So I have been thinking a lot about how I would like to take radio with me when the family goes on a trip or vacation. Currently my wife's car only has a UHF radio, and I would like to include VHF and HF.
I have to paths I could take to accomplish this, and I will probably head down both eventually. Which happens first will probably depend on what deal I can find.
1) Find a mobile all-mode and all-band radio (FT-857, IC-7000, etc.). This has a nice range of power options, but doesn't allow taking it in a backpack with ease.
2) Find a QRP all mode and all band radio (hoping to find someone letting one go after they get their shiny new IC-705).
In my searching for used radios, amplifiers keep popping up. Specifically inexpensive Chinese amplifiers. Now, I don't need tons of power, 20-50W would be plenty to supplement a QRP radio.
Q1) Are these cheap amplifiers permitted for use? I'm sure they aren't excellent at what they do, but is there some sort of certification needed to use an amplifier (Part 15?), or to stay away from?
Q2) I have seen some DIY amplifier kits. While I don't quite trust myself yet (its been a while since I have done tons of soldering) but it would be a fun project to build an amplifier. DIY is permitted, correct? For less than $20 shipped, I'm not sure I would trust the components or design.
And the final question, which would you pursue first?
I have to paths I could take to accomplish this, and I will probably head down both eventually. Which happens first will probably depend on what deal I can find.
1) Find a mobile all-mode and all-band radio (FT-857, IC-7000, etc.). This has a nice range of power options, but doesn't allow taking it in a backpack with ease.
2) Find a QRP all mode and all band radio (hoping to find someone letting one go after they get their shiny new IC-705).
In my searching for used radios, amplifiers keep popping up. Specifically inexpensive Chinese amplifiers. Now, I don't need tons of power, 20-50W would be plenty to supplement a QRP radio.
Q1) Are these cheap amplifiers permitted for use? I'm sure they aren't excellent at what they do, but is there some sort of certification needed to use an amplifier (Part 15?), or to stay away from?
Q2) I have seen some DIY amplifier kits. While I don't quite trust myself yet (its been a while since I have done tons of soldering) but it would be a fun project to build an amplifier. DIY is permitted, correct? For less than $20 shipped, I'm not sure I would trust the components or design.
And the final question, which would you pursue first?