Your Guide to Buying Antennas for Ham Radios
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approves the licenses that grant amatuer radio enthusiasts the legal authority to transmit radio waves for personal use. Non-commercial applications of amatuer radio wave transmission include: organization during emergencies and providing communication channels for people to interact throughout the world. The origination of the term "ham" has been lost over the years, but many amatuer radio enthusiasts believe the term refers to amatuer. While ham radios have advanced technologically, especially since the 1980s, a ham radio’s quality is largely determined by what type of antenna an operator uses to transmit and receive radio signals.
History of Ham Radios
The birth of ham radio is associated with the experimentation performed by inventors at the turn of the 20th century. After the Titanic sank in 1912, the United States Congress passed a law that restricted radio wavelengths to shorter than 200 meters, thus rendering radio transmissions ineffective. The number of amatuer radio enthusiasts in America was estimated to have declined by 88 percent. After new laws loosened the restrictions, the number of ham radio operators began to rise, only to fall again during both World Wars. Amatuer radio operators contributed to the development of automated message systems and packet radio transmissions, which allowed the hobby to become a practical way for people to communicate during and after disasters. In 2006, the FCC eliminated Morse code testing requirements for all American amatuer radio license applicants, which once again increased the number of amatuer radio enthuisasts.
Licensing
Before ham radio operators can begin to configure ham radio antennas, they must become licensed in the country where they operate. Ham radio operators are required to prove their knowledge of key concepts and they must completely understand the laws that apply to ham radio operators. The key concepts and laws vary by country. One of the most important aspects of licensing is to ensure operators understand the regulations that apply in their country of operation. Passing an examination typically qualifies someone to become a licensed ham radio operator, but some governments recognize professional or academic qualifications. For instance, in some countries, someone who has earned an electrical engineering degree may be able to bypass taking an examination. Some countries offer progressive examinations, which allow ham radio operators to attain licenses. Licensed ham radio operators have the requisite knowledge to buy the type of ham radio antenna that meets their geographic parameters and transmission objectives.
Factors for Choosing a Ham Radio Antenna
Choosing a ham radio antenna depends on five factors. The weight given to each factor ultimately determines what antenna an operator may purchase.
Cost
Diamond X30 vs X50
Having a few problems trying to decide between the Diamond X30 and the Diamond X50.
The Diamond X30 quotes a gain of 3db on 2m and 5.5db on 70cm.
The Diamond X50 quotes a gain of 4.5db on 2m and 7.2db on 70cm.
The Diamond X50 is approx £15 more expensive than the X30.
Question:
Is the Diamond X50 worth an extra £15 over the X30, with the approx 1.5db extra on 2m and 70cm?
I'm hoping to mount an antenna on the side of the house (approx 35feet up).
The Diamond X30 quotes a gain of 3db on 2m and 5.5db on 70cm.
The Diamond X50 quotes a gain of 4.5db on 2m and 7.2db on 70cm.
The Diamond X50 is approx £15 more expensive than the X30.
Question:
Is the Diamond X50 worth an extra £15 over the X30, with the approx 1.5db extra on 2m and 70cm?
I'm hoping to mount an antenna on the side of the house (approx 35feet up).
Vertex eVerge EVX-539 | Vertex eVerge EVX-534
Vertex EVX-539 Radio UHF Full Keypad [AC115U004-VX]
Vertex Standard eVerge EVX-539 Portable Radio Review
EVX-539 Radio with Display and Full Keypad
- 9 Programmable Keys
- Enhanced privacy
- IP Rating IP 57 (Water Proof)
- UHF (403-470 Mhz) - Ideal for Indoor Use
- Radio Technology - Analog & Digital
MSRP:
$540.00
Vertex Standard eVerge EVX-539 Portable Radio Review
AOR | MOTOTRBO | DMR scanner
New Revolutionary Multi-mode
Digital Voice Receiver!
