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.
--- SBBSecho 3.01-Win32
* Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - wx1der.dyndns.org (57:57/10)
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