Commercial HF Manpack? ARMOLOQ TPA-817 B - Part II - Digital

[@neubert500]

My son and I both learned a LOT from our "failed" training this weekend, so I guess we did not "Fail" we just did not meet our stated objective YET! Keep going, love your videos.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It’s never fun to fail, but you’ll learn really quickly. Take care!

[@scottchapman4025]

Congrats on the digital connection! Not a 'dry' video at all - personally I was THRILLED to see incoming messages on your setup. You rightfully mentioned how nice it was to have a short setup time. But as I've experimented with a portable data-radio bag, I got a reminder that it was equally important to have a short take-down time. While testing things out, the sky turned black & it was clear that it was going to dump a substantial amount of rain in 5 minutes or less. No problem! I powered down the gear, unplugged the antenna, coiled the wire up real quick, and made it into the house with time to spare. So congrats on your progress and you're exactly right to put a priority on easy setup & take-down. -Scott, K4KDR

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Scott. I appreciate that. This video seemed to be more difficult to film than normal with plenty of technical issues. It was strange mixing different videos together. At any rate, I appreciate your continued channel support. 73

[@bobki5nua132]

Keep going Gaston, the content is still enjoyable. Sometimes it's in the journey that we find happiness/success, that doesn't mean it always works out the way we planned. Learn, document, adapt and overcome. Test with various different antennas if you have them. I had a quick setup the other week, I only had a vertical on 20M to try to connect to Winlink ... I knew a close gateway wasn't going work, most times 40/80M are the preferred bands to work and with NVIS, it wasn't an option for me at that time. So I started at about 1KM then worked to 1562 through 1652 and those were the magic range of distances on 20M with that antenna configuration and validated at both 5W and 10W. I documented conditions, time of day and saved those gateways if I need them at some point in the future. Funny that the gateway you connected to is one of the gateways I had success with "going long".

[@TheTechPrepper]

You nailed it on the head, Bob. The journey is the fun part. Honestly, if I started with this current setup, I would not have appreciated it. It has been fun experimenting with different modes of operation, different antennas and different load out strategies. There’s so much more to experience, learn and share. Thank you for your support! This video was challenging to film and edit, so I appreciate sticking with the video. So much footage lost on this adventure.

[@TangoOscarMikeN3WS]

If that manpack was around when I had my 817 I would have bought it. Nothing else does what Winlink can do, at least not that I know of. That being said it can be a real pain sometimes. Just finding a free node can take some time. Good job.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Tom. While a IC-705, G90 or KX2 would be nice, I figured why not make the most out of the FT-818 for a few years and just build the kit around the gear I have now. I didn’t realize you had an 817. I assumed you’ve always had the KX2. Thanks for shooting me the email.

[@TangoOscarMikeN3WS]

@@TheTechPrepper No knock on the 817. I loved that radio and still wish I had it at times, but at the time I couldn't justify keeping both. I still have the FT-857.

[@zodar1400]

I like what you are doing in these videos and subscribed. Looking forward to seeing more of these type of videos in the future. Thanks for all the effort you put into it.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm glad you're enjoying the effort. Now that it's cool again, I'll be doing more portable operations in the backcountry with new gear and always a new experiment. Stay tuned!

[@Scout75PortableRadio]

Your kit is really coming together. I like the idea of using a soft side, yet rugged SLR camera bag. I too am a fan of having things modular in nature, so they can be more adaptable / expandable. I also really need to get off my butt and learn more about digital modes like Winlink. Low power, passive communications skills is something that will benefit me.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. The camera bag occurred to me after many hours of trying to find a bag with the right dimensions for the pack frame. I also picked up a binocular case that works ok if you’re just running voice and don’t need the extra space for power distribution and digital. Get off your butt, man! ;-)

[@Scout75PortableRadio]

@@TheTechPrepper just a thought. Maybe a solution to your SWR issue might be a NVIS antenna cut to be resonate on the digital portion of the band? Would add slightly to pack weight, but may be worthwhile having separate antennas resonate on digital and SSB.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@Scout75PortableRadio That’s a great idea. For 80m I’m adding a manual link so that I can cover the digital and voice portions of the band. For 40m it’s not a huge problem. I was considering bringing the NanoVNA for some quick trimming if needed. I had another ham tell me that changes from one deployment to another (e.g., height, ground, location) can throw it off. At the moment, I have a couple of extra feet of wire on each end folded on its self, so I can make adjustments. I still need to investigate why the SWR was so high. Thanks!

[@daviddurflinger3104]

What a cool channel, I also live in Arizona, spent time in the army, are a licensed ham, are into preparing, and used to run ultra marathon, number of years ago, I have a couple of portable rigs and look forward to seeing your videos.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers to another a local! Glad you the channel. Thanks for your service.