AR-DV1 digital voice receiver
AOR What's new ?
http://aorusa.com/whatsnew/
The AR-DV1 is the first scanning receiver of its kind to receive and decode virtually ALL
popular digital modes including:
MOTOTRBO™
DMR
dPMR™
APCO P25
NXDN™
Icom D-Star™
Digital CR
Yaesu
Kenwood®
Alinco EJ-47U
PLUS conventional analog signals including:
AM, wide and narrow FM, upper and lower sideband and CW modes
The AR-DV1 can be operated independently or computer controlled for easier programming and monitoring. It features:
MOTOTRBO™
DMR
dPMR™
APCO P25
NXDN™
Icom D-Star™
Digital CR
Yaesu
Kenwood®
Alinco EJ-47U
PLUS conventional analog signals including:
AM, wide and narrow FM, upper and lower sideband and CW modes
The AR-DV1 can be operated independently or computer controlled for easier programming and monitoring. It features:
Hytera X1e-U1 - 16C, 4W, UHF(400-470MHz) DMR Digital Two-Way Radio w/GPS
Hytera X1e-U1 - 16C, 4W, UHF(400-470MHz) DMR Digital Two-Way Radio w/GPS
http://hytera782.blogspot.com/
Product Specifications:
Model - X1e-U1
4W
UHF (400-470MHz)
Hytera X1e Series Covert Radio - Fully compliant to DMR open standard of ETSI
16 Channels
Small, rugged and covert
IP67: One-meter submersion up to30 minutes
Open USB portfacilitates secondary and application development
The built-in GPS module supports GIS applications
Integrated Bluetooth makes for seamless connection to your bluetooth headset
Dual modes (analog & digital) operation ensures a smooth analog-to-digital migration
Versatile voice calls include individual call, group call and al- call
Vibration alerts the reception of voice call and message
Multiple IP functionalities are allowed when connected with a PC via IP address
Multiple advanced analog signaling, including HDC1200, DTMF, 2-Tone and 5-Tone, provide more expansion capacity
Upgradable software enables new features without buying a new radio
Durability: passing of HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Test) and MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F compliance
http://hytera782.blogspot.com/
Product Specifications:
Model - X1e-U1
4W
UHF (400-470MHz)
Hytera X1e Series Covert Radio - Fully compliant to DMR open standard of ETSI
16 Channels
Small, rugged and covert
IP67: One-meter submersion up to30 minutes
Open USB portfacilitates secondary and application development
The built-in GPS module supports GIS applications
Integrated Bluetooth makes for seamless connection to your bluetooth headset
Dual modes (analog & digital) operation ensures a smooth analog-to-digital migration
Versatile voice calls include individual call, group call and al- call
Vibration alerts the reception of voice call and message
Multiple IP functionalities are allowed when connected with a PC via IP address
Multiple advanced analog signaling, including HDC1200, DTMF, 2-Tone and 5-Tone, provide more expansion capacity
Upgradable software enables new features without buying a new radio
Durability: passing of HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Test) and MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F compliance
Excelvan BM-800 Condenser Microphone Cardioid Pro Audio Studio Vocal Recording Mic with Shock Mount (Black)
Excelvan BM-800 Condenser Microphone Cardioid Pro Audio Studio Vocal Recording Mic with Shock Mount (Black)
http://www.qrz.com/db/VE3CKO
VE3CKO - Callsign Lookup by QRZ.COM
Excelvan BM-800 Condenser Microphone Cardioid Pro Audio Studio Vocal Recording Mic with Shock Mount (Black)
http://www.qrz.com/db/VE3CKO
VE3CKO - Callsign Lookup by QRZ.COM
Excelvan BM-800 Condenser Microphone Cardioid Pro Audio Studio Vocal Recording Mic with Shock Mount (Black)
- Tailored frequency response provides vocal intelligibility and crispness
- Neodymium magnet for high signal-to-noise ratio
- Shock Mount to reduces handling noise
- Cardiod (undirectional) pickup pattern suppresses feedback
- Ideal for radio broadcasting studio, voice-over sound studio, recording and so on
Astatic D104 Silver Eagle Mic
Astatic D104 Silver Eagle Mic
The D-104 range of mics were first and foremost communications grade microphones. Remember that fact and say it twice.
The were not design to be recording units,but for amateur\non-critical\radio use. In that role, and coupled correctly, the D-104 is a great communications microphone. Clean, CRISP, highly intelligible audio that makes each syllable perfectly understandable.
