Thanks for the video. I grew up in HAM household (mom and dad) and never got a license. I started studying CW in the early eighties to get a license but lost interest. Years later now, I have an interest and see why my parents were so into this. My dad sold these radios for a living/managed Universal Radio in Columbus, Ohio, so its really cool to hear you talk about all of these manufactures as it really brings back memories of helping my dad sell them at ham-fests. Thanks for your input and explanations!
I found out about your channel from your video with Fieldcraft Survival and I already love your content. I love the fact that you put so much effort into your descriptions. I am very much "long video averse" and the fact that you put time stamps allows me to quickly drop in where I want to listen and makes the information easy to find. Subscribed.
As a beginner i bought and still use an ICOM IC-7200. It is very rugged and portable (but not necessarily man portable). It has a built-in sound card so no audio interface is necessary for digital modes and is very easy to set up for digital modes. One (USB) to rule them all. It has a good DSP and analog knobs that are very sturdy. A dual pass band filter, too. It is an HF and 6 meter 100w rig. The radio is no longer in production, I understand. I bought mine for about 800 bucks new. A newbie will not be overwhelmed, yet the radio has always given me very good signal reports. it's a keeper.
No one on my local repeaters hate on Baofeng. Most of us have one even if we've quickly upgraded to something else. They are honestly a GREAT jumping in price. The scanning thing? I didn't know they were slow either, and the 128 memory channels is no where near enough.
Awesome video, thank you so much. But I have to say, as a newbie where every single model number and feature and price and brand and protocol are all swirling together in a big gooey mess, it would have helped immensely if each time you mentioned a radio you also gave a very approximate price range. You actually started doing that when talking about some of the much more expensive stuff... Base stations and whatnot... But there were almost no mention of approximate prices for the HTs where most noobs are going to be looking initially. I'm confident that many, if not most of the radios you touched on in this video I would summarily dismiss based on the higher prices, which would make it so much easier for me to focus my attention on the ones that are in my price range. And conversely I'm sure there are many watching this video who have a higher budget in mind and similarly would summarily dismiss the ones much cheaper or much more expensive than their budgeted range. Just a thought for future videos. Thanks for everything!!!
The Baofeng UV5R Plus is a great HT. It costs between 25 and 35 bucks. The ones I own are open for TX on the whole bands, 70cm and 2m. They pick up NWS and NOAA frequencies as well as emergency frequencies, assuming the services in one's area are still analog. AND it brings in FM broadcast stations, also important in emergencies. The HT is easily programmed with CHIRP. I have connected mine to a Diamond X300N antenna for great contacts. I have also used one successfully for satellite RX with my log periodic antenna. With the cheaper Arrow antenna or something similar and two Baofengs you can do RX and TX.
Got myself a boafeng to listen locally. Hearing that people like you have made contact with the ISS is AMAZING! I’ve been scanning all morning. I’m hoping to get my technical then General license.
@@seandrake7534 I get repeater frequencies all the time and even some local EMS from time to time. I’ve used a tape measure built antenna to directionally find the ISS also. All on the Baofeng. I’ve heard them faintly but haven’t cracked the directional antenna code yet.
Just getting into radio. Started with GMRS and discovered that Amateur Radio has so much more, and am preparing to take my Tech and General exam. I would save my Chinese New Year money (per your recommendation) for an expensive 7100, but as I'm now married, I no longer *receive* CNY money and am now expected to *give* CNY money to my younger unmarried relatives.
Hi, I really enjoy watching your video, I’m @ the very entry level, I have no knowledge, on Ham radios,but I’m doing my best and learn to get at least my technician license.Ivan from Puerto Rico watching you. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge.
No BS I bought a b1 plus and its awsome. I working on getting my ham license but wanted a radio to get started with. I work a crap ton of hours so finding I test that's within my time off is hard right now but I'll get there.
1:18:45 Yeah, the N6DLH was his callsign, (or at least that's a valid and registered callsign according to the FCC Database) isn't that "good enough"? What does the time/date stamp with the callsign get you?
We saw a load of ~1960s Vintage Collins transceivers in an estate sale recently. The units are built like Sherman tanks! But my question is, can you still buy replacement vacuum tubes for these things anymore? 🤔
Question, I should get my technician license tomorrow or Tuesday. I currently have several Beofeng radios and a TYT TH 9800D quad band mobile. I’m going to buy a high end HT today or tomorrow. I’d really like a Kenwood D74 but the only one I’ve found is on eBay for $900… the description is sketchy so I’m going to pass. So it’s a toss up between the FT3D and the FT5D. Is the FT5D worth $100 more than the 3?? I will be using it for ham VHF and UHF and also wide band scanning. Should I get the 3 and spend the left over on things like antennas and meters or go big with the 5?? All responses and opinion’s are welcome! Cheers Love your channel. It made getting my tech license much easier!
Ok my first radio is a bowfang but I have to start somewhere. I will buy a better one later. Where do I take the test. How much does it cost. Do I get a cool paper license to plastic against the wall? Where do I get the materials to study
If you live in the US, buy the ARRL study guides. They have the entire question pool available for you to study. I took a class at the local ham club for the Technician class and studied concurrently on my own for the General. There is a certain amount of overlap. Took the Technician test and passed. They let me take the General test, back to back. Passed that one also. I think I paid $15 administrative fee. The examiners are all volunteers.
