Most ham radio stations are operated from home; however, there are many times when operators choose to take their radios to campsites and mountaintops. These locations present unique challenges and opportunities for the intrepid ham radio operator. This article explains put your portable ham radio to use in the field.
Instructions
1. Find a suitable location to setup your portable ham radio. The location you select should be as free from sources of radio interference as possible. Also select a location that will allow you to install your antenna system. For wire antennas this may mean selecting a site with several tall trees to use as supports. For a vertical antenna system you will need enough clear space to lay out the radials below the antenna. Also, ensure that the site will be comfortable enough for you to operate from for an extended period of time. The site should provide adequate protection from the elements such as heat, wind, and rain.
2. Set up an operating position. Once you've selected a location, create an area to lay out your radio, tuner, power supply, log book, snacks and other essentials. Folding tables are often used for this purpose and are an excellent choice if your operating site is not far from your vehicle.
3. Set up power for your portable ham radio station. This may be as simple as using the internal batteries of the radio being used. However, many ham radio operators also use car batteries, solar panels and small generators to power their portable stations. Many factors may determine what you choose as a power source; however, how long you plan to operate is a large factor. Long operating periods will demand that you plan for sources of power beyond the internal batteries of your portable radio.
4. Get your antenna in the air. If you are installing a wire antenna, the use of a sling shot and fishing reel will help to get a line into the nearest tree so that you can pull your antenna system into the air easily. Do not forget to use insulators on the ends of your antennas. Also, clearly mark any guy wires or support lines that a person could trip over or walk into.
5. With the use of an antenna tuner, tune your antenna system for the band segment you are interested in working. Some portable antennas may not require this step as they are pre-cut for a particular frequency.
6. Start your on-the-air operations. You may have informed other operators about the time, location and operating frequency of your portable station and will be working those contacts. You may be participating in a contest tailored to portable operating or low power stations. Make the most of your time on the air. You've worked hard to set up your portable radio station. Do not forget to log the details of all your contacts.
Tags: your portable, portable radio, your portable radio, antenna system, your antenna, your antenna system
