9 amp hours will only give you a short operating time but that could be all you need in an disaster setting. The system can be scaled up to provide more capacity and longer operating time. Anderson Powerole® Connectors are the 12-volt connection of choice. They are the perfect and preferred connector for amateur radio and emergency communications. Check out my video on using Anderson Powerole® Connectors: Anderson Powerole® How to Guide "The 12-volt Connection of Choice!" ua-cam.com/video/o31iuOcQ-jo/v-deo.html Thanks for watching! Please don't forget to subscribe, give a thumbs up and post a comment! ► SUBSCRIBE to USNERDOC - bit.ly/2vI0tz6 🙏🏻 THANK YOU!!! New to USNERDOC Channel Playlist: bit.ly/2Dgwz4y Improve your UA-cam Channel! My TubeBuddy Affiliate Link: www.tubebuddy.com/USNERDOC My VidIQ Affiliate Link: bit.ly/2IdzD57 Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/usnerdoc/
Doc...I am not a ham but really good stuff. I admire your commitment to doing what you love right. I am an Eagle Scout and had a Scout Master of the same acumen. He was a fine man as I am sure you are too. Keep it up. Make no mistake, you are appreciated.
USERNDOC, you have inspired me to get licensed, and about a year later now I have just received the same Yaesu FT-857D along with the ATAS-120 antenna for my mobile setup. I'll mount the mobile install so it's removable, since this video has inspired me to go backpacking too. Thank you for the great videos - I still have many left to watch!
I liked the idea replacing the nuts on the radials with wingnuts. Simple ideas are always show the most genius ;-) I also have the Yaesu FT857D, great radio. Enjoyed the video.
Hard to believe this vid is 4 years old - but it's still relevant today. Great ideas, and instruction on the operation. More videos! Pass that General test! I still need to take my Extra... KC1BSE 73
I like using one of those battery jump starters as a portable battery for the CB or 2m. It lasts a long time and can jump start a car, recharge cell phone, run LED lights if necessary and I can recharge it via 115v or 12v solar. It's not as compact, but has multiple uses.
Thanx for the videos....I'm taking my 'Technician class test next Saturday... Anxious to get started. I studied for my 'novice license baaaaack in high school.. that was about 43 years ago...never got my license then... So I grabbed the ARRL exam test book...did well and now ready to go.... I'll watch your other videos and i know I'll learn a lot.. '73' and I'll be 'on the air' soon..
Hey Doc, Your doing wonders promoting the hobby. I too am new to having a license, although have had the interest since I was a kid. That code requirement kept me from ever getting a license. Since I started hanging out on You Tube 2 months ago, I renewed the interest and drive thanks to you and Dave (dsarti1) I took the test for Technician 2 weeks ago and now Im official after some 45 odd years later. Folks, it is never too late to get into Amateur Radio. 73s Ron KB3VEW
Can't wait to see the future videos on the Anderson power poles, my two big things to think about for future use is how to power the radio and what antenna to use. Keep up the good work, and 73 to you.
Nice little setup. I have a similar radio in an FT-897 and run that on a 35 Amp 12V AGM type battery in a tool bag. The antenna is a home built Slim-Jim made from 450 ohm ladder line installed inside of a piece of white PVC schedule 20 pipe painted black. The take off comes out at right angles using a pipe T with a short length of pipe and terminated with a pipe cap with a UHF chassis mount connector. The whole antenna is supported by a speaker tripod which is quite sturdy. The thing comes down in a jiffy but can take the roughest weather provided some weight is added to the middle of the tripod.For HF I have a hi power end fed antenna that can be easily packed up and taken away. Considering building the FT-897 into a man pack of some kind with battery and charger inside to make it weather tolerant. I have a 40 watt Coleman solar panel and charge controller to keep it all going in the great outdoors. The 35 amp battery does well at getting out with full power for a short time when I need it. Not as portable as my FT-817 with roll up 300 ohm slim jim and end fed 20m antenna which can all be easily transported to the mountain tops in a back pack with lunch. Anyway, thanks for sharing all you have done, it looks great.
That's a pretty smart way you have your antenna setup. I was going to leave you a comment about making your own antenna so it can be more portable but it looks like your on your way with that already. I was looking at the FT-897D for easier portability since it can have an internal battery but I think I like your setup better. Those batteries go bad eventually and your ways seems to be the least expensive. Plus I think your radio is better and has a bigger display.
