Good job. I just got my tech license for ham operator. I spend a lot of time in the backcountry. Its always a good idea that you carry a radio. I always do, and now I can ping repeaters and have a better chance of help. thanks
Thank you! Also, That’s excellent. It’s really nice to have more folks with radio in the backcountry. I hope more folks will join too. It would be brilliant to have a network of radio operators out there to fall back on. I’m glad you got your license, congrats. Hopefully we’ll catch you on the air!
Don't know why they couldn't hear, possible the handhelds PL tones were set to ENCODE and DECODE and the repeater wasn't putting out a PL tone. Also with the GPS, don't forget a good compass and a map to get a bearing on a prominent feature on the map with a guess of how far away it is. Other things, crossband mobile and HTs that can be used from the rim of a canyon to relay low power HTs up to a local repeater. From what I've read most of the wilderness protocol comes in on 146.520 but other frequencies can be used. Monitoring usually starts 5 min. before the hour until 5 min. after the hour.
There is always that possibility on the PL Tones. And thank you for your addition: the map and compass are so critical. Even a GPS is only useful to a point. And if you don't have a GPS, a bearing on a prominent landmark, or even two landmarks, will help locate you.
Thanks for the video. You made a good point about making sure the volume is up. Something so simple but can be forgotten in the midst of a crisis/panic.
Good info on amateur radio. That is exactly what I am working on is my technician license to take a 2 meter handheld radio since I spend lots of time in the back country in addition to my GPS communicator. Good video! Thanks,
Very cool! I'm glad you also carry a GPS communicator. Having a radio is great though; and knowing how to use it through practice makes it so much more practical. Good luck on your technician test!
It depends on your area. If you have pretty good line-of-sight to your home, camp, or wherever your wife is, then you may be able to use radio-to-radio communication (also called Simplex). If you have repeaters in your area, then using those will make communication much easier. Depending on repeater systems, some are linked which allow you to cover massive distances to keep communication open. It could work. But you've just got to know what resources you have available. I'm putting together a new series about Deep Backcountry Comms. Here's the intro: czcams.com/video/6sV7D_16D-w/video.html
@@backcountryamateurradio I usually go just outside Pheonix, AZ. Is there a way to see the coverage in my area. I know there are a lot of mountains too that I am often driving through. Is there a better solution than HAM for my problem? I’ll check out your new series!! Thanks for the help.
@@chrisprice279 Aside from a GPS Communicator, I don't believe you'll find a better option than ham radio. Getting your ham license is less convenient, but worth it. As far as finding repeaters, there are a couple solid online references: Repeater Book and also Radio Reference. I believe that you need to have your FCC issued call sign to get into Repeater Book. The other bet is to seek out the local ham radio club in your area and learn everything about your area with the folks there who already know. That is your quickest answer. They'll also help you figure out how to set up a home station and mobile station. Check this out, for instance: w7ara.org/z/Welcome.aspx - I hope that helps! - Eric
I really enjoy these antennas, as long as you get an authentic one. They seem to perform well and are kinda fun. There are better antennas but they're fun to have and I've had great success using them in the field. Hopefully you'll have a good time with your new antenna!
Well, for a handheld I believe there are great options from Smiley Antennas and Signal Sticks. But right now I’m gunnin for a 6 dB mono band vhf antenna from smiley.
Great content. I'm looking forward to go a motorcycling trip with fried in mountains, there is no cell phone coverage. Very interested to use radio for a emergency communication. Thank you
It's such a simple way to stay in touch, and ham radio can do so much. With some experience you'll always be able to connect. Sounds like you'll have an excellent trip. Thanks for the feedback!
Hi Eric. I jumped in on the Radioddity flash sale and picked up a GS-5B. Just waiting for the delivery. I was wondering if you would like to recommend an ABBREE dual-band foldable outdoor antenna for the GS-5B....Or perhaps a Nogoya dual-band whip antenna. I am thinking that a longer antenna might give me further reach. I am planning to do some hiking out west during the 2 weeks at Christmas time. The foldable antenna looks like it might be easier to carry by folding the ABBREE to make it smaller. Just curious...what has your experience been?
