gregmrfs wrote: > Hi! > > I want to build my first repeater using 2 hand held radios mounted in > a pelican case with a gel cell for power. > > I have no idea where to start or what is required to build the > repeater. Can anyone give me some ideas on connecting the radios? So > far I think I have to get 2 radios, case, battery. Do I need 2 > antennas or should I use a duplexer. I want this setup to be as basic > as possible. > > Thanks in advance > > Greg
First, you don't mention what band, but I would NOT try to do this on the 2M ham band, as the in/out spacing is too close. UHF is an excellent choice, as there is more likely to be an open pair, the in/out spacing is much better, small duplexers are practical, and the whole deal will be cheaper. I would use commercial grade radios, not made-for-ham. A pair of Motorola HT-90/440's work very well, but are crystal controlled. If you need programmable, P100/HT50, P200/HT600's are good choices, as they still have decent front ends. The issue with a frequency agile portable repeater will be the duplexer. Re-tuning in the field is not an option. You'll have to use separate antennas, which is another selling point for UHF, as the separation will be much less, 10-15' of vertical will probably work, especially at low power levels. -- Jim Barbour WD8CHL
