The tips was awesome but the best part of the video for me was him putting a call out and he got a response so fast from a complete stranger and the conversation was as if they was childhood friends he sold me on this device 100% and gain a new subscriber
Well I passed my first only missing one, and passed my second but just did. If I had missed one more I would not have passed that one. I am thinking of going for the next one but at this point I am trying to get my new D878UV Plus to program. The test was easy compaired to the programing of DMR!! Programming the local repeaters was easy but programming all the DMR is another thing.
Donald, if you join a local club you'll get great prices on older equipment... or perhaps even a "loaner" radio or use of the clubs radio. Support is key, so if you do have a local club, join it and get along there : ) You can have some fun with a baofeng, for sure... if you're in range of a repeater at least. But they have very limited range and usefulness and can leave you feeling a little lonely. Find out your local repeaters and set your radio up for them. Also, find out if there are any regular rag-chews that take place. Ultimately, you'll want a cheap second hand 45w radio and a proper antenna to use your basic license effectively on VHF/UHF. You'll also want to ask around for a cheap second-hand radio that does HF and allows SSB and CW as a minimum. A Yaesu 817ND is a great choice if you can get one cheap... but anything will do... with these you can do a surprising amount, especially if you have a laptop lying around. Digital is something else you're really going to want to try. Great fun, but unless you have a hotspot like a nanoSpot or a SharkRF (or a local digital repeater in range) then this is not an option. However, once you get on Digital you'll find yourself just dialing in a country/region and chatting with ease. Whichever way you go, this hobby is always more fulfilling if you join a club... and it's the best way to get your hands on equipment. Later, consider joining your local EmComms group. This could be ARES if you're in the US or Raynet in the UK. This will get you working as community support for events and emergencies... it'll give you a positive way to use your license in the service of others. It puts in the company of some very professional operators, gives you an excuse to actually use your skills, and you'll quickly become very competent operator. But it all starts with your Baofeng and a callsign ; ) Good luck to you my friend. Perhaps one day I'll catch you on the band.
Number 8: The extended battery. It's cheap, makes the radio feel better in the hand and more than doubles your use time. I love that "a license" was one of your picks... needs to be said more often HI HI
@@kingg213 That's really not true. Most HAM radios are being bought by people with an interest in amateur radio (whether or not they are casual preppers too) ... sure, some of the more basic, cheaper, less functional HT's are being bought by preppers and airsofters, but they're basically using them as walkie-talkies. Preppers SHOULD get licensed - even for SHTF/WROL use ... it's not just about paying your government a tax. You wouldn't consider youself well prepped to use a rifle, until you can use it effectively. This means regular training... using it in more situations than a range... stripping it... cleaning it... diagnosing issues with ammunition and mechanics... understanding ammunition choices and how they affect the parameters of performance... understanding the way rounds propagate and are affected by environmental factors... etc. or, you can buy yourself a selection of cheapo "bang-sticks" and decide you're prepped to cope in any situation... like an idiot. Let's see what 'prepped for EmComms' really means... I've worked abroad with the red cross, often in very difficult situations. I can set up to hit a spot a few thousand miles away by understanding propagation. I can operate deep in mountainous/built-up terrain by turning an antenna into a sky-burner and using near-vertical radiation. I understand that each band operates differently in built up areas and make appropriate selections. I can operate repeaters and set them up using whatever is at hand (including disposable back-to-back baofengs) .... I can use morse to communicate over longer distances or copy other users... I can grab satellite images using any laptop to get up to date weather analysis, useful for planning and toxic or radiological events. Heck, I've chatted with the International Space Station and I've "tuned the moon" for EME. I've built and tuned antennas in the field using any materials to hand, strung them on rooftops, trees and moving vehicles. And I've done all these things in disaster situations at home and abroad, where lives depended on it... often during civil unrest. And I got those opportunities because I'm a licensed HAM. But, even without going to such extremes, my license training gives me all the theory (and room to practice) without ever leaving my home country. Want covert use? I've taken part in "foxhunts", so I can track other users down... locating them from their transmissions with accuracy and speed. Being practiced in this, I can avoid being tracked if need be. And I use my radios... on all bands and modes, every day. I can tune and repair them in the field. I can make antennas out of anything at hand and know how they will perform. I can stack them for directionality... throw them up into trees... I can operate with equipment that will fit in a cigarette pack. I can send and copy morse - so, when all else fails, I can communicate with he world. I regularly use QRP and can reliably operate off low power. Now... I could just grab some cheap HT's and "push the button to talk" ... but this is the equivalent of a novice with a BB-Gun. Decent for a day at the beach with the family, but not so strong in a disaster where the ability to harvest information is key to survival. Want to be a prepper? Then PREP! Because your best tools in any survival scenario are not you fancy gadgets... it's knowledge, familiarity and the ability to problem solve. Equipment is nice, but effectiveness is far more important. Cheap HT's can be handed out like candies to family/civilians to get them organised - but you, as a prepper, need to be prepared to play a decisive role in organising, communicating, and being uniquely aware of situations as they develop. HT's are for the last mile. That comes with knowledge and practice.... ... and that typically starts with getting licensed and learning a skill, not just handling an appliance. EmComms is an essential part of prepping, and it involves SO much more than speaking to someone with near-line-of-sight. There's certainly a lot more involved than chatting with your buddies on a walkie-talkie... PARTICULARLY when you're talking about SHTF/WROL situations. Want to be a specialist? in survival, weapons, communications, medical? Then you have to get your hands dirty BEFORE the shit hits the fan. For radio, that means licensed operation. Perhaps joining your local ARES/Raynet group and getting to use your equipment as a professional, coordinated, talented team - dealing with floods, hurricanes and other minor disasters and public events. The licence isn't a tax - it's an accreditation... it sets you on a path of (theoretical) competence... and opens the door to practical competence as a specialist. .... or, y'know... feel free to grab your _"hello kitty"_ walkie talkies and set off into the unknown : )
@@garychap8384 Yeah, you're gonna find out how many of us have these for a SHTF scenario if and when it happens! Say goodbye, to your Pre-Madonna, bullshit, licensing world when it happens! License my ass, no one is going to give a shit then!
