Subj : Todays New Gear Tip To : All From : Daryl Stout Date : Fri Nov 03 2017 09:32 am QuickStart: Common Profiles You may find it useful to start with one of our four common ham "profiles". Your operating needs could be similar to one of them. Once you choose a profile, fill in the details by reading the VHF/UHF or HF sections that follow for details on the various features and functions. Download the comparison form at: www.arrl.org/choosingaradio/compare to organize your shopping list. Consult local hams to find out what bands are used most commonly. For example, in more sparsely populated areas, the 70 cm band may not be in widespread use. In other areas, another VHF or UHF band - such as 222 MHz - may be in regular use. Emergency Communication (Emcomm) Team Member or Personal Emergency Communications For operation through easily accessible repeaters or over very short ranges, you'll need a VHF/UHF (dual-band) handheld radio with at least 50 memories and 3 to 5 watts of output power. A spare rechargeable battery pack, a pack that holds AA or AAA batteries, an automotive adapter, and a desktop quick-charger are must-have accessories. For operation without repeaters or through distant repeaters while mobile or in remote areas, add a VHF/UHF mobile radio with an output of 25 watts or more and a dual-band quarter-wave mobile whip antenna. Many hams have one of each type of radio. Beginning Home HF Operation HF transceivers with 100 watts of output and a built-in antenna tuner make an excellent entry-level radio. HF radios with VHF and even UHF coverage are available at higher cost. If the radio can't operate directly from ac power you'll need an external dc power supply. A multi-band dipole is an excellent and inexpensive antenna, connected to the radio through coaxial cable or open-wire feed line; the latter will require an external antenna tuner. With some compromise in performance, a multi-band, ground-independent vertical antenna is easy to set up and requires coaxial cable to connect to the radio. To try Morse code, add a straight key or paddle (most radios have a built-in keyer). To operate using digital modes, add a sound card data interface with cables made to connect to your radio. Casual Local or Regional Operating Start with a VHF/UHF mobile radio with an output of 25 watts or more. For mobile operation, add a dual-band quarter-wave mobile whip antenna. At home, a mobile antenna can be used indoors or a dual-band base antenna can be mounted outside, using coaxial cable to connect the radio and antenna. For operation from ac power, a power supply capable of supplying the radio's specified current consumption is required. If you need more portability, add a VHF/UHF handheld as a second radio; it is common (and practical) to have both types of radio. Portable or Mobile Operating - All Bands This type of operation is best supported with an "all-band, all-mode" mobile-sized transceiver that covers the HF and VHF bands, plus the 70 cm band in some models. You'll need two types of antenna; a dual-band quarter-wave mobile whip antenna for 2 meters and 70 cm (there are also tri-band antennas that include 6 meters), and a mobile HF antenna. A permanent or magnetic mount with one or more interchangeable single-band HF whip antenna is a good way to try operating from your vehicle. --- þ Synchronet þ The Thunderbolt BBS - wx1der.dyndns.org .