Offgrid Comms using 2m Single Sideband - No Random Contacts
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- Опубліковано 5 чер 2024
- In this episode of No Random Contacts we'll explorer 2m SSB as our communication method for establish contacts across the state of Arizona. We'll even talk about the role of community as it relates to comms.
0:00 Introduction
0:43 Mission Objective
1:46 What is a Net?
3:00 Net Check-in
3:47 My Station Setup
6:05 Finding a Bearing
7:09 The Relay
8:41 The Discussion
11:12 The Value of SSB
12:16 The Value of Community
13:05 An Era before the Internet
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#thetechprepper #offgrid #hamradio #norandomcontacts #ft897
I have found there is some activity on 146.925Mhz USB and LSB. I listen on a 259 centimeter (102 inch) antenna mounted on a rooftop television antenna. The sideband is much more easy going. There is a lot of happier operators joking, laughing, making funny sounds and just being light hearted. It is fun to listen to it. Every once in awhile, they will switch to AM, but not often. The interesting thing is that these very light hearted, kidders are formal and rather stiff on FM repeaters. It is like two different operators, almost. I have heard operators contacting someone on the repeater then they switch to 146.925Mhz USB and they exhale and say, "Wow, I am glad that is over." Then they start playing around. I really like their activities and actions. Sometimes there is someone in a vehicle just driving away so they can see how far they can get from the transmitting base station. There was one guy that was about 200 kilometers from the stationary base and sounding very clear. He said he was using a modified television antenna. But the books I read state that groundwave is only good for about 75 miles, which is only 121 kilometers. It is so very interesting to hear the 2 meter sideband operators. They even talk about operating CBs on sideband and setting up makeshift repeaters to their 2 meter sideband frequency from channel 40 AM. They go off band on the CB channels and talk about 2 meter sideband. they seem to collect on 27.445Mhz USB and AM. Just about anything radio they would seem to put together and talk about it. One that really interested me was something they did with tablets called rattlebox, or rattlegram, I forgot the name of it. It sounded like a rushing sound but the tablets translated the sounds into text. They are really interesting fellows.
The project is called Ribbit Radio
jan 2024 I am rocking the CF-20 tough book and I love it! i have larger Gaming laptops with full sized keyboard, bigger screen and more video horse power at least but the CF-20 is my new best friend. I got it refurbished it came with two so so batterys so it would run 7+ hours on both and I run plugged in often, I am expecting a new battery to be delivered today so that will allow me to grab a go. mine has a 9 pin port for thoes old projects.
I have most if not all mu cloneing software on it and my CalTopo mapping software, FT8, so handy.
Very good focused explanations.
Hey Gaston, always enjoy you videos, they are unique and fit many of the things in interested in. Keep in rambling brother! Much appreciated!
Thanks! Will do!
I really enjoy your teaching style. Thank you again for the straight forward descriptions and instructions.
You're very welcome.
Good that you mentioned relay mode. It is one of the most basic radio communication techniques. It is so simple we tend to ignore it. But it was the basis of the ARRL, the American Radio _Relay_ League. If you’re talking about off-grid prepping it should be a basic and practiced technique.
I figured the "relay" section would be a good nugget of info to put out there for those viewers new to radio. It's another useful technique to add to the toolbox.
I am not familiar with the American Radio Relay League. But, you are very correct. Relay was the way the kiddos used 49Mhz walkie talkies with 100mw of power to talk to the next neighbourhood over, back in my childhood. With three relays, we were able to talk much further than we could walk just to deliver a message. I still have my RadioShack 10 channel, 49Mhz walkie talkie in the attic. I can hear room monitors on it. But it is too weak to talk back to them. Surely those room monitors are exceeding the 100mw power limit. I can hear them about about a quarter kilometer away, or more.
You are ON POINT!! Elders Have THE know How!!
Happy to share & help too. Keep the knowledge flowing!
Another GREAT Video. Thank You !!
Yes, they do. Respect your elders. Will do.
Great video. I LOVE SSB on 2m and any radio that allows it.
Thanks, Jason. It's one of my favorite bands/modes to work. I have great success with the FT-818 on 6 watts on 2m USB. 73
The VUCC #125 I got on 2M was more fun than WAS or DXCC and even more work, still have fond memories of working over 10 new states on an Aurora opening in 1991, LOL.
Horizontal FM is quite interesting on 2M too! the QSB is like that of 28Mhz FM CB, entertaing at its best - did it years ago 2E0GYO and was really keen yay!
Hi Jason.
I'd like to try 2m sideband this next weekend, would you be interested in scheduling a time plan?
De kd4stt 73s.
@@Kd4stt. I don’t think I will have enough elevation during WFD for a successful QSO on 2m. Will you participate in Mountain topping with Kenny in March?
Hey man, thank you for what you do. I appreciate your approach. You’ve inspired me to start working on getting my comms capabilities in order for emergency scenarios, helping my local SAR group, and general preparedness. Just passed my general class exam today.
You're welcome, but remember, you did all the work. Congratulations on your license. General is where the action is.
Great video. You made me rethink 2m and 70cm SSB for grid down ops. I found a listing for a net in my area. I will practice with them and listen on other nights. Thanks again.
You're welcome. Enjoy your new net. Happy New Year!
Great video. Really like the makeshift rotating antenna mast. Thanks for all the great info.
Thanks for watching! I'm still using that simple technique for rotating the yagi. Cheers!
I’m sharing this with my friends whom I’ve sparked interest in Ham and GMRS. I’ve explained to them that there is a learning curve but it is more of a matter of just do it than it is actually difficult. Some basic radio etiquette, antenna propagation basics and practical uses is what I’m trying to get across to them.
That's a great expectation to set for people curious about getting into radio. Well done. I agree 100%.
Another great video. 2m SSB is something I'm just starting to explore myself and so far I see it as an often overlooked mode with a lot of potential for the preparedness minded.
oh... and when the Emcomm Tools beta is released, I'm good on QRD. ;)
Thanks, man. Enjoy your exploration of SSB on 2m. I hope your area has an active community. I've been told by viewers across the country that most of them have little to no VHF/UHF SSB activity in their area.
No official timeline yet. This project is kicking my butt. It went 6-8 months with no development due to a project at my day job. I finally have some momentum again. I plan to have it out sometime in 2023.