Larry King audio... nope.....ESSB audio...nope, but if you want that, spend a ton of money or use AM or FM. SSB was designed ( and works well ) to be an efficient, narrow bandwidth mode. The audio part of it was deemed acceptable ...and still is.
I have a D-104 Silver Eagle and turn the pre-amp to only two and the TS-440S's mic gain to about 4 and it works very well. The mike gets "OOHS and AHHS" from teenage or younger visitors to my shack because it looks "so retro " or so they tell me. I have no complaints on the build quality and many cab and dispatch services used these mics ( D-104's of any flavor ) for years with millions of key and unkey actions. I used to have a pager ( remember them?) and the ladies that would relay messages used a D-104 microphone at the transmitting end.
They always had crisp, CLEAN, and understandable audio.
Used D-104's ususally need to be relubricated, and it does not hurt to resolder all contacts.Adding a electret element to replace a working UNDAMAGED original element is pure folly, and there are those that have done it. Kind of like putting a Ferrari engine in a Corolla and then hoping somehow that it will be a Ferrari.
There is NOTHING wrong with the audio of a D-104 if one remembers what it was designed to do ,AND if it is not overdriven AND is electrically and mechanically working.
Most new hams, however, have no idea of the tonal design plan that was incorporated into this mic and think it should sound like a studio mike. Then again, even experienced hams still believe that somehow, someway, SSB can become and deliver AM or FM quality audio easily. Sorry folks but theres one word preventing that.......BANDWIDTH!!
The D-104 range of mics were first and foremost communications grade microphones. Remember that fact and say it twice.
The were not design to be recording units,but for amateur\non-critical\radio use. In that role, and coupled correctly, the D-104 is a great communications microphone. Clean, CRISP, highly intelligible audio that makes each syllable perfectly understandable.
Larry King audio... nope.....ESSB audio...nope, but if you want that, spend a ton of money or use AM or FM. SSB was designed ( and works well ) to be an efficient, narrow bandwidth mode. The audio part of it was deemed acceptable ...and still is.
I have a D-104 Silver Eagle and turn the pre-amp to only two and the TS-440S's mic gain to about 4 and it works very well. The mike gets "OOHS and AHHS" from teenage or younger visitors to my shack because it looks "so retro " or so they tell me. I have no complaints on the build quality and many cab and dispatch services used these mics ( D-104's of any flavor ) for years with millions of key and unkey actions. I used to have a pager ( remember them?) and the ladies that would relay messages used a D-104 microphone at the transmitting end.
They always had crisp, CLEAN, and understandable audio.
Used D-104's ususally need to be relubricated, and it does not hurt to resolder all contacts.Adding a electret element to replace a working UNDAMAGED original element is pure folly, and there are those that have done it. Kind of like putting a Ferrari engine in a Corolla and then hoping somehow that it will be a Ferrari.
There is NOTHING wrong with the audio of a D-104 if one remembers what it was designed to do ,AND if it is not overdriven AND is electrically and mechanically working.
Most new hams, however, have no idea of the tonal design plan that was incorporated into this mic and think it should sound like a studio mike. Then again, even experienced hams still believe that somehow, someway, SSB can become and deliver AM or FM quality audio easily. Sorry folks but theres one word preventing that.......BANDWIDTH!!
Canadian DRAM Class Action
Canadian DRAM Class Action
How every single Canadian can get a free $20, no questions asked
All you have to do is head online to The Money is Mine and fill out a simple form. ... And by the time you actually get the money (the payout on these types of ...
You (individuals, businesses and governmental entities) can get money from the settlements if you bought DRAM or electronic devices containing DRAM
CANADIAN DRAM NATIONAL CLASS ACTIONS
There are lots of things we would do with an extra 20 bucks. Break up the brown-baggin’ life and buy ourselves a fancy takeout lunch this week. Buy ourselves a swanky new top (on sale, naturally), or pay back some of those loans, perhaps?
The more we think about it, the more we believe we could stretch that amount of cash to our advantage. But with everyone leading such busy lives, who actually wants to go out of their way for $20? Here’s the good news: you don’t have to.
