HAM RADIO - ID-5100A + FT-857D + ATAS-120A

[@m0IrbkF8bHxs]

I own a mkVI GTI and am a HAM as well. I first came across your work on your stealthtdi website when I was looking to the internet for inspiration on how to install my mobile radio. The work you put into your vehicles, in general and especially with regard to your radios, is very impressive and definitely inspiring. Thank you for creating this content and sharing your hard work with the rest of us.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for taking the time to express that. Take Care!

[@NoZenith]

What antenna are you using?

[@m0IrbkF8bHxs]

@@NoZenith I have a Comet SS-460SB that is mounted nearly all the time. I also have a Nagoya TB-320A that I put on if I'm not going to be pulling into my garage.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Excellent video. You've earned two subscribers (my personal and business account). I love your meticulous install and thorough explanation of your mobile setup. I came across your channel will researching the ATAS-120A. I'm going through my first HF mobile install on my motorhome. FYI: digital is great. I've been obsessed with Winlink and APRS for the past few months. They're great capabilities to add. 73 de KT1RUN

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the sub! I, too, am considering an APRS option. But I don't want any more antennas on the roof. I also don't want to tie-up my 5100A with APRS. I'm considering options. If I want my position out there, I sometimes just run APRSDroid and report as an Internet station. Of course, that might not show on the displays of those who are only plotting RF contacts or those they "heard." I'm getting closer to a solution for digital on HF. I found a RigBlaster Plug-n-Play that looks like it will work well with my old FT-857D. Yes, I can homebrew something for less, but I want the radio to be easily reconfigured without having to leave the drivers seat to switch between digital and voice. The RigBlaster is promising. I'll share more someday. I'm not sure if you saw the link for my Scorpion HF antenna. Check that one... you may get a kick out of seeing that huge thing on my tiny car. And wait until you see the new caphap! I'll share that one soon. Take Care!

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@StealthGTI I appreciate the response. I would be curious to see how your RigBlaster setup/experiment goes. I am currently running digital for packet (APRS) and HF (Winlink and JS8Call) using the FT-857D, a Raspberry Pi and some software that I'm writing for the community called EmComm Tools. At it's core, it provides a simple interface on your phone/table for switching between digital modes (big, fat toggle switches) and simplifies various message passing protocols for field expedient communications. I've done a few videos on this already. Your mobile setup has me thinking about taking my project and potentially adjusting the UI a bit for streamlined mobile use, but not quite as UI heavy as APRSDroid. I rely heavily on APRS for sending text messages to my wife while in the backcountry when there is no cell/internet. 73

[@RFMaster6]

I have those radios too. Going mobile with both as well. I don't have the ATAS-120A though, using a stainless steel whip, a 40m hamstick, a coax switch, and a Diamond dual band antenna. I'm seriously considering the ATAS-120A, but am concerned about it's durability for the cost.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting, Sean! I've made sweeping changes to my setup since sharing this video. See my latest setup in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rV62e2OabqaIbqc. Take Care!

[@357Shakey]

I just discovered your channel. Nice!

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting!

[@rightpedaldown9346]

Man, That is completely bad ass! So much capability all nice and slick :p. defiant earned a sub.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! See my "KE4WMF" playlist or search #ke4wmf to see more ham videos. I added a monster Scorpion HF antenna after making this video. Plus, I have some new things that I haven't shared yet. Thanks for the sub!

[@solrosenberg9924]

Capability to do exactly what? Serious. Why ?

[@NoZenith]

Never really thought about ham as being more than recreational this point but this is a fresh Viewpoint :-) if I can get some more freedom in my life in the near future I want to go camping more and Northern Michigan is notorious for spotty cell signal. I think I'll look into ham over CB because I love your implied freedom. Thanks.

[@StealthGTI]

Ham is way better than CB. Once you use ham radio, comparing it to CB, you'll never go back. I'd rather use my GMRS radio than CB. HAHA!

