Over the last years (maybe even decade) I was neglecting my radio hobby. The van is meant to be one of the remedies. It is presently arranged to survive a few days in it, however, the van still lacks radio equipment.
Readily available options are the following:
- 20m PSK as base gear
- the 20m Pex-Al-Pex loop
- fishing-pole elevated dipole
- 30m PSK for mail
- TenTec Scout #555 (low power consumption and punchy audio)
- Icom IC-M710 (even punchier audio) w/ respective auto-tuner
- Vertex Standard VX-1700
- PCT-IIe
Further thoughts add digital radio such as D-STAR or DMR. Since I got zero experience in that field, I just started my research. As appealing the digital world is, as confusing it is!
Presently, I am somewhat sure about the computing device I will use:
- HP Stylistic ST4120
- respective docking station
- respective 12V power supply
This thing presently runs WinXP. Years ago, I bought this thing (used) to be the board computer of my sailing boat. For unknown reasons, the PC never made it aboard.
Things I need to do before getting serious with radio in the van:
- install one or more service batteries
- install a charger for the service batteries
- install a VHF/UHF antenna
- solar panels?
- create an RF-ground device
The van also needs a decent WiFi solution. I presently research the possibilities.
BTW, the van is a Mercedes-Benz Vito (2008). Some told me that Vito's are supposed to be like regular cars. Well, driving one, I can tell you that the allover feel of a Vito is more like driving a semi than a people carrier.
73 for now, stay tuned....