You've completely missed the point. I don't give a crap about the paperwork, and in a WROL/SHTF nobody will give a crap about it! Paper isn't the point, you can wipe your ass with the paperwork - expertise is the point! I got my licence, not to be compliant, but to work and train alongside the very best. Tell you what WILL matter - whether you actually understand what you're doing. If you have radioactive clouds of dust, you're going to want to be able to grab satellite images... you're going to need to know how to bypass the static.. if the problem in national you might need to find the conditions in cities several hundred miles away... if you're hiding out in mountains you're going to need skyburners ... if you're being hunted you're going to need to know about phase tracking... if you're going to set up stealth repeaters you're going to need to make and align cavity filters... Operational Communications is a very big field. All I'm saying is... don''t half-arse it. You want to rely on a Baofeng and line-of-sight VHF/UHF when your life depends on i? Go for it. To put it in terms you might understand. You're arguing that all you need is a .22 and some luck... and you're laughing at the guys who've taken their marksmans, tacops and weapons specialist training. FFS, you don't even have encryption sorted out. For a prepper, you REALLY seem to be against actual preparation ; ) I guess you're just one of these anti-expert folks who just ache for the dark ages where they might actually stand half a chance. You people confuse the shit out of me. Personally, I'd have thought you'd want reliable weaponry and the skills to operate, maintain and apply them... you'd be well practiced. And... if you understood just how important intel and EmComms/OpComms are, then you'd treat radio the same way. Not just grab something off the shelf and hope. You're gonna look real fine running about with your "hello kitty" radios, playing commando like children. I'm not even against Baofengs... they're great, you can hand 'em out like candy and get people organised. But, trust me, equipment and preparation is EVERYTHING. Our militaries are strong BECAUSE they're practiced and flexible specialists... not gung-ho idiots hoping for the best. But, maybe you disagree. Maybe you think you'e a match for anyone. Maybe you've watched far too many fucking hollywood movies and fancy yourself as a bit of a Bruce Willis. You have an attitude problem. You should sign up for service, they'd knock all that bullshit right out of you. Cus, everything you're saying tells me you're no prepper... you're a dreamer. Let's hope you never have to find out just how shitty situations can get and why having at least half a fucking clue is important, when lives depend on your shit working. All I'm saying is, try "getting good", idiot.
@@garychap8384 yup, but you're wasting your breath on people like kingg213 - you can't tell them anything which conflicts with their boy scout adventure narrative.
For a few days now I've spent my social distancing breaking Google with my new curiosity of ham. Your videos are the first I've seen that show a real exchange instead of quick contacts. Ham radio in action indeed, bravo!
It's not false. I was looking for a radio to listen to my local police. I bought this radio knowing nothing about any licenses. But after seeing your video I'd love to get the license! Enjoy watching you very much!
Thanks for getting me back into ham radio: I just came across your video by chance when looking for an emergency radios. At 65 I sold all my station’s and dropped out of sight 15 years ago, I am now 76. I had no one interested in obtaining my stations so I found someone in need of them. Now I seen this video. I bought this radio with all the accessories and I learned I have to learn the these new radio systems all over again. ECHOLINK, what the heck is that....lol Thankful for youtube. My last 2meter was a Kenwood TR-2500 that says a lot, however I still have my Mosley TR-33 tri-bander still tucked away Thanks “73”. KX9J
This was great to watch. Picked myself a UV 5r up couple of days ago after seeing another of your videos. Getting to grips with the menus and settings ect. Jusy listening in at the moment. Once the UK comes out of full lockdown I intend to do my license. Thanks for inspiring me. Cheers. Take care.
You are actually using the UV5r V2+. Its a very good radio and was my first HT. I still have it. I believe the model has been discontinued. So for those interested. Get the Baofeng BFF8-HT, it is the 3rd incarnation of the old UV5r. As far as replacing the antenna, get the Abbree Tactical folding antenna, the 18 inch model. Its an amazing inexpensive antenna.
After getting my own Baofeng UV-5R Mk 3, I quickly bought the official Baofeng USB programming cable (with a broken CD...), and clip mic/speaker combo. Being big in to electronics and having used CB radios in the past, it is exciting and fun to build your own antennas and even use additional devices for signal stability and monitoring. Now to just find the time to get that pesky license...
Thank you for making this video. Great info as I start my journey in this hobby and you explained things very well! And watching/listening to you talk brought out the excited little kid in me (I'm 51 now lol)! Much thanks for a fun video!
Just ordered my first baofeng UV5R...been seeing alot of videos but urs always provide easy understandable data 👍👍 want to get into programming it into picking up atc but small steps first.
You could expand your list by adding: extended 3800 mAh battery, radio pouch, microphonespeaker (I use rain, and dustproof one by Zastone), and car charger. All in all UV-5R is an excellent platform. Nearly all of its accessories work with DM-5R and RD-5R
You've said that it's easy to pass the test, yet, there is a ton of science and info to learn to prep for the exam. I failed my first attempt in February and I have a bachelors degree, albeit not in a Science field. Unfortunately, there's not another test in my area until June. I'm seriously considering sticking to cell phones. Congrats to those that make the cut. The test is not a joke.
Sorry to hear that. I've been told before that I understate the difficulty of the test, and I will be more mindful of that in the future. Maybe you could consider another way of learning the material, there are video courses, books, in person classes (geography dependent), and of course memorizing the the question pool. I hope you stick with it.
I purchased a usb cable for my Baofeng UV-5Re and it was a knock-off, soon as I purchased an authentic cable it worked like a charm! Currently in the work s, my ground plane antenna for my dual-band radio. Bill KJ7HWV Spokane Valley WA. Nice videos.
My Baofeng UV-5r came with a programming cable from baofeng. and it works great with chirp. I dont have a license yet, so I´m only listening on my local repeater. excuse my bad English, but I´m from Sweden :)
@MrPappagiorio I'm also from Sweden and I'm planning to buy a baofeng really soon. Do you know how to get a license though? I've not figured out how to get a license in Sweden yet.
I couldn't get chirp to work when I switched to windows 10. Then I bought a Bluetooth programming adapter and it's awesome. I can program it with my phone.
