200.
You and your friends should have a default emergency simplex frequency to get the ball rolling. Practice driving around and working everyone simplex and remember where the good spots are. The best overall 2 meter antenna is a 1/4 wave vertical mounted on the roof of your vehicle. Know where the "offical" frequencies of the organized emergency amateur activity is. The best piece of equipment you have in an emergency is your brain.
The quality that a good emergency rig must have is reliability. Try not to run your rigs on high power all the time, especially when new. As rigs get smaller and the rf drive trains gets less and less robust, heat will kill these things. You see this problem all the time now.
The best all purpose/all band rig is probably the Yaesu ft-857. It's terrific. Plus, it's sold thousands and thousands of copies, and there are lots of reviews of this radio. The ft-897 is basically the same rig with more open packaging and more options, such as antenna tuner and internal batteries.
I have rigs I like better than my 857, but I use the 857 a lot because it does not require frequent trips to the factory. Most 857's dont requre any trips to the factory. Plus, it's solidly built and doesn't feel like it's going to fall apart if i jiggle it. It's also extremely easy to use.
Last but not least - in a real community emergency - don't be a jerk to those hams who aren't in your clique. I reported a tornado to a local "weather" ham, and got something like "cool". Then the control op went back to taking reports of dark clouds and weird lightning. Also, if someone reports "Earth to Ground" lightning - just say thank you and pretend you know what the reporter meant.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N3DRK on September 24, 2005
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WR1TX said:
" But if you don't like these questions asked by those who ask them, if it's too much for you to see them over and over again, then go to another forum where you won't see them. "
Now there is a bright intellectual statement. Sounds like you even voted for John Kerry. If I make a comment in disagreement then I should go to another forum and not express my opinion? Real thoughtful! Put my head in the sand like an ostrich. Yeah right.
Within the past two weeks this question has been asked four different times with a slight twist. Ok Einstein here is the first paragraph of this topic so read slowly and carefully,,,
"I want to get a ham license and buy ham radios for my family and a few friends so that we may communicate in an emergency. They too will get basic ham licenses."
Now if you believe in the validity of that statement, in all probability you believe in Santa Claus. This newbie wants to get a ham ticket and buy radios for his family and friends! Yeah Right. Is this Donald Trump's Son? Sounds more like a cb'er trolling or eHam conjuring to breathe life into this maxed out forum.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by NB2N on September 24, 2005
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<Most all the amateur radio operators that activated immediately after Katrina were using low power battery operated CW only transceivers.>
<Learn to use CW. Yes, CW. I reported an automobile wreck near Ouray Colorado a few years ago via CW. Someone in IOWA called the local police for me.>
Yes and yes. This point also cannot be emphasized often enough. Pity it is falling on deaf ears nowadays. We justify our legal privileges based on our utility in an emergency. A ham radio operator should know CW. It is not just another mode. It is the fundamental mode and it is easy to attain 5 wpm proficiency. If you want to be maximally effective under adverse conditions, learn code and don't limit yourself to VHF.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 24, 2005
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HF was totally worthless during Katrina and RITA ...
Oh sure it was great for folks talking outside of the area to folks outside of the area .. but for folks inside the affected area they had NOTHING helping them -- so for anyone to tell the guy that he needs a GENERAL thats ridiculous -- get a Technician No Code and a couple of powerful 2 meter rigs ... your not going to get 50 miles but 2m SSB at 200 watts will get you at least a couple 100!!!
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AA4PB on September 24, 2005
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but 2m SSB at 200 watts will get you at least a couple 100!!!
-----------------------------------------------
With a 1/4 wave whip on his car 6-feet off the ground? I think not! If you are going to throw around these optimistic distance claims you need to qualify it with the location and type of antenna. Sure he can work a couple hundred miles on 2M if he has a yagi on a 60 foot tower and a decent location.
I'd also like to see the documented proof that HF was of no use in the recent disasters.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AA4PB on September 24, 2005
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Most all the amateur radio operators that activated immediately after Katrina were using low power battery operated CW only transceivers
---------------------------------------------------
I'd like to see the documentation on that. How much emergency traffic did they handle?
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by WA6BFH on September 24, 2005
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Based simply upon the details of the way you asked the question, I would suggest that you not get an Amateur radio license, at least at this point in time.
Rather, get General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) radios, or possibly MURS (Multiple Use Radio Service). Investigate the origin of these services, and also Ham radio, and make an appropriate choice.