It’s a fun radio! Well, my experience is that the base of the Abbree is way too big to allow the antenna to install properly. I’ve actually been super happy with the stock antenna. A Nagoya 771 would work well, though probably better for 70cm. I would also look at the Signal stuff antennas. Then of course I want to recommend Smiley Antennas here but have no idea if it would fit either. Run the stock antenna for a few days, I think you’ll be surprised. It’s basically the same as a NA-701, which strangely works pretty well on vhf.
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you Eric for your prompt reply. I do remember you discussing how well the stock antenna of the GS-5B works, however, I liked the idea of using a long, flat antenna that you could fold when not using. I will give the stock antenna a chance and see how well it does. Thanks again.
I'm sorry, I'm not finding a whole lot of detail about radio communication laws in Pakistan, for recreationists. I would reach out to expedition teams that have been there and handled this. If I come across something, I'll post it here!
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you very much! I know alot of folks use Satellite phones, but in the context of immediate operations in attempting the summit, I surmise some type of portable or mobile radios might be deployed.
Thanks! so, that was a tricky set up. the pole is an avalanche probe and is made from aluminum. It has a loop that serves in tensioning the probe but that was handy for setting up an insulator to hang that skimpy wire ground plane antenna. If you do this, think of that aluminum probe as a reflector. Usually I would hang this from a tree! but we were on a saddle with about 6 feet of snow left over from the previous winter.
New to this hobby but like that simple set up for in the field 👍 I assume that set up would reach out better than a longer antenna on the HT? Enjoying the content. 73
Hi there - I am considering obtaining an amateur radio license and purchasing a ham radio for backcountry emergency communication, however, I am curious about ham radio capabilities and the legality of operating on certain frequencies. For example, if I'm in the Yosemite National Park backcountry and the nearest repeater operates within the Federal Government frequency band (162-174 MHz), will any ham radio be capable of pre-programming those frequencies? If so, is it legal for an amateur technician to utilize communication over those frequencies in an emergency situation? Any suggestions for literature specifically covering these topics is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hey Alex, first, it seems that a lot of handheld transceivers can operate on those frequencies, as well as public service 150mhz frequencies. There are other more technical channels that get in to hacking the codes and opening up the radios. Many of the Chinese radios are just open to a broad spectrum of frequencies including the ones you mention. On the second part, if it is an emergency over life or property, I believe you are allowed to use any frequencies that will get you help. Once the emergency is over, obviously, one is no longer permitted to use those frequencies. And you don’t need to be an amateur radio operator to use them. But being one helps understand all that. As far as literature goes, I’m not sure there is much. You can find more information on the systems used by the forest service there on radioreference.com. Does that help, at all?
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you for the informative reply. Yes, that definitely helps put some of my curiosities into perspective. Like you mentioned, I haven't been able to find a comprehensive source that covers specifics of legal operation within certain frequency bands or differences in radio functionality, so your response is much appreciated. Cheers!
@@alexpitman4681 That's great. I may have to dive into this subject a bit more, make a short video about it. Thanks for the question and feedback! Stay safe out there.
Hi again and thank you for video! I just purchased this radioddity gm30 and since I am new to this I'm also just now learning that being able to change antennas on your radio would improve performance, this radio has an Allan key on the side bottom of antenna does that mean i can swap it out? I have not found a single video that says so now I'm thinking of returning mine when I receive it if I can't swap it out.
You can swap it out. You will need to find an antenna with an SMA male connection. But it’s totally legal in the US… so check your guidelines for GMRS frequencies if you’re not in the US. Great question. Will have a video soon.
@@backcountryamateurradio thank you for replying to me, I just purchased my gmrs license $70 smackarooz!! should have it in another day or so, i should receive my radioddity gm30 tomorrow. Thank you
@@backcountryamateurradio hi there, ok so I got my radio and license at the same time and with an Allan hex loosened the tiny micro hex screw and it does come off, antenna is sma male.
Great video and great job applying your amateur radio skills to provide support. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks man, it was a hell of a thing. honestly made me wish I had an HT that records the QSO!
Good job. I just got my tech license for ham operator. I spend a lot of time in the backcountry.
Its always a good idea that you carry a radio. I always do, and now I can ping repeaters and have a better chance of help. thanks
Thank you! Also, That’s excellent. It’s really nice to have more folks with radio in the backcountry. I hope more folks will join too. It would be brilliant to have a network of radio operators out there to fall back on. I’m glad you got your license, congrats. Hopefully we’ll catch you on the air!
