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Homeland Security The Ultimate Mobile Installation by Rich Arland, K7SZ |
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This month we’re going to continue our quest for the “Ultimate Mobile Installation” by tackling several issues relevant to today’s vehicles, namely gear selection and where to hang the radio equipment. In my particular situation, for instance, I need to have transmit capability on HF as well as 2-meter amateur radio and 27-MHz CB. Since I also need to keep current on breaking developments locally, I need a scanner. For me, this is my “Ultimate Mobile Installation.” Undoubtedly your mobile requirements will be different from mine. This series of columns is designed to help you qualify and quantify your mobile comms requirements and provide hints to do a professional installation in your own vehicle. Before proceeding, though, I’d like to digress for a moment and cover a couple of important issues regarding mobile communications stations (COMSTAs). Last month I indicated that mobile radio communications operation is on the increase. This is due to several reasons. For one thing, we are a “mobile society.” As a nation, we are constantly on the go and by adapting our radio hobby to our lifestyle we can further enjoy the hobby. Also, those of us who are involved in emergency communications (EMCOMM)—either by our association with Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), or REACT, or as a member of a local, county, or state Emergency Management Agency (EMA), fire/EMS volunteer, etc.—need to be able to communicate quickly from almost any place we might find ourselves. Let’s not forget those individuals who want to keep abreast of developments in their communities. In today’s unsettled world, vigilance, preparedness, and personal safety are primary concerns. Why go to all the trouble to build a custom mobile COMSTA? Why not rely on a cell phone? Over the last several months I have painted a dismal picture of the vulnerability of the cellular telephone infrastructure and, unfortunately, it has not improved. Articles regarding constant interference and reliability problems plaguing 800-MHz trunked Public Safety communications systems across the country find their way into my e-mail inbox all the time. To rely upon the cellular infrastructure is asking to be without critical communications in a time of crisis. |
 Here’s the Midland 75-822 CB walkie-talkie. It’s chock full of bells and whistles, including NOAA weather receive and instant Channel 9 and 19 access. |