Good to see a video on 2m SSB, it's can help with privacy compared to the masses. I also love the latest and greatest in painters pole tech.😁👍Thank you.🍻🤠
Couldn't agree more!
I brought the FT-897, and accessories such
as the 2 batteries for portable operation, the
internal power supply and external side mounted tuner back about 20 years ago when it came on the market. I did enjoy it.
Also, took it to Antigua for a week at Sandals
Resort in January 2004, and was licensed
there as V25CH. The antennas were just
homemade dipoles for some of the HF bands. I did operate a few hours each day
during the week. It was nice to be called
like being a DX station. I worked 37 states
and Cuba called me as did the Azores. I
had QSL's printed with my information
showing a beach scene.
I do still operate SSB on 6 meters and above,
first being on 2 Meter and 6 Meter AM in
the 60's before repeaters, and worked several hundred miles with AM and skip on
6 meters AM back then.
I remember back in the NY City area the
East Coast VHF Society Sunday morning
Net around 144.250 MHZ later on SSB.
I won single operator for Eastern NY section
of the ARRL with AM in September 1965,
and Single Operator on 2 Meter SSB for ENY
in September 2008 using the club call W2NYW, at our home back then. I usually
use N3FJP software for my contest logging.
73 de W2CH Ray and Marylyn, KC2NKU,
New Hampshire.
It sounds like your FT-897 has been one of your best friends over the years. I still enjoy mine, but now I use my FT-857D mostly for portable ops. Both are great radios.
Thank you for another great video. When I go overlanding I use Garmin, GIA GPS, and map books by DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer. The Delorme is topographic with great detail on every county in the state.
Another good one Gaston! I'll be attempting to listen in to the net on Tuesday, only antenna I have available now is my trusty J-Pole have to see how it works! Thanks for your efforts
Great video lots of good information! Oh ya the Thomas Guide sure do miss them!
You and me both!
I do agree, was borne long before Internet but came into IT, just when that craziness startet. I am often looking for people who have knowledge about a certain topic and not just googling it…
2m ssb is just a difficult thing here in the mountains, but recently I stumbled over a FT991 (not “A”) to a very good price, that I couldn’t resist. The Antenna is a omnidirectional horizontal type which really does a very good job and I’m getting far out of my valley now, not possible with FM.
Thanks for your work, 73 de HB3XBL 👍🇨🇭
There are Nets on HF on just about every band. The same philosophy of connecting with a like-minded community applies. There are groups on VHF/UHF repeaters too. Get on the air and ask everyone about recommended nets.
Great information. I’m going to have to see if I can get on that 2m SSB net in the coming weeks.
I plan to attend the remainder of the month. Hope to see you there.
Very cool. Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome!
super good video, I was messing with a friend we moved to the limits of FM then switched to SSB to see if it had better range, he said many of our radios if they have SSB, 6 or 10m would leverage the 100w of the unit so no QRP
Great video, Gaston; 2m SSB is a blast yet not too well known. Glad to see you showing it off. Some have referenced the CHA DB VHF/UHF antenna... I've been using one for about a year, on both FM and SSB, and have had no problems with it. It's built like a tank, easy to set up and take down, quick to reconfigure, and highly portable. It's a good tool for anyone interested in VHF/UHF communications. I also have a few of the Packtenna mounts, which I use with Comet BNC24 antennas, which also are highly flexible and usable. Of course, home-brew antennas are also easily made for SSB (and FM) and are fun projects for experimentation. Anyway, a thousand thanks. Cheers!
Glad you liked the video. I actually have a CHA DB sitting in my shack. I did not want to talk about it in this video as I have not used it yet. I am waiting on a mount adapter for my painter's pole. Glad to see others like yourself using SSB on VHF/UHF. Cheers!
I have that same radio with the original auto tuner, it's a great rig. Love your videos!
It's an amazing rig. The auto tuner is a really nice accessory. I love how it mounts to the 897. The question is, do you have the Collins filters? Thanks for the support. 73
Gaston, I'm a ham since 1972, and share your gratitude for growing up pre-web. I'm glad to see you highlight the value of nets. They turn random contacts into known entities in a short time. But so many nets I hear these days are nothing more than check-ins without purpose. Niche modes such as 2m SSB are more likely (than FM) to allow sharing of ideas, and acquainting yourself with the skill sets of those participating. Keep up the great content! 73 - AE4KR
I echo everything you mentioned. I personally find that these niche nets are much more topical and relevant for small likeminded communities. I am starting a regional HF preparedness net this year.
1981 is a great year to be born!!! We understand both the old ways and the new. I wish we had more traffic on 2m SSB in East Tennessee. I've tried a few times but I've yet to make contact with it yet.
it sounds like you're another elder millennial. I'm not a huge fan of being grouped into that bucket, but either way it was great growing up pre-Internet. I think we're all the better for it.
I plan to make several targeted contacts into TN next month for my last video on No Random Contacts. I have three other friends that live there and I plan to establish contacts using a new V beam antenna on 75m (voice) and 80m (digital). I'd love to make a contact with you. Look me up on QRZ if you have HF capabilities and are interested. 73 de KT1RUN.
@@TheTechPrepper I would love to help you out with a video. I just emailed you with the address you have listed on QRZ. If for some reason you don't get it. WB6MKJ has my contact info. BTW, I hate being grouped in with the millennial! I don't think 1981 should qualify!!!
@@R3dN3cK Ditto. I was 18 in 1999. That's considered an adult in the US. Thanks for the assist.
Great video. This sparked me to begin researching how to construct a somewhat omnidirectional, horizontally polarized antenna for non-field (at-home) use. There are some plans out there. Good stuff brother!
Glad you liked it, Mike. I have done a lot of SSB on this channel. Search for "SSB" on my channel page.
Really good video, I especially liked the points made at the end of the video. While I 110% agree that having the ability to operate SSB on VHF/UHF is a huge plus, the problem comes down to having the right equipment. While I could buy a used 897 and a beam to put up horizontal, I highly doubt many people in my area would spend the money to do the same. I know of one person who has a 897. I'm in a rural area and it's hard enough to get people to get licensed and get a radio. The people who are already licensed and have radios have little will to go beyond VHF/UHF FM rigs, HF with NVIS and Digital. I hope people in areas where this will work will take advantage of SSB VHF/UHF, but sadly, in many places, people won't. Even the group who are preppers and meet up on the radio on a regular basis are pretty much stuck in a mold. No doubt, I could find a few, but is the expense worth if for just a few ? I'm retired and income for expenses like this is limited unless it has enough of a value. If anything, I may buy a 817 used if I can find a deal. But beyond that, it's FM for VHF/UHF. Other areas may be a totally different story. Thanks, really enjoyed the video. P.S. I'm surprised you don't have a Yaesu FT-5D. With the built in APRS/GPS abilities and IP 67 rating, it's a great handheld. No need for the extra equipment and it has C4FM.