[@dongibbskk4qam]

Great video demonstration on Winlink and showing that it isn't always easy to do. Thanks for the shoutout.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the email, Don. I still need to reply back!

[@tommycheshire5508]

I finally looked your racks up and understand what is included. What I don’t understand is where you get the bag like cases where the equipment goes. Sorry to be so dense. Without the packs, it would seem to be a lot to hump through the woods as well as awkward. Please forgive my ignorance for not understanding.

[@TheTechPrepper]

In my opinion, you need the right bag to get the intended use out of the pack frame. There are different bags options depending on the radio. The PRC/117 pouch works well with the FT-857 and FT-891. The Helikon Tex E&E pouch works great with the FTM-6000R, but requires a modification when used with FT-817. The FT-817 also works well with the original camera bag I used. Here's a video that shows how this are connected for the 857. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3mUoGd-lqullZo

[@tjs2909]

Nice video! I’ve been thinking about getting into the raspberry pi thing. And it over an iPhone would be a good fit for me. Sometime in the future would you do a detailed video on your pi setup; the hardware, configurations and so on? Or maybe point us to that info?

[@TheTechPrepper]

The Raspberry Pi is a great cost effective and power effective computer for ham radio (if you're not afraid of a learning curve in dealing with Linux). I may do a video in the future covering my specific setup, but in general, you would be best served by looking at the work that Jason KM4ACK is doing. He's made getting started with a Pi easy with his "Build a Pi" script. I would start with this video first: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omWwaomMpqyrpcU

[@malenve6vid]

Great video Gaston. Keep on learning and being more effective with portable digital. But remember it never happened unless there is a video. ;)

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Malen. I’m going to try my luck with Winlink over 2m packet next week with this setup while I activate another peak. I’ll be climbing a peak that is close to a digipeater. There will be a video. 73

[@gamingforlive2150]

I really like the idea of your Manpacks, and i actually wanted to do one for myself for quiet a while now but the only issue that ive been having is the price of lithium batterys but i hope that tha will soon be less of an issue for me when i start working after im done with school

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you enjoy the packs. The LiFePO4 batteries are coming down in price. I am partial to Bioenno and have had good luck with the 4.5Ah model, but I ordered a couple of the 6Ah models to test. If you have the right tools, you may be able to make a comparable battery pack yourself using 18650 cells. Jason, KM4ACK, looked at the Miady LiFePO4 batteries, but I can't seem to find them for a good price on Amazon anymore.

[@gamingforlive2150]

@@TheTechPrepper Yeah thats true, but the Radio i plan on doing the manpack with is the Zastone d9000 a nice radio (for me) but the seller claims an usage of 12A max @ 50w, and im talking upto an 30% duty cycle, which still makes me wonder about what the apropiate battery size is since i would plan on using it for emmcom and i still gotta figure the aprs port aus, which nobody did to this point to use digi modes so still a lot of work

[@BenjaminPHaider]

I love the modularity of your kit. I am trying to make my kits more modular to serve different operating goals. Where do you get the call sign patch? Those patches look great-would love to get some for my packs!

[@TheTechPrepper]

The modular kit is nice. Prior to this I was carrying three 3-liter dry bags for the radio, power, and antenna system. I ordered the patches from Tactical Gear Junkie. I didn’t do much research for the custom patch, so there may be better options out there, but I’m happy with them. Good look with your kit.

[@daviddurflinger3104]

You need a ldg portable tuner, I also have a 818 they are awesome

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have the Z817 but never use it as I prefer resonant antennas. I also have a manual QRP tuner if needed. Take care.

[@daviddurflinger3104]

@@TheTechPrepper thanks buddy, ya the 818 is just a newer radio, and resonate antennas are a good idea, just getting started with portable operations and you have great ideas, with my antennas I was seeking multi band si I had to come up with a solution my g90 has a tuner built in but my 818, I needed a little help, thanks for the comment, and will watch the rest of your videos, in the army I was in radar, in intelligence, wish I had signed up for radio, but hindsight is 20-20, 73s

[@DominicMazoch]

A telescopic 2m half wave would be good in that situation. No need of ground plane

[@9999plato]

Some people are douchebags. Dont sweat them. You cant be everything to everybody. I appreciate the information and concepts.

