Newbie

[Monnie6537]

I’m moving to WA state and want to set up a novice/in case of emergency situation (crazy world we live in now) where I can communicate with others for survival methods/needs/etc. Don’t mean to sound apocalyptic but these goings on just scare the crap outta me. What do I need (basics) and what should I not live without for these types of situations? The only thing I have now is a handheld (requires 8 AA) CB (think it’s a Cobra) from late 70’s/early 80’s and an older Motorola handheld scanner from the 80’s (I’m guessing). I have an FM antenna but I think it’s for a car. Please bear with me as I’m REALLY new at all of this. My Dad used to have a CB in the late 70’s/80’s so I know a little bout those. And he was EXCELLENT at turning a wrench.

 

[Monnie6537]

I forgot to mention my brother is an 18-wheeler truck driver so he probably has some equipment also. He has some CB’s too. Not sure which one(s) though. I’m sure he knows a thing or two about some of these things as he’s been driving an 18-wheeler for 40+ years.

 

[AK9R]

What do I need (basics)

If your plan is to communicate using amateur radio gear, you'll need an amateur radio license. Yes, it's a crazy world, but FCC rules still apply.

Maybe start by finding an amateur radio club near you. Getting involved with the club will expose you to different aspects of amateur radio and introduce you to people who can provide insights that will guide your decisions.

You can find a club near you using the search tool on the ARRL website: Search for ARRL Affiliated Clubs

Also, ARRL Field Day is coming up next weekend. Field Day is an exercise focused on setting up temporary radio stations in the field and making contacts around the country. You can find a Field Day site near you using this tool: Field Day Station Locator

 

[hill]

Motorola handheld scanner from the 80’s (I’m guessing)

Never heard of Motorola making scanners, so guessing it's an old two radio. Going forward it most likely going to be to be of limited use with all the new radio systems, plus public safety using narrow band deviation.

 

[Monnie6537]

If your plan is to communicate using amateur radio gear, you'll need an amateur radio license. Yes, it's a crazy world, but FCC rules still apply.

Maybe start by finding an amateur radio club near you. Getting involved with the club will expose you to different aspects of amateur radio and introduce you to people who can provide insights that will guide your decisions.

You can find a club near you using the search tool on the ARRL website: Search for ARRL Affiliated Clubs

Also, ARRL Field Day is coming up next weekend. Field Day is an exercise focused on setting up temporary radio stations in the field and making contacts around the country. You can find a Field Day site near you using this tool: Field Day Station Locator

Thank you for all the info. Appreciate it.

Never heard of Motorola making scanners, so guessing it's an old two radio. Going forward it most likely going to be to be of limited use with all the new radio systems, plus public safety using narrow band deviation.

Thank you. Not positive on the brand. Was hoping it might come in handy somehow. Hope to find a matching one to use as a two way as you said. My handheld CB is a Realistic also.

 

[KB1KXJ]

Take a look at GMRS. No test, purchase license, FCC issues a callsign. Be sure you know the basic rules of the road.

 

[bearcatrp]

CB is a ok start. Suggest you get a better cb. President Randy has a good durable handheld cb. Next is ham stuff. Are those you want to talk to have a ham license? Or do you plan on talking to anyone? A good scanner/receiver should be on your list. With simulcast towers, you’re going to need a SDS series scanner. They handle simulcast allot better. Suggest you buy a HF radio too. If money is tight, a good ham handheld can get you going. Wide band receive but slow scanning. Get you listening quick while you study for your license.

 

[N4DES]

I’m moving to WA state and want to set up a novice/in case of emergency situation (crazy world we live in now) where I can communicate with others for survival methods/needs/etc. Don’t mean to sound apocalyptic but these goings on just scare the crap outta me. What do I need (basics) and what should I not live without for these types of situations? The only thing I have now is a handheld (requires 8 AA) CB (think it’s a Cobra) from late 70’s/early 80’s and an older Motorola handheld scanner from the 80’s (I’m guessing). I have an FM antenna but I think it’s for a car. Please bear with me as I’m REALLY new at all of this. My Dad used to have a CB in the late 70’s/80’s so I know a little bout those. And he was EXCELLENT at turning a wrench.

First thing you want to do is to find others in WA state in your immediate area (when you get there) that are probably already prepared and ask them what they are using to communicate and adapt to them. The CB equipment you are describing is ancient and technology (and the FCC) has moved on to allow FM in addition to the original AM and Single Sideband.

If you want to start with family only communications GMRS would be a good place to start. You just have to apply to the FCC for a license and after the $35 application fee they will issue a single callsign that anyone in your family can use.