I have two UV5Rs and two UV9Rs and the 5R interface is a bit better because it has an A/B button to switch between top and bottom channels and a VFO/MR button for switching between channel mode and frequency mode. With the 9R you use the Exit button to switch between top and bottom channels, and you have to actually turn the radio off and start it up while holding a particular button to switch between channel mode and frequency mode, a bit of a drag if you are switching often. On the bright side the 9R waterproofing is quite good and has survived a few dunks in salt water (I added an O-ring under the antenna for extra security). They work very well for jet skis as the swivel clip is perfect for a life vest. they also have a bigger battery than the 5R
It's so strange that the restrictions on entry level licences are so different. I hold the UK foundation licence which is equivalent to tech in the USA but I am allowed to use most HF bands (not allowed 60m) However unlike US tech licences I'm limited to 10W maximum on any band including 2m and 70cm M7DSW
I used to talk on CB radio in the 70's and am thinking about getting a ham license. Is ham radio like CB back in the day where you and your friends talk or find someone to talk to? I don't know anyone that does this and don't want to spend lots of time and money if it is not something I can do in my apartment.
Baofeng USA has changed a ton of their product line. While much of the old stuff can be found via amazon, the old models are no longer being made. As well as the new models are now part certifies by FCC
I picked up a UV5R and eventually set it up as a scanner. My problem with that was the fact that if you inadvertently hit the PTT button, you broadcast on that channel 😬 Probably not that big a deal because of tones, but still scared the hell out of me. I eventually used Chirp to turn off the duplex setting on all of them. I highly recommend that. But I wanted to talk on the radio somehow all the same, so I ended up picking up their GMRS version for that reason. It was either that or go for a HAM licence instead of the GMRS one. The nice thing about those is that they won't transmit on anything non-GMRS. Even in frequency mode 👍
When taking my test at a local hamfest I had my baofeng with me to listen in. It drew some nasty looks when they realized it was a boafeng. Idk why. I hit the repeater just the same. Do I want a better ht? Yup and I’ll get one soon. But starting out they are great.
I’m new on the block looking forward to your ham radio vlogs!! I’m seeking my ham license and I have a study book ( Now you’re talking 5th EDITION) could I still use this book to study for my license?
Hey man, i just got one of those Midnight crazy thoughts…..if making long distant contact through the HF frequencies is the goal; then why having soo much pain in buying expensive equipment; and antenas, when you can go DMR or echo link?
Hi Josh, I am intrested on hearing your thoughts on the FCC’s rule change to charge $50 for new licenses, renwals, and upgrades. I see this as a discouragement and makes me reluctant to stay in the hobby.
$50 is nothing compared to what you will or did spend on equipment. I think they backed off and lowered it to $35. Anyway, if you are already in the hobby you have either already paid the fees or got in before they were implemented.
Really enjoyed the video! I wonder if it should include (maybe you have another video - I'll look) best antennas to go with these radios... Some get quite expensive and others don't work well for people with limited space. Thanks again!!!
I have settled into the Yeasu ecosystem. The only one I have is the FTM-400. But I plan to get the 991a, and a digital HT, not sure if I want to go the FT3DR route or the FT70. I enjoy the features that Yeasu has to offer, but not their price points necessarily. But I guess that's true about any of the Japanese radios.
On Baofeng......can you load different frequencies on A/B channels? I was wanting to put repeaters, ect on my “A” channel and then use “B” for emergency frequencies, sheriff, and NOAA. That way I can rotate back and forth depending on what I want to scan. I loaded everything with CHIRP. Found out if I delete from “A” it removes from “B” too. Didn’t know if there was a setting I did not have turned on or set right????
iCom-7300 transceivers are now backordered about 3 months. Be prepared to wait! To get on the air in the mean time, I bought an open box iCom 718 just to have something.
Hi, Josh. Getting ready for Technician test. Of course, it's all new to me. One thing I haven't seen in training, videos, and what not... When I see the radio screens on your videos, and others, I see... 7.125.000 are those supposed to be periods or commas? I'm guessing that is 7.125 MHz, right?
Just bought 2 Baofeng Radios UV-5R MK5. Figured it's time the wife and I start getting communication in order if SHTF...and just for fun. But, I want something that I can also send to my sister's family in Los Angeles (I'm in Houston, TX), and I want them to be able to talk to us in case anything happens there, or here and cell towers get either congested, or damaged (more probable in LA). What would be the recommendations for this situation. ...... Well....nevermind, 30:43 just answered my question when I went to see the video.
What about an Elecraft KX-whatever with the 100-watt amp? I want to buy a ‘Merican made radio - I’ve got my General and like it because I can use it portable QSR (and HT?). What other radios are US made?
Studying for my tech test and maybe general at the same time. Went ahead and bought a few HT's. FT60, FT3DR, UV5X3. Diamond, Signal Stick, and Nagoya. I'll probably go ahead and buy a mobile too. Destination HF. UA-cam is my Elmer. Local club won't respond to e-mails.
I'm late, F it. Anyone know if I can get a sticker of the "FCC hat guy" meme at 1:30 ? I have the same one but with an ATF hat and would love the FCC one next to it.
I need some help choosing a long-range 'walkie talkie'. I have some far-flung international locations in mind for an adventure for myself and a mate, places such as the Sahara Desert, the Atacama Desert in South America, jungles of Asia, and so on and so forth, you get the point, Bear Grylls shit... Money is no object and I only need two units. I have zero experience with radio comms other than the CB radio my dad set up for me back in 1996 when I was 12 years old. I just want to pretty much be able to buy the pair of radio handsets, charge them up and get chatting to my mate in the event we are separated in a precarious situation. I don't want an overly complex unit that requires a good knowledge of programming the channels, just a high wattage unit that's simple to operate - Any pointers???