[@thorashebear7604]

Newb here. So if some are concerned about the heat, like for uses beyond the ~15 min or so you mentioned is your usual duration, i assume just removing it from the bag is fine enough to keep it cool or am i missing something?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome. I operate in the desert in temperatures in excess to 110F during the summer and never had an issue. I do not rag chew, so my operating time is usually less than an hour. In the summer months, I deploy a lean-to shelter for myself in the radio. My operating style is to strive for targeted windows, so anything over an hour operating is outside of my experience.

[@hechtkalle3680]

Great Video. Thx for your Work. 73 From Germany DO1PDK

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers from the US. This system has evolved in the last two years, so you may enjoy this one... kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6GwfmOpeLp5kK8

[@patm5165]

What iPhone app are you using? Nice vid, thanks for sharing!

[@TheTechPrepper]

If I was self spotting in this video, then it's the Ulefone Armor X7. I did a dunk test video with that phone in the pool. It's great price and IP67 rated. I'm using it now to evaluate ATAK.

[@fbswampfox]

We’re in Arizona so does it have a flamethrower attachment for tarantulas when you’re sitting down in the desert? 😂

[@seancook4317]

has anyone ever tried to 3d print a cage for one of thse it would be less durable than steel, but i think you could use exotic FDM filliment like carbon fiber, or petg, or even nylon, would be plenty durable imo, unless you are a clumsy oaf and drop your radio all over the ground all the time, and then no frame is going to help those peoples, but it would be substantially lighter i think, and you could still drop it and toss it in a tuck and it'll be fine (in the desert prolly not a great idea, some filliment has higher heat resistance though, so maybe in deserts too.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

Another terrific job 73 from kb2uew

[@TheTechPrepper]

It looks like you're going through the series based on the comments. This packs are still evolving. Welcome to the channel!

[@rogersmith4926]

What's the material of the cage, aluminum or steel?

[@TheTechPrepper]

5052 aluminum

[@maxprepper9126]

How did you buy it from the website? I couldn’t find a shopping cart. Thanks KF4JBZ

[@TheTechPrepper]

You need to go to the "Contact Us" section of the site. It's a small veteran-owned business and they are not terribly web savvy. The owner responds typically the same day. Sales are done over email. Good luck.

[@glennarrant3743]

The man-pack that is the best one, is the one that fits YOUR needs. Don't let he sad HAMS get you down. N6JAI

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're right about that. Everyone's needs are different. Pick what works for you and for your particular budget. 73 de KT1RUN

[@patm5165]

Is that the stock 818 rubber duck?

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's not. I made a mistake, that's just a monoband whip for 2m from Radiall.

[@DominicMazoch]

Being that low, was 40 less noisy?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, 40m is typically quieter.

[@kazcat8096]

Hi i have the frame for my ft818 i keep mine in a bug out 12 rucksack i am in the uk nice video Chris G0WFH

[@DominicMazoch]

Ardop is iffy. VARA HF. NICE.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It is. I can't stand Windows, so I am waiting for VARA on Linux/x86 to stabilize.

[@larryjanson4011]

a hf commercial saying “do it for less” while in the ad the guy is driving a $100,000.USD ford.

[@chuckchamplin6627]

The Tech Prepper ,is your HAZARD 4 Objective Small SLR wedge bag??????????

[@TheTechPrepper]

Hazard 4 "Objective" Small SLR Camera Pack (Color: Coyote). My original invoice indicates 3.6L capacity.

[@hamradiotube]

#jerrynet for the win as always!!! Great video and great setup. Love the little pack you have for the 818 too. It doesn’t take much to make the magic happen.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, #JerryNet came through for the win. That little pack was a pain to find. The trick is finding a pack for the TPA-891B that just arrived for the Yaesu FT-891. That thing is huge...it looks like a small backpack is needed. Take it easy, Mike.

[@chuckdigby5511]

Hi it's Chuck KB0TOT. Nice job! I am getting ready for field day. Give me an update on how you are being accepted. 73's

[@TheTechPrepper]

Everything is going well. I've been folded into our county's emergency communications group and have been supporting a number events. We've entered our warm season, so there are no events until the fall. Take care and 73 de KT1RUN

[@DaveG271]

Have you a Facebook page?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I don’t have a Facebook page for the channel, but I recently joined the Yaesu FT-817 / FT-818 group on FB from my personal account. I do have official Instagram and Twitter accounts which I posted to frequently. instagram.com/thetechprepper/ and twitter.com/thetechprepper1

[@DaveG271]

@@TheTechPrepper follow you on both and love them pages, and think about a Facebook page. At the moment only follow the TX 500 page and the QO-100 page

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@DaveG271 Thanks for all the support, Dave. This is still a fun little hobby. I am still a working schmuck, so I don't think I have time at the moment for taking on another social media platform. It's not off the table, but right now it's a no-go. Take care!