Don't know why they couldn't hear, possible the handhelds PL tones were set to ENCODE and DECODE and the repeater wasn't putting out a PL tone.
Also with the GPS, don't forget a good compass and a map to get a bearing on a prominent feature on the map with a guess of how far away it is.
Other things, crossband mobile and HTs that can be used from the rim of a canyon to relay low power HTs up to a local repeater.
From what I've read most of the wilderness protocol comes in on 146.520 but other frequencies can be used. Monitoring usually starts 5 min. before the hour until 5 min. after the hour.
There is always that possibility on the PL Tones. And thank you for your addition: the map and compass are so critical. Even a GPS is only useful to a point. And if you don't have a GPS, a bearing on a prominent landmark, or even two landmarks, will help locate you.
Thanks for the video. You made a good point about making sure the volume is up. Something so simple but can be forgotten in the midst of a crisis/panic.
Thanks for the comment Stuart, it's often the simplest thing that we miss when the need for action arises. Stay safe out there!
Good info on amateur radio. That is exactly what I am working on is my technician license to take a 2 meter handheld radio since I spend lots of time in the back country in addition to my GPS communicator. Good video! Thanks,
Very cool! I'm glad you also carry a GPS communicator. Having a radio is great though; and knowing how to use it through practice makes it so much more practical. Good luck on your technician test!
@@backcountryamateurradio Awsome! Thank you,
My wife wants to be able to communicate with me while I’m out in the desert off-road. Would something like this be a good solution?
It depends on your area. If you have pretty good line-of-sight to your home, camp, or wherever your wife is, then you may be able to use radio-to-radio communication (also called Simplex). If you have repeaters in your area, then using those will make communication much easier. Depending on repeater systems, some are linked which allow you to cover massive distances to keep communication open.
It could work. But you've just got to know what resources you have available. I'm putting together a new series about Deep Backcountry Comms. Here's the intro: czcams.com/video/6sV7D_16D-w/video.html
@@backcountryamateurradio I usually go just outside Pheonix, AZ. Is there a way to see the coverage in my area. I know there are a lot of mountains too that I am often driving through. Is there a better solution than HAM for my problem? I’ll check out your new series!! Thanks for the help.
@@chrisprice279 Aside from a GPS Communicator, I don't believe you'll find a better option than ham radio. Getting your ham license is less convenient, but worth it. As far as finding repeaters, there are a couple solid online references: Repeater Book and also Radio Reference. I believe that you need to have your FCC issued call sign to get into Repeater Book.
The other bet is to seek out the local ham radio club in your area and learn everything about your area with the folks there who already know. That is your quickest answer. They'll also help you figure out how to set up a home station and mobile station. Check this out, for instance: w7ara.org/z/Welcome.aspx - I hope that helps! - Eric
How is that ABBREE? I got one on order the 18..."er
73
I really enjoy these antennas, as long as you get an authentic one. They seem to perform well and are kinda fun. There are better antennas but they're fun to have and I've had great success using them in the field. Hopefully you'll have a good time with your new antenna!
@@backcountryamateurradio what is a better antenna that is long range you would reccomend for portable besides a j pole ?????
Well, for a handheld I believe there are great options from Smiley Antennas and Signal Sticks. But right now I’m gunnin for a 6 dB mono band vhf antenna from smiley.
@@backcountryamateurradio The Smiley half wave will significantly out perform the signal stick.
Great content. I'm looking forward to go a motorcycling trip with fried in mountains, there is no cell phone coverage. Very interested to use radio for a emergency communication. Thank you
It's such a simple way to stay in touch, and ham radio can do so much. With some experience you'll always be able to connect. Sounds like you'll have an excellent trip. Thanks for the feedback!
Hi Eric. I jumped in on the Radioddity flash sale and picked up a GS-5B. Just waiting for the delivery. I was wondering if you would like to recommend an ABBREE dual-band foldable outdoor antenna for the GS-5B....Or perhaps a Nogoya dual-band whip antenna. I am thinking that a longer antenna might give me further reach. I am planning to do some hiking out west during the 2 weeks at Christmas time. The foldable antenna looks like it might be easier to carry by folding the ABBREE to make it smaller. Just curious...what has your experience been?