[@NoZenith]

@@StealthGTI now I have to Google GMRS. I'm learning so much 😄 I know you said you can do a lot with your little whip antenna but prefer the bigger one. If I was going to use this primarily as an alternate form of communication and maybe a little recreationally like you do while you're driving long trips, would I get enough signal out in rural areas with the small antenna or would I really need to invest in the big antenna if I wanted it to reach out in case I needed to communicate with someone and had no cell signal?

[@StealthGTI]

@@NoZenith - GMRS, while cheaper, is not as well suited for emergency communications. It's great if you're traveling with family or friends (one license per family; licenses are easy for friends to get, too). But GMRS lacks the infrastructure of ham radio, not to mention that hams typically have processes established for handling emergencies. I don't think many sit around listening for mayday calls on GMRS. But they sure do on the ham bands. Simply studying for your license exams will expose you to elements that'll make you a better operator and know a few things about handling emergencies. As for the antennas, my little antenna is good for about 90% of my needs. The 1/2-wave (medium) is a great all-round antenna and extends range. The big antenna is largely unnecessary and good for that final 1% of range, if that makes sense. I'd take it on a camping trip, just in case. But it's overkill in most other settings.

[@NoZenith]

@@StealthGTI thanks, I saw that thing about one license per family but what about friends that might be sharing a vehicle on a road trip? Is that a gray area? I didn't find any clarification on the website I was looking at other than mentioning family (probably trying to find what's not there haha). I got into looking up CB VHF UHF and all that stuff and it does kind of seem like ham is the most versatile

[@litehousekid1]

Very cool setup! I’m looking to purchase a GTI soon and found your videos very informative. I’m also an amateur, amateur HAM (KC2OUL).

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting! 73!

[@DJBlackhawk]

Impressive install, so many brilliant ideas thanks for sharing! MK7 GTI here with FT-857 ATAS-120 and FTM-300. I may have to tweak my install. 73 DE KK4MND

[@StealthGTI]

Sounds great! Do you have two antennas on your car? Or have you duplexed the two radios to one antenna? THanks for visiting.

[@DJBlackhawk]

StealthGTI at first two different antennas ATAS on Tri-Mag mount and another dual band mag mount. I had a duplexer for the FT-857 to ATAS so I could use ATAS for HF,UHF,VHF and other dual band for FTM-300. Although since I have Autobauhn GTI moon sunroof antenna proximity would interfere with each other in line not to mention moon roof make contact if open. I had to move them further to rear and offset them. Now I may just go with dual hatch mounts like I have on Xterra. I use XM otherwise I would go your route.

[@StealthGTI]

@@DJBlackhawk - Very nice! I think those of us who put ham radio in and on a GTI are a rare breed. We may be nuts! ;-)

[@DJBlackhawk]

StealthGTI haha yes, very true! I always get stares and people say my GTI looks like an RC car with antenna on roof. Haha Although you my friend have taken it to the next level with that scorpion! Wow! Ham Sexy now! Haha 73 DE KK4MND

[@peterkunka2694]

Enjoyed this video and congrats on a very clean install. I just purchased a new Jeep Wrangler and will be installing my 5100A into it soon. For an external speaker, I am going to use the WIZ audio interrupter from audiointerrupt.com, which will designate the drivers side top dash speaker as an external HAM speaker when the radio broadcasts. With no HAM traffic all of the interior speakers play music from the stereo, but, when there is HAM traffic, only this one speaker is interrupted to broadcast the transmission. It's completely independent in operation of the factory stereo with volume adjustments, and the company even replied in email that it will function with the factory stereo turned off. For $39 it may be a very good option to listen to and also add stealth to the interior. I'll know soon (couple of weeks). I may also get into D-Star more by using the Raspberry Pi and a DVMega setup like yours. I already have a Verizon JetPack for my wife to use her iPad while we drive, so it should be an easy addition to go digital more often and will extend my range outside of using the repeater here in Phoenix (W7MOT on the White Tank mountains). Glad I found this video and we could exchange some ideas. 73. Pete - KI7LIL

