Description: How to Build and operate a portable low power Amateur Radio Station including Rigs, Antennas, Batteries, Solar Power, Computers, and ancillaries
portable (1019) amateur radio (987) cw (171) low power (27) digital modes (6) introduction to g4a qrp (1) reliable communications (1) off grid powered (1) 10 watts (1) headless raspberry pi (1)
I'm a Technologist — a Scientist and an Engineer if you like — with my interest firmly rooted in Electronics and Radio Frequency Hardware. During my previous Corporate Life, I've led teams who won the 'Queens Award for Technological Achievement' — twice. My Batchelor degree is a BSc in Electronics Engineering. After my degree I worked towards and was awarded 'Chartered Engineer' (C.Eng.) In the late 80's I was very fortunate to be chosen by my employer to study for an Executive MBA where my dissertation was
Low Power portable radio operation has much to commend it. If the rig is only providing 10 watts or less, it it likely to be significantly lighter weight that one producing 100 watts. Power consumption requirements will be equally reduced — batteries will be lighter weight (and less expensive) Solar panels will be smaller (and less expensive) All in all: Lower Power = Greater portable convenience. However, low power plus a poorly designed or badly matched antenna will be a frustrating experience!
So lets consider what you might need for a portable low-cost radio setup? Firstly, decide on the mode of operation, then the frequency band. Then consider the site where you intend to operate