When you want to perhaps “later down the line” consider getting a Ham ticket to engage in all of the aspects of Ham radio (and not one that represents less than one fifth of its activity or reason for existence) then by all means, I would encourage you to become a Ham.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 24, 2005
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WA6BFH
A Tecnician No Code license is much cheaper then a GMRS and will allow him a much wider use of equipment and frequencies ...
your answer was condenscending -- sort of the ol' "one day grasshopper when you become a man you toocan be a ham like us" crappy answer...
dude -- get a Technician No code -- get a 2 meter with 200 watts SSB or better yet -- don't get a license at all and get yourself some good 10 meter radios... lets face it -- with the FCC only having three or four enfrorcement teams for the entire US and them maybe busting only 1 person a year anyway -- I would simply go out ... get some radios .. fire them up ...and say hello to WA6BFH if you ever him him on the air...
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC2OOS on September 24, 2005
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If your primary concern is communicating with your family and friends, I would say that a GMRS radio system would fit the bill. Mind you, I'm talking about *real* land-mobile radios, not the toy radios (i.e. Motorola TalkAbout) they sell at the big box stores. GMRS, for an $80 fee and no examination (license for 5 years), has a power limit of 50W and you can use repeaters, as well. There may even be a GMRS repeater in your area already, or you could put up your own. GMRS is a UHF-band service that will have similar range to the 70cm UHF amateur band, or somewhat less than the 2m band.
Contact a land-mobile radio dealer in your area, and they will be able to steer you in the right direction. I would advise you to select HT's (handheld transceivers) that are capable of running on common AA batteries.
You will probably find that GMRS radios are of much more practical utility, as there is no limitation on topics of "pecuniary interest", so you can use them intrafamily for just about anything, whereas there are more limitations on the sort of traffic allowed in the ham bands. Use your radios, don't just store them away in case of emergency. You'll be much better prepared if you do.
If your tastes run more to longer-distance (say 20+ miles out to 200 miles), and/or helping other people in the event of emergency, read the previous topic on NVIS antennas, learn Morse Code, and get yourself a General Class Amateur license. If you want to talk clear across the continent (or world), there is no substitute for a proper antenna system (which tend to be relatively permanent installations that could easily be damaged in a natural disaster and/or cumbersome to install under emergency conditions...one ham I heard recently in the Katrina area was using a 40 foot ladder as a temporary antenna). Lots of power, on the other hand, is not necessarily a requirement, and Morse Code can make the best of even small amounts of power.
Anyway, you'll want for each person:
5W HT with a replaceable antenna that can run on AA batteries (usually at reduced power)--these are available in many radio services
Backup batteries, antennas, solar-powered charger, and maybe even an extra radio
For each vehicle:
at least a 50W land-mobile radio and antenna
Backup antenna, and if you can manage it, a second, deep-cycle type battery installed in the vehicle on an isolation switch, and another solar charger.
You may also consider setting up a base station and/or repeater system. For your base station, I would recommend using the same type of radio that you use for your mobile installations, which can be used as a backup for your vehicles.
Always remember spare parts for everything in your commications chain. In an emergency, "Two is One, and One is None".
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N0IU on September 24, 2005
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The author writes:
“I want to get a ham license and buy ham radios for my family and a few friends so that we may communicate in an emergency.”
“…we will only use it in an emergency. I have a place where I can setup up a large antenna with power and even a back up generator.”
I have to play the devil’s advocate and ask whether or not ham radio is even the right way to go for this person and his family and friends? He doesn’t appear to be interested in any other aspect of the hobby except to use it in the event of an emergency. Why not just buy a GMRS radio for everyone in your group? They should be good for a couple of miles for local communications. They are fairly inexpensive and easy to use and he won’t be wasting his money for a lot of features he won’t be using anyway. In the event of an emergency when there is a lot of chaos going on all around you, having a simple radio with minimal features might be the best way to go. He goes on to say that he has a place where he can set up a large antenna and a backup generator, but as Katrina and Rita have shown us, you can’t count on being able to use your home, or any building for that matter, as a base of operations. That huge antenna and backup generator are totally worthless if you are forced to evacuate or you home is destroyed by a hurricane, tornado, flood, earthquake or whatever other disaster Mother Nature throws your way.
I know this is heresy to suggest this on a ham radio site, but he might also consider putting a CB in his car and that of his family and friends. EVERY “big rig” truck on the highway has a CB and there are still a number of active REACT groups out there.
Remember, the author never said he was interested in ham radio as a hobby. All he wants to do is be able to communicate with his family and friends in an emergency.
NØIU
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by VA3TR on September 24, 2005
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To start off with, I am not sure of the best rig to get, just that you need lots of options. This past summer I was responsible for emergency communications at a kids camp. I needed a range of 20-50 miles and in some cases the repeater did fine. 2m simplex was a failure for several reasons. 80m CW always seemed to get through. Bottom line, is that you need a rig and an operator with lots of capabilities (HF and VHF / SSB, FM, CW , Digital).
Also wanted to make a couple comments on the posts. I am a new ham back in the game for a couple of years that was originally licensed in ’86, who started as an SWL in’73. I am still amazed at the amount of support that I am getting. Whether it is folks slowing down on HF CW so I can have a QSO or teaching me the digital modes or how to pick the right equipment we seem to be consistently good at helping one another.