I love the FT-817, but I would go ahead and get rig that will do at least 35W 2m SSB. The big boys that make +100mi-200mi consistently often run repeater amps pushing over 100W 2m SSB.
When prepping the amps are a major power consideration if you are on battery or solar. A radio that runs 5W-50W gives a good amount of flexibility, if you need it and it respects limited power sources.
Really enjoyed this video, Hello from KH6TG New Mexico. All my equipment is Icom and Baofeng. In Alamogordo we started to use Side Band more and we are having fun. Currently visiting the Philippines so your videos help keep me busy. LoL! Great job and looking forward to more from you. 73's
Glad to hear it, Anthony. I'm sure we could make an 75 NVIS contact if you have HF capabilities since you're just in the next state. I make regular contacts into NM. Look me up on QRZ. Enjoy your trip!
@@TheTechPrepper Yes sir after I return, I will look you up on QRZ and hope to do some testing with you.
For my 2 meter yagi I use an inexpensive RCA tv antenna rotator. It has programmable memories and works great.
Great video Gaston. Can I propose a video idea? You have been through quite a few radios, antennas, built manpacks etc. I personally would find it useful if you could have all your radios on a table, and talk about your radio journey so far. Perhaps you could talk about which radios didn't really work out, which did, which are your keepers, and advice to someone who is just starting to acquire equipment and utilize it. I think your in-depth knowledge of all this equipment, and your use case (emcomm) could be very beneficial to viewers with the same interests.
Thanks for the suggestion, Rob. This is a great idea! I'll try incorporate some of this into next week's video. It will be easier to make the case on why I have settled on Yaesu radios that go back 10 to 15 to 20 years. My main pain for this video will be that every radio operator's radio needs should be predicated by their operating requirements, operating location and budget. I look at radios as being tools for practical applications. I will not be looking at it from the hobby/tinkering perspective. Happy Sunday!
@@TheTechPrepper I think a lot of us have the same mindset. I got into ham radio as like many others I see offgrid comms as an essential element of being prepared and self sufficient. I have to admit I have grown to enjoy it for more than just that, which is a side benefit. One reason I mention this video idea is because I commented on one of your other videos and you gave me some great advice - I was trying to decide on my first UHF/VHF mobile/base station and was leaning towards the FTM6000R. You mentioned the benefits of having dual RX/TX (2 radios in one body, like the FT-8800). I ended up with the TM-V71A, and I'm really seeing the benefits of the dual RX/TX rigs now, especially considering simultaneous digital/voice, crossband repeat, and just being able to monitor 2 frequencies without endless scanning. My point is, I would have probably bought the FTM6000R, and sold it eventually to get a dual TX/RX rig. Your advice saved me that step. I'm sure others could find value in your experiences as well.
@@Robbbbooo Glad that advice was helpful. FYI: Seth from ARMOLOQ is making a frame for TM-V71A now. Don't sell that radio as it is about to be discontinued (or already has been). The design of this radio as well as the older Yaesu rigs are from a an era of build quality and design that is disappearing. I believe your V71A has a data port on the back that will work with the DigiRig Mobile. My Kenwood D710A works great with that setup for digital modes. Cheers!
@@TheTechPrepper thanks for the heads up on the new product from Armaloq, I think it makes sense. It's really quite a unicorn radio these days. Compact, extremely well built and designed, dual tx/rx, data port, an excellent interface and hand mic controls. No fancy touch screen to fail and add extra power consumption. I'm tempted to get another before they get discontinued 🤔.
2M ssb is a fun mode. I setup stacked 2M loop antennas (horizontal) for mobile ops.
Enjoyed this very much. I'm going to search in my region to see if there are any 2m SSB nets. 73
Glad to hear it. Happy hunting!
You might also consider an omni-directional antenna with a horizontal polarization.
There is one called "Big Wheel", because it looks like a wheel (about 3ft across). You mount it to your mast the same way you would mount any other antenna. The upside of this antenna is that you will not need to rotate. The downside is that you will lose a few dB of gain compared to your yagi. In your case, probably about 6dB.
73 de DL2AKV
Even better than the Thomas Guide, which I always loved, are the “Roads and Recreation” atlases. Very detailed , to include ‘jeep’ and footpaths, plus topographical info. Also land management, whether USFS, BLM, private, tribal etc.
I’ve used them extensively in Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. I recommend them most highly.
Those are great, too. I have a couple in the RV. Happy Holidays!
I remember Thomas Guides, as I worked for a local government years ago and used it for work. Nice video, as always. Maybe I'll see you on the net.
Hey, Tim. It's nice to see you in the comments. They were great. I plan to attend this coming Tuesday's AZ SWOT Roundtable. 73
@@TheTechPrepper We'll see. My Icom 746 does 2mSSB, but I've got comet vertical antenna so not positive on how it will do. We'll find out though!
@@TheTechPrepper Well, that was a bust. I knew going in that it was a stretch, but my antenna is a 5/8wave vertical that I use for repeater and FM simplex. I could hear two people..one was a 59 signal, so he must have been close (north Glendale). The other person was barely there. I've worked 2m SSB before using a dipole during a field day, so I know my rig will do it. Just getting the right stuff set up here.
@@MTimWeaver Glad to see that you gave it a try.
I'm a bit older than you. Heh. I grew up in a time where broadcast TV was still growing (and figuring out what it was going to be). Broadcast AM radio was still a thing and I listened to the radio a lot more than I watched TV (although there was plenty of that).
What resonated with me was the use of the library. Books were the primary source of knowledge. I still collect books on topics that interest me. Passing books, recreational reading, is for the Kindle (or choose your ereader). But books for learning are paper.
I also think you're on-target regarding radio being a critical component in a grid-down setting. I'm thinking not just amateur radio, but broadcast radio as well. I'm hoping that enough AM stations will be able to hang on that we'll have access to news. It's a lot easier to power a broadcast band radio than a television.