I’m considering buying the anytone at-6666. (Waiting on the rtl-sdr kit to play with first). What I’ve found out so far is that I need (at least) two antennas, one for communicating on the free to use 11 meter band, and one for the 10 meter band, once I get my license. Can somebody please confirm whether my conclusions are correct and suggest antennas for this? Maybe I will go for a baofeng handheld as well 🙂 Ps: I have a (top floor) apartment so am somewhat limited as far as masts go. I would like a somewhat further range, but local/regional area contact is the main focus. Oh, I’m from the Netherlands, but frequency spectrum split up and allowed usage, as well as technician licenses are mostly similar. Only difference is the 110volt versus 220 here.
Hi Josh , love channel and videos. Couldn’t find the mirkit 6-1 cable not available. What other universal program cable for baofeng and yaesu 60r working on widows 10. Taking my test January 9th!!! Thank you , Sandy
so i think i have my baofeng uv5r programmed (from your how to program using CHIRP) i did a scan and i am still getting weather band stuff on channels not even listed in my program and i have them all programmed to skip the scan function... my question is how do i get past this.... 5 hours of listening to the scan function and i still haven't got past the VHF section...
As a paramotor pilot I’m interested comms with pilots and ground crews. At first I got the Yaesu hearing it was higher quality than the Baofeng but the Kenwood connector didn’t fit. Are there more precise names for these connections so that I can make sure any further purchases do fit?
That is what I’ve been taught as well. However not all 2 pin connectors have the same distance between pins. I have an av band radio (Icom A14) with a connector that looks the same but a few mm different than the Baofeng. I’m not sure if this difference has a designated name or not.
Im looking at a first good dual or tri band radio to use as home base station. Prefere base over mobile. Good but not too expensive Maybe digital too ?? 50 Watt if possible too Some recommendations ?
Or what radio may I use to communicate in city 30 mile radio with two walkie talkies only? It is for me and my partner and I would like to get a good walkie in case of an emergency. Which radio would be for 30 mile in city range that works well not cutting off?
I downloaded study materials to get my general license. Next I will study for my technical. My oldest brother who is ten years older than me has been into ham radio for a long time. He first got me into but I didn't know I could get into it so inexpensively
I am looking into getting back in to HAM radio after about 60 years. So I am looking for a radio I can use and expand on and I need to do it on a BUDGET
I'm a new ham. I have gotten my license because I work as a volunteer firefighter and also with the emergency management agency. I need a radio that is part 90 certified, preferably dual band, and not crazy expensive. Are there videos on part 90 radios, or does anyone have any recommendations?
Consider the Yaesu FT60. Usually get them new for $160 (HRO, Gigaparts, etc). Great rigs! Dependable, decent battery (with battery pack optional), easy to program manually and via CHIRP, aluminum (metal) construction. You can't beat it. Get that with a Signal Stick or Diamond SHR77CA (each about $20) antenna, you can't beat it. I have the Diamond antenna on my FT60 and was able to monitor the ISS as it passed over Seattle to Mexico City the other night, and I was in Omaha. Great receiver!!! I also have the Anytone 878UV, $208. Nice screen but a lot of steps to program (and not CHIRP compatible). Wishing I wouldn't have bought it, but it looks cool.
@@applejacks971 thank you for the reply. I wasn't aware of any Part 90 certified radios from Yaesu. The FT60 is part 90 certified? If so, it look perfect.
@@Assorted12 No, the FT-60 is part 97 certified. It is an amateur radio. Most of the big 3 make mobile radios for first responders, of course, you might be able to use a regular ham radio, because most people know nothing of radio, and you'd probably get away with it. But if legality is your goal, make sure your radio is type certified.
If you can find a nice pre-owned mid-90's Yaesu VX-5R.....BUY IT! About $100 usually, and new batteries are only $22 on Amazon and it has ALL the channels, including Marine, HAM, FM, TV (!!), NOAA, EASY repeater setup, aviation, MILITARY aviation, 800-999, it's got it ALL and it's a transceiver! It even has some wild 90's features like on board TEMP sensor that shows up on the display as a screensaver....AND,, there is a barometric pressure sensor option as well. Has SMA female antenna, the opposite of Boateng. Best radio I've ever had for the money. I put a COMET Triband antenna on it for $45!!!!
I'm actually considering selling my HF radio w/tuner, for a more portable option. If I understood you right, a decent selling point would be 20% off new selling price? (for an older still in production radio)
You can do that. Or I suggest taking a look at Ebay. Search for the same item, and filter down to only see sold items. This gives you an idea of how much others have sold for. I know Josh said he didn't recommend that approach. But I find it very useful. I've sold several items on Ebay (non ham related) using this approach. 73
Im wondering about the FT70 as a first price to have a handheld C4FM. Do you know it and is it worth 200$ ? I still have a FTM100 in my car and a FTM400 in my house. I want to set a C4FM hotpoint but dont know if the FT70 gives an access to nodes, rooms, .. by showing them on the screen.
@fpeletz Thanks. I have the HRI but actually am still looking for the right settings on my computer, my english is poor and I dont understand the manual (I see a lot of rooms but dont find the way to see them on the FTM400).
If it wasn’t for Baofeng I never would have gotten into this hobby that is rapidly dying, I’m the youngest guy in my club by 25 years you buy someone a nice set up as a gift for $50, so there great to get started
Want to get into the hobby...family is but as you know life happens so I want to join in. I've been looking at the boefang for my first...but not sure which one,so what is the difference in the GT-3TP and the UV-5R and which is a better choice?,also want to use this for an emergency and shtf radio.
My 2 UV-5Rs are my only radios so far. I bought each with the kit of an extra battery and a charging stand. I also bought two antenna upgrades. I can remember the name. But, they are sold beside the Baofeng radios. So for less than $100 I have been on the air on several local repeaters. I kindly Elmer in our local ham club programmed several repeaters into the radios for me.
