Wait... Other things related to Skwarn you can prepare for without the radio. I don't always follow my own recommendations. :-0
Portable transceiver for Skywarn/ARES
- Thread starter TexTAC
- Start date
- Status
It comes down to whether or not you have a need for System Fusion. If there is no need, save your money.
A few more questions before I buy the FT-60R ... which programming cable/software bundle is recommended to make it easier to program? Does the stock antenna absolutely have to be upgraded or will it be acceptable for a while? I already have an external antenna (Larsen 150/450/800 triband) and plan to get a SMA/BNC jumper to protect the antenna jack. Hoping to buy and use today.
ko6jw_2
Member
I would recommend the FT3 for several reasons. It has dual receive which can be very handy. It has built in GPS and APRS which could be very useful in storm tracking. The use of Fusion is nice, but as an ARES DEC I can say that we would never use it for emergencies. Too many non-Fusion users out there and Fusion needs internet to link repeaters and rooms. Not nearly robust enough to be relied on in an emergency.
The FT70 is also a good radio (I have one along with an FT2). Dual band, but not dual receive and no GPS or APRS.
The FT60's are fine radios, but they are an old design. Can't beat them for durability.
Also worth considering is the VX6-R. It has 220 capability and is submersible. Also older technology. Very rugged. A bit pricey as well.
The FT70 is also a good radio (I have one along with an FT2). Dual band, but not dual receive and no GPS or APRS.
The FT60's are fine radios, but they are an old design. Can't beat them for durability.
Also worth considering is the VX6-R. It has 220 capability and is submersible. Also older technology. Very rugged. A bit pricey as well.
I actually just bought the FT-60R. I ended up buying the radio, an upgraded rubber-duck antenna, the RT Software Systems programming software/cable, and a coax jumper cable (for attaching my mobile antenna). Waiting for the battery to charge completely before I play around with it. I appreciate everyone’s input and advice.
Only 1.5 watts output, though.
Yea that sucks....
TexTAC,
A temporary cable routing I have used a few times...
At the big-box hardware store get a length of AC/Water pipe insulating foam tube. About 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch wall thickness. Get the type without the sticky tape on the edge that holds it closed. Roll the window down on your vehicle about 3 inches. Cut the tube to length and tapper the ends to fit the window guide angle front and back. Lay on top of the window and press it down. Where you want the cable to pass over the top of the window, cut a 45 degree slit in the foam, but only thru to the bottom of the foam thickness and angled back so wind pressure will not drive water up the cable inside the cabin. Roll the window up, but not all the way, just enough to seal the foam against the top of the window slot. Water stays out, AC stays in and wind noise greatly reduced and cable not crushed. Very temporary setup best for rental cars or road trips in vehicles not your own.
Good starter radio I have recommended in many of the ham classes I have helped with.
Mike
A temporary cable routing I have used a few times...
At the big-box hardware store get a length of AC/Water pipe insulating foam tube. About 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch wall thickness. Get the type without the sticky tape on the edge that holds it closed. Roll the window down on your vehicle about 3 inches. Cut the tube to length and tapper the ends to fit the window guide angle front and back. Lay on top of the window and press it down. Where you want the cable to pass over the top of the window, cut a 45 degree slit in the foam, but only thru to the bottom of the foam thickness and angled back so wind pressure will not drive water up the cable inside the cabin. Roll the window up, but not all the way, just enough to seal the foam against the top of the window slot. Water stays out, AC stays in and wind noise greatly reduced and cable not crushed. Very temporary setup best for rental cars or road trips in vehicles not your own.
Good starter radio I have recommended in many of the ham classes I have helped with.
Mike
- Status