Okay, I own the UV5r-V2+, the second generation of the UV5r. So here is my list of accessories you should get. Get your License first, yes please. The license is actually good for life, you just have too update it every ten years. Second, a new antenna. I like the Abbree 18.8 inch tactical folding antenna. Third a good speaker mic, so you dont have to hodl the radio up too your face. Fourth a extended battery, Baofeng sells a 3600 mAh battery. Fifth, the programming cable, because it is much easier to program the radio using a program called CHIRP, which is free. Sixth, the USB charging cable for your charging base, very useful. Seventh, if your going to use your Baofeng in your car, a good external antenna for your car., and the battery eliminator, so you can plug your radio into the car. Thats it for now.
Dude, thank you so much for this video. I'm just so excited with the possibilities, it's such an enjoyable hobby. Been wanting to dive in since I was a kid and your video just gave me the final push.
Love the easy to understand no non-sense explanations you do. Great stuff. You MUST do a video on how to setup a solar charger / 12V battery pack. I use my ham radios exclusively on hunting trips (10 days without power) and I'm not the best when it comes to electrical concepts. Cheers!
All USB ports are 5volt, baofeng batteries are 7.4volt charging. You will need a cable that steps up the voltage. Then any 25000mah battery pack will work, with a solar panel to charge your radio. I had a 25000mah battery pack that had a fold up 4 panel solar charger attached to it. Cost about 40 bucks. With the right cable I could charge all my tech, but I live in New Mexico, where sunshine is not a problem
Video was great. Got some ideas on what to work on next! New to HAM radios. Got one as an Emergency medicine nurse to follow scanners around here; helps to know what I will be walking into at work. I enjoyed the ExpertPower Baofeng UV-5R Extended True Capacity Battery. Helps to keep it charged longer while traveling to work. I actually use mine at work to listen and plan what will be rolling in the bay with EMS. Baofeng is a great "first radio" for people new to HAM radios
Great videos. Just came across them by accident as most of my other hobbies have been stopped due to COVID-19. I decided to go back to my old hobby of ham radio and bought a Baofeng uv5rtp great little rig. One of my original interests was packet radio so I’ll be exploring APRS. Thanks again for the videos they are a great advert for amateur radio. 73’s Barrie G6ILX
thx for the video. I bought the Beofeng a few years ago and purchased the GMRS for me and the family to play with. Weve had alot of fun. HAM license next! Keep the videos coming!!
Just a shout out for you giving Baofeng Radios some credibility my friend! I’ve owned about 25 or so Baofeng radios over the past 10 years. You can do that simply because they are so inexpensive and because they are so incredibly DEPENDABLE! I really enjoy these small rigs. In the back of my mind I know that if I break even one, well it’s not going to break the bank. BTW, I’ve never broken one! I’ve not yet heard anyone say that any of these radios are “are checking off frequency”. And when you are putting out 8-12 watts, for about $1.50 per watt, who’s complaining? Don’t get me wrong folks. I believe strongly in obeying the FCC rules and guidelines at all costs. I have the test equipment to assure that my Baofeng products are on target! BEFORE I TRANSMIT. Thanks again to you sir and everyone who has enough common sense to make Ham Radio fun and what it is meant to be!
I've been studying for 2 months and take my test tomorrow for Technician. The Baofeng will probably be my first HAM radio. I plan to make two yagi antennae--one for 2 meter and 1 for 70cm. Probably a 4 element yagi for 2 meter and a 5 element yagi for 70cm. I've got an antenna switch so I can switch each one in and out, left over from my CB days.
I just received my UV-5R today from the official Baofeng store on Amazon. I ordered the official Baofeng sync cable as well. I bought the radio specifically to capture background audio for my flyover videos of the International Space Station. I can run the radio's audio output directly into the camera as I track the ISS. It should work well, provided there is activity on the ISS repeater.
Thanks for this video. Just subscribed. Was looking at 2 way radios and saw the Baofeng and read all the reviews. Your videos have given me so much info that I know feel more confident getting into this hobby. My older Brother (57) has been into CB's/Ham since the late 70's and he has so much stuff that it is confusing. Wanted this basically for hiking in the mountains in the New England Sates and also for emergency incidents. I will look into the license to study and take the test. Once again, Thanks for this. VERY Informative.......
For about 70 bucks, both baofeng and tyt have a tri- band ht. They have hf, vhf, uhf frequencies, which might help you later down the road. At no great cost, to experience the different frequency jmo good luck brother
Slendid content... Love my Baofengs.. They truly put Japan to shame considering the difference in price.. ?? Had my UV5R For 6 years now .. never missed a beat.. Same battery..
Excellent video. Just ordered a Boefang handheld and waiting for the testing to start up again so I can get licensed and back into ham radio after many years away. (formerly WA1DPQ). Can't wait!
No. 8, The 3600 mAh extended Battery pack. Makes the radio easier to hold. No. 9, a good speaker mic. No. 10, Battery Eliminator, will allow you too plug your radio into the 12 volt socket on your dash board.
I was going to mention the extended battery, but it's a good thing I checked first to see if it had already been mentioned. Your other suggestions are also good accessories to have as well.
FYI, you only can get a 1x3 or 2x3 vanity call sign as a Technician & General you can get a 2x2, a 2x1 or a 1x2 call sign as an Extra class (2x2 call sign is what usually were assigned to the old Advance Class). I took my initials as my call N6KV, Kristyanna
This is an awesome video! Just wish you had some sort of link for the solar panel and battery pack you have. I can't seem to find a small battery pack like yours in the vid.
I've had a baofeng uv 5 r for a couple years. Good unit. One accessory you left out. The speaker mike. It really improves the convenience for me. 73. KE4KKM
The Baofeng UV5R sells, in China, for about $14.00. I bought two there...delivered to my hotel, for $33.00 directly from Baofeng on the AliBaba website. I've been a ham for long enough to remember when a Regency 10 watt single band two meter mobile transceiver...using two crystals per repeater frequency (one receive and one transmit) cost at least ten times what this radio costs.... in 1973/4 dollars. This technology was a dream in those days. For less than the price of a couple of happy meals at McDonald's....dual band, 5 watts that will do nearly everything but scratch your butt.
Very Cool. I enjoyed this. I''m scheduled to go to an all day Technician class on 8/8/20 and take the test on same day right after the class. It's called the "Ham Cram" and theyve been doing it for years held at one of the Fire Stations in town. I'll probably get a Baofeng with some accessories to start.
I'm in Alabama. About 2hr from Huntsville where Redstone Arsenal and Space and Rocket Center Is located. Is this the same city as you and Mark were speaking? (I know there is more than one Huntsville in the US).
