Amateur radio (HAM)

After a post I made in another thread, it struck me that I never searched the forum to see if amateur radio was something being tested or already used as an alternative form of communication. After searching, I found no ongoing effort to pursue this on the forum. I was curious if there are any other currently licensed operators in the forum and if experimentation using this communication method is something that is acceptable.

We all know at some point there is a very high probability that normal comms (internet, phone, cell, etc.) will either no longer function due to natural events or will be shut down. While it does take some technical knowledge or learning, I think that it may be a valuable resource in the not-to-distant future. I tested and received my general license (US) just this last summer for that express purpose- emergency communication. It was actually a fun experience, and many of the people I have met in the process happen to be non-violent preppers (i.e. they do not own guns).

What do all of you think of this? Is it something that should be pursued- especially in light of current events? While it is slow, there are several data modes that can be used to transmit documents and the like. Some of the newest methods even go so far to send video- it is an ever-evolving field for those that are interested.

QuantumLogic said:

After a post I made in another thread, it struck me that I never searched the forum to see if amateur radio was something being tested or already used as an alternative form of communication. After searching, I found no ongoing effort to pursue this on the forum. I was curious if there are any other currently licensed operators in the forum and if experimentation using this communication method is something that is acceptable.

We all know at some point there is a very high probability that normal comms (internet, phone, cell, etc.) will either no longer function due to natural events or will be shut down. While it does take some technical knowledge or learning, I think that it may be a valuable resource in the not-to-distant future. I tested and received my general license (US) just this last summer for that express purpose- emergency communication. It was actually a fun experience, and many of the people I have met in the process happen to be non-violent preppers (i.e. they do not own guns).

What do all of you think of this? Is it something that should be pursued- especially in light of current events? While it is slow, there are several data modes that can be used to transmit documents and the like. Some of the newest methods even go so far to send video- it is an ever-evolving field for those that are interested.

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I was actually wondering about this as well. I know there has been discussions about it awhile ago but i cannot remember if there was a conclusion drawn as to wether thos will also be a waste of time. Another was to set up a computer network using old routers.

Well, a separate computer network would require throughput via an ISP. Amateur radio does not require a centralized/controlled system of propagation. Thus, even if an even if an EMP hit, if one had the knowledge and parts to construct a working radio, comms could be established. Many of the old timers rave about the reliability of the older tube radios (which can be built easily).

QuantumLogic said:

Well, a separate computer network would require throughput via an ISP. Amateur radio does not require a centralized/controlled system of propagation. Thus, even if an even if an EMP hit, if one had the knowledge and parts to construct a working radio, comms could be established. Many of the old timers rave about the reliability of the older tube radios (which can be built easily).

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Good idea. Lately I've been working on just such a system. Fully autonomous (battery is charged by a solar panel), a spectrum analyzer / scanner covering more than SW and most modulation methods. Haven't started on the transmitter yet; which band(s) would you recommend? Also, I'm afraid there are no valves (=tubes) :(
.A

20m & 10m are the best since they support comms during the day and night. Most of the other bands are day or night only, which is rather prohibitive. I have found through experimentation that 20m is the best overall frequency- it will provide the strongest signal both day and night as long as the antenna is tuned properly (and I'm only using a multi-band dipole right now- cheap to build with simple wire and formulas).

Great Idea, Quantum Logic.
This is a good option for those who can gather the technology together.
I agree that a couple of frequencies need to be chosen so that day time and night time communications can be established, seeing as members of the forum are scattered across the globe.
I've seen comms established between UK and Australia on as little as five watts, via morse code.
Perhaps you could publish your favoured frequencies, and your call sign, so that other HAMS can contact you (I'm not a HAM) they could then contact local groups within their own countries via other means.
In my opinion, it would not be wise to rely on satellites, or the Internet, as EMP bursts can render them ineffective.
A HF radio system using morse, FSK or SSB might be suitable.
If you, or others, can provide details of suitable antenna systems, amplifiers, decoders/multiplexers, whatever, preferably solar powered, maybe an alternative network could be set up.
They probably already exist.

I was recently thinking along the same lines, I have started an on-line HAM course and am looking forward to passing the test very soon. There are inexpensive HAM radios in Amazon ( _http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss/178-2042092-1228832?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baofeng ) .

It has been proven many times that HAM radio works in emergencies when other communication systems are down.

QuantumLogic said:

We all know at some point there is a very high probability that normal comms (internet, phone, cell, etc.) will either no longer function due to natural events or will be shut down. While it does take some technical knowledge or learning, I think that it may be a valuable resource in the not-to-distant future. I tested and received my general license (US) just this last summer for that express purpose- emergency communication. It was actually a fun experience, and many of the people I have met in the process happen to be non-violent preppers (i.e. they do not own guns).

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Good deal QL - on getting your Gen!

