Amateur (Ham) Radio BS and Callsign Thread!

I have joined the YSF crowd.

Now to learn how to use this thing.

 

Just ask @koditten. He's got the deets.

 

I highly recommend using RTsystems software for programming.

 

Recommendations on a 30a switching power supply? Going to run a 100w HF radio on it. Will go with a linear later but trying to save a little right now with the cost of the radio.

 

Best bang for your buck is at a Hamfest. Astron and Samlex are the good brand names. Avoid cheap shit from China. There is a $30-ish 30a supply on Amazon. It's ok for VHF/UHF but noisy on hf.

 

Yeah, I just missed the Huntsville Hamfest. Ugh

 

Hello,

I thought I’d ask this question here although it doesn’t directly relate to ham.

I am looking for recommendations for GMRS radios that you need a license.

Also what are the main benefits of ham vs GMRS? I’m looking for a better way to communicate while backcountry touring. The basic radios I have so okay but have short range.

TIA

 

Ham has established repeaters all over the U.S. found at repeaterbook.com GMRS has a growing amount of them, but you would need to check your area at mygmrs.com HAM has more uses than just off-road. GMRS not so much. The Technician exam for HAM is easy to earn, and only costs $15. Radios are more expensive though. GMRS $70 with no test.

If you're interested in GMRS FCC Certified radios, I use these from BTECH when on the trail with non HAM's. Or for more range install a mobile unit.

 

What kind of range do you get with that? Yes I’m looking towards more GMRS since my friends will be using that.

Edit oh and do these have mic accessories?

Edit again:they say 2w is the high. Is that the max? I thought 2w you didn’t need a license?

 

Yes, they have hand mics and spare batteries and such. The handhelds work great outside your vehicle, but transmitting from inside the vehicle doesn't work so well. The vehicle reflects your transmitted signal. That's why I mention a mobile unit. With an external antenna, hard mounted or mag mounted, with more power you will get a much longer range. Then use the handheld when stepping out to spot someone.

Midland has better certified radios for mobile here...

 

Here's some others too. Pricing is a bit better / wattage

BTECH Mobile GMRS-50X1 50 Watt GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99MHz (VHF) 400-520.99MHz (UHF))

BTECH Mobile GMRS-50X1 50 Watt GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99MHz (VHF) 400-520.99MHz (UHF))

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RDM9LMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SUbKDb0XSZRGP

 

Well. Why not.

 

Oh hells to the yes!

 

I can't wait to see it installed in the Taco

 

Why is it dressed? Get it naked.

 

This will be a shack rig and probably portable when camping. No way in hell this thing is fitting in the taco without some major modding.

 

She needs a G-String to wear when she comes out. Which I don’t currently have on hand. (Antenna)

 

You should practice safe radioing and...

 

Oh when she gets her g-string (antenna) it’s raw dog city baby.