Great video; subscribed. I hear pretty commonly that nothing interesting happens on 2 meter, and that nobody learns anything. You pretty much prove that isn't true.
Great Job with your video Just got my Technican license very excited to get started looking to make my first purchase I'm in Marietta would like to meet up with you email petersal6258@gmail.com
USE AN EARBUD WITH A SPEAKER/MICROPHONE (an accessory to an accessory) If you have a speaker/microphone accessory, you may not have noticed this yet. By design it isn't usually obvious. But, there is probably an auxilliary earphone/earbud jack on the microphone itself. It's often covered up by a cosmetic plug of rubber/plastic the same color as the microphone casing. So...even if you're using the "speaker/microphone" instead of the default "earbud/microphone" that comes with each BaoFeng radio...you can clip the speaker/microphone onto your collar and extend an earbud to your ear. More privacy, a bit easier to hear things...and a touch of two-in-one flexibility.
A desk Mike..... A mains power supply..... A high gain antenna.... An swr meter.... A linear amplifier.... A transverter.... I have no idea what any of this means..... I just started to take an interest in this...... But I was on the UK CB 11m in the 90s.....
So you got your solar panel at Hamfest....is there one on amazon or another dealer site that you recommend? Thank you for your very informative video! I see some on amazon have 2.1amp output... I would like to know what output would be required for a solar panel to adequately power the charger for my baofang.
Nice video. Never considered Baofeng. Sounds like it works good for the price though. I may reconsider if I need a new handheld. And, I subscribed because of your enthusiasm for Ham radio.
What is the difference between the Baofeng UV-5R and the Baofeng UV-5R Plus. I have both and have ordered a Baofeng UV-5R 8W for a little more oompf! After I get my General, I'll look for a higher powered, longer reach unit. Still trying to figure all of this out so I enjoy a lot of the UA-cam videos.
@@Josh3239 Yeah that's a nice looking charge controller. Many solar panels come with charge controllers included. My Harbor Freight one did, but it's not as cool looking as the one in this vid.
Agreed - links would be helpful PLUS we could send a few $$$ his way :-) The USB charging cable is on Amazon, I found, listed as "BTECH USB Smart Charger (9-10.8V) Transformer Cable for BaoFeng" The programming cable for CHIRP is listed as "Tenway Baofeng USB Programming Cable" There are also J pole antenna designs and kits on Google. The tablet interface cable seems to be listed as "BTECH APRS-K1" on Amazon.
You have me very interested I ordered a bow phang Max power UV 5R That came with the accessory kit and flashing cable is the flashing cable what your talking about when your hooking it up to your ipad laptop phone Etc
Just got into this hobby and found your channel! I'm in Canton not far from Milton I drive through there everyday. Haven't got my license yet but hope to be able to chat soon.
What is the name of the ios app you are using for APRSpro? I see a few different apps but I don't think I see the one you are using in the video. Thank you so much for the video. :)
HI Brian, I tried the Amazon links and they would not take me to Amazon. Anyone have the problem? I am nervous getting anything on Amazon without using your links. Thanks! or how can I look you recommendations up in Amazon?
The tips was awesome but the best part of the video for me was him putting a call out and he got a response so fast from a complete stranger and the conversation was as if they was childhood friends he sold me on this device 100% and gain a new subscriber
Glad you liked it!
Thank you. I take my test in 2 weeks. I may be getting a Baofng for my first radio. I don't have much to spend.
I passed 2 tests! When I get it I will be a General class
@@donaldsmith3048 Holy,Man Good show! 👍👍👍
Congrats! I took the second test after I passed my first, but missed passing by 2 questions :P
Well I passed my first only missing one, and passed my second but just did. If I had missed one more I would not have passed that one. I am thinking of going for the next one but at this point I am trying to get my new D878UV Plus to program. The test was easy compaired to the programing of DMR!! Programming the local repeaters was easy but programming all the DMR is another thing.
Donald, if you join a local club you'll get great prices on older equipment... or perhaps even a "loaner" radio or use of the clubs radio. Support is key, so if you do have a local club, join it and get along there : )
You can have some fun with a baofeng, for sure... if you're in range of a repeater at least. But they have very limited range and usefulness and can leave you feeling a little lonely. Find out your local repeaters and set your radio up for them. Also, find out if there are any regular rag-chews that take place.
Ultimately, you'll want a cheap second hand 45w radio and a proper antenna to use your basic license effectively on VHF/UHF. You'll also want to ask around for a cheap second-hand radio that does HF and allows SSB and CW as a minimum. A Yaesu 817ND is a great choice if you can get one cheap... but anything will do... with these you can do a surprising amount, especially if you have a laptop lying around.
Digital is something else you're really going to want to try. Great fun, but unless you have a hotspot like a nanoSpot or a SharkRF (or a local digital repeater in range) then this is not an option. However, once you get on Digital you'll find yourself just dialing in a country/region and chatting with ease.
Whichever way you go, this hobby is always more fulfilling if you join a club... and it's the best way to get your hands on equipment.
Later, consider joining your local EmComms group. This could be ARES if you're in the US or Raynet in the UK. This will get you working as community support for events and emergencies... it'll give you a positive way to use your license in the service of others. It puts in the company of some very professional operators, gives you an excuse to actually use your skills, and you'll quickly become very competent operator.
But it all starts with your Baofeng and a callsign ; )
Good luck to you my friend. Perhaps one day I'll catch you on the band.
Number 8: The extended battery. It's cheap, makes the radio feel better in the hand and more than doubles your use time. I love that "a license" was one of your picks... needs to be said more often HI HI
People who are buying HAM radios are mostly doing it to prep for SHTF, no one is going to give a crap about a license at that point!
@@kingg213 That's really not true. Most HAM radios are being bought by people with an interest in amateur radio (whether or not they are casual preppers too) ... sure, some of the more basic, cheaper, less functional HT's are being bought by preppers and airsofters, but they're basically using them as walkie-talkies.
Preppers SHOULD get licensed - even for SHTF/WROL use ... it's not just about paying your government a tax.