That's a lovely FT-897 you have. If it's the D model I think it has a TCXO. Be aware that filters are becoming scarce. You might want to add a SSB filter to it for phone and digital modes. The CW filters are almost unobtanium. If you can find one, the prices are stupid. (I have two of those radios -- I bought the second one for my son, if he gets his General ticket.)
73 de AG7TX
It sounds like I am a bit younger than you, but it's amazing that you had a similar experience but with a different paradigm shift--the shift from radio to television. I guess this is true with every generation.
I really appreciate the lessons I learned by researching and writing reports by walking to the public library after school. I felt spoiled when the CD ROM revolution hit in the early to mid 90's as I was able to have access to an entire encyclopedia on a CD. As standard of practice, we always had a dictionary and thesaurus on hand. Then, the dial-up Internet made things even easier.
I am on the hunt for the 2.3 KHz Collins filter. They are hard to find.
73 de KT1RUN
When I grew up, we had to make our own maps! That was before tin cans & string. Keep up the great vids. KE0IBA.
I love it. The kids these days.. Them and their fancy, store-bought printed maps. ;-)
Hope you decide to do a video on the why and what radios you choose that would be great for us newbies !
That's the plan. It will be an informal chat of what features I look for based on my needs. Radios are just tools and their use is very much dictated by the operator's needs and environment.
Love the videos - great job. I realize it's online and you'll need the internet, but for others that don't have your software program, which sounds cool btw - you can get beam headings on qrz - just click on their detail and you can see their bearing and distance from your station. Your way is better for shtf situ of course but this a tool you can use now - save info on folks you have a net with. Also, don't discount new radios. I had a 897 and sold it. I loved the form but I now have a ftdx10 and hear stations on HF that weren't possible on the 897. I do still have a ft100d for all band, all mode radio. I believe that with some of these new radios, build quality is still pretty high. IC-7300 is a great HF rig too and been out for over 6 years - most popular HF rig ever. I'd buy another 2 ftdx10's, 2 7300's and 2 991a's if I could, lol. Really enjoy the content and your efforts - please keep it up! 73, Stuart AJ4RM
Great tip! Thanks for mentioning this. I mentioned using QRZ.com for that in the past, but likely forgot the mention again here. I am open to any tool that does the job--new or old. This is why I purchased a Xiegu X6100 recently. It's not the type of radio that I would ever buy for style of operating (same applies to the IC-705), but I found an application for that radio that could be useful. I did a video a few week ago on why that radio. Enjoy your FT-DX10 Happy holidays!
Those whose SSB radios won't cover VHF might search ebay for "ham radio transverter." One labeled "144 mhz to 28 mhz" will take a 10-meter signal in any mode and translate it-both send and receive-to 2 meters. Some assembly required. Make sure what your order is suited for your system.
Great video on the advantages of SSB on 2 meters. Most hams don't realize just how far you can be heard on this band using sideband vs FM. And I am glad you brought up the use of horizontal polarization for weak signal coms on these upper bands. In an emergency, a simple horizontal dipole made from a couple stiff wires of approximately 19 inches attached to a panel mount SO-239 connector duct taped to pole can give you reliable ssb communication 30 to 50 miles or more. Just get the antenna into the clear or find a high spot. The 5 to 10 watts from an IC-705 would be plenty of power. When the SHTF I will be on 144.250 (or whatever your local 2 meter ssb frequency is) with my off grid station for sure! Doug, K7EME, So Az
we have a local 2m ssd net in georgia and the amount of people that check in is amazing how far away they can talk. I was shocked. Some several states away. I have the 897d radio also. Good rig.
These rigs are amazing. In hindsight I wish I did not come to the party so late regarding amateur radio. These older rigs are fantastic. It would have been great to snag one in the early 2000's when they first introduced. 73's
Hi 73's from across the pond UK foundation licensed QRP @10wiskeys license condition. So I have tried 2m SSB with a horizontal 5 element Yagi working 5w from my 917nd. Locally to me (same county) they have a 2m SSB net weekly. I tried calling CQ randomly through the summer when sitting out in the garden rotating my antenna by hand periodically but no contacts to be had 🤷🏻. Im told they contest on 2m SSB some times. I know operators who have worked some inter GB QSO at a fair distance over and above FM 2m. At least at these frequencies a substantial yaggi isn't too unwieldy (or more importantly these days in the UK too expensive 😦) 73's
Hi Gaston ! I just watched an older video in which you used the Trek Mount with the Comet BNC-24 antennas for a 2 meter APRS contact. With weak signals, I have found the Signal Stick antennas perform better than the BNC-24 antennas. I have and use both, but have found the full half wave construction of the Signal Stick antenna helps with weak signals. It might be worth a try. Especially when working SSB 2 meter with 5 watts. You had no problem with your APRS contact in the video, but as we all know, that is not always the case.
Thanks for the feedback. I actually need to pickup a couple of new SignalSticks. Mine were from the first batch and have persistent bends. I know they fixed this and had a warranty, but I'd like to support them again. I will absolutely try it out. Thanks for testing.
@thetechprepper What about the packtenna dipole you showed in the past?? That would be interesting. Are they doing it??
I love my FT897D. Great radio! Have you thought about putting up a more permanent 2m yagi with a TV rotator at your QTH now that you have the FT897? You're making me think about changing my 2m yagi from vertical to horizontal polarization and trying 2m SSB. Thanks for sharing!
Yes. I have been a portable operator for most of my operating years, so my shack is very modest. Now that I am starting to do more operating at home, I will be deploying a proper setup at my home QTH. I plan to have a couple of dedicated verticals for packet and FM work, a dedicated horizontal beam on a rotator for SSB as well finally invest in a proper station grounding setup. There will even be a new Terminated Folded Dipole deployed on the roof for DX. Outside, I will continue to run my CHA LEFS 8010 in its NVIS deployment. All of this will be covered on the channel next year.
On weak signal i've found by turning down the RF gain to zero and opening up the volume to full now control volume with the RF gain control. you can quiet the background noise floor and hear the signal better also fool around with turning off AGC control and turning on the preamp you will be surprised with what you can hear that you couldn't before.73 jim KB1PFL
So, your final points regarding internet, etc-I honestly think this is my resistance to using FT8, and other internet protocols over the air. I realizes its another form of communication-but reality is, if we have a grid down situation-I am looking to make voice contacts, not email someone. Simplicity is key.