Does anybody know what the difference is between the baofeng BF-F8HP and the Mirkit Mk3. Mk4 mk5 radios? Surprisingly no one has made a video explaining anything about the Mirkit Edition radios and no online articles. I know the Mirkit radios come with a lot of accessories which is great, but is the radio itself comparable bf-f8hp ? Are they counterfeits? Do mirkit radios put out 8 watts like the BF-F8HP does? And which model mirkit would be comparable to the bf-f8hp? Example Mk3, Mk4, mk5?
@@HamRadioCrashCourse I'm going with the mirkit MK5 combo, you can't be 2 batteries, Plus the large battery charges directly with a USB cable so it will work with solar . And pair it up with a Abree antenna their biggest one.
hey did the baofeng bf-f8hp prices go up? i got one for christmas that i suspect is real and was able to reach out to 8 miles to a walmart blister pack gmrs. for $73 i ordered another from amazon for testing purposes and it randomly buzzes and its range stinks, the manual seems different etc etc i think its a fake, so i ordered another from ebay, and it too looks fake. now i am looking to buy another and its like $90 plus tax and shipping. i thought these were cheap radios, anyone know whats going on?
👍✅ Very good video‼️ Just getting back into Ham Radio and so much is new, you have convinced me the New Yaesu FT3D, the main reason is EAZY programming by hand 🤚 I do not have a Windows based CPU I only use an Apple 🍎 iPad Pro and no one has programming software for iPad OS so if I get a radio that has to be programmed by a Computer I would be SOL so thank you very much‼️‼️✅👍
Hey boss if I payed you to set up my radio through a pc i would have to plug it run the software so u can controle my screen and do it I need it set up for my area
Trying to decide between the FTM-400 & a high end HT for the first ham radio. My area is predominantly fusion repeaters (wires x). Only one D-Star repeater in KC. Thoughts??
A mobile radio has significantly better range than a HT, even with the same antenna. I have an FTM-400, It was my first ham radio, and I quite enjoy it, I am sure you will too! If radio is more a hobby than a form of emergency communications for you, then a HT should be fine, especially with a hotspot.
Yeah I have looked for a mobile radio for my truck that can do CB and GMRS + FRS in one unit. From what I've read it does not exist and would cause the universe to implode.
@@freedomlover425 I just found out today about somerhing that looks promising. SDR. Product called Hack RF. Not the cheapeat option. But it DOES have transmit capability if you buy an upconverter can monitor freuencies from 4 khz to 3 Ghz. Ridiculous! Like 300 dolllars
Josh your thoughts on kenwood HF rigs ?? The 890 single Rx ? Or the 990 dual Rx ?? I for one don't know the Heath of kenwood honestly but so spend more for a 890 vs a yaesu 101d thank for your thoughts KC3ONO
Thanks for the video. I grew up in HAM household (mom and dad) and never got a license. I started studying CW in the early eighties to get a license but lost interest. Years later now, I have an interest and see why my parents were so into this. My dad sold these radios for a living/managed Universal Radio in Columbus, Ohio, so its really cool to hear you talk about all of these manufactures as it really brings back memories of helping my dad sell them at ham-fests. Thanks for your input and explanations!
I loved that store back in the day! Didn't get out there nearly as often as I liked, but that brings back a lot of good memories!
J,
Do you see a point in purchasing just a HAM ht? What scenario justifies having a HAM ht vs a GRMS ht device?
I found out about your channel from your video with Fieldcraft Survival and I already love your content. I love the fact that you put so much effort into your descriptions. I am very much "long video averse" and the fact that you put time stamps allows me to quickly drop in where I want to listen and makes the information easy to find. Subscribed.
It's good that you take the time to explain complicated things in a simple manner
Ditto
Same here
I’m thinking of getting into ham, watching you video makes me want to continue down this path
Baofeng uv-10r
YAESU VX-5R, trust me
As a beginner i bought and still use an ICOM IC-7200. It is very rugged and portable (but not necessarily man portable). It has a built-in sound card so no audio interface is necessary for digital modes and is very easy to set up for digital modes. One (USB) to rule them all. It has a good DSP and analog knobs that are very sturdy. A dual pass band filter, too. It is an HF and 6 meter 100w rig. The radio is no longer in production, I understand. I bought mine for about 800 bucks new. A newbie will not be overwhelmed, yet the radio has always given me very good signal reports. it's a keeper.
No one on my local repeaters hate on Baofeng. Most of us have one even if we've quickly upgraded to something else. They are honestly a GREAT jumping in price. The scanning thing? I didn't know they were slow either, and the 128 memory channels is no where near enough.
hey Josh, just watched you on the Science Channel "Phantom Signals"! Great job and congrats, that was AWESOME! 73
Awesome video, thank you so much. But I have to say, as a newbie where every single model number and feature and price and brand and protocol are all swirling together in a big gooey mess, it would have helped immensely if each time you mentioned a radio you also gave a very approximate price range. You actually started doing that when talking about some of the much more expensive stuff... Base stations and whatnot... But there were almost no mention of approximate prices for the HTs where most noobs are going to be looking initially. I'm confident that many, if not most of the radios you touched on in this video I would summarily dismiss based on the higher prices, which would make it so much easier for me to focus my attention on the ones that are in my price range. And conversely I'm sure there are many watching this video who have a higher budget in mind and similarly would summarily dismiss the ones much cheaper or much more expensive than their budgeted range. Just a thought for future videos. Thanks for everything!!!