I was inspired by some of your last videos and just passed my TECH class test. looking forward to seeing my call sign soon and start my first CQs. thanks love the vids in the TNP network!
Love the video and the idea of using the diamond as a portable antenna. I currently have the buddi pole that I use on HF but have been looking for something to use on VHF/UHF, Great idea.
Excellent setup Doc! Now you need to get a 12v solar trickle charger to keep your portable battery topped off. They are pretty inexpensive I think I paid $25 for a pack of two at costco. If you have two 12v batts you can be charging one while operating on the other.
I wanted to thank you for the ham radio video's. Because of your encouragement I got my technician last year and now have my General. Also have the FT-857 and enjoying learning. KK4SWV
I will be taking my new 857D into my 4X4 for some hilltopping. But this year I want to tent camp and do some new SOTA activations with it as well. It will be just me and my dog (he refuses to carry much) and I have cancer and diabetes, I need to keep the portable power lightweight and the antennas with as much gain as possible. You've sparked some great ideas for both the 4x4 and especially the tent. Believe it or not, I have never used the power poles. Think it is time to change that. 73 Doc...KB2RMC
This video was extremey usefull since my wife & I are planning to go "Fulltime" RVing next year. I've been really pondering how I will operate Portable. Thanks for the great tips. 73
I plan on getting three mobile radios and couple hts and call it good. I plan on using a mobile radio as a home base, in my truck and when I activate sota freqs, 73 sir and thank you for serving our military
Very interesting Vid, Doc. A lot of good information in this video. I think I'm going to go down to my local library and check out a couple of books on HAM radio operation. Thanks for the inspiration. Keep up the good work and keep sharing the knowledge!!!
David, Excellent video! This video is one that should be ‘required‘ viewing for anyone wanting to set up a portable rig. From the antenna set-up tips, to the radio set up, to the antenna/tripod arrangement, to the battery connections, it really is one excellent tip/idea after the other. Good job and keep those ideas coming. BTW, I appreciate the link to my channel in the video. --73-- John/W5CYF
Nice video, and nice antenna design. Just ordered my 857D today, and will feed an ATAS-25 antenna. Looking forward to portable HF operations. Good luck on your General studies. See you on the air. 73 from West Seattle. de KK7PW
@USNERDOC haha no problem, I was looking at the 857 videos and you popped up! I was going to get the 817 for HF use, but Hugo told me to go for the 857, 5W might not be enough for voice comms. I kind of liked the 817 for the internal battery pack, but I guess I can use an external battery with the 857 like you demonstrated.
Hey, Doc, another great vid! To lighten-up your load, you might look into a motorcycle "Trickle Charger" for charging that battery. Battery Tender is a common brand, but Yuasa and Opti-Mate make nicer ones with more sophisticated charging programs and desulfation modes. 50-60 bucks would get you a great charger the size and weight of a "Wall Wart" power supply, and can be safely left unattended. Take care!
Great video! Thank you for your knowledge and explanations! I'm looking to get my tech license and join the fun. Planning on using my radio at home and on the road rving. I've got a lot to learn . Subscribed.
Just surfing through you-tube and found your video. was thinking of getting the Ft-857d but the Mrs said that the Icom 7000 I have is enough for now. good mods you made to the antenna and have added you to favorites and subscribed. All the best from David in the UK (2E0ZAW) I haven't managed to get to the states by radio but will keep on trying lol. All the best and keep them videos comming. 73
Excellent video. Very thorough. The Yaesu 857 and 897 are nice radios. Nice mods to the antenna. Very creative. Would be interested to know how much talk time you get out of the battery using the different modes. 73 -Pete, AE6YI
Thanks for another great video. My wife and I will be testing for our Tech. level towards the end of Nov. in Lake O. My wife has wanted to get our Ham tickets for some time. I must say I wasn't very interested in getting it done until I came across your videos. Very inspirational. How did you decide on your transceivers? They certainly don't seem to "beginner" models.
Doc, great stuff as usual. What gauge wire and how many amps for the fuses? How did you attach the powerpoles to the back of the radio? Did you have to make any permanent mods to the radio wiring?
if you put pin 3 to ground you can put it in battery mode. turns off cooling and back light plus kills the power down to 20w. Very handy when using batteries.
Nice vid...ever thought about setting the tripod on that big red box in your backyard? That would give you an additional five feet of height or so for 2m/440.
Question to the expert: What kind of portable battery do you use? Where did you source that? How is the portable battery charged? Many thanks for your expertise.
