Backpack amateur radio. Post #759

If you're having trouble viewing this video, please insert this title link into your browser search box: https://youtu.be/bdCCw0qu5-g.  With the ARRL Field Day set for 25-26 June 2016, it may be a good idea to go "into the field" and test your portable and emergency gear.  Even if you don't join a club for this effort, individual and home stations can enter one of the biggest emergency preparedness exercises of the year.  A little practice beforehand will get "you in shape" for the big event.  Besides, backpacking with amateur radio is fun and educational.  In this well-done video, we see how Simon (2E0CRV) prepares his backpack radio station for a hike "into the field."  His system is simple, efficient, fairly lightweight, and easy to set up in a remote location.  Although Simon is using the versatile Yaesu FT-857D transceiver, you can use what you have available in your shack.  In my case, I use an "oldie, but goodie" from the distant past (Yaesu FT-7) for my portable and emergency rig.  You can use a variety of power sources and easily- made antennas for this project.  Simon offers a lot of helpful hints on setting up a portable backpack ham station.  Once you assemble your backpack system, take it out to a public park, beach, or campground and try a few contacts.  In Simon's case, he had some interesting QSOs with Argentina, the USA, Brazil, and Asiatic Russia. You may want to keep this backpack radio system in your vehicle for portable or emergency use should the need arise.  For the latest Amateur Radio news and events, please check out the blog sidebars. Thanks for joining us today!  Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).