For this hobby to work mutual support is critical. Every time someone answers a question like the one in this post, or similar ones, we help to get and keep folks active and by doing that protect our rights and our portions of the spectrum.
BOTTOM LINE: THANKS TO ALL THE HAMS THAT ARE KEEPING THE HOBBY ALIVE BY POSTING THOUGHTFUL AND USEFUL RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS ON THE FORUM!
73
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 24, 2005
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BOTTOM LINE: THANKS TO ALL THE HAMS THAT ARE KEEPING THE HOBBY ALIVE BY POSTING THOUGHTFUL AND USEFUL RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS ON THE FORUM!
Dude -- apparently you don't actually read the crap that 90% of the follks here write -- LOL
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by K4JF on September 24, 2005
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<Most all the amateur radio operators that activated immediately after Katrina were using low power battery operated CW only transceivers
---------------------------------------------------
I'd like to see the documentation on that. How much emergency traffic did they handle?>
From certain locations, all of it. That's 100%.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by K4JF on September 24, 2005
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Excellent points above. GMRS is probably better for the original poster than ham radio for the reasons stated. As for CB, you can talk to that truck you see, but that is about it. I wouldn't recommend one of them in an emergency. I used them in emergency preparedness back in the 60s and 70s but those days are long gone.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by V73NS on September 24, 2005
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<Most all the amateur radio operators that activated immediately after Katrina were using low power battery operated CW only transceivers>
---------------------------------------------------
<<I'd like to see the documentation on that. How much emergency traffic did they handle?>>
---------------------------------------------------
<<<From certain locations, all of it. That's 100%.>>>
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The no-code folks don't understand CW, they think it's little more than banging rocks together. When power is limited and it needs to be portable and effective... CW is the tool that works.
There are a whole lot more CW QRP'ers than there are FONE because it works better.
CW Traffic Nets are effective.
CW gear is light weight.
SSB at QRP levels doesn't work so good as you're ignored or lost in the noise.
Think digital is the way to go? Hmmm, the 19.2 volt battery of most laptops only last a couple hours and the laptop is "delicate" and adds weight. Sure, toss in an inverter to power the AC power wart. While you're at it, maybe a light and portable desk, a few chair, a DC powered cooler and....
Emergency gear needs to be light, portable, effective and ready for use with minimal hassle. If it doesn't fit in a tote bag you can quickly take with you, without needing to make a second trip the get the rest of your "stuff", it's too much.
One of my CW QRP sets fits rig, key, batteries, dipole, coax, rope and note pad into a surplus ammo can (water tight I might add).
As far as HT's go... well, look at the police and fire guys when there's no power and the repeater is down. Thanks to the high tech trunking systems, they are cut off without even access to a simplex channel. Ham's at least will drift to 52 simplex or simplex on the machine's freq.
If you're an active person and would volunteer for emergency communications you'd be well skilled and geared up for such operations. You'd have several options to power your gear and ready made portable antennas.
If you're John Q Public who just wants some sort of comm gear to call for help (if needed)... then your needs are going to be different. For non-ham friends who live near by then you may look into MURS or GMRS radios.
I applaude all the hams in the states assisting with the recent storms. Countless (and sleepless) hours have been put in by many, ranging from the hurricane watch nets, emergency traffic nets, local clubs in support efforts, individuals, MARS, SATERN, ARES, RACES etc.
These are the skills which Field Day fosters. Many clubs operate QRP at field day to keep the equipment count low and minimize their power needs, making them truely portable. Some are top ten scoring too... thanks to CW.
Amateur Radio - a fantastic hobby.
73
Neil
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by V73NS on September 24, 2005
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One thing I left out, and most people over look, is power connections.
Different rigs all have different connector for their power. RACES and many ham clubs have adopted the Anderson Powerpole connectors. These are great!
In a mobile or portable installation you can stack a couple extra ones so that besides powering your rig, you'd have open power ports to charge a HT or run a second radio, add in a solar panel etc.
It costs about $2 for a mating set. All my gear has them and I have adaptors so I can plug anything into anything that supplies 13.4 VDC. Make a few that you can access a cigarette lighter, battery clips, lugs, and a "Y". You're ready for anything.
http://www.qsl.net/v73ns/powerpole.html
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by NS6Y_ on September 25, 2005
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And you can get Anderson PowerPole conns at R/C car and plane hobby shops too.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AA4PB on September 25, 2005
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I am well aware of the advantages that CW offers. I use CW myself for QRP and portable operation. I question however how many QRP CW stations paticipated in the emergency communications and how much traffic they handled for the served agencies. No doubt there were a few guys in the area who were able to get on the air with their QRP CW rigs. How many QRP CW rigs were set up in shelters, for example? I expect that vast majority of communications was via 2M FM and HF SSB.