You wouldn't consider youself well prepped to use a rifle, until you can use it effectively. This means regular training... using it in more situations than a range... stripping it... cleaning it... diagnosing issues with ammunition and mechanics... understanding ammunition choices and how they affect the parameters of performance... understanding the way rounds propagate and are affected by environmental factors... etc.
or, you can buy yourself a selection of cheapo "bang-sticks" and decide you're prepped to cope in any situation... like an idiot.
Let's see what 'prepped for EmComms' really means...
I've worked abroad with the red cross, often in very difficult situations.
I can set up to hit a spot a few thousand miles away by understanding propagation. I can operate deep in mountainous/built-up terrain by turning an antenna into a sky-burner and using near-vertical radiation. I understand that each band operates differently in built up areas and make appropriate selections. I can operate repeaters and set them up using whatever is at hand (including disposable back-to-back baofengs) .... I can use morse to communicate over longer distances or copy other users... I can grab satellite images using any laptop to get up to date weather analysis, useful for planning and toxic or radiological events. Heck, I've chatted with the International Space Station and I've "tuned the moon" for EME.
I've built and tuned antennas in the field using any materials to hand, strung them on rooftops, trees and moving vehicles.
And I've done all these things in disaster situations at home and abroad, where lives depended on it... often during civil unrest. And I got those opportunities because I'm a licensed HAM. But, even without going to such extremes, my license training gives me all the theory (and room to practice) without ever leaving my home country.
Want covert use? I've taken part in "foxhunts", so I can track other users down... locating them from their transmissions with accuracy and speed. Being practiced in this, I can avoid being tracked if need be.
And I use my radios... on all bands and modes, every day. I can tune and repair them in the field. I can make antennas out of anything at hand and know how they will perform. I can stack them for directionality... throw them up into trees... I can operate with equipment that will fit in a cigarette pack. I can send and copy morse - so, when all else fails, I can communicate with he world.
I regularly use QRP and can reliably operate off low power.
Now... I could just grab some cheap HT's and "push the button to talk" ... but this is the equivalent of a novice with a BB-Gun. Decent for a day at the beach with the family, but not so strong in a disaster where the ability to harvest information is key to survival.
Want to be a prepper? Then PREP! Because your best tools in any survival scenario are not you fancy gadgets... it's knowledge, familiarity and the ability to problem solve. Equipment is nice, but effectiveness is far more important.
Cheap HT's can be handed out like candies to family/civilians to get them organised - but you, as a prepper, need to be prepared to play a decisive role in organising, communicating, and being uniquely aware of situations as they develop. HT's are for the last mile.
That comes with knowledge and practice....
... and that typically starts with getting licensed and learning a skill, not just handling an appliance.
EmComms is an essential part of prepping, and it involves SO much more than speaking to someone with near-line-of-sight. There's certainly a lot more involved than chatting with your buddies on a walkie-talkie... PARTICULARLY when you're talking about SHTF/WROL situations.
Want to be a specialist? in survival, weapons, communications, medical? Then you have to get your hands dirty BEFORE the shit hits the fan.
For radio, that means licensed operation. Perhaps joining your local ARES/Raynet group and getting to use your equipment as a professional, coordinated, talented team - dealing with floods, hurricanes and other minor disasters and public events.
The licence isn't a tax - it's an accreditation... it sets you on a path of (theoretical) competence... and opens the door to practical competence as a specialist.
.... or, y'know... feel free to grab your _"hello kitty"_ walkie talkies and set off into the unknown : )
@@garychap8384 Yeah, you're gonna find out how many of us have these for a SHTF scenario if and when it happens! Say goodbye, to your Pre-Madonna, bullshit, licensing world when it happens! License my ass, no one is going to give a shit then!
You've completely missed the point. I don't give a crap about the paperwork, and in a WROL/SHTF nobody will give a crap about it! Paper isn't the point, you can wipe your ass with the paperwork - expertise is the point!
I got my licence, not to be compliant, but to work and train alongside the very best.
Tell you what WILL matter - whether you actually understand what you're doing. If you have radioactive clouds of dust, you're going to want to be able to grab satellite images... you're going to need to know how to bypass the static.. if the problem in national you might need to find the conditions in cities several hundred miles away... if you're hiding out in mountains you're going to need skyburners ... if you're being hunted you're going to need to know about phase tracking... if you're going to set up stealth repeaters you're going to need to make and align cavity filters...
Operational Communications is a very big field. All I'm saying is... don''t half-arse it. You want to rely on a Baofeng and line-of-sight VHF/UHF when your life depends on i? Go for it.
To put it in terms you might understand. You're arguing that all you need is a .22 and some luck... and you're laughing at the guys who've taken their marksmans, tacops and weapons specialist training.
FFS, you don't even have encryption sorted out. For a prepper, you REALLY seem to be against actual preparation ; ) I guess you're just one of these anti-expert folks who just ache for the dark ages where they might actually stand half a chance.
You people confuse the shit out of me.
Personally, I'd have thought you'd want reliable weaponry and the skills to operate, maintain and apply them... you'd be well practiced. And... if you understood just how important intel and EmComms/OpComms are, then you'd treat radio the same way. Not just grab something off the shelf and hope.
You're gonna look real fine running about with your "hello kitty" radios, playing commando like children. I'm not even against Baofengs... they're great, you can hand 'em out like candy and get people organised.
But, trust me, equipment and preparation is EVERYTHING. Our militaries are strong BECAUSE they're practiced and flexible specialists... not gung-ho idiots hoping for the best.
But, maybe you disagree. Maybe you think you'e a match for anyone. Maybe you've watched far too many fucking hollywood movies and fancy yourself as a bit of a Bruce Willis.
You have an attitude problem. You should sign up for service, they'd knock all that bullshit right out of you.
Cus, everything you're saying tells me you're no prepper... you're a dreamer.
Let's hope you never have to find out just how shitty situations can get and why having at least half a fucking clue is important, when lives depend on your shit working.
All I'm saying is, try "getting good", idiot.
@@garychap8384 yup, but you're wasting your breath on people like kingg213 - you can't tell them anything which conflicts with their boy scout adventure narrative.
For a few days now I've spent my social distancing breaking Google with my new curiosity of ham. Your videos are the first I've seen that show a real exchange instead of quick contacts. Ham radio in action indeed, bravo!
As a relatively new ham with a UV-5R, I really appreciate this video, especially the excellent example of a friendly QSO at the end.