The Baofeng UV5R Plus is a great HT. It costs between 25 and 35 bucks. The ones I own are open for TX on the whole bands, 70cm and 2m. They pick up NWS and NOAA frequencies as well as emergency frequencies, assuming the services in one's area are still analog. AND it brings in FM broadcast stations, also important in emergencies. The HT is easily programmed with CHIRP. I have connected mine to a Diamond X300N antenna for great contacts. I have also used one successfully for satellite RX with my log periodic antenna. With the cheaper Arrow antenna or something similar and two Baofengs you can do RX and TX.
Thanks!
You bet! Thank you!
Got myself a boafeng to listen locally. Hearing that people like you have made contact with the ISS is AMAZING! I’ve been scanning all morning. I’m hoping to get my technical then General license.
Was you able to listen to much in your area with the boafeng
I'm in a rural area and not sure if anyone talks on a radio around here
@@seandrake7534 I get repeater frequencies all the time and even some local EMS from time to time. I’ve used a tape measure built antenna to directionally find the ISS also. All on the Baofeng. I’ve heard them faintly but haven’t cracked the directional antenna code yet.
@@cowetareserve that's awesome thanks for the reply
@@seandrake7534 any time Chief! Good luck on your future ventures! Enjoy!
Just getting into radio. Started with GMRS and discovered that Amateur Radio has so much more, and am preparing to take my Tech and General exam. I would save my Chinese New Year money (per your recommendation) for an expensive 7100, but as I'm now married, I no longer *receive* CNY money and am now expected to *give* CNY money to my younger unmarried relatives.
Has to be the longest video I've watched. I enjoyed hearing your opinions.
The Wouxun KG-UV9K is full duplex AND does (AM) air band at 8.33Khz spacing for listening to aircraft. Also very cool.
Hi, I really enjoy watching your video, I’m @ the very entry level, I have no knowledge, on Ham radios,but I’m doing my best and learn to get at least my technician license.Ivan from Puerto Rico watching you. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge.
No BS I bought a b1 plus and its awsome. I working on getting my ham license but wanted a radio to get started with. I work a crap ton of hours so finding I test that's within my time off is hard right now but I'll get there.
1:18:45 Yeah, the N6DLH was his callsign, (or at least that's a valid and registered callsign according to the FCC Database) isn't that "good enough"? What does the time/date stamp with the callsign get you?
We saw a load of ~1960s Vintage Collins transceivers in an estate sale recently. The units are built like Sherman tanks! But my question is, can you still buy replacement vacuum tubes for these things anymore? 🤔
I like that you combine appreciation of Hops with HAM
Question, I should get my technician license tomorrow or Tuesday. I currently have several Beofeng radios and a TYT TH 9800D quad band mobile. I’m going to buy a high end HT today or tomorrow. I’d really like a Kenwood D74 but the only one I’ve found is on eBay for $900… the description is sketchy so I’m going to pass.
So it’s a toss up between the FT3D and the FT5D. Is the FT5D worth $100 more than the 3?? I will be using it for ham VHF and UHF and also wide band scanning. Should I get the 3 and spend the left over on things like antennas and meters or go big with the 5?? All responses and opinion’s are welcome! Cheers
Love your channel. It made getting my tech license much easier!
Thank you so much for your knowledge and thank you again for making it easily accessible with your timestamps.
Ok my first radio is a bowfang but I have to start somewhere. I will buy a better one later. Where do I take the test. How much does it cost. Do I get a cool paper license to plastic against the wall? Where do I get the materials to study
If you live in the US, buy the ARRL study guides. They have the entire question pool available for you to study. I took a class at the local ham club for the Technician class and studied concurrently on my own for the General. There is a certain amount of overlap. Took the Technician test and passed. They let me take the General test, back to back. Passed that one also. I think I paid $15 administrative fee. The examiners are all volunteers.
I saw you on the show you look like a PRO
Thanks!
I have two UV5Rs and two UV9Rs and the 5R interface is a bit better because it has an A/B button to switch between top and bottom channels and a VFO/MR button for switching between channel mode and frequency mode. With the 9R you use the Exit button to switch between top and bottom channels, and you have to actually turn the radio off and start it up while holding a particular button to switch between channel mode and frequency mode, a bit of a drag if you are switching often. On the bright side the 9R waterproofing is quite good and has survived a few dunks in salt water (I added an O-ring under the antenna for extra security). They work very well for jet skis as the swivel clip is perfect for a life vest. they also have a bigger battery than the 5R
Thanks for the great info. I can’t find a 2way walkie talkie that goes 20 miles or more. Do you know?
It's so strange that the restrictions on entry level licences are so different.
I hold the UK foundation licence which is equivalent to tech in the USA but I am allowed to use most HF bands (not allowed 60m)
However unlike US tech licences I'm limited to 10W maximum on any band including 2m and 70cm
M7DSW
I used to talk on CB radio in the 70's and am thinking about getting a ham license. Is ham radio like CB back in the day where you and your friends talk or find someone to talk to? I don't know anyone that does this and don't want to spend lots of time and money if it is not something I can do in my apartment.
Hi finally I got your channel, kind regards dude from Aguascalientes, México.
Baofeng USA has changed a ton of their product line. While much of the old stuff can be found via amazon, the old models are no longer being made. As well as the new models are now part certifies by FCC
Probably true. But they’re all generally the same.
I picked up a UV5R and eventually set it up as a scanner. My problem with that was the fact that if you inadvertently hit the PTT button, you broadcast on that channel 😬 Probably not that big a deal because of tones, but still scared the hell out of me. I eventually used Chirp to turn off the duplex setting on all of them. I highly recommend that.
But I wanted to talk on the radio somehow all the same, so I ended up picking up their GMRS version for that reason. It was either that or go for a HAM licence instead of the GMRS one. The nice thing about those is that they won't transmit on anything non-GMRS. Even in frequency mode 👍
The best UV-5R replacement is a Radioddity GT-5R. Same radio as UV-5R but within transmit spec . Nearly same great price!