All of the puplicized info I see for ARES, SATERN, and HWN nets show HF SSB and VHF/UHF FM nets. I don't see anyone listing CW nets nor do I see them pushing people to prepare with QRP CW equipment. I've got a list here of 59 gulf coast HF nets operating in the hurricane - all of them SSB. That's probably mostly related to the fact that relativly few hams these days are skilled enough to handle much CW traffic efficiently.
So, if CW was a major contibutor to the emergency communications effort then they need to get their stories published so we'll all know about it.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AA4PB on September 25, 2005
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Here's a copy of an e-ham news story:
All amateurs are requested to keep HF emergency net frequencies clear for Hurricane Rita emergency operations, especially:
3.873 MHz (eves)
3.935 MHz (eves)
7.285 MHz (days)
7.290 MHz (days)
14.325 MHz
I don't see any CW freqs listed.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by NB2N on September 25, 2005
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<How many QRP CW rigs were set up in shelters, for example?>
<I don't see any CW freqs listed. >
These comments make the point obvious. If you are set up in a shelter, then you will have sufficient power for effective SSB - under those conditions you would be a fool to use CW. If the shelter is up, running and powered - people are using the john and getting regular rations - well, then there has been effective management and planning and the local situation is not dire. One would hope and expect that most emergency net traffic from shelters was handled by SSB.
Also, if you are entering an area from the outside, and are set up with your own gas generator, you will also use SSB.
On the other hand, if you are a local victim - in the field in the literal sense, and reliant on your own supply of potable water and portable power, and cannot rely on effective gov't management (gee can't imagine that...), then you want to be able to use CW. If you are fortunate to get a FONE signal through, so much the better, but QRP SSB is not something I'd count on under such conditions. If you're trapped and the water is rising, you want to be heard.
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HF Emergency Rig
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by KA4KOE on September 25, 2005
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Repeat after me.....HF MANPACK, HF MANPACK.
Look up the Vertex VX-1210. Its an incredible HF rig with an internal antenna tuner that will load a wet noodle in a snap...
If you don't feel like snooping around on google, here's the first link on the list
http://www.rfwiz.com/VertexStandard/Mobiles/VX-1210_InfoDat.htm
Plus you can get it wet.
These radios can be had for under 2K if you look around for a bit. Canadian dealers are cheaper, as they aren't readily available here yet.
Also check out http://www.hfpack.com
Just my 2.23497 cents worth.
PAN
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The DEDs rise from their graves......
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by KA4KOE on September 25, 2005
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I'm like, really bored, dude.
Perhaps I should write another Dead Electrical Dude essay?
What say you, sirrah?
PAN
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RE: HF Emergency Rig
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by KA4KOE on September 25, 2005
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Also check out the Vertex System 600 HF base rig. As simple as it gets...
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RE: The DEDs rise from their graves......
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by AD5TD on September 25, 2005
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<<RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency Reply
by N3DRK on September 24, 2005 Mail this to a friend!
This is way past redundancy. First it was "What is the best cw rig" and then it was "What is the best phone rig" and then "Which is the best HF transceiver for Emergency Use" and now "What is the best portable/mobile rig for Emergency Use?
I AM READY TO SCREAM! Give it up with all these stupid topics. How many times is this question going to be asked in all its nuances?>>
It's people like you that discourage others from getting into AR. This guy is NOT a ham and was asking a valid question. If you don't like it DON'T READ OR RESPOND! I personally will answer ANY question that others have in the hopes of encouraging them to get into our SERVICE.
Yes your entitled to your opinion, but, if you opinion is not constructive or doesn't contributes to the discussion, I would suggest you keep it to yourself.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by AD5TD on September 25, 2005
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<<RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency Reply
by N0IU on September 24, 2005 Mail this to a friend!
The author writes:
“I want to get a ham license and buy ham radios for my family and a few friends so that we may communicate in an emergency.”
“…we will only use it in an emergency. I have a place where I can setup up a large antenna with power and even a back up generator.”
I have to play the devil’s advocate and ask whether or not ham radio is even the right way to go for this person and his family and friends? He doesn’t appear to be interested in any other aspect of the hobby except to use it in the event of an emergency. Why not just buy a GMRS radio for everyone in your group?
<snip>
Remember, the author never said he was interested in ham radio as a hobby. All he wants to do is be able to communicate with his family and friends in an emergency.
NØIU >>
This is a VERY good suggestion! Most people (Hams not included) don't know that you can run 50 watts and (I think) repeaters on GMRS, all with a simple no test licence (and $75). You can run handhelds up to 5 watts and mobiles at 50 watts. Basically, you can do the same as any 70cm rig. If all he is interested in is EMCOMMs among his friends and family, this would be much better than everyone getting their ticket (unlikely).