It's not false. I was looking for a radio to listen to my local police. I bought this radio knowing nothing about any licenses. But after seeing your video I'd love to get the license! Enjoy watching you very much!
Thanks for getting me back into ham radio: I just came across your video by chance when looking for an emergency radios. At 65 I sold all my station’s and dropped out of sight 15 years ago, I am now 76. I had no one interested in obtaining my stations so I found someone in need of them. Now I seen this video. I bought this radio with all the accessories and I learned I have to learn the these new radio systems all over again. ECHOLINK, what the heck is that....lol Thankful for youtube. My last 2meter was a Kenwood TR-2500 that says a lot, however I still have my Mosley TR-33 tri-bander still tucked away Thanks “73”. KX9J
The conversation in the end was much more interesting than the list itself
Wife bought me the same radio for Christmas. I'm happy that it's not as limited as I thought.
I love your channel. I’ve decided to buy a baofeng uv5r and get my license.
This was great to watch. Picked myself a UV 5r up couple of days ago after seeing another of your videos. Getting to grips with the menus and settings ect. Jusy listening in at the moment. Once the UK comes out of full lockdown I intend to do my license. Thanks for inspiring me. Cheers. Take care.
New to radio. Taking my test soon. You've been the most helpful of all the videos I've watched. Thank you
The new UV-16 pro charges via USB-C. I had been waiting for this for a while.
You are actually using the UV5r V2+. Its a very good radio and was my first HT. I still have it. I believe the model has been discontinued. So for those interested. Get the Baofeng BFF8-HT, it is the 3rd incarnation of the old UV5r. As far as replacing the antenna, get the Abbree Tactical folding antenna, the 18 inch model. Its an amazing inexpensive antenna.
After getting my own Baofeng UV-5R Mk 3, I quickly bought the official Baofeng USB programming cable (with a broken CD...), and clip mic/speaker combo. Being big in to electronics and having used CB radios in the past, it is exciting and fun to build your own antennas and even use additional devices for signal stability and monitoring. Now to just find the time to get that pesky license...
Thank you for making this video. Great info as I start my journey in this hobby and you explained things very well! And watching/listening to you talk brought out the excited little kid in me (I'm 51 now lol)! Much thanks for a fun video!
Just ordered my first baofeng UV5R...been seeing alot of videos but urs always provide easy understandable data 👍👍 want to get into programming it into picking up atc but small steps first.
You could expand your list by adding: extended 3800 mAh battery, radio pouch, microphonespeaker (I use rain, and dustproof one by Zastone), and car charger.
All in all UV-5R is an excellent platform. Nearly all of its accessories work with DM-5R and RD-5R
You've said that it's easy to pass the test, yet, there is a ton of science and info to learn to prep for the exam. I failed my first attempt in February and I have a bachelors degree, albeit not in a Science field. Unfortunately, there's not another test in my area until June. I'm seriously considering sticking to cell phones. Congrats to those that make the cut. The test is not a joke.
Sorry to hear that. I've been told before that I understate the difficulty of the test, and I will be more mindful of that in the future. Maybe you could consider another way of learning the material, there are video courses, books, in person classes (geography dependent), and of course memorizing the the question pool. I hope you stick with it.
I'd say it's so easy a caveman child could pass it, but hey.....
This is fantastic! Picked up that usb cable. Had these radios for a while. love them.
I purchased a usb cable for my Baofeng UV-5Re and it was a knock-off, soon as I purchased an authentic cable it worked like a charm! Currently in the work s, my ground plane antenna for my dual-band radio. Bill KJ7HWV Spokane Valley WA. Nice videos.
My Baofeng UV-5r came with a programming cable from baofeng. and it works great with chirp. I dont have a license yet, so I´m only listening on my local repeater. excuse my bad English, but I´m from Sweden :)
Ha, excuse my lack of Swedish. Wishing years of radio enjoyment.
Martin, Your English is far better than my Swedish!! I hope you have years of fun! Maybe we'll get to work HF together. 73
@MrPappagiorio I'm also from Sweden and I'm planning to buy a baofeng really soon. Do you know how to get a license though? I've not figured out how to get a license in Sweden yet.
@MrPappagiorio Thanks for the tip! I will try to do that later today. Appreciate the help!
I couldn't get chirp to work when I switched to windows 10. Then I bought a Bluetooth programming adapter and it's awesome. I can program it with my phone.
4:22 "Wall Wart" - brilliant 😂
Okay, I own the UV5r-V2+, the second generation of the UV5r. So here is my list of accessories you should get. Get your License first, yes please. The license is actually good for life, you just have too update it every ten years. Second, a new antenna. I like the Abbree 18.8 inch tactical folding antenna. Third a good speaker mic, so you dont have to hodl the radio up too your face. Fourth a extended battery, Baofeng sells a 3600 mAh battery. Fifth, the programming cable, because it is much easier to program the radio using a program called CHIRP, which is free. Sixth, the USB charging cable for your charging base, very useful. Seventh, if your going to use your Baofeng in your car, a good external antenna for your car., and the battery eliminator, so you can plug your radio into the car. Thats it for now.
WHAT DO YOU PROGRAM INTO THIS RADIO USING THAT PROGRAM CHIRP? IS THIS PROGRAM NECESSARY.
Dude, thank you so much for this video. I'm just so excited with the possibilities, it's such an enjoyable hobby. Been wanting to dive in since I was a kid and your video just gave me the final push.
YOU ARE SO COOL. LOVE THE WAY YOU TALK SO ENTHUSIASTIC! LOVE IT
Love the easy to understand no non-sense explanations you do. Great stuff. You MUST do a video on how to setup a solar charger / 12V battery pack. I use my ham radios exclusively on hunting trips (10 days without power) and I'm not the best when it comes to electrical concepts. Cheers!
All USB ports are 5volt, baofeng batteries are 7.4volt charging. You will need a cable that steps up the voltage. Then any 25000mah battery pack will work, with a solar panel to charge your radio. I had a 25000mah battery pack that had a fold up 4 panel solar charger attached to it. Cost about 40 bucks. With the right cable I could charge all my tech, but I live in New Mexico, where sunshine is not a problem
Some where in your next list should be an extended battery pack.......your videos are energetic and enjoyable to watch.