Nothing wrong with keeping things simple, but some of the digital modes are great. Winlink is a good example of how you can send email to anyone in the world regardless if they are ham or not. I have no interest in FT8 either as there is no meaningful exchange in the protocol. However, I occasionally use FT8 as a propagation analysis tool to understand where my signal is going.
@@TheTechPrepper I do want to learn it, but I think I want to test for my general first, and am studying for that. Although, from what I have heard, understanding digital mode will help out with the test, so, it may be some cross training :).
I know that your EmComm Tools is targeted toward the 818, but have you tested it with your 897 since it is from the same family of radios? I use a 897 as my portable and would love to be able to use your software with it when available even if it is not officially supported.
Well...I broke my rule and added support for the FT-897D and FT-857D. I also added support for my new Xiegu X6100. So, only these four radios are supported. This was a pain adding these additional radios, so it's time to focus back on the core EmComm Tools development. I am happy that you and the other FT-897D owners lucked out.
Where do you access your path profile and area maps for determining location and distance of your contacts? BTW: I think Yaesu only make one rig the FT-991A with ssb capabilities on 2 meters. Any recommendations for cheaper alternative for 2m and ssb? Thanks - I enjoy the channel.
Love your video, I have Been curious about how ssb compares to FM, consider an Omni antenna on a switch with the yagi
The omni SSB ops often stack horizontal loops, but off the shelf stuff is $$$. There are roll your own recipies using wire delta loops etc, but you still need to be comfortable build phasing cables and matching sections for odd imeadances. A good cobbler should be able to do something for about $50 that would be comparable to the store bought stuff.
Ssb is the way to go. Even using our vertical antennas. The only problem is that it excludes those that don't have all mode 2m radios, which in a shtf scenario, may be a good thing.
73
Chameleon makes a VHF/UHF antenna that can be configured as a dipole. I bought one, but haven't got to try it out yet. Wanting on the mast to get here.
Edit: I've been reading my antenna book set by the ARRL I bought at a ham fest. You might be able to build a 2m Squaralo (I believe that is what it's called). It's a horizontally polarized, omnidirectional antenna that can be used on SSB and AM.
W4ISB
Mike in Tennessee.
I actually have the antenna that you are describing. It's the CHA DB. I wanted to talk about it in this video, but have not been able to test it yet. A friend is fabricating an adapter for my painter's pole so that I can mount it. There will be a video on that antenna soon. 73s
I haven't got to use mine, yet. Chameleon had a black Friday sale and bought the mast to put it on. Waiting until I get it in so I can hook it up and see how it preforms. One review on their website stated that the user had to file the whips to get a proper SWR. Hopefully that isn't the case.
I have just been using a 259 centimeter (102 inch) antenna mounted on top of an old television antenna. I hear the sideband operators just fine. I also have a switch to select just a horizontal wire in the attic and hear a lot like that, as well. I operate just junk, but I do get to receive extremely interesting conversations about propagation, experimentation, and improvisation. FM does not seem to have any of that conversation at all. They seem terrified to do anything outside the status quo.
If you go to a truck stop, you can pick up a Rand McNally for the whole country, updated every year.
BOOYAH! You're a 100% made man prepper!
Haha. Thanks for visiting, Viron!
Man you get me in trouble! I took your suggestion and drank a shot every time you said "community" and I just fell down and missed the floor!(joking)! Still thrilled you were able to acquire your 897! I DEARLY love mine! I am still on the hunt for an 857 so I can have the trio along with my 817! Keep up the good work, I get excited every time you release a new video!
It's great being a troublemaker and I love that you really enjoy the content. it's fun sharing experiences along the way. I didn't even push that drinking game other than that first bit of overlay text. I should have counted the number of times I used the word: "community". Good luck finding that FT-857D. The gentleman that sold me my FT-897D had a mint condition FT-857D as well. I just did not have another $650 in cash. That was one heck of a deal.
Relays are vital here in the mountains of SW Washington…! Another great video sir, thank you.
What app are you using at the 8:22 mark that shows the side view of the terrain and your signal…? Thx again KJ7CXL
Glad you enjoyed it. Relays are amazing. We frequently rely on them for our public service events for some of our remote endurance races that we support. I'm using the HeyWhatsThat Path Profile tool. You just give it two points and it will give you a path analysis with all the obstructions between two points. It's one of only three online requests that I make with EmComm Tools. It's nice to quickly assess a path between stations.
For the antenna polarization, the reasons for the convention are many - but not set in stone. Verticals are noisier because from what I understand most man made RFI is vertical. FM - you're using HT's and mobile rigs a lot, and they're generally verticals. It's kind of hard to set up a horizontal antenna in a car, but IF you were going for SSB to mobile, you'd probably want to orient all of them vertically to match the mobiles - or maybe set up a halo omnidirectional on the mobile units to get horizontal polarization? I'm not sure how well that'd work, but it might!
One thing that's perplexing is - how does it go that far? There has to be a valley / mountain situation? On flat terrain, there's no way you'd get line of sight over 100 miles. I don't think the mode of operation has much effect on the nature of VHF/UHF being line of sight. Then again, I'm getting 25+ miles crystal clear on AM in the 10m range from mobile to mobile with excellent antennas. It might follow the curvature a bit where VHF wouldn't but I'm not so sure about that.
Y needs to make a stand alone 2m rig with FM, SSB, CW, and a Digi comms port. In a 2980 size package.
I agree with all the words in this comment. ;-)
Good educational video. For this kind of situation go HF NVIS.
This radio is great for NVIS. I've been working locals across the state and region on 40m, 75m and 80m (digital) all week.
@@TheTechPrepper yes indeed. I've been using my ft857d for NVIS covering the northeast from Maine to Pennsylvania. Awesome sauce.
Both 2m SSB and HF NVIS are valuable emcom tools. If I used only one, it would be NVIS, but I would know I would have to adjust my operating hours to NVIS propagation time windows and frequencies. Where 2m SSB works, it is much more reliable. NVIS may only reach 80%-90% reliability for a few hours per day.
Maybe better if you want to use 2m, why not switch from yagi to a dipole for a wider coverage angle?!
@@vironpayne3405 since the terrain is flat, a 20m dipole will work fine given its wider angle. no rotator needed.
