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Permalink Reply by Minuteman on October 25, 2009 at 8:11am

An important facet when all hell breaks loose.... Great subject matter in this forum...

I recently got tested General and have setup a semi-reinforced base comms shack here in the basement at home. Near full spectrum coverage with backup antennas under construction. It gets a bit pricey but is very reliable. Am considering solar and/or a portable generator for this but a deep cycle marine battery and the truck as a charger would serve well for the moment.

Am also working on a field deployable setup. Requirements are 100W Po, all mode 70cm to 80m Tx, general coverage+Wx and solar rechargeable power source. The goal is a 30lb Comm pack not exceeding 30" in height 24" in width when collapsed. 20 hr receive capability on single charge. Foul weather protection. 3x15' masts capability. A fully complete setup..

I could use the above setup locally for hilltopping places that are only hikeable like the Presidential Range NH, Mt. Monadnock. Then break it down and mount the mobile in the truck for those high places that are driveable.

I've contacted the local ARES coordinator here too. We'll see....