Video was great. Got some ideas on what to work on next! New to HAM radios. Got one as an Emergency medicine nurse to follow scanners around here; helps to know what I will be walking into at work. I enjoyed the ExpertPower Baofeng UV-5R Extended True Capacity Battery. Helps to keep it charged longer while traveling to work. I actually use mine at work to listen and plan what will be rolling in the bay with EMS. Baofeng is a great "first radio" for people new to HAM radios
I got a magnetic mount antenna for my truck and an external mic for the UV-5R. Much better range while driving.
Great videos. Just came across them by accident as most of my other hobbies have been stopped due to COVID-19.
I decided to go back to my old hobby of ham radio and bought a Baofeng uv5rtp great little rig. One of my original interests was packet radio so I’ll be exploring APRS.
Thanks again for the videos they are a great advert for amateur radio.
73’s
Barrie G6ILX
That was awesome Brian! Thank you. Subscribed! Please continue to make content and share. It’s much appreciated!
thx for the video. I bought the Beofeng a few years ago and purchased the GMRS for me and the family to play with. Weve had alot of fun. HAM license next! Keep the videos coming!!
Just a shout out for you giving Baofeng Radios some credibility my friend! I’ve owned about 25 or so Baofeng radios over the past 10 years. You can do that simply because they are so inexpensive and because they are so incredibly DEPENDABLE! I really enjoy these small rigs. In the back of my mind I know that if I break even one, well it’s not going to break the bank. BTW, I’ve never broken one! I’ve not yet heard anyone say that any of these radios are “are checking off frequency”. And when you are putting out 8-12 watts, for about $1.50 per watt, who’s complaining? Don’t get me wrong folks. I believe strongly in obeying the FCC rules and guidelines at all costs. I have the test equipment to assure that my Baofeng products are on target! BEFORE I TRANSMIT. Thanks again to you sir and everyone who has enough common sense to make Ham Radio fun and what it is meant to be!
Glad I found you on UA-cam. I upgraded my F8HP with a ExpertPower antenna on the recommendation of another Ham on UA-cam and it seems to work great.
Try the abbree antenna it almost doubles the strength of a nagoya
Great video! Awesome presentation as well! Loved the convo at the second half, lol.
I've been studying for 2 months and take my test tomorrow for Technician. The Baofeng will probably be my first HAM radio. I plan to make two yagi antennae--one for 2 meter and 1 for 70cm. Probably a 4 element yagi for 2 meter and a 5 element yagi for 70cm. I've got an antenna switch so I can switch each one in and out, left over from my CB days.
Hello! What do you think about UV-5R III is it better than UV-5R ? Thanks!
Video actually starts at 4:20
I just received my UV-5R today from the official Baofeng store on Amazon. I ordered the official Baofeng sync cable as well. I bought the radio specifically to capture background audio for my flyover videos of the International Space Station. I can run the radio's audio output directly into the camera as I track the ISS. It should work well, provided there is activity on the ISS repeater.
Thanks for this video. Just subscribed. Was looking at 2 way radios and saw the Baofeng and read all the reviews. Your videos have given me so much info that I know feel more confident getting into this hobby. My older Brother (57) has been into CB's/Ham since the late 70's and he has so much stuff that it is confusing. Wanted this basically for hiking in the mountains in the New England Sates and also for emergency incidents. I will look into the license to study and take the test. Once again, Thanks for this. VERY Informative.......
For about 70 bucks, both baofeng and tyt have a tri- band ht. They have hf, vhf, uhf frequencies, which might help you later down the road. At no great cost, to experience the different frequency jmo good luck brother
Slendid content... Love my Baofengs.. They truly put Japan to shame considering the difference in price.. ?? Had my UV5R For 6 years now .. never missed a beat.. Same battery..
Just ordered once of these radios. Thanks for the great info.
I just found about ham radio hobby yesterday. Soaking in all cool things about it. It is very interesting to see your comms as well; thanks!!
Great video, Brian, and Mark seemed like a good guy, too.
Excellent video. Just ordered a Boefang handheld and waiting for the testing to start up again so I can get licensed and back into ham radio after many years away. (formerly WA1DPQ). Can't wait!
The Baofeng line of HTs is the Glock of ham radio
Gavan Brown lol more like the norinco, but I guess you guys can’t really buy those, only us Canadians
Gavan Brown grow up and stop being a troll.
More like the hi point
themasterhammer bruh
Except glocks ain’t cheap like baofeng
No. 8, The 3600 mAh extended Battery pack. Makes the radio easier to hold. No. 9, a good speaker mic. No. 10, Battery Eliminator, will allow you too plug your radio into the 12 volt socket on your dash board.
I was going to mention the extended battery, but it's a good thing I checked first to see if it had already been mentioned. Your other suggestions are also good accessories to have as well.
FYI, you only can get a 1x3 or 2x3 vanity call sign as a Technician & General you can get a 2x2, a 2x1 or a 1x2 call sign as an Extra class (2x2 call sign is what usually were assigned to the old Advance Class). I took my initials as my call N6KV, Kristyanna
Thanks a lot for all of these detailed information
This is an awesome video! Just wish you had some sort of link for the solar panel and battery pack you have. I can't seem to find a small battery pack like yours in the vid.
Also, thanks for taking the fear out of amateur radio for me.
Excellent and informative video. Thanx from Belgium 🇧🇪 73
7:25 where can I buy this antenna? What is name of this antenna?
There’s a link in the description
@@chipperdrewski but not for this antena.
signalstuff.com/product/super-elastic-signal-stick-sma-male/
Links to products?
I've had a baofeng uv 5 r for a couple years. Good unit. One accessory you left out. The speaker mike. It really improves the convenience for me.
73. KE4KKM
I got one, but had bad reports on audio quality. M0II Z. But love the radios.
The Baofeng UV5R sells, in China, for about $14.00. I bought two there...delivered to my hotel, for $33.00 directly from Baofeng on the AliBaba website. I've been a ham for long enough to remember when a Regency 10 watt single band two meter mobile transceiver...using two crystals per repeater frequency (one receive and one transmit) cost at least ten times what this radio costs.... in 1973/4 dollars. This technology was a dream in those days. For less than the price of a couple of happy meals at McDonald's....dual band, 5 watts that will do nearly everything but scratch your butt.
Very Cool. I enjoyed this. I''m scheduled to go to an all day Technician class on 8/8/20 and take the test on same day right after the class. It's called the "Ham Cram" and theyve been doing it for years held at one of the Fire Stations in town. I'll probably get a Baofeng with some accessories to start.