Look at this guy writing his own software. And I thought I was a geek! Is it just for you or do you have a dl anywhere? Great work by the way in ham and on your channel pal. Ive been a "Ham Observer" for a long while. Never went for my license and just listened. I am currently getting ready for the test because you and those damn Man Bags got me all worked up. Didnt have the nerve to buy a old used 897 for 7 to 800$ so I went with a new 991a because it was a lot cheaper than an FTDX10 and an FTM500 that doesn't even to SSB on 2 meters. Its not super portable but Ill be doing more POTA than SOTA for sure. Keep Hammering dude! 73
It's a work in progress, but this project largely stalled with the day job. It needs a full rewrite before it is released. I plan to take some time off work later this year to work on it. It will likely be released next year.
Cool! SSB/CW on 2m has a heckuva lot more range than FM with a small beam antenna ...and in a serious SHTF, most 2meter repeaters will be out of service.
In our post-apocalyptic adventure series, the main protagonist makes good use of the venerable Yaesu FT-290R mk.II on her bug-out journey, a manpackable rig super popular with us portable "mountaintoppers" in the late 1980s and 1990s, in the US, and especially in Europe. During the ARRL's spring sprint VHF contests, i regularly made contacts with guys in PA, NY, NJ, and OH running only 2.5watts from a mountaintop in S.W. Virginia.
Repeaters are great when times are good. But just a few days without power and most will be out of commission. Simplex and HF NVIS will be the go-to communications for local and regional comms. What adventure series? I am curious. Is there a book I missed?
@@TheTechPrepper The saga is called "Sanctuary's Call" -- the book is off to publisher's and the story script has drawn the attention of agents of various streaming platforms...we want to keep the production 100% in Venezuela for the authenticity factor....instead of selling the script or screenplay outright to a producer . The story is set here 7-8 months after a worldwide economic collapse. Lots of prepper, bushcraft and survivalist content included, and of course, ham radio has a big role.
@@peterbehringer63 Best of luck with the book. I have it on my whiteboard to pick up when it becomes available for purchase.
if you shoot me a note when it's available, I'll do something new on the channel and do a book review. I love books in this genre. My email is on the the About page of my UA-cam channel page if you're interested. I'm also on QRZ. 73 de KT1RUN
@@TheTechPrepper Sure...! and the Kindle version should be out, too, soon .. Keep up the great content on the YT channel....Good morning greetings from Caracas. (Me: Have a been an expat living abroad mostly in Latin America, over 20years, and have run my own urban/rural adventure tour operation in Venezuela,. off-and-on since 2007).
Son and I can't comm via simplex on FM - just too far apart. But on SSB, we can. So when the repeaters are down, we are still good to go. A very valuable skill. (BTW - we are both running FT-897D's and J-pole antennas.)
Love your vids. Keep 'em coming!
It often is not heard, in my area. But, there is a group that regularly operates on 146.925Mhz USB and LSB, regionally. They are very interesting guys. They are very fun to listen to them. They are rather light hearted and free spirited. I like many of the inventions they set up that seem so strange but work very good. I do not hear many experimenters on the air. It is as if they are terrified to operate outside the status quo norm.
Your both running the j-poles vertically for 2m SSB ? How many miles?
Your both running the j-poles vertically for 2m SSB ? How many miles?
Your both running the j-poles vertically for 2m SSB ? How many miles?
Your both running the j-poles vertically for 2m SSB ? How many miles?
I'd LOVE to be able to get a rig like the 857, but they're hard to find and outrageously priced right now. Definitely get one with the optional filter - that filter is SUPER costly and even harder to find - it's also out of production.
Other than that, I'm looking at the IC-7100, but there are things I don't like about it. The form factor isn't great for man portable setup, and the touch screen is IMHO just a possible frustration / failure point.
In Houston, a FM,SSB,AM 2m rig would sell. If you do not put D-Star/Fusion in it, it would sell. I,K,Y used to sell that sort of rig. With modern electronics, something in the $300-500 would be good price points. If not the Big 3, Bridgecom?
In H-Town, D-STAR and Fusion repeaters are few and far between. People here generally are looking for George Jetson basic rigs. An Exceptions are DMR/hotspots and All Star. Many are using handies for DMR.
A big issue with VHF/UHF SSB is the lack of available radios that support the mode. Yes, there's a used radio market, but that's a roll of the dice. The new market has maybe 4 rigs and none are entry level price friendly. Some all mode dual banders or even 2M rig offerings would help get hams to use SSB.
Wait, what, out of coffee?? Great video Gaston. 2 mr SSB is under used for the most part.
Thanks, Malen. Let's keep 2m SSB alive! Yep, I went through a whole pot.
I volunteer SAR and pretty much everyone uses FM only 2m and I think ssb would work best at pushing comms up a canyons
In my experience, 2m ssb is unlikely to help if you have major terrain issues. I've used it as a range extender in benign terrain, getting reliable comms over around 100 miles whereas FM would only do 40 or so without having to go up to kilowatt power levels. For 50 miles plus I'd usually lean towards MF/HF, but atmospheric conditions mean those are never 100% guaranteed whereas a beam and 2m ssb can get a higher level of confidence once you have checked it will work at all. If it works under flat band conditions, likelihood is it will work all the time, so good for point-to-point links.
Thanks for your service. That's very commendable. We're also using NVIS on 75m with great success in valleys and across mountains. Be safe out there.
Gaston and Mike are correct. VHF SSB does miracles with modest terrain and a little power. For terrain NVIS is your best tool, unless you want to go down to 600m. Between 2m SSB and NVIS on 40m, 60m, and 80m you can cover 100% at least 20% of the time regionally out to 200mi regardless of terrain.
NVIS is not available all the time, but it is available almost every day for a few hours. If you focus on using the right frequency at the right time you can operate NVIS with 80%-90% reliability. 80m and 60m are more reliable for NVIS than 40m. If you are not using prediction software based on current or expected space weather 80m from an hour after sunset to about an hour after sunrise will provide your reasonably reliable 80m NVIS.
@@vironpayne3405 thank you for the feed back, I run portable NVIS almost everyday, I do tones of winlink, Our SAR uses tactical voice pretty much data but in a disaster it will rock.
A $40 painters pole! And I was about to order an expensive Rohn mast. Curious how you secured the pole.