@Tacticalgearhead - John, good advice from Hugo. I got the same advice from Wil (AI4QT) when I was considering similar purchase options. The 817 still has some backpacking appeal for me but I will wait and see how the 857 and external battery are to lug around in the trail before considering another radio. I think you will be very happy with the 857!
I am starting to think a investment in 3 small charged uv5r baofengs, would a more economical and practical go radio, especially in terms of space and weight. Throw in a small solar panel to keep them charged on the go. You get 5 watts but you can't really use more than 5 watts anyway on a battery. I like your antenna ideas, is there a ground wire that you have to run with that antenna?
How long do you think you can use your battery and another thing to think about is a portable solar cell to use while out in the woods with a backup battery
Nice informative video. Your charger, does it make a difference whether I switch my charger to 2, 10 or 12 amps and should I be switching it to 6 volts or 12 volts? Also, can I also use a 12 volt 10 amp battery. I like the portable antenna setup. Would like to use the same setup with an 817ND.
Where do we find the actual information about the battery please? Since the title is about using it on battery power I was hoping to find that information but this seems to talk about everything else. All GREAT information, but what type and size battery are you using? I wonder if a Lithium Ion battery would be fun on this rig? Run it all day on 10 watts.
Very good video & excellent audio. I'm also in the UK. I'm in the process of doing my Ham exam & I also have antenna restrictions where I live too so I'll also be going portable. I'm thinking about getting the same battery as you have, what charger can I use to charge this battery? Can I use a car battery charger? 73
Hi Doc, high quality video. I´d like to know what coax are you using when outside portable. I´ll appreciate your feedback. Thanks in advance. Patricio Chile SA.
@USNERDOC - Very nice portable setup. I have two questions for you. How long can your radio run on the 12 Volt 7 amp battery? Is it possible to plug in the coax cable for your antenna into a handheld or must it be used with a base station type radio? My reasons are because I am working on a budget and thinking if I can get a hand held for the car and use a large antenna when I am at home...until I can afford a base station. Thanks in advance.
Really enjoy the videos. I know this video is a few years old now but still great all the same. My Grand parents used to live in Sisters, OR. So I am very familiar with the area. Very beautiful. I have spent a few years in Bend myself. Really miss it there. I am looking to purchase the ft 857d in the near future. Thought I might ask your opinion of the radio now that you have had it for a while now, assuming that you still own it. I already have a couple HTs (vx-8dr, vx-6r and ft 60r) like them all but looking for a good all mode, higher output radio that works single side bands as well.
How long can you operate that 857 using that battery pack? I'm looking at the same radio, primarily mobile but I will use it while camping and for ARES with a Buddistick. Trying to figure out my portable power options. Great video!
That entirely depends on the duty cycle and the idle current of your radio. However, we can make an educated guess. 10 watts out means about 20 watts in (most radios average out to ~50% efficient). Assume a nominal voltage of ~12.5v from the battery, that means the radio will draw on average 1.6 amps while transmitting. If you held down the PTT button constantly, you would get 7Ah/1.6A=4.375 hours. However, you should never discharge an SLA battery below 50% capacity, so cut that number in half.
hello great set up.like the mobile antenna from base antenna. i tried 2 100 ft telephone extensions end fed. workrd great soaked by 3 days of rain. 857 is a very good radio. i use something similar a icom ic 7000. this class of radio is so full of features. guide cord is very light and very strong. about 3/32" and takes a lot less room. congrats, keep on having fun. 73 VE6LCK
@USNERDOC For mobile power options I assumed I needed to match the output of the YAESU FP-1030A here in the States. You have no issues running on 12v 7A?
@@USNERDOC thanks for the reply! I'm torn right now because I keep coming back to the 857D but am also hearing a lot about the digital side of things. As you were responding I was actually trying to look up whether or not I can use the HRI-200 with the 857D or if there is some other way to get it digital. Maybe you have some insight? I really want the wide range the 857D has along with it's portability, ruggedness and design overall. I just want my cake and to eat it too!
@@MegaWait4it Great insight sir! Learning about the capabilities of digital is on my bucket list for this year. I unfortunately have no expertise in this area. 73!
@kc2vso - well that is a great radio for sure and you will not be disappointed! I would be open to helping with the power connection . . . just not sure how we would arrange that . . .