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC2OOS on September 25, 2005
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I just want to say thanks to KA4KOE for pointing me to the HFPack site, and pointing out the Vertex Standard VX-1210. That has led me to other commercial land-mobile gear that works on the ham bands as well, and opened up a whole new world of ideas! I really hadn't thought about applying the same ideas I've learned in my ham studies to other radio services, but now I'm thinking about it more. I've also been looking at some of the marine gear out there thanks to these last few discussions (like the Icom IC-M802) that can adapted to ham use.
Now, for the rest of the day, I'll be working on my homebrew modified W3FF Buddipole...
Thanks,
Michael
HA-KC2OOS & ZA-WPWN327
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by WA6BFH on September 25, 2005
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It is evident, oft times painfully so that Hams do not know the history and origins of all and any of the available radio services. In the last 18 years or so this is also true of Amateur radio.
I’m glad some liked N0IU’s suggestion, but read up a bit higher in the thread!
All radio users should seek (I would hope as a matter of personal pride) to correctly use the radio services for which they are licensed. I always enjoy comments such as:
1) I was a good CB’er with a license KMX1111 etc. I never ran more than the legal power limit, and was always kind and courteous when I QSO’ed with local CB’ers, or DX.
2) Yes, I use MURS. I have a 110 Watt MoComm 70 that a friend crystalled up for me on Blue and White. I use a 9 dB Phelps Dodge Station Master antenna at 90 feet.
3) Been on GMRS since the day it first started in 1983!
4) Recently got my Ham license, when I heard about this radio service that was dedicated to Contesting, working DX, and emergency communication. It is nice to finally be a part of a radio service that exists for the common man. Me and my buddies get together over a few cold ones often to discuss future contests, how 20 has been doing, or some new reflective vests for the ARES unit!
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RE: The DEDs rise from their graves......
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by N3DRK on September 25, 2005
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AD5TD said:
"It's people like you that discourage others from getting into AR."
You have no idea what you are talking about. You are basing your opinion on your personal ideal what an elmer should be. Yes you are correct. You should have listened to your grandfather many years ago.
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RE: The DEDs rise from their graves......
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by K4JF on September 25, 2005
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<I always enjoy comments such as:
1) I was a good CB’er with a license KMX1111 etc. I never ran more than the legal power limit, and was always kind and courteous when I QSO’ed with local CB’ers, or DX.>
Yep, me, too. I suppose it is because the statute of limitations has run out, that we feel safe to say such!
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by NG1I on September 25, 2005
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Congrats on having the interest to get into ham radio. Good luck to you!!!!
Unlike most posted, "That's all I have to say about that"
Frank
NG1I
http://webpages.charter.net
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by W9OY on September 25, 2005
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you could aim a some old C band microwave dished at each other and use 802.11b wifi and use skype to talk to each other. If it's really far you could run 1500W and bounce your 802.11b off the moon.
Or you could get some really long string and a couple of tin cans....
Or you could just buy some cellphones and in an emergency you could just go park under the cell tower and have your family do the same. You will own the cell tower.
When hurricane Jean hit me I used a battery powered elecraft k-1 on CW to work the world over the 24 hours when the hurricane was hitting, until my antenna fell down. When I wanted to talk to my wife and kids who evacuated to Charleston, I parked under a cell tower.
72 err 73
W9OY
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 25, 2005
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or you could just buy yourself a couple of cellphones and if that goes out have acouple of 10 meter radios handy -- I mean -- 10meters is all you need and youre never going to get caught using them without a license since the FCC NEVER catches anyone unless they actually turn themselves in ....
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First, you need a light bar and a push bumper
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by KF6IIU on September 25, 2005
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Like these guys:
http://www.jars.net/vehicles_with_antennas.htm
The are obviously big time professionals.
Forget about working with your local ARES or RACES chapter; when you show up by yourself with that light bar and push bumper, they'll know you can handle it!
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC5SAS on September 25, 2005
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If you are planning on talking with friends or family only during emergencies I'd recommend getting a GMRS license. Get some good High power mobiles and find a local GMRS repeater you can use and you are in business.
Good luck.
Steve
Iberville Parish RACES,
SouthEast Louisiana REACT
future No Code General
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by G1OXD on September 26, 2005
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A very sensible question and yet so many people have to be rude and childish with the answers they provide. Honestly not all amateurs are like this I promise!
I wish you all the luck in the world, take the exams and progress with this fun past time. Your requirements may be local currently but perhaps when family move further away from each other as they grow up you could have the fun of communicating with HF etc.
When I first got my licence I started with a Trio (Kenwood) portable capable of around 4 watts of power. Using this through the local repeaters was fun and allowed us to communicate well. For personal emergencies this is great, however if the area is effected its possible repeaters may be either out of operation or taken over for emergency communications.
Perhaps you could define emergency and then a more targetted answer could be provided.