Thank you for another great video, Gaston! I am trying to locate one of these TrekMount or similar feedpoint suitable for (ideally mast-mounted) man-portable SSB operation without much luck. PackTenna has been out of stock for months. Anybody know of an alternate source?
Join the PackTenna Google IO group. They announce availability their first. You usually have a day before they're out of stock once a batch is announced. Good luck. These things are great.
@@TheTechPrepper I will do that now. Thanks for the tip!
73,
KC6UXQ
You may want to checkout the fx-4cr transceiver.
If you don't have the TXO for the FT-897D, it should help get you on frequency. It works better after its been running 20-30min. Otherwise, you'll probably end up fiddling with you carrier offset for Tx or Rcv.
The Arrow beam on the painter's pole is great prepping. If you think more like Net Control you could stack a couple of horizontal loops, but the off the shelf stuff is $$$.
A crafty person wanting point to point could modulate a laser pointer. The modulation could be anything from CW to any voice or digital mode with CW being easy. A clever person could probably co-opt CD player parts for some of the work modulating and demodulating. Its a crazy idea for someone.
That's what I have been reading. My unit did not come with a TCXO. I am trying to find one as well as the purple unicorn--the 2.3 KHz SSB Collins filter. Anyone have one? Yeah, I know this is a shameless ask. I'll pay a fair price. I'm on QRZ. ;-)
@@TheTechPrepper No! You CAN'T have my 2.3K Collins filters! I bought one for all four of my FT-8XX radios when new.
Isn't there something designed for the 817/818 that does the job digitally that might be co-opted into service?
One radio has the 300Hz and two have the 500Hz filters. Given most digital modes can operate at 1kH to 1.5kH, and I don't do CW I would probably opt for a 1.5kH filter if I changed the second filter.
Something along the same line, typically not used, is 1.25m. Most people just aren't going to have radios with the 1.25m band.
I'm not a fan of security by obscurity, but using a mode or band that is not common can be a perk. I use 222 MHz with the VX-6R'S for the reason you mentioned.
A lot of radios that don't Tx on 1.25m still Rcv on 1.25m, so the security by obscurity can be a false sense of security.
Hello Gaston: Thank you for this informative video. Unfortunately within the islands of the Caribbean people don't get interested in talking on VHF or UHF until something happens. I'm going to see if I can get some support for VHF or UHF SSB between the islands. Wish me luck.
Regards,
Robert (Bob) Chambers
8P6RC
You're welcome. Good luck!
Would the rubber duck antenna that comes with the FT-818/817 work for 2m SSB? It comes with those two tips. I should do a range test with mine.
It can work, but your effectiveness will be reduced. Most SSB work is done using horizontal polarization not vertical. This has nothing to do with physics, just agreed upon convention by ham radio operators. You will also get better results with a horizontal dipole or horizontal yagi/beam instead of that the little rubber duck antenna. You will have better luck if the other station is using the same polarization as you are. I hope this helps.
Maybe you can share your thoughts on the 897 vs the 8920 for 2M…cheers 🍻
How do you like the 897d? I run 857d’s and love ‘em! But really wanna try the 897
I love it. If you know the 857D, you will know how to use the FT-897D. It's my current shack rig. I don't plan on taking portable unless I have my RV or the Jeep.
A good video would me to talk about your new/old Ft 897. Why did you buy it or any features you like.
This will be next week's topic, but in a nutshell it's built like tank, is all-band/all-mode, and shares the same menu system, controls and components as my primary manpack radios (FT-818ND and FT-857). This radio is about 20 year's old and comes from the Vertex Standard days. Proven track record, robust and built to last.
If you aren't in a crowded contest environment, you will be hard pressed to find a better all band all mode radio than the FT-897D & FT-857D for portable operation.The IC-846pro is better in some respects, but it is very power hungry.
The value of having a license is the ability to practice now and develop community while times are good.
Bingo. That was the point of the whole video. It was less about this actual mode of communication and more about the value of establishing and building community. We'll done!
I've evacuated 3 times was caught in a flash flood. Had 2 power outages that lasted more than 24 hours. Choked people out, been shot at and had knives pulled on me. And still don't understand the necessity of comms. However I'm a general.
Well, you can't effectively coordinate people and resources without resources. It's insurance when the cell phones and internet fail.
@@TheTechPrepper in some of those situations I had a cell, so I guess I did have comms I just didn't appreciate it.
I did 2m SSB faithfully for 4-5 years. The activity was very far and few in between. I had a group of guys in NYC and a group of 3 guys in Ohio that I talked to fairly regularly. This was when I drove over the road. After I got tired of calling CQ to myself I finally gave up on it.
2m SSB is awesome! Sadly it’s underutilized and carries quite the distance. My best distance was 275 miles(with no tropospheric ducting), from Barneveld, WI to The Lake of the Ozark’s, MO. This was using the M2(squared not the number 2) loop, an RMItaly VLA200 (250 watts), & Icom 706MKIIG. Like I said the mode is way too underutilized. What I did find funny was that when there’s a VHF/UHF contest you can hardly find a clear frequency. Where all of those stations when there isn’t a contest? Very sad indeed!
I see quite a few of those on ebay - and they are pricey for a discontinued 10w radio. Any reason why you chose that specific radio vs something else? Choices on SSB 2m / 70cm radios are sparse.
This is a 100 watt rig on HF. I picked mine up for $450 in great condition at a local hamfest. It's been my experience that eBay prices are disconnected from reality. I'll talk about the reasons why this radio next week.
@@TheTechPrepper Wow you got a deal if that's the case! And I thought that it was only 10w, so yeah - that's a nice rig for what you paid for it!
Have you tested digital voice simplex on 2 m and compared it to FM and SSB?
Not yet. I am primarily an analog operator at the moment. I have a radio that does C4FM (Yaesu Fusion) but we don't have any local operators using C4FM. Next year I plan to dive into DMR and P25. We'll explore this journey on the channel.
I might be a bit late to the party but have you tried using freedv on vhf? Freedv is a bit narrower bandwidth and only requires a ssb radio. I have been thinking of trying this out for my comms setup. You may also want to check out the hourglass antenna and see if you have better results. I think the yagi is far easier for me but it's good to experiment.
Yes, I explored it a bit when I looking into how to implement voice encryption last year for another project. Thanks for the tip on the hourglass antenna.