I love your enthusiasm
Hello,
Is the license only for United States? How about overseas?
.
GREAT video man!
Thanks for the thorough and entertaining info!
One of the few HAM videos I've watched that didn't put me to sleep. ;)
I would add a organizer case, backpack, etc to keep things together. I’ve also added a sit pad !
I'm in Alabama. About 2hr from Huntsville where Redstone Arsenal and Space and Rocket Center Is located. Is this the same city as you and Mark were speaking? (I know there is more than one Huntsville in the US).
Great video; subscribed. I hear pretty commonly that nothing interesting happens on 2 meter, and that nobody learns anything. You pretty much prove that isn't true.
Thanks!
Great Job with your video Just got my Technican license very excited to get started looking to make my first purchase I'm in Marietta would like to meet up with you email petersal6258@gmail.com
.
Great
Ordered my radio and
ARRL Manual
Looking Forward
Thank you sir
God Bless ~
...
Brilliant loved every minute of your conversation and that antenna you used is perfect. John G0GUF RNARS 3227
USE AN EARBUD WITH A SPEAKER/MICROPHONE (an accessory to an accessory)
If you have a speaker/microphone accessory, you may not have noticed this yet. By design it isn't usually obvious. But, there is probably an auxilliary earphone/earbud jack on the microphone itself. It's often covered up by a cosmetic plug of rubber/plastic the same color as the microphone casing. So...even if you're using the "speaker/microphone" instead of the default "earbud/microphone" that comes with each BaoFeng radio...you can clip the speaker/microphone onto your collar and extend an earbud to your ear. More privacy, a bit easier to hear things...and a touch of two-in-one flexibility.
Can you please do a video on the roll up j-pole antenna? I've not found much information on it. Thanks!
Google is your friend . . .
A desk Mike..... A mains power supply..... A high gain antenna.... An swr meter.... A linear amplifier.... A transverter.... I have no idea what any of this means..... I just started to take an interest in this...... But I was on the UK CB 11m in the 90s.....
So you got your solar panel at Hamfest....is there one on amazon or another dealer site that you recommend? Thank you for your very informative video! I see some on amazon have 2.1amp output... I would like to know what output would be required for a solar panel to adequately power the charger for my baofang.
I didn't see any reference to the "roll-up J-pole antenna" that you showed early in the video.
Nice video. Never considered Baofeng. Sounds like it works good for the price though. I may reconsider if I need a new handheld. And, I subscribed because of your enthusiasm for Ham radio.
Great video. Does your recommendation for accessories equally apply to UV82, uhf/vhf?
Any video on the use of repeaters?
What is the difference between the Baofeng UV-5R and the Baofeng UV-5R Plus. I have both and have ordered a Baofeng UV-5R 8W for a little more oompf! After I get my General, I'll look for a higher powered, longer reach unit. Still trying to figure all of this out so I enjoy a lot of the UA-cam videos.
Thank you Excellent channel !!!!.by any chance do you hav etc link for the super elastic antenna?
Do I need both an APRS cable and a programming cable? Are they different?
a great list - plus really love the demo, great work !
Thank you for your knowledge, I'm just getting my first radio and am in need of info.
I hope you enjoy the hobby. Hope to catch you in my logbook soon!
When I get my amateur and that should be soon I'll contact you with my call sign. Awsome videos getting people like me into the hobby. Location maine.
You really need more subs this channel needs to be shown! Thanks sir!!
what is the best programming cable out there? i want to make sure i dont get the wrong one.
Product links would be very helpful. You could monetize as an Amazon affiliate, would encourage you to consider it.
I agree. This is a really great video, but I have no idea where to find these accessories.
Seconded. I was looking for that solar charge controller.
@@Josh3239 Yeah that's a nice looking charge controller. Many solar panels come with charge controllers included. My Harbor Freight one did, but it's not as cool looking as the one in this vid.
Agreed - links would be helpful PLUS we could send a few $$$ his way :-)
The USB charging cable is on Amazon, I found, listed as "BTECH USB Smart Charger (9-10.8V) Transformer Cable for BaoFeng"
The programming cable for CHIRP is listed as "Tenway Baofeng USB Programming Cable"
There are also J pole antenna designs and kits on Google.
The tablet interface cable seems to be listed as "BTECH APRS-K1" on Amazon.
dave thanks !
Great job. I love your videos !
Hi, thanks for your informative videos.👍I have one question, where did you get that roll up J pole antenna ? can't find that anywhere !
Anyone know where I can buy the J pole antenna shown in the video?
The best thing to increase range of a Baofeng is a counterpoise. Programming asoftware and cables available from RTS.
Hello! I was wondering if the UV-5R III Tri-Band is a genuine model from Baofeng or if it’s a copy off of an existing model.
You have me very interested I ordered a bow phang Max power UV 5R That came with the accessory kit and flashing cable is the flashing cable what your talking about when your hooking it up to your ipad laptop phone Etc
What brand is solar /battery and the unit did you purchase?
Greetings from the UK. Great video.
'Greetings from the uk.' Who are you to be talking for the uk ? You have no authority or license to speak for the uk.
Sir. Can you post the programming cable link ? Pls...
Is it possible to program a Baofeng radio to listen only?
Yes, using Chirp you can disable TX on any of the memory slots you program.
In your test for better audio you changed two things at once. Your antenna plus ground plane for your contact. Which helped the most?
Just got into this hobby and found your channel! I'm in Canton not far from Milton I drive through there everyday. Haven't got my license yet but hope to be able to chat soon.
Great video. I am definitely excited to get into this. Thank you
Greetings from Quebec city, Canada🇨🇦 Keep Up the very good work !
What is the name of the ios app you are using for APRSpro? I see a few different apps but I don't think I see the one you are using in the video. Thank you so much for the video. :)
Tks for the tips. Just ordered the #2 the antenna. Can’t wait to try it. Tks for the advice.
super elastic? from were, please a link?
HI Brian, I tried the Amazon links and they would not take me to Amazon. Anyone have the problem? I am nervous getting anything on Amazon without using your links. Thanks! or how can I look you recommendations up in Amazon?
got the links to work. Odered everything!
That was really interesting. Thank you for the video.