Best regards
Simon (G1OXD)
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by ARRLFAN on September 26, 2005
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Isn't it funny that we say that we ned to get more folks into Ham radio but the moment that someone asks anything we push them away and tell them to get a GMRS??
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N0IU on September 26, 2005
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Yes, a number of us told him to get GMRS radios because that is the most appropriate type of radio for this person. Scroll all the way up to the top and read the part where he says, "...we will only use it in an emergency." He never says he is the least bit interested in becoming a ham for any other reason than to communicate with his family and friends. He is somehow under the impression that a 'ham radio' will allow him to maintain communications with his family and friends. Obviously he does not know what the capabilities of the different types radios are and we are giving him a better alternative. So what if he does get a license? He probably won't use it.
Ham radio is simply not the answer to every situation.
NØIU
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC2OOS on September 26, 2005
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I would like to re-emphasize that for the questioner, it is likely that GMRS can provide utility that ham radio is *incapable* of providing, namely that business matters can be discussed with family and (licensed) friends over GMRS, but is verboten on the Amateur Service.
For instance, this past weekend my wife and I used our GMRS radios to coordinate our activities related to our annual town-wide yard sale. This would have been inappropriate to do using our Amateur Radio gear (that is, assuming that my wife had her ticket--a matter I am still trying to convice her on), as we had a direct pecuniary interest in the matters we discussed on-air.
For someone who is primarily interested in intra-family communications, GMRS is simply more appropriate. I would still encourage the questioner to sit for the Amateur examinations, but not for the reasons stated by him.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by XE1UFO on September 26, 2005
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Hey: Welcome to ham radio! But please give us a name or nickname or something?
You might consider thinking of your emergency comms setup as a complete system. You need:
1. Your ham radio license (Go for it! You can do it!)
2. The radio(s) proper, with microphone and/or CW key.
3. Source of power. (If this is a gel-cell or other type of battery, some way to recharge it when no a/c power is available, such as a solar panel, from your vehicle's cigarrette lighter, etc.)
4. Some kind of antenna system, which includes:
a. The support (such as, for example, a 20-foot telescoping crappie pole)
b. Ground or counterpoise system.
c. The antenna proper (wire, dipole, half-wave, BuddiPole, etc.)
My complete emergency station (we hams usually call this a "Go Kit") is completely self-contained in a small canvas laptop case (except for the 20-foot crappie pole, of course!), and is very portable. I operated 7 hours continuous last year at the Boy Scouts' camp for their Jamboree, with no a/c electrical power of any kind. I still had good voltage in the battery, when I had to shut down.
Check out my post here for some more ideas:
http://www.eham.net/articles/8545
Hope this helps!
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC8VWM on September 26, 2005
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"For someone who is primarily interested in intra-family communications, GMRS is simply more appropriate."
...Agreed.
We can also take the following into consideration:
Sec. 97.113 Prohibited transmissions.
(a) No amateur station shall transmit:
(5) Communications, on a regular basis, which could reasonably be furnished alternatively through other radio services.
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KD5JZN on September 26, 2005
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First decide on what your opetating area will be in an emergency, i.e. what your estimated ranges will be. Sencond, figure what your power options will be, ac/dc. Third, see what your finances will allow. A good u/v mobile with cross-band capabillities can be invaluable , especially when used in conjunction with dual band HT's. Try to find a TMV7A for mobile, because of its features you can use it mobile or as a base with a power supply.A good Ht that I would reccomend is the IC-T7 dual bander.It isnt a battery hog like some of the other large HT's, is rugged and there are alot of them around so you can find plenty of accessories. If you plan on purchasing only a HT, I'd suggest some high capacity battery packs,battery elliminator , dc cable, and probably a drop in charger. If you are looking for a Hf mobile try an IC-706 MK2G or something comperable with a decent antenna. 73 Kd5jzn
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KE4SKY on September 26, 2005
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Several of us a in Virginia RACES have gotten GMRS licenses to enable us to inter-operate with CERT and REACT units which use FRS and GMRS.
It has been the consistent policy of the FCC for quite some time to enable GMRS licensed stations to communicate with FRS users on the GMRS interstitial simplex channels 1 through 7. At one time I believe PRSG was incorrectly interpreting the rules otherwise and the ARRL specifically taught this point incorrectly in their Emergency Communications courses until they corrected the error about one year ago.
It took three separate confirmations from FCC officials before the ARRL would admit their error, and even then they claimed the FCC had changed its
mind (although no one could point to a single tangible piece of informatio showing the FCC had ever said anything different.)
Here is the official clarification...
----- Original Message -----
> Before the
> FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
> Washington, D. C. 20554
>
> In the Matter of WT Docket No. 95-102) RM-8499
> Amendment of Part 95 of the Commission's Rules
> MEMORANDUM OPINION AND ORDER
>
> Adopted: October 30, 1998 Released: November 9, 1998
>
> By the Commission:
>
> [...]
