Archive for the ‘Equipment’ tag
I just got my License. What should I buy?
If you can afford it. Even if you’ve only got your Technician license. (VHF/UHF only in the US) you should try to buy something like the Yaesu FT-857, and a power supply.
(All prices taken from R&L Electronics in Ohio)
Yaesu FT-857 $739.95
Astron SS30 30a Power Supply $116.95
Now, I know this seems like a LOT of money to spend. But let me help explain why I make this suggestion.
1.) The FT-857 operates on all HF Bands 160m – 10M It also operates on 6M, 2M and the 70CM band. It supports all modes SSB, FM, AM, CW, digital modes on all of the bands. Which means starting out as a tech, you get all modes 6m, 2m, 70cm. and as you upgrade to your General you have nothing more to buy.
2.) Even if you’re going to use your radio mobile. A good power supply is an investment that will last you years. Will power many radios for you. And will give you the option of using your shiny new Mobile rig, in the house should you ever want/need to.
Are there reasons to have a dedicated Mobile dual band? Sure. But if you can only buy 1 rig don’t you think there’s something to be said for buying a rig that can “do anything” 
At local ham fests, you’ll almost certainly find FT-857s used for $500 give or take.
If you’re operating in the house, you will need some coax. but antennas can be something you build. My first 2m/70cm antenna was a home made Dual Band J-Pole I built out of Steel All Thread I purchased at a hardware store. The total cost was maybe $7
Building a 20m Dipole is as simple as hacking apart an old extension cord. if you tune it properly you will not need an antenna tuner. This is a great band to get your feet wet in HF once your license allows operation on the HF bands.
If you’re going to operate mobile, I’d recommend purchasing a small dual band antenna for 2m/70cm and then perhaps a hand full of Ham Stick antennas for the various lower bands. (even if that means 6m only) ham sticks average $14-25 each, are monoband, but really, you don’t change HF bands very frequently while on the road.
If anyone has questions regarding my recommendations please feel free to contact me.
73!