I highly recommend that folks get (at least) their entry Technician Class license to transmit in the HAM bands. The HF bands (3-30MHz) are good for long distance/cross-country/international comms - but more importantly - the VHF/UHF HAM bands are great for low power local comms. HF HAM comms requires a heaftier investment in transceiver/antennas and mobility is difficult. VHF (144-148MHz)/UHF (440-450MHz) gives great mobility for both base/mobile and handheld units. Dual band transceivers offer cross-band repeat functions that greatly increase the local range (see Yeasu 8800 from Japan and Anytone line from China).

I've recently been working with several local groups on general preparedness, and local HAM comms is one element. Lots of folks are now getting their licenses (not just the groups I'm working with). Last Sunday my brother and I did some local tests using the Anytone radios (using one as a cross-band repeater - at high elevation). In this very hilly area (where I'm at), we demonstrated link closure over nearly 100 sq miles - pretty good considering we were using only 5W handhelds.

A very good way to get folks involved is to hold weekly on-air HAM nets where everyone meets to practice protocol and experiment with their own local coverage (and shoot the breeze).

Attached is the No-Nonsense study guide for the Technician class FCC test. At Hamexam.org you can take sample tests that are drawn from the actual test pool. Just keep taking the test until you pass consistently, then go take the real one (cost=$15).

This is a great idea! I've been meaning to look into it for some time. I started to look at the document posted by LQB and the flash cards at hamexam.org are a great way to see what necessary knowledge you may already have and what you need to focus on.

I've also considered that it might be fairly easy to form a network by combining HAM/SW with unlicensed (at least in the US) transceiver equipment such as FRS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Radio_Service and CB http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_band_radio . Not much of any training is required to learn how to use a walkie-talkie, and the equipment is available considerably cheaper than genuine HAM transceiver. Walkie-talkie users could transmit messages over a local range to each other and to a HAM base station, and the HAM operator could relay them to the rest of the world as necessary. Might help to form communities and aid in travel as well as keep up on current events such as bolide impacts in other locations, etc.

meta-agnostic said:

I've also considered that it might be fairly easy to form a network by combining HAM/SW with unlicensed (at least in the US) transceiver equipment such as FRS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Radio_Service and CB http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_band_radio . Not much of any training is required to learn how to use a walkie-talkie, and the equipment is available considerably cheaper than genuine HAM transceiver. Walkie-talkie users could transmit messages over a local range to each other and to a HAM base station, and the HAM operator could relay them to the rest of the world as necessary. Might help to form communities and aid in travel as well as keep up on current events such as bolide impacts in other locations, etc.

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Good concepts m-a, but there are some considerations with regard to FCC rules. In working with local groups, we've been through the trades of using the public/commercial bands that are adjacent to the HAM bands (FRS/MURS/MERS). They are very restricted in terms of power level, application, and cannot host repeaters. Penalties are hefty. That's not to say that they cannot be used in an emergency, but you want something that everyone can train on and learn as you go along. This is why I encourage folks to get their HAM license and join/form a HAM net.

LQB said:

meta-agnostic said:

I've also considered that it might be fairly easy to form a network by combining HAM/SW with unlicensed (at least in the US) transceiver equipment such as FRS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Radio_Service and CB http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_band_radio . Not much of any training is required to learn how to use a walkie-talkie, and the equipment is available considerably cheaper than genuine HAM transceiver. Walkie-talkie users could transmit messages over a local range to each other and to a HAM base station, and the HAM operator could relay them to the rest of the world as necessary. Might help to form communities and aid in travel as well as keep up on current events such as bolide impacts in other locations, etc.

Click to expand...

Good concepts m-a, but there are some considerations with regard to FCC rules. In working with local groups, we've been through the trades of using the public/commercial bands that are adjacent to the HAM bands (FRS/MURS/MERS). They are very restricted in terms of power level, application, and cannot host repeaters. Penalties are hefty. That's not to say that they cannot be used in an emergency, but you want something that everyone can train on and learn as you go along. This is why I encourage folks to get their HAM license and join/form a HAM net.

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That's good to know. I would imagine the applications will be different when training now as opposed to SHTF/post-SHTF. What I had in mind was a network of walkie-talkies, the kind you can buy a pair of at the hardware or electronics store for $50-$100. The HAM operator would have either the same kind of walkie-talkie as everyone else or a slightly more powerful base station model. There wouldn't be any direct link-up between the handheld radios and the HAM but the HAM operator could verbally or manually relay messages from the local network. That doesn't violate any rules, does it?

meta-agnostic said:

LQB said:

meta-agnostic said:

I've also considered that it might be fairly easy to form a network by combining HAM/SW with unlicensed (at least in the US) transceiver equipment such as FRS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Radio_Service and CB http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_band_radio . Not much of any training is required to learn how to use a walkie-talkie, and the equipment is available considerably cheaper than genuine HAM transceiver. Walkie-talkie users could transmit messages over a local range to each other and to a HAM base station, and the HAM operator could relay them to the rest of the world as necessary. Might help to form communities and aid in travel as well as keep up on current events such as bolide impacts in other locations, etc.