>
> 25. We agree it is very likely that GMRS stations and FRS units, when they hear each other, will communicate with each other. We also believe that allowing GMRS stations and FRS units to exchange
messages on the seven channels they share, particularly in emergency situations, furthers our goals of maximizing efficient use of the radio spectrum and promoting public safety. However, we find it unnecessary to amend the rules as Trahos suggests. The rules to which Trahos cites as prohibiting GMRS stations from communicating with FRS units do not apply to the classes of GMRS land stations that are authorized to transmit on channels that are shared with FRS units. GMRS stations, which are authorized by rule to share the 462 MHz interstitial channels with FRS units, are mobile stations and small base stations transmitting voice type emissions with relatively low power. Typically, these stations are transmitting the same type of communications as FRS units. The rules already permit
GMRS station operators to transmit the same messages as FRS units and GMRS stations are not prohibited from communicating with FRS units. Nevertheless, we clarify, that GMRS and FRS units operating
on the same frequencies may communicate with each other if the individual operators so choose.
>
> - - - -
Except for a GMRS system licensed to a non-individual, a mobile station or a small base station operating in the simplex mode may transmit on
the following 462 MHz interstitial channels:
462.5625
462.5875
462.6125
462.6375
462.6625
462.6875
and 462.7125.
These channels may be used only under the following conditions:
(1) Only voice type emissions may be transmitted;
(2) The station does not transmit one-way pages; and
(3) The station transmits with no more than 5 watts ERP.
>
> FYI = here are the 14 frequencies used for FRS:
>
> Channel Frequency in MHz GMRS Shared?
> 1........462.5625........Yes
> 2........462.5875........Yes
> 3........462.6125........Yes
> 4........462.6375........Yes
> 5........462.6625........Yes
> 6........462.6875........Yes
> 7........462.7125........Yes
> 8........467.5625 .......No
> 9........467.5875........No
> 10.......467.6125........No
> 11.......467.6375........No
> 12.......467.6625........No
> 13.......467.6875........No
> 14.......467.7125........No
>
73 de KE4SKY / WQAX587
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N5UV on September 26, 2005
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Congrats on looking to go into ham radio! Rather than fall into the standard "fights" on this board (code vs. no-code, etc.), I recommend the following:
1) Study the test guide, take test, pass it...
2) Buy 2m radios to start, based on what you can afford and where you want to use it. If you plan to walk/hike/camp/whatever, get the handie-talkie (HT) models. But if you want lots of power and range and you drive a lot, get a 50 watt 2m radio for your vehicle, with a decent ant. Handie-talkies are cheaper, but not by much...and their range is pathethic in real-world use, maybe a few miles if you are lucky. 50w rigs are the way to go.
3) Join a local ham club, get involved with your local ARES or RACES group (in the metro-city areas), or with local Skywarn/county storm spotter groups (out in the country)...OR, start your own emerg. comm. group if you are in a really remote place, look for help/advice online from other established groups.
4) Wait for the no-code exam requirement to drop (probably will happen in next year or 2), then up-grade to get on HF for long-distance comms. (if needed).
The odds that you and your friends will need to use HF rigs is low, unless you all live in different states. And despite the noble examples of Morse Code (aka "CW") being used in emerg. situations, knowing code will also not be critical unless you and your friends plan to travel to remote destinations far from civilization, where a lack of power (or licensing restrictions) may force you to use such a mode.
There's my 2 cents...DL
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KB5OZE on September 26, 2005
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As one of the operators in the affected area (Lacombe, La), who activated right after the storm, this is just not true. The evening after the storm, my FT-847, SGC-230 coupler and 50' of wire were on 7.236 talking to WA6TMJ in Illinois on LSB. I passed approximately 30 or 40 messages via voice to him over 2 weeks. I also had local 2 meter repeater coverage (barely). At no time, did I have to use CW. I know some guys did, but it was NOT the only workable mode or the most used.
I agree with Alan (K0GB), the minimum is General class to be able to talk where and when you need to any time day or night. We did use a lot of "no code" techs to man shelters, work with ERVs' and to fill other local communications needs, but we always had a General class available on the repeater to relay out via HF as needed.
Get your ticket, then look at a few different models, compare features, decide what features you "can't live without", then read every review you can and buy whatever radios/antennas make the cut.
Thanks,
Michael Decossas, KB5OZE
Amateur Liaison, SELA American Red Cross
Assistant District Emergency Coordinator
Southeast Louisiana
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by OMEGACI on September 26, 2005
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First let me say how much I appreciate everyone who took the time to respond. Even the wise ass comments.
Second, I am aware of GMRS and I will look into it further as a means of communicating with friends and family during an emergency. It is true I am primarily interested in emergency communications but I am not un-interested in HAM as a hobby. Also, I haven't found as much mateiral or products on GMRS-- seems very focused on business market.