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing the link, Peter! I'd be cautious with that Wiz Audio Interrupter. The Mk7's MIB2 speakers are monitored by a computer module. Placing something else in the circuit may or may not cause unwanted side effects. I'm not saying not to do it, but consider experimenting with a wiring scheme that is easily reversed. I like the looks of the TDS-15. I could use one to open my amp's "turn-on" lead to avoid any interference on the amp during transmit. I've also considered just installing a small switch that would allow me to remotely deactivate the amp. It would be much cheaper. ;-)

[@peterkunka2694]

@@StealthGTI Thanks for the info! When I emailed the company I included the year/make/model of my Jeep along with the make/model of the 5100a going into it and the Wiz was recommended for my application. I know... sales, sales, sales. I'll remember this, though, when my stereo guy is ready to do the install (he's back from Sturgis and still very busy) and if any issues come up, I'll go to Plan-B and use my Cobra HG S500 external speaker instead.

[@StealthGTI]

@@peterkunka2694 - I overlooked the part about your install being in a Jeep. Therefore, you may not have the same challenge as my VW. Then again, more and more manufacturers are putting sophisticated stereos in their cars. So, it may be prudent to keep it in mind. Have fun!

[@peterkunka2694]

@@StealthGTI Yessir, and thank you for the pro tip to be aware of it. I wouldn't have known otherwise. 73. KI7LIL

[@vironpayne3405]

Very nice, very nice installs! Currently, I am not running an HF antenna with my FT-857d on my 2006 Chryster 300 as the ignition packs are starting to get noisy and I am thinking of trading cars. I did have a 102" SS whip on top of a homemade loading coil fed with a SGC matching unit. It worked great on 80m-10m. The antenna system mounted on a two bike post type rack that was mounted into a trailer hitch receiver. The VHF/UHF antenna is an NMO mount on the trunk deck that works well. If I did it again I would drill and tap threaded holes in the trailer hitch receiver. This would facilitate tightening down the trailer hitch in the receive so it can't move and make noise when going over bumps. The control head fits in front of the cubby hole below the stock AM/FM radio. The cubby hole holds excess cable to the control head so a I can move it when parked and portable. The radio is mounted beneath the rear dash with a Signalink USB. Over the years it has proven to be too heavy for the rear dash. For HF I keep a 50ft peice of RG-8X attached to the radio stowed in the trunk with an 80m-10m EFHW antenna. In a small diddy bag I have a slingshot, construction string, and a rubber mallet. The mallet is for driving in two 1/4in x 5ft SS grounding stakes. In Florida there is no shortage of trees for the EFHW antenna. As I live in a condo with all the RFI rich HVAC units just outside my apartment. All my HF work is portable, mostly QRP in a park. This setup allows low power from the car with very good results. On Winter Field Day 2020 I worked Australia from Merritt Island, FL. My initial contact was w/20W, but I ended up turning up to 100W. The antenna was a 20m resonant dipole hung vertically from a pinetree. My typical commute is 15min so I may catch a QSO on a local repeater. HF would be too distracting in local commuter traffic.

[@StealthGTI]

I appreciate you sharing your setup. I live in a very noisy environment; so, I appreciate being able to drive away to operate in quiet settings. Thanks for visiting.

[@jarickc]

I was watching for tips on how to install and route the cables in the GTI. Was surprised when you were selected to a repeater right down the road from me. maybe we will talk some time.

[@StealthGTI]

Very nice! To be honest, I haven't found a home repeater just yet. So, I doubt you'll trip over me on the air. I listen more than transmit. ;-) Feel free to contact me via my website or "@arrl.net" and we can arrange a QSO: stealthgti.com/contact/. Thanks for visiting.

[@MrAlphacallsign]

@@StealthGTI what year is your GTI ? ow many miles ? any problem with the GTI ?

