Differences
This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.
Both sides previous revisionPrevious revisionNext revision | Previous revisionNext revisionBoth sides next revision |
howto:newhams [2020/09/20 18:04] – [What to Buy] va7fi | howto:newhams [2020/09/20 18:10] – [What to Buy] va7fi |
---|
In general, the antenna is the most important part of the system and the radio is the least important. So for those on a budget, the **minimum** setup should consist of an external antenna (mounted on the side of the house or on a balcony for example), with a cheap Chinese mobile radio like the [[https://www.eham.net/reviews/view-product?id=12549 | QYT KT-8900]]. | In general, the antenna is the most important part of the system and the radio is the least important. So for those on a budget, the **minimum** setup should consist of an external antenna (mounted on the side of the house or on a balcony for example), with a cheap Chinese mobile radio like the [[https://www.eham.net/reviews/view-product?id=12549 | QYT KT-8900]]. |
| |
A very good basic antenna is the [[https://www.eham.net/reviews/view-product?id=1863 |Comet GP-3]]. | A very good basic antenna is the [[https://www.eham.net/reviews/view-product?id=1863 |Comet GP-3]]. If the coax line is not too long, RG-8x works, but if you're able to mount the antenna higher (and height makes a huge difference!), then it's worth buying good coax like LMR-400. |
| |
| Finally, ham radios usually run on 12V (13.8V to be more precise), so you'll also need a power supply. Power supply are usually rated by Amperage. With only one (basic VHF/UHF) radio, you'll need at least 5A. The club has a bunch of these low output power supply so ask us to borrow one instead of buying one. Eventually, though, you'll want a power supply that can provide at least 20A so that you can power more equipment. |
| |
| |
| |