Third, I should have given more specifics about the kinds of communications I am looking for. The area covered would be a radius of 20 miles or less. It is los angeles, which means there are flat areas, buildings, and 4000 foot hills. In an emergency I don't want to rely on someone else's repeater but I can set up my own, on a very sturdy building that has emergency back up generators and fuel to run for a week.
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Some real advice
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by KF6IIU on September 26, 2005
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OK, I apologize for being a smart-ass earlier. Most of us do not view ham radio as a way to serve only our friends and family in the event of an emergency. It's not about gear, it is a way to give back to the community, using our skills and equipment. In the event of a local emergency, many frequencies and repeaters will be "commandeered" my local agencies if the need requires it.
There is a continuum of service possibilities. At the local level, ARES and RACES units can use you even if you have only a HT and a Technician license. You can volunteer with your local clubs or agencies to maintain disaster-resistant repeaters. All the way up to a fully equippped Airmail-Pactor HF station which could cost thousands of dollars.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N0IU on September 26, 2005
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Still playing the devil's advocate --
I do not think it is anyone's intention, especially mine, to steer you away from amateur radio. If nothing else, it is a wonderful multi-faceted hobby that can provide endless hours of enjoyment.
However, you say, "Third, I should have given more specifics about the kinds of communications I am looking for. The area covered would be a radius of 20 miles or less. It is los angeles, which means there are flat areas, buildings, and 4000 foot hills. In an emergency I don't want to rely on someone else's repeater but I can set up my own, on a very sturdy building that has emergency back up generators and fuel to run for a week."
The greatest risk in Los Angeles is not from hurricanes or flooding, but as you well know, it is earthquakes. Although there is no way to get out of the way of a hurricane or tornado, at least there is some warning which gives you time to evacuate. There is no warning when an earthquake hits. As I said earlier, in the event of a catastrophic disaster, you can not count on using any building as a base of operations. And even if this building can withstand an earthquake, all your equipment and backup generators won't do you any good if you are not actually in the building at the time the disaster strikes or if you can not easily get to this building to coordinate communications among your group.
My advice is to develop a plan and then practice it over and over and over again. Most amateur radio emergency communications groups hold nets on a weekly basis to keep their skills sharp and make sure their equipment works. A state of the art portable radio, amateur or GMRS, is no good without a fresh set of fully charged batteries. OK, so you have this communication network established so you can talk to all the people in your group, so then what? Do you have enough water and food for them? Do you have several places to consider for shelter? Are you the only one who will have access to this sturdy building with a generator or will you have to deal with the general public wanting shelter? If this building is open and you have electricity, food and water, you also better be well armed if you only want your family and a select group of friends to have access to your haven. Remember, a disaster of the magnitude that will require some sort of wireless communications will most likely affect a very large population.
I applaud your efforts in wanting to look after the welfare of your family and a few friends, but forgive me for saying this, but it just doesn't appear as if you have thought this through very thoroughly.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KC8VWM on September 26, 2005
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"The evening after the storm, my FT-847, SGC-230 coupler and 50' of wire were on 7.236 talking to WA6TMJ in Illinois on LSB. I passed approximately 30 or 40 messages via voice to him over 2 weeks."
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Well, that clearly and unequivocally settles the entire "which rig" question to use during an emergency now doesn't it?
(...Of course, my opinion may be a little teensy weensy biased as I own one of these rigs.)
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by WR1TX on September 26, 2005
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As you have surely noted, there are many varieties available for communications, not just ham radio. GMRS and FRS can also be used; CB radio might be used in an extremely localized situation, but use that as your absolute last resort.
Regardless of the intent that you have, and regardless of some of the negative posts that you have seen here...I warmly welcome you to ham radio, and I certainly hope that you enjoy our hobby. Keep an open mind, and I think you'll find a wonderful enjoyment that all of us share...no matter the niche that each of has.
Feel free to contact me...anytime.
Warren Rowe / WR1TX
Temple, Texas
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by N3DRK on September 27, 2005
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Let us have the next forum topic as:
"What is the best code key for Emergency Use"?
Another lame topic for this broken forum.
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RE: Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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by KA4KOE on September 28, 2005
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"What is the best code key for Emergency Use"?
Absolutely agree with you 100%.
Let's start discussing it right now just to annoy the "glass half-empty people" like you....
Put my vote in for a Combat Russian Spetsnaz key used with an HF manpack. Waterproof, tiny (2" long), and cool to look at, also straps to your leg.
PAN
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RE: Live and learn from the best...
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by WA6CDE on September 29, 2005
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check out this web site.. has lots of good info...
http://www.nifc.gov/nicc/administrative/nmac/radio_com/radio_rpt.htm
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Portable/Mobile Rig for an Emergency
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