I have GT-5R. Works good
I love my G90. Seems to always find someone to talk to no problem!
You happy with it
Do more videos how to connect and monitor Satellite traffic please.... It was featured this year at Black hat & DEFCON conference & RTL-SDR
♡♡♡
When taking my test at a local hamfest I had my baofeng with me to listen in. It drew some nasty looks when they realized it was a boafeng. Idk why. I hit the repeater just the same. Do I want a better ht? Yup and I’ll get one soon. But starting out they are great.
I’m new on the block looking forward to your ham radio vlogs!! I’m seeking my ham license and I have a study book ( Now you’re talking 5th EDITION) could I still use this book to study for my license?
What about for a beginner radio the ICOM IC-7851? seams like a great deal.
Hey man, i just got one of those Midnight crazy thoughts…..if making long distant contact through the HF frequencies is the goal; then why having soo much pain in buying expensive equipment; and antenas, when you can go DMR or echo link?
Hi Josh, I am intrested on hearing your thoughts on the FCC’s rule change to charge $50 for new licenses, renwals, and upgrades. I see this as a discouragement and makes me reluctant to stay in the hobby.
$50 is nothing compared to what you will or did spend on equipment. I think they backed off and lowered it to $35. Anyway, if you are already in the hobby you have either already paid the fees or got in before they were implemented.
Did you return it to Radiowavz?
Really enjoyed the video! I wonder if it should include (maybe you have another video - I'll look) best antennas to go with these radios... Some get quite expensive and others don't work well for people with limited space. Thanks again!!!
I have settled into the Yeasu ecosystem. The only one I have is the FTM-400. But I plan to get the 991a, and a digital HT, not sure if I want to go the FT3DR route or the FT70. I enjoy the features that Yeasu has to offer, but not their price points necessarily. But I guess that's true about any of the Japanese radios.
On Baofeng......can you load different frequencies on A/B channels? I was wanting to put repeaters, ect on my “A” channel and then use “B” for emergency frequencies, sheriff, and NOAA. That way I can rotate back and forth depending on what I want to scan. I loaded everything with CHIRP. Found out if I delete from “A” it removes from “B” too. Didn’t know if there was a setting I did not have turned on or set right????
No. It’s one pool of memories.
iCom-7300 transceivers are now backordered about 3 months. Be prepared to wait! To get on the air in the mean time, I bought an open box iCom 718 just to have something.
Jargon and definitions. Priceless.
I HAVE ONE OF THOSE UV-5R radios having a lot of trouble setting it up . it's a real pain .
Program it in CHIRP.
Hi, Josh. Getting ready for Technician test. Of course, it's all new to me. One thing I haven't seen in training, videos, and what not...
When I see the radio screens on your videos, and others, I see...
7.125.000 are those supposed to be periods or commas? I'm guessing that is 7.125 MHz, right?
I went with the Btech DMR-6x2 which is a variant of the 878. Hope it’s fun. (My daily is a VX-8DR.)
Im a year late, any word on improvements or new models of Baofeng DMR or should I cross that off my list?
Just bought 2 Baofeng Radios UV-5R MK5. Figured it's time the wife and I start getting communication in order if SHTF...and just for fun. But, I want something that I can also send to my sister's family in Los Angeles (I'm in Houston, TX), and I want them to be able to talk to us in case anything happens there, or here and cell towers get either congested, or damaged (more probable in LA). What would be the recommendations for this situation. ...... Well....nevermind, 30:43 just answered my question when I went to see the video.
If you're really far away from each other, HF is the only way, unless you can both hit a repeater between you, then the baofengs will work fine.
Does your antenna hook to the house or can it
ic706 mkIIG is a great base or all mode radio.
What about an Elecraft KX-whatever with the 100-watt amp? I want to buy a ‘Merican made radio - I’ve got my General and like it because I can use it portable QSR (and HT?). What other radios are US made?
Studying for my tech test and maybe general at the same time. Went ahead and bought a few HT's. FT60, FT3DR, UV5X3. Diamond, Signal Stick, and Nagoya. I'll probably go ahead and buy a mobile too. Destination HF. UA-cam is my Elmer. Local club won't respond to e-mails.
What is the best table with the raspberry do you suggest?
I'm late, F it.
Anyone know if I can get a sticker of the "FCC hat guy" meme at 1:30 ? I have the same one but with an ATF hat and would love the FCC one next to it.
Looking for a H T to use in my farm tractor
I need some help choosing a long-range 'walkie talkie'. I have some far-flung international locations in mind for an adventure for myself and a mate, places such as the Sahara Desert, the Atacama Desert in South America, jungles of Asia, and so on and so forth, you get the point, Bear Grylls shit... Money is no object and I only need two units. I have zero experience with radio comms other than the CB radio my dad set up for me back in 1996 when I was 12 years old. I just want to pretty much be able to buy the pair of radio handsets, charge them up and get chatting to my mate in the event we are separated in a precarious situation. I don't want an overly complex unit that requires a good knowledge of programming the channels, just a high wattage unit that's simple to operate - Any pointers???
Just getting into hand radios. I'm looking for radio communicating nation wide. Could give a idea what to get.
I’m considering buying the anytone at-6666. (Waiting on the rtl-sdr kit to play with first). What I’ve found out so far is that I need (at least) two antennas, one for communicating on the free to use 11 meter band, and one for the 10 meter band, once I get my license. Can somebody please confirm whether my conclusions are correct and suggest antennas for this?
Maybe I will go for a baofeng handheld as well 🙂
Ps: I have a (top floor) apartment so am somewhat limited as far as masts go. I would like a somewhat further range, but local/regional area contact is the main focus.