[@ArtifexBarbarus]

I'm on my 4th Golf as well - A 1978 Rabbit in High School, a TDI, an R, and now an eGolf, but I'm a new HAM. I've been thinking about a mobile setup, but wondering if a HAM is going to perform well in an EV. I've heard of Tesla folks really struggling with various forms of interference and the eGolf has a notoriously finicky 12v system because they hacked it together from the pre-ID.3 VW parts bin... Have you heard of any eGolf HAM success stories?

[@StealthGTI]

I'm not aware of any eGolfs with amateur equipment. That's not to say they're aren't out there; they're just not well-known. If I was to build an eGolf and was aware of its finicky 12V system, I'd probably build a separate lithium setup for the amateur equipment and keep the systems separated. I have a lithium system in my car that's isolated and charged by a DC-DC converter. I think it could work very well in an eGolf. The difference is my lithium charges when the car is running and I'd have to figure a way to charge an eGolf only when the home charger is connected. See kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXKYe4qio9Cohbs for my lithium battery; the DC-DC charger is linked in that video. Also, I'm planning to release an update to my ham setup this Thursday, maybe later if the weather does not cooperate. Regardless, something new is coming since I've made A LOT of changes since producing this video. Good Luck!

[@ArtifexBarbarus]

@@StealthGTI Looking forward to seeing the new setup, as I've already looked to your "square hole sharkfin repurposing" post on your web site for inspiration. I'm leaning towards a quick-disconnecting Pelican case-based self-contained installation with solar and 12v charging that'd allow for easy removal. The eGolf can have a full EV battery charge yet still get helplessly stranded by the roadside if the 12v battery gets run down - It's just not worth messing with that system on this car! :-)

[@StealthGTI]

@@ArtifexBarbarus -Thanks! Change of plans, though: Although I've created a fairly good "fly-thru" video sequence of the entire setup (interior and exterior) to support a new "overall" video, I think my 12V system video needs updating before I can tie it all together with the overall ham station. So, I'm going to try to shoot a new 12V video before the rain arrives tomorrow so that I can publish it this Thursday. I think the replacement for this video will go up on the 28th. Take Care!

[@ArtifexBarbarus]

@@StealthGTI Enjoyed the new video! I got my ID-5100 and Comet 1m dual-band SBB5 test-installed this weekend, and it seems to be working great with my local repeaters. I went straight to the battery with the stock power cable, and mounted the Comet on a Commet lip mount to the hood (sub-optimal placement, but it clears my garage door this way) but haven't tested the SWR. Sound is crystal clear on both bands though. Thanks for your inspiration!

[@alvarogaitan2529]

thanks for this creating and sharing your terrific job very impressive thanks very much you number one you numero uno from kb2uew

[@StealthGTI]

Wow, thanks. I already replied to your other comment. So, not much to add. Take Care!

[@tallmike6598]

Nice work on the install ! 73 N2MWL

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks!

[@georgel3657]

Very neat and methodical work, what do you use the HAM for?

[@StealthGTI]

I'm mostly a hobbyist, but I like to have the capability to do more, if required. I don't consider myself to be a "prepper," but I guess this is a step in that direction. Now that I no longer have a daily commute, I find myself having more time to dabble in ham projects. In fact, I mounted my Scorpion antenna yesterday and participated in three HF nets. Thanks for visiting.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

waoohh terrific terrific job congratulations from kb2uew

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks!

[@illiteratebeef]

Very cool. What speakers are you using? I found some cheap amazon square speaker that I can tie neatly under my headrest, but yours looks like a much bigger cone that might provide better audio.

[@StealthGTI]

I forgot to add that to the video description. I'll take care of that now. They're by "Road Pro" and have 2.75" drivers. They're not as full-sounding as 4" speakers, but they do well. Here's a link: amzn.to/2UkwyXD. Thanks for visiting.

[@W5MHG]

I am going to put my new Atas on my