Did the x6100 platform end up not panning out as viable for emcomm app platform?
I don't know yet. This is a project for next year. I'm focusing on the core EmComm Tools development first.
Great. I am looking at it, binged all of Steve's (temporarily offline) videos, tried understand what TOADs are in to in Discord, the firmware builds look doable. Mine will be here Tuesday. Next year looks like a game changer for sure!
I belong to my 2 local radio clubs and participate in all the nets.
Glad to hear it. Let's keep radio alive.
Armature Radio Net definition = Weather reports from QHT.
Has anyone setup a kind of BBS system with radio ? Or maybe a forum or Usenet type system using radio data and repeaters
If the internet goes down this could be useful
I did a video on this topic last year. Search "BBS" on my video channel page. Enjoy.
KM4ACK, OH8STN, and S2 Underground talk about setting up file and mail servers accessible by radio. Two of them use Pi computers. I want to say S2 Underground suggests a LoRA topology.
@@vironpayne3405 LoRa could be very useful if you have people within range and enough of them to form a mesh network. Text only, but it's encrypted. Pretty neat stuff.
I noticed ya also forgot to mention ur loosin ALOT of the signal in ya coax and that also pointin ya yagi and hills or mountains can also help cause they act like mirrors and for ur 897 u can buy a TCXO on ebay for it was like $20AU when I had the same radio years back and it made it alot more stable and if u get a RTL SDR u can mod the radio and use the SDR as a pan adapter which is useful
Good day sir , I have a frustration rather then a question… I’m a guy that spends a fair amount of time in fairly remote areas ( I am not a licensed ham operator) In your regulations book it states that in the event of emergency anyone can use a Ham radio, Unfortunately I have been in 2 incidents where ham radio would have helped greatly…. I don’t want to know the inner workings of radio or want to build a ham shack , I just would like to have a portable station as you have so I have the ability to communicate in the event of emergency… My beef is that there should be an allowance for unlicensed person to purchase.. Thank you , I’m new sub.👍🇨🇦
You don't have to have a license to purchase. They always ask for a call sign at my HRO but not required to buy.
Would be cool to update this video with 2 meter SBB + JS8call
It works incredibly well on 2m SSB. My group and use this often.
I wish someone would be an inexpensive SSB 2 meter radio. The cost difference between FM and all modes are huge.
Same here. I wish my 2m-only FT-2980R was all-mode. It's a great inexpensive rig, but only FM.
80m ground wave prop was used for local coms before 2m repeaters became common.
That is correct. I have 75m/80m ground wave and skywave capabilities too. The goal with the "No Random Contacts" series is to introduce a new mode or technique in every video where we can establish a planned contact to a known quantity. 75m groundwave would have worked up to about 50 miles in this area, but not everyone in this group has HF capabilities. Just trying to share with everyone my toolbox of techniques that I have picked up over the last few years.
Ever use the ARPANet?
It was a bit before my time. Early days of dial-up is were I started.
I completely understand the limitations of CB compared to amateur radio but have you considered ssb CB for a base station option at a stationary base of operations? I have quite regularly talkked to people 180 to 220 miles away and sporadic contact with folks 300 to 400 miles away all while using completely legal un modified CB radios. While not legal I've heard stories of people using a amp (not legal) and regularly talking 300 plus miles away. I detest straight am CB. Being a truck driver for over 26 years it's really soured me on citizens band radio while in strictly am mode. SSB citizens band on the other hand is quite intriguing to me.
Maybe not relying on ssb CB but maybe keeping it as a tool in your arsenal ?
With CB you wait for the skip to happen. With amateur radio you go to the HF band where the skip is at any given time. For emcom and prepping that is a huge difference.
Plus, CB never sees NVIS propagation. HF NVIS is invaluable for regional communications. It is a regular tool for SOCOM military operators as a backup or in place of satellite communication.
ua-cam.com/video/9QIeG4LiFMg/v-deo.html
@@vironpayne3405 CB is 27Mhz, which makes it HF. Anything seen on HF can be found on CB.
why the 897 over something newer like the 991?
New is the enemy of stable in my humble opinion. This radio has a proven track record over the course of 20 years. It comes for the good old days of when Vertex Standard was associated with Yaesu. The quality has gone down since Vertex Std. left. Also, this radio shares the same components and menu systems as my main radios (FT-818 and FT-857D). Parts interchangeability is a major factor. It was also 1/3rd the price. There are many features that I will cover next week.
What’s going on with your phone app. I want to purchase it like yesterday!
Family, the day job, this channel and my new bag business are eating up all my time. I have momentum this project again, but it still needs a lot of work before it's released. It's not a phone app. It runs on a computer. I hope to have a public release in 2023.
@@TheTechPrepper even better that t is a thumb drive piece. Will it work for ic-705?
@@kurt53641 Not in the initial release. I limiting the initial release to radios that I have. Adding too many radios out the gate will add complexity to the platform and will also take my attention away from finishing the core software. I may add support in the future if I get my hands on an IC-705.
You seem to like Yaesu. 818, 857, 897. There are other brands out there. But why? When my Yaesu Ft-8900, 817, and 857 work so well I stick with what I know. In your other video you said something about standardization. If you show up at an emergency and they have a radio system you're not familiar with there is a delay for learning. Great video as usual. 73! de KE5ES
Yes, there other brands out there, but personally I like standardizing my gear on single vendor. It allows for part interchangeability and for me to have well established muscle memory using the controls and menu system. For example, the mechanical filters and few other components work in all three of those radios. The cables (CAT and data) and microphones are also interchangeable across my 818, 857, 897. I work a large number of public services events and we always supply our own gear. I have never been in a situation where I have been given someone else's radio.
@@TheTechPrepper Before I bought the 857 the Texas Dept of Emergency Management set up and there was the 857. Luckily they had the manual with the radio.
Maybe I'm missing something, but wouldn't a NVIS 40 or 80 m net be just as or better suited to this purpose? Big drawback to 2 m SSB is that as a percentage of the total radio users (even the general holders), those able to do 2-meter SSB is pretty small, and of that group, likely that all of them could do 40 or 80 NVIS. There's value to it if you already have an established group using that type of comms, But as a new thing, to me it doesn't make sense.
This is just a demonstration of showing the value of 2m SSB as another tool for local comms. It's not mutually exclusive I've covered NVIS on 40m, 75m and 80m a few times recently.