Oh, I’m from the Netherlands, but frequency spectrum split up and allowed usage, as well as technician licenses are mostly similar. Only difference is the 110volt versus 220 here.
The Yasesu FT - 991 have not 4 meter band and it have not full duplex on 2M and 70Cm,so no satelite base radio.
Can I just use a baofeng and a computer to do digital voice? Or APRS?
Hi Josh , love channel and videos. Couldn’t find the mirkit 6-1 cable not available. What other universal program cable for baofeng and yaesu 60r working on widows 10. Taking my test January 9th!!! Thank you , Sandy
There should be both options in the Amazon store linked in the description
I would really like to support you but I will not use Patreon. Is there another way to support you? Thanks
I got six boxes and I need antennas for them what antenna you would tell me to get
so i think i have my baofeng uv5r programmed (from your how to program using CHIRP) i did a scan and i am still getting weather band stuff on channels not even listed in my program and i have them all programmed to skip the scan function... my question is how do i get past this.... 5 hours of listening to the scan function and i still haven't got past the VHF section...
As a paramotor pilot I’m interested comms with pilots and ground crews. At first I got the Yaesu hearing it was higher quality than the Baofeng but the Kenwood connector didn’t fit. Are there more precise names for these connections so that I can make sure any further purchases do fit?
The two pin connector on baofengs is called the Kenwood connector. Do you have a different type?
That is what I’ve been taught as well. However not all 2 pin connectors have the same distance between pins. I have an av band radio (Icom A14) with a connector that looks the same but a few mm different than the Baofeng. I’m not sure if this difference has a designated name or not.
Josh , I would like to see you review a Radioddity GS-5B. Thanks.
Im looking at a first good dual or tri band radio to use as home base station. Prefere base over mobile.
Good but not too expensive
Maybe digital too ??
50 Watt if possible too
Some recommendations ?
Or what radio may I use to communicate in city 30 mile radio with two walkie talkies only? It is for me and my partner and I would like to get a good walkie in case of an emergency. Which radio would be for 30 mile in city range that works well not cutting off?
Too many variables. 30 miles away? What’s in between? Trees, tall buildings, a mountain?
I downloaded study materials to get my general license. Next I will study for my technical. My oldest brother who is ten years older than me has been into ham radio for a long time. He first got me into but I didn't know I could get into it so inexpensively
I am looking into getting back in to HAM radio after about 60 years. So I am looking for a radio I can use and expand on and I need to do it on a BUDGET
Hello thxnz for ur lecture. Am Peter from south Sudan
I'm a new ham. I have gotten my license because I work as a volunteer firefighter and also with the emergency management agency. I need a radio that is part 90 certified, preferably dual band, and not crazy expensive. Are there videos on part 90 radios, or does anyone have any recommendations?
I've looked at Baofengs, but their debatable certifications make me hesitant. Do any reputable manufacturers produce anything that fits my criteria?
Consider the Yaesu FT60. Usually get them new for $160 (HRO, Gigaparts, etc). Great rigs! Dependable, decent battery (with battery pack optional), easy to program manually and via CHIRP, aluminum (metal) construction. You can't beat it.
Get that with a Signal Stick or Diamond SHR77CA (each about $20) antenna, you can't beat it.
I have the Diamond antenna on my FT60 and was able to monitor the ISS as it passed over Seattle to Mexico City the other night, and I was in Omaha. Great receiver!!!
I also have the Anytone 878UV, $208. Nice screen but a lot of steps to program (and not CHIRP compatible). Wishing I wouldn't have bought it, but it looks cool.
@@applejacks971 thank you for the reply. I wasn't aware of any Part 90 certified radios from Yaesu. The FT60 is part 90 certified? If so, it look perfect.
@@Assorted12 No, the FT-60 is part 97 certified. It is an amateur radio. Most of the big 3 make mobile radios for first responders, of course, you might be able to use a regular ham radio, because most people know nothing of radio, and you'd probably get away with it. But if legality is your goal, make sure your radio is type certified.
So even the extra power like 8w Baofeng doesn't really matter?
If you can find a nice pre-owned mid-90's Yaesu VX-5R.....BUY IT! About $100 usually, and new batteries are only $22 on Amazon and it has ALL the channels, including Marine, HAM, FM, TV (!!), NOAA, EASY repeater setup, aviation, MILITARY aviation, 800-999, it's got it ALL and it's a transceiver! It even has some wild 90's features like on board TEMP sensor that shows up on the display as a screensaver....AND,, there is a barometric pressure sensor option as well. Has SMA female antenna, the opposite of Boateng. Best radio I've ever had for the money. I put a COMET Triband antenna on it for $45!!!!
Will look at it. Thanks for the info.
I'm actually considering selling my HF radio w/tuner, for a more portable option. If I understood you right, a decent selling point would be 20% off new selling price? (for an older still in production radio)
You can do that. Or I suggest taking a look at Ebay. Search for the same item, and filter down to only see sold items. This gives you an idea of how much others have sold for. I know Josh said he didn't recommend that approach. But I find it very useful. I've sold several items on Ebay (non ham related) using this approach. 73
Or... If it's something really nice that I need: sell it to me for 90% off! 😁
I am trying to get my gmrs license can you show me how to go to the page and do it
what’s the anime used for the super chats?
What's the difference btw the TYT 9700 and 9800 ?
Im wondering about the FT70 as a first price to have a handheld C4FM. Do you know it and is it worth 200$ ? I still have a FTM100 in my car and a FTM400 in my house. I want to set a C4FM hotpoint but dont know if the FT70 gives an access to nodes, rooms, .. by showing them on the screen.