Great video. I am leaning towards the 857 over the 817 as the added power is a big plus IMO. I wanted to ask about the battery you were using, I know the 857 will hog more power so how long will that little guy last before its done? Thanks
Croaker Receiving? Many hours. Approx 8 hours listening. Less the more you talk, less the more power you run, less if you use am, less if you use fm in that order.
I'm curious if this setup would be able to transmit at 50 watts even for a short amount of time. Would this battery be able to handle that? Maybe a slightly more powerful battery?
I know...a year old but since no one answered..Yes it could, but a single battery would drain fairly quickly. Anyone interested in setting up a similar rig for higher power or extended use could take several of these and wire them in parallel, keeping the voltage the same but increasing output capacity. But be warned several of these batteries weigh a fair bit. Putting them in a plastic tool box and drilling holes with grommets for routing cables would be a great way to ease the carrying and set up of a larger battery pack.
you can find cheap rc lipo packs that can fit inside the radio. 11.1v 2.8ah they weigh nothing and you can fit the equivalent of 9ah lead battery in a shirt pocket. also, cut a braid inverted v and mount on small telescopic fishing rod. you can tune the antenna by rolling up the ends and cover many bands. a small magnetic loop can also fit a pocket and still cover many bands. elecraft t1 tuner makes life easier with dipole or longwire. my whole kit fits in a very small medipack including ft817, small 50w linear, tuner, antennas, solar panels, and batteries. will give at least 6 hour operation on full power per day for infinity days. minimum kit fits in one coat pocket. the lighter it is, more likely you are to carry it and the more you carry it the more chance of good qso.
Great video. Enjoy your informative videos. I'm a fairly new ham studying for my General Class License. Wondering if you still enjoy using the ft-857d. I'm looking for an entry level HF rig. What you suggest it as an entry level HF Rig? Thanks Ralph KD0UCB.
I have many of the same issues...cannot mount external antennas...sucks BUTTT I tend to like to keep my creations and toys close by...ever since I was a kid its been a bad habit...I talk on my HAM radio from my bed on rainy days :D I've been looking for a way to mount my 3 element 2 meter Yagi onto my camera tripod. Any idea where I should look to find the same connector screw as seen on the bottom of my camera and other attachments to wrap around a fairly large boom pole? Yagi is about 2.5lbs and tripod legs extend pretty nicely so not too worried. I had a random tripod screw mount adapter that I used for a DSLR make shift stabilizer I built but its long gone and the screw mount adapters that I've seen are much smaller than what I'd need for my Hy-Gain FM23 Yagi
9 amp hours will only give you a short operating time but that could be all you need in an disaster setting. The system can be scaled up to provide more capacity and longer operating time. Anderson Powerole® Connectors are the 12-volt connection of choice. They are the perfect and preferred connector for amateur radio and emergency communications.
Check out my video on using Anderson Powerole® Connectors:
Anderson Powerole® How to Guide "The 12-volt Connection of Choice!"
ua-cam.com/video/o31iuOcQ-jo/v-deo.html
Thanks for watching! Please don't forget to subscribe, give a thumbs up and post a comment!
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Doc...I am not a ham but really good stuff. I admire your commitment to doing what you love right. I am an Eagle Scout and had a Scout Master of the same acumen. He was a fine man as I am sure you are too. Keep it up. Make no mistake, you are appreciated.
11 years later and your video is still relevant. Just got my tech license and picked up an 857d used. Thanks for the info! KD2ZYO...73.
USERNDOC, you have inspired me to get licensed, and about a year later now I have just received the same Yaesu FT-857D along with the ATAS-120 antenna for my mobile setup. I'll mount the mobile install so it's removable, since this video has inspired me to go backpacking too. Thank you for the great videos - I still have many left to watch!
I liked the idea replacing the nuts on the radials with wingnuts. Simple ideas are always show the most genius ;-)
I also have the Yaesu FT857D, great radio. Enjoyed the video.
Hard to believe this vid is 4 years old - but it's still relevant today. Great ideas, and instruction on the operation. More videos! Pass that General test! I still need to take my Extra... KC1BSE 73
I like using one of those battery jump starters as a portable battery for the CB or 2m. It lasts a long time and can jump start a car, recharge cell phone, run LED lights if necessary and I can recharge it via 115v or 12v solar. It's not as compact, but has multiple uses.
Thanx for the videos....I'm taking my 'Technician class test next Saturday...
Anxious to get started. I studied for my 'novice license baaaaack in high school..
that was about 43 years ago...never got my license then...
So I grabbed the ARRL exam test book...did well and now ready to go....