It’s a fun radio! Well, my experience is that the base of the Abbree is way too big to allow the antenna to install properly. I’ve actually been super happy with the stock antenna. A Nagoya 771 would work well, though probably better for 70cm. I would also look at the Signal stuff antennas. Then of course I want to recommend Smiley Antennas here but have no idea if it would fit either. Run the stock antenna for a few days, I think you’ll be surprised. It’s basically the same as a NA-701, which strangely works pretty well on vhf.
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you Eric for your prompt reply. I do remember you discussing how well the stock antenna of the GS-5B works, however, I liked the idea of using a long, flat antenna that you could fold when not using. I will give the stock antenna a chance and see how well it does. Thanks again.
Sir, what do you recommend for radio communication gear for climbing K2 in Pakistan?
Good question! Please allow me some time to research that one. Questions like radio types and frequencies generally have to be addressed.
I'm sorry, I'm not finding a whole lot of detail about radio communication laws in Pakistan, for recreationists. I would reach out to expedition teams that have been there and handled this. If I come across something, I'll post it here!
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you very much! I know alot of folks use Satellite phones, but in the context of immediate operations in attempting the summit, I surmise some type of portable or mobile radios might be deployed.
7:36 how do you setup that antenna pole? Looks great!
Thanks! so, that was a tricky set up. the pole is an avalanche probe and is made from aluminum. It has a loop that serves in tensioning the probe but that was handy for setting up an insulator to hang that skimpy wire ground plane antenna. If you do this, think of that aluminum probe as a reflector. Usually I would hang this from a tree! but we were on a saddle with about 6 feet of snow left over from the previous winter.
New to this hobby but like that simple set up for in the field 👍 I assume that set up would reach out better than a longer antenna on the HT? Enjoying the content. 73
Hi there - I am considering obtaining an amateur radio license and purchasing a ham radio for backcountry emergency communication, however, I am curious about ham radio capabilities and the legality of operating on certain frequencies. For example, if I'm in the Yosemite National Park backcountry and the nearest repeater operates within the Federal Government frequency band (162-174 MHz), will any ham radio be capable of pre-programming those frequencies? If so, is it legal for an amateur technician to utilize communication over those frequencies in an emergency situation? Any suggestions for literature specifically covering these topics is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hey Alex, first, it seems that a lot of handheld transceivers can operate on those frequencies, as well as public service 150mhz frequencies. There are other more technical channels that get in to hacking the codes and opening up the radios. Many of the Chinese radios are just open to a broad spectrum of frequencies including the ones you mention. On the second part, if it is an emergency over life or property, I believe you are allowed to use any frequencies that will get you help. Once the emergency is over, obviously, one is no longer permitted to use those frequencies. And you don’t need to be an amateur radio operator to use them. But being one helps understand all that.
As far as literature goes, I’m not sure there is much. You can find more information on the systems used by the forest service there on radioreference.com.
Does that help, at all?
@@backcountryamateurradio Thank you for the informative reply. Yes, that definitely helps put some of my curiosities into perspective. Like you mentioned, I haven't been able to find a comprehensive source that covers specifics of legal operation within certain frequency bands or differences in radio functionality, so your response is much appreciated. Cheers!
@@alexpitman4681 That's great. I may have to dive into this subject a bit more, make a short video about it. Thanks for the question and feedback! Stay safe out there.
The ARRL ARES link above is not working for me, this may be it: www.arrl.org/files/file/Public%20Service/ARES/ARESFieldResourcesManual_rev10-2019.pdf
Thanks for posting the link. Not sure why mine isn't working!
Hi again and thank you for video! I just purchased this radioddity gm30 and since I am new to this I'm also just now learning that being able to change antennas on your radio would improve performance, this radio has an Allan key on the side bottom of antenna does that mean i can swap it out? I have not found a single video that says so now I'm thinking of returning mine when I receive it if I can't swap it out.
You can swap it out. You will need to find an antenna with an SMA male connection. But it’s totally legal in the US… so check your guidelines for GMRS frequencies if you’re not in the US. Great question. Will have a video soon.
@@backcountryamateurradio thank you for replying to me, I just purchased my gmrs license $70 smackarooz!! should have it in another day or so, i should receive my radioddity gm30 tomorrow. Thank you
@@backcountryamateurradio I forgot to ask, what antenna does it take an SMA male or female?
Believe an sma male. Double check here soon.
@@backcountryamateurradio hi there, ok so I got my radio and license at the same time and with an Allan hex loosened the tiny micro hex screw and it does come off, antenna is sma male.