If you’re Canadian and you bought certain electronic devices between April 1, 1999 and June 30, 2002, you too qualify for $20 simply by asking for it.
So … what’s the catch?
Yaesu DR-1 a $500.00 Digital/FM Dual Mode Repeater, Not D-STAR Compatible!
Yaesu introduces “System Fusion” for C4FM 12.5 kHz Digital & DR-1 a $500.00 Digital/FM Dual Mode Repeater, Not D-STAR Compatible!
Yaesu
DR-1 a new Digiatl C4FM and Analog FM Multi Mode Repeater with AMS
(Automatic Mode Select) – Yaesu introduces the System Fusion joins FDMA
Digital and Analog FM Communication into a single multiple function
system. It provides total integration and compatibility of both Digital
& Conventional Analog FM communication – And the latest VoIP
interface, the new wireless WIRES-X a Internet Linking HRI-200, will
also be available in Nov., 2013. !! The Yaesu FDMA “C4FM” system is not
compatible with the D-STAR “GMSK” Digital mode. !! (one only has to look
at Yeasu’s record of going against the tide !
The
DR-1 Repeater C4FM/Analog FM and AMS – FM Friendly Digital – Easy
Migration – Yesu writhes: Replace your Conventional Analog FM repeater
to: 1) provide continued use of Conventional Analog FM communication 2)
while integrating the use of Digital Communication functions. –
Modulation Mode: 25kHz for FM & 12.5kHz fot C4FM Multiple mode. –
Ouypuy Power 50W/25W/10W Large-size Heat-Sink & Cooling Fan builtin.
– (please click pictures to enlarg!)
Top 5 Ham Radio Transceiver Base Stations
Hams, also known as amateur or Ham radio operators, use radio transceivers to communicate with each other and provide emergency notification services. Although the continual advancement in technology has made the need of radio transceivers obsolete, many continue to use the device for the purpose of hobby. Once considered expensive equipment, ham radio transceiver base stations can now be purchased through more affordable means, making them ideal for those interested in this leisurely activity. When purchasing a ham radio transceiver base station at retailers such as eBay, buyers should consider the various types of broadcasting and familiarize themselves with the top five ranked models available based on consumer standards.
Types of Broadcasting
Ham radio transceiver base stations use either digital, analog, or a combination of both to broadcast signals. Buyers should consider the benefits and drawbacks of each as well as location when choosing the type that best suits their personal needs and wishes.
Digital Ham Radio Transceiver Base Stations
A digital ham radio transceiver base station uses digital technology, as opposed to analog. These transceivers allow for additional modes including digital radio teletype (RTTY), voice over IP (VOIP), and TCP/IP-based packet radio. Digital modes have replaced older radiotelegraphy methods. For example, RTTY has taken the place of Morse code, allowing users to communicate non-verbally over the radio.
Digital ham radios also offer stronger signals and better adaptability to changing weather conditions, over that of analog ham radios. In addition, they are easier to operate and offer increased reliability to users. Digital ham radios can converse and hold multi-person conversations from various regions of the world over radio waves. They can also use signal repeaters and other tactics such as bouncing signals off the Northern Lights, to communicate with operators as far away as space. This allows astronauts occupying the International Space Station to remain in contact with those here on earth.
Analog Ham Radio Transceiver Base Stations
Analog ham radio transceiver base stations use a mechanical system. These radios offer increased stability in regards to power consumption. This is important, especially in the midst of emergencies when the ham radio needs to be able to run off the grid, with limited resources. Adding a computer to the ham radio increases power usage, which is often limited during states of emergency.
Digital and Analog Ham Radio Transceiver Base Stations
Digital and analog ham radio transceiver base stations can handle both digital and analog signals. These transceivers are ideal is regions where digital coverage is inconsistent as they ensure that there is no loss of signal. Digital and analog transceiver base stations are often more expensive because of their need to factor in additional electrical circuits.
Top Five Radio Transceiver Base Stations
With all the ham radio transceiver base stations available on the consumer market, it can be difficult deciding which models are a worthwhile investment. The following top five transceivers have received consistent positive reviews and have gain popularity based on their high performance standards and ease of use.
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