I'll watch your other videos and i know I'll learn a lot..
'73' and I'll be 'on the air' soon..
Been a ham 43 years. Nice to see different approaches to getting on the air.
Hey Doc,
Your doing wonders promoting the hobby. I too am new to having a license, although have had the interest since I was a kid. That code requirement kept me from ever getting a license. Since I started hanging out on You Tube 2 months ago, I renewed the interest and drive thanks to you and Dave (dsarti1) I took the test for Technician 2 weeks ago and now Im official after some 45 odd years later. Folks, it is never too late to get into Amateur Radio. 73s Ron KB3VEW
Can't wait to see the future videos on the Anderson power poles, my two big things to think about for future use is how to power the radio and what antenna to use. Keep up the good work, and 73 to you.
I am a new Technician and I love this information. Would love more of it.Retired Army and like staying in touch. Thanks Keep up the GREAT work.
Nice setup! I just got my Technician license and I'm getting my own ham gear together.
Nice little setup. I have a similar radio in an FT-897 and run that on a 35 Amp 12V AGM type battery in a tool bag. The antenna is a home built Slim-Jim made from 450 ohm ladder line installed inside of a piece of white PVC schedule 20 pipe painted black. The take off comes out at right angles using a pipe T with a short length of pipe and terminated with a pipe cap with a UHF chassis mount connector. The whole antenna is supported by a speaker tripod which is quite sturdy. The thing comes down in a jiffy but can take the roughest weather provided some weight is added to the middle of the tripod.For HF I have a hi power end fed antenna that can be easily packed up and taken away. Considering building the FT-897 into a man pack of some kind with battery and charger inside to make it weather tolerant. I have a 40 watt Coleman solar panel and charge controller to keep it all going in the great outdoors. The 35 amp battery does well at getting out with full power for a short time when I need it. Not as portable as my FT-817 with roll up 300 ohm slim jim and end fed 20m antenna which can all be easily transported to the mountain tops in a back pack with lunch. Anyway, thanks for sharing all you have done, it looks great.
That's a pretty smart way you have your antenna setup. I was going to leave you a comment about making your own antenna so it can be more portable but it looks like your on your way with that already.
I was looking at the FT-897D for easier portability since it can have an internal battery but I think I like your setup better. Those batteries go bad eventually and your ways seems to be the least expensive. Plus I think your radio is better and has a bigger display.
I was inspired by some of your last videos and just passed my TECH class test. looking forward to seeing my call sign soon and start my first CQs. thanks love the vids in the TNP network!
Love the video and the idea of using the diamond as a portable antenna. I currently have the buddi pole that I use on HF but have been looking for something to use on VHF/UHF, Great idea.
Great video. I watched it a few times to get inspiration to do the same for battery powering my FT-857 Love doing the SOTA. You're prolific!
Awesome ideas! The wing nut modification you did was so simple but so handy!!!
Excellent setup Doc! Now you need to get a 12v solar trickle charger to keep your portable battery topped off. They are pretty inexpensive I think I paid $25 for a pack of two at costco. If you have two 12v batts you can be charging one while operating on the other.
I wanted to thank you for the ham radio video's. Because of your encouragement I got my technician last year and now have my General. Also have the FT-857 and enjoying learning. KK4SWV
Great video and thanks for the attached doc also, very helpful!! Very nice and versatile rig!
+Fishing Feans - Thank you!
I will be taking my new 857D into my 4X4 for some hilltopping. But this year I want to tent camp and do some new SOTA activations with it as well. It will be just me and my dog (he refuses to carry much) and I have cancer and diabetes, I need to keep the portable power lightweight and the antennas with as much gain as possible. You've sparked some great ideas for both the 4x4 and especially the tent. Believe it or not, I have never used the power poles. Think it is time to change that. 73 Doc...KB2RMC
Great video. I'm currently studying to get my Basic license here in Canada, and found this very informative.
This video was extremey usefull since my wife & I are planning to go "Fulltime" RVing next year. I've been really pondering how I will operate Portable. Thanks for the great tips. 73
I plan on getting three mobile radios and couple hts and call it good. I plan on using a mobile radio as a home base, in my truck and when I activate sota freqs, 73 sir and thank you for serving our military
Very interesting Vid, Doc. A lot of good information in this video. I think I'm going to go down to my local library and check out a couple of books on HAM radio operation. Thanks for the inspiration. Keep up the good work and keep sharing the knowledge!!!