@fpeletz Thanks. I have the HRI but actually am still looking for the right settings on my computer, my english is poor and I dont understand the manual (I see a lot of rooms but dont find the way to see them on the FTM400).
Yaesu replaced the FT-991 (now discontinued) with the FT-991A. The A version has a live waterfall and better reception.
Yes, of course that is the one I meant.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse im new to this. What is the difference between dual band and tri band and what would be better?
Have a uv5r. I'm new to all this & looking at base stations now. With Digital can you still talk simplex to someone on analog?
If it wasn’t for Baofeng I never would have gotten into this hobby that is rapidly dying, I’m the youngest guy in my club by 25 years you buy someone a nice set up as a gift for $50, so there great to get started
Want to get into the hobby...family is but as you know life happens so I want to join in. I've been looking at the boefang for my first...but not sure which one,so what is the difference in the GT-3TP and the UV-5R and which is a better choice?,also want to use this for an emergency and shtf radio.
My 2 UV-5Rs are my only radios so far. I bought each with the kit of an extra battery and a charging stand. I also bought two antenna upgrades. I can remember the name. But, they are sold beside the Baofeng radios. So for less than $100 I have been on the air on several local repeaters. I kindly Elmer in our local ham club programmed several repeaters into the radios for me.
Don’t have internet.. so can’t program a hand set or base.. is there a channel scanner. One touch program( ya I’m a prepper..)just for listening
How are you on youtube without internet?
@@freedomlover425 yes I have a phone. No comp or intranet
@@freedomlover425 if. Ya have that answer shar
Does anybody know what the difference is between the baofeng BF-F8HP and the Mirkit Mk3. Mk4 mk5 radios? Surprisingly no one has made a video explaining anything about the Mirkit Edition radios and no online articles. I know the Mirkit radios come with a lot of accessories which is great, but is the radio itself comparable bf-f8hp ? Are they counterfeits? Do mirkit radios put out 8 watts like the BF-F8HP does? And which model mirkit would be comparable to the bf-f8hp? Example Mk3, Mk4, mk5?
No one has made a video because they are all pretty much the same radio with different badging and model numbers.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse which one would you buy? I found the mirkit MK5 complete kit for 70 bucks , or a BF-F8HP for 60 or 70 bucks?
Either would be fine. It’s really your call.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse I'm going with the mirkit MK5 combo, you can't be 2 batteries, Plus the large battery charges directly with a USB cable so it will work with solar . And pair it up with a Abree antenna their biggest one.
hey did the baofeng bf-f8hp prices go up? i got one for christmas that i suspect is real and was able to reach out to 8 miles to a walmart blister pack gmrs. for $73 i ordered another from amazon for testing purposes and it randomly buzzes and its range stinks, the manual seems different etc etc i think its a fake, so i ordered another from ebay, and it too looks fake. now i am looking to buy another and its like $90 plus tax and shipping. i thought these were cheap radios, anyone know whats going on?
Please Kindly Explain To Me, What Is D - STAR?
It is a digital voice mode of operation that ICOM and Kenwood uses.
👍✅ Very good video‼️ Just getting back into Ham Radio and so much is new, you have convinced me the New Yaesu FT3D, the main reason is EAZY programming by hand 🤚 I do not have a Windows based CPU I only use an Apple 🍎 iPad Pro and no one has programming software for iPad OS so if I get a radio that has to be programmed by a Computer I would be SOL so thank you very much‼️‼️✅👍
We need about 10 hand helds and a base station. Multi family comms if phones drop out. Thanks
Hey boss if I payed you to set up my radio through a pc i would have to plug it run the software so u can controle my screen and do it I need it set up for my area
I don’t really have the time for that. Sorry.
Is there a way to do all digital modes with one radio? YSF and DSTAR?
No. You’d need a hot spot.
Trying to decide between the FTM-400 & a high end HT for the first ham radio. My area is predominantly fusion repeaters (wires x). Only one D-Star repeater in KC. Thoughts??
How far away are the repeaters?
A mobile radio has significantly better range than a HT, even with the same antenna. I have an FTM-400, It was my first ham radio, and I quite enjoy it, I am sure you will too! If radio is more a hobby than a form of emergency communications for you, then a HT should be fine, especially with a hotspot.
Does anyone make a "do all" radio? Aomething that will function portable, or as a base. And access all bands for both transmit and receive?
Yeah I have looked for a mobile radio for my truck that can do CB and GMRS + FRS in one unit. From what I've read it does not exist and would cause the universe to implode.
@@freedomlover425 I just found out today about somerhing that looks promising.
SDR. Product called Hack RF. Not the cheapeat option. But it DOES have transmit capability if you buy an upconverter can monitor freuencies from 4 khz to 3 Ghz. Ridiculous! Like 300 dolllars
Josh your thoughts on kenwood HF rigs ?? The 890 single Rx ? Or the 990 dual Rx ?? I for one don't know the Heath of kenwood honestly but so spend more for a 890 vs a yaesu 101d thank for your thoughts KC3ONO
You’re looking for ALMOST 10 MINUTES in!
Thanks. Im learning there’s LOTS of fluff on his posts.
If you look at the play list he shows it clearly. 9:48 . No reason to bicker
Is the yasue ft3dr a good one that does it all? As well as for handheld and mobile brother?
Yes, the FT3DR covers most of the bases a ham is looking for in an HT.
Police scanners in my area run of uhf vhf. And digital scanners won't work not even trunk scanners
I had a "Boar's Head" ham for Christmas. Put a slice of this ham on a "Rhodes" roll, OMG! Talk about lip smackin' good.
Haha, I support this type of ham transmission.
You seem like such a good guy.
Hello from Venice, FL
Hello from Cerritos, Ca.