Click to expand...

Good concepts m-a, but there are some considerations with regard to FCC rules. In working with local groups, we've been through the trades of using the public/commercial bands that are adjacent to the HAM bands (FRS/MURS/MERS). They are very restricted in terms of power level, application, and cannot host repeaters. Penalties are hefty. That's not to say that they cannot be used in an emergency, but you want something that everyone can train on and learn as you go along. This is why I encourage folks to get their HAM license and join/form a HAM net.

Click to expand...

That's good to know. I would imagine the applications will be different when training now as opposed to SHTF/post-SHTF. What I had in mind was a network of walkie-talkies, the kind you can buy a pair of at the hardware or electronics store for $50-$100. The HAM operator would have either the same kind of walkie-talkie as everyone else or a slightly more powerful base station model. There wouldn't be any direct link-up between the handheld radios and the HAM but the HAM operator could verbally or manually relay messages from the local network. That doesn't violate any rules, does it?

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No, but the range on those handhelds is very poor (1/2 watt).

Compare to something like the Anytone HT 398 dual channel TX/RX over an extremely broad band, 5watts (VHF), and capable of cross-band repeat for a bit over $100. [I was told by another HAM that the Motorola Pro equivalent of this radio (made in Mexico) costs about $7000.]

LQB said:

Compare to something like the Anytone HT 398 dual channel TX/RX over an extremely broad band, 5watts (VHF), and capable of cross-band repeat for a bit over $100. [I was told by another HAM that the Motorola Pro equivalent of this radio (made in Mexico) costs about $7000.]

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Thanks for the recommendation, LQB. I'm looking at different options now. As long as we're talking recommendations (hopefully this isn't noise) my immediate goal is to establish radio communications over some 25 miles between two relatively small urban centers. The area in between is mostly rural although there is a small village about halfway. Is HF reflected off the ionosphere the only realistic option or is there something in VHF/UHF range that might work from a high enough point and/or with a big enough antenna?

meta-agnostic said:

LQB said:

Compare to something like the Anytone HT 398 dual channel TX/RX over an extremely broad band, 5watts (VHF), and capable of cross-band repeat for a bit over $100. [I was told by another HAM that the Motorola Pro equivalent of this radio (made in Mexico) costs about $7000.]

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Thanks for the recommendation, LQB. I'm looking at different options now. As long as we're talking recommendations (hopefully this isn't noise) my immediate goal is to establish radio communications over some 25 miles between two relatively small urban centers. The area in between is mostly rural although there is a small village about halfway. Is HF reflected off the ionosphere the only realistic option or is there something in VHF/UHF range that might work from a high enough point and/or with a big enough antenna?

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This isn't noise m-a and probably good info for a lot of folks that aren't HAMs.

No on HF - that's for much greater distances. Your ap is in the VHF/UHF bands. First look for existing HAM band repeaters in your area - most counties have at least one. Search out the ARRL repeater directory (in the US) and see what you have. These repeaters are usually mounted on high towers with good visibility over long range. I can hit repeaters in surrounding counties giving me range well past 25 mi.

If the grid goes down, then many of these repeaters will go down too - but you can install your own cross-band repeater between the two sites (on a high spot). You can keep it powered with 12V battery and small solar panel. Elevation of your antennas is your greatest ally.

See if you have a local HAM club near you. The best way to meet some of them is to go take the test. They will know more about your terrain limitations.

I agree with LQB's recommendation to find a HAM club near you. Attend a few meetings as a guest. At least one will probably offer to help you get started with testing and maybe even sell or give you an older but still functional radio until you get your own. The Technician class license is extremely restrictive in the HF bands, but at least you can use 2m bands which are where most club's repeaters are. Once you get used to being on the air, then upgrade to General class to get access to the HF bands.

You'd be surprised at how far HAM has come in the last couple decades. The newer radios have a lot of great features, but an older one is perfectly fine as long as it was taken care of properly. My base radio in the house is a Yaesu FT-920, which is almost 20 years old but is solid as a rock and a great tranciever. I definitely can't complain since it allowed me to contact 20 different countries in the first week after gaining my license. So don't think you have to spend a fortune just to get started. Like LQB said, get a used dual or tri-band mobile radio to start with just to get used to what you are doing, then upgrade your license and get a HF base radio later on if finances permit.

IMO, one of the best things you can learn to do is build your own antennas. In a real emergency, you may have to construct one from whatever you can that is lying around. If you find some 14ga wire and some coax, build a multi-band dipole and you're up and running. There are some great videos on Youtube of antenna construction, including the formulas and calculations. I build all of my own antennas and can honestly say I learned a lot more by doing that as opposed to just buying them.