This has to be the best video I've seen about ham radio. Great job thanks bud!
Thanks I learned something and I'm an extra class but only because ARRL publishes the exam Q&A and I have a REALLY good memory.
Awesome vid Doc. Love the PDF... can't wait to read it in its entirety. Be safe!
Just picked up my 857, thanks for your video.
Execellent information and demo. I learned a lot and can't wait to absorb more! Really appreciate it!
David,
Excellent video!
This video is one that should be ‘required‘ viewing for anyone wanting to set up a portable rig. From the antenna set-up tips, to the radio set up, to the antenna/tripod arrangement, to the battery connections, it really is one excellent tip/idea after the other. Good job and keep those ideas coming.
BTW, I appreciate the link to my channel in the video.
--73--
John/W5CYF
Thanks for sharing your set up. I have on my wish list to get a FT-857D. Just got my General License but still don't own a radio.
73
Nice radio frist time to see dual band w different antenna out put
Nice video, and nice antenna design. Just ordered my 857D today, and will feed an ATAS-25 antenna. Looking forward to portable HF operations. Good luck on your General studies. See you on the air. 73 from West Seattle. de KK7PW
@USNERDOC haha no problem, I was looking at the 857 videos and you popped up! I was going to get the 817 for HF use, but Hugo told me to go for the 857, 5W might not be enough for voice comms. I kind of liked the 817 for the internal battery pack, but I guess I can use an external battery with the 857 like you demonstrated.
Hey, Doc, another great vid! To lighten-up your load, you might look into a motorcycle "Trickle Charger" for charging that battery. Battery Tender is a common brand, but Yuasa and Opti-Mate make nicer ones with more sophisticated charging programs and desulfation modes. 50-60 bucks would get you a great charger the size and weight of a "Wall Wart" power supply, and can be safely left unattended. Take care!
Great video! Thank you for your knowledge and explanations! I'm looking to get my tech license and join the fun. Planning on using my radio at home and on the road rving. I've got a lot to learn . Subscribed.
Great vid! See you next time you come in to the shop. Get well!
Just surfing through you-tube and found your video. was thinking of getting the Ft-857d but the Mrs said that the Icom 7000 I have is enough for now. good mods you made to the antenna and have added you to favorites and subscribed.
All the best from David in the UK (2E0ZAW) I haven't managed to get to the states by radio but will keep on trying lol.
All the best and keep them videos comming.
73
Excellent video. Very thorough. The Yaesu 857 and 897 are nice radios. Nice mods to the antenna. Very creative. Would be interested to know how much talk time you get out of the battery using the different modes.
73
-Pete, AE6YI
Thanks for another great video. My wife and I will be testing for our Tech. level towards the end of Nov. in Lake O. My wife has wanted to get our Ham tickets for some time. I must say I wasn't very interested in getting it done until I came across your videos. Very inspirational. How did you decide on your transceivers? They certainly don't seem to "beginner" models.
Same here. Good luck with your exam.
Doc, great stuff as usual. What gauge wire and how many amps for the fuses? How did you attach the powerpoles to the back of the radio? Did you have to make any permanent mods to the radio wiring?
@53tandy - will do! I am actually getting ready to do an entire review of this antenna mod since I get quite a few questions on this topic.
I like this mobile radio setup I will do something similar, but with solar for my first radio when I get my ham license
if you put pin 3 to ground you can put it in battery mode. turns off cooling and back light plus kills the power down to 20w. Very handy when using batteries.
Nice vid sir, I am waiting on that radio to arrive in the mail and decided to check videos. 73s
HMC
Great video...Did you have a fuse between the battery and the radio? I couldn't tell in the video.
Nice vid...ever thought about setting the tripod on that big red box in your backyard? That would give you an additional five feet of height or so for 2m/440.
Thanks for this video. Can you share what your setup for charging the battery looks like?
AWESOME !!! Great info and pointers on the antenna setup.
Question to the expert: What kind of portable battery do you use? Where did you source that? How is the portable battery charged? Many thanks for your expertise.
Its a motorcycle battery. And if you'd WATCH the video, you would see that he covers the charging of the battery at the 12:00 minute mark.
Doc, is it possible to get more information on this antenna? If you made it I would love the plans! Thanks for your time, Thad.
Very nice video. Now pass the General and get on HF, a whole different world!
@Tacticalgearhead - John, good advice from Hugo. I got the same advice from Wil (AI4QT) when I was considering similar purchase options. The 817 still has some backpacking appeal for me but I will wait and see how the 857 and external battery are to lug around in the trail before considering another radio. I think you will be very happy with the 857!
Very nice video thank you I have two of the radios KC1JQX
Awesome! 73 de David / KF7ETX
I am starting to think a investment in 3 small charged uv5r baofengs, would a more economical and practical go radio, especially in terms of space and weight. Throw in a small solar panel to keep them charged on the go. You get 5 watts but you can't really use more than 5 watts anyway on a battery. I like your antenna ideas, is there a ground wire that you have to run with that antenna?
Thank you very much! I greatly appreciate the support.
Good luck on the test!
73 de KF7ETX / David
bravo, love the versatility of the antenna
How long do you think you can use your battery and another thing to think about is a portable solar cell to use while out in the woods with a backup battery
Nice informative video. Your charger, does it make a difference whether I switch my charger to 2, 10 or 12 amps and should I be switching it to 6 volts or 12 volts? Also, can I also use a 12 volt 10 amp battery. I like the portable antenna setup. Would like to use the same setup with an 817ND.
@93radiopro - great idea sir! In fact, that is where I typically set up the portable antenna . . . on top of the hot tub cover ;-)
Where do we find the actual information about the battery please? Since the title is about using it on battery power I was hoping to find that information but this seems to talk about everything else. All GREAT information, but what type and size battery are you using? I wonder if a Lithium Ion battery would be fun on this rig? Run it all day on 10 watts.
Great video got some pointers for setting up
my radio a yaesu FT-100D look forward to your HF experiences 73' de VA3FNI
I loved this video I just want to make sure that this rig is still available for purchase because one of them has been discontinued!!!! 73's KC9QVE
Awesome video. What kind of brand of wire did you use on your battery?
Thats very interesting. I wounder if the same applies in the UK?
Excellent presentation on this video!!!
+Tony Ridlen - Thank you Tony!
excellent
Thank you!
Thank you for the excellent video. Very useful info!
Very good video & excellent audio. I'm also in the UK. I'm in the process of doing my Ham exam & I also have antenna restrictions where I live too so I'll also be going portable.
I'm thinking about getting the same battery as you have, what charger can I use to charge this battery?
Can I use a car battery charger?
73
hello. great video. are you planning a solar recharge setup?
Hi Doc, high quality video. I´d like to know what coax are you using when outside portable.
I´ll appreciate your feedback.
Thanks in advance.
Patricio
Chile SA.
@USNERDOC - Very nice portable setup. I have two questions for you. How long can your radio run on the 12 Volt 7 amp battery? Is it possible to plug in the coax cable for your antenna into a handheld or must it be used with a base station type radio? My reasons are because I am working on a budget and thinking if I can get a hand held for the car and use a large antenna when I am at home...until I can afford a base station. Thanks in advance.
Really enjoy the videos. I know this video is a few years old now but still great all the same. My Grand parents used to live in Sisters, OR. So I am very familiar with the area. Very beautiful. I have spent a few years in Bend myself. Really miss it there. I am looking to purchase the ft 857d in the near future. Thought I might ask your opinion of the radio now that you have had it for a while now, assuming that you still own it. I already have a couple HTs (vx-8dr, vx-6r and ft 60r) like them all but looking for a good all mode, higher output radio that works single side bands as well.
How long can you operate that 857 using that battery pack? I'm looking at the same radio, primarily mobile but I will use it while camping and for ARES with a Buddistick. Trying to figure out my portable power options. Great video!
Congratulations on your wonderful project!
That entirely depends on the duty cycle and the idle current of your radio. However, we can make an educated guess. 10 watts out means about 20 watts in (most radios average out to ~50% efficient). Assume a nominal voltage of ~12.5v from the battery, that means the radio will draw on average 1.6 amps while transmitting. If you held down the PTT button constantly, you would get 7Ah/1.6A=4.375 hours. However, you should never discharge an SLA battery below 50% capacity, so cut that number in half.
Love your videos. How goes the general upgrade? Hope to hear you on HF soon. 73
Thats a great Antenna setup.. do you have a parts and plans i might be able to purchase from you?
hello great set up.like the mobile antenna from base antenna. i tried 2 100 ft telephone extensions end fed. workrd great soaked by 3 days of rain. 857 is a very good radio. i use something similar a icom ic 7000. this class of radio is so full of features. guide cord is very light and very strong. about 3/32" and takes a lot less room.
congrats, keep on having fun.
73 VE6LCK
thanks to everyone that has shared there post's!
When picking out the 857 did you think about buying 817? If not why not ? Thanks
@USNERDOC For mobile power options I assumed I needed to match the output of the YAESU FP-1030A here in the States. You have no issues running on 12v 7A?
I didn't have time to scroll through all of the comments, but curious to know if you still use the 857 and how it's performing.....Thanks!
I still use the FT-857D ... great rig. 73
@@USNERDOC thanks for the reply! I'm torn right now because I keep coming back to the 857D but am also hearing a lot about the digital side of things. As you were responding I was actually trying to look up whether or not I can use the HRI-200 with the 857D or if there is some other way to get it digital. Maybe you have some insight? I really want the wide range the 857D has along with it's portability, ruggedness and design overall. I just want my cake and to eat it too!
@@MegaWait4it Great insight sir! Learning about the capabilities of digital is on my bucket list for this year. I unfortunately have no expertise in this area. 73!
Doc, check the title of this Video. You have an extra "5" in the model #
@kc2vso - well that is a great radio for sure and you will not be disappointed!
I would be open to helping with the power connection . . . just not sure how we would arrange that . . .
Great video. I am leaning towards the 857 over the 817 as the added power is a big plus IMO. I wanted to ask about the battery you were using, I know the 857 will hog more power so how long will that little guy last before its done? Thanks
Croaker Receiving? Many hours. Approx 8 hours listening. Less the more you talk, less the more power you run, less if you use am, less if you use fm in that order.
@Albee4ty5 - funny you mention antenna farming . . . I was eyeballing some tall pine trees today wondering how far apart they were!
I'm curious if this setup would be able to transmit at 50 watts even for a short amount of time. Would this battery be able to handle that? Maybe a slightly more powerful battery?
I know...a year old but since no one answered..Yes it could, but a single battery would drain fairly quickly. Anyone interested in setting up a similar rig for higher power or extended use could take several of these and wire them in parallel, keeping the voltage the same but increasing output capacity. But be warned several of these batteries weigh a fair bit. Putting them in a plastic tool box and drilling holes with grommets for routing cables would be a great way to ease the carrying and set up of a larger battery pack.
Is that a deep cycle battery? If not, any problems with it holding up? Thanks.
you can find cheap rc lipo packs that can fit inside the radio. 11.1v 2.8ah they weigh nothing and you can fit the equivalent of 9ah lead battery in a shirt pocket. also, cut a braid inverted v and mount on small telescopic fishing rod. you can tune the antenna by rolling up the ends and cover many bands. a small magnetic loop can also fit a pocket and still cover many bands. elecraft t1 tuner makes life easier with dipole or longwire. my whole kit fits in a very small medipack including ft817, small 50w linear, tuner, antennas, solar panels, and batteries. will give at least 6 hour operation on full power per day for infinity days. minimum kit fits in one coat pocket. the lighter it is, more likely you are to carry it and the more you carry it the more chance of good qso.
+drspastic - Cool! Thanks for the great insight.
I'd like to replicate the shorter 857D power cable you have in this video. Any tips on parts or ideas are appreciated.
Good luck on your tech test!
Keep your powder dry and be safe.
73!
Great video. Enjoy your informative videos. I'm a fairly new ham studying for my General Class License. Wondering if you still enjoy using the ft-857d. I'm looking for an entry level HF rig. What you suggest it as an entry level HF Rig?
Thanks Ralph KD0UCB.
I picked up 12 of 7ah batteries from a closing Radioshack for 3 bucks a peice....building a solar charger with a few of them....73 KD9FQL
I have many of the same issues...cannot mount external antennas...sucks BUTTT I tend to like to keep my creations and toys close by...ever since I was a kid its been a bad habit...I talk on my HAM radio from my bed on rainy days :D I've been looking for a way to mount my 3 element 2 meter Yagi onto my camera tripod. Any idea where I should look to find the same connector screw as seen on the bottom of my camera and other attachments to wrap around a fairly large boom pole? Yagi is about 2.5lbs and tripod legs extend pretty nicely so not too worried. I had a random tripod screw mount adapter that I used for a DSLR make shift stabilizer I built but its long gone and the screw mount adapters that I've seen are much smaller than what I'd need for my Hy-Gain FM23 Yagi
Awesome setup, gave me an idea.... Thanks!
How long can you run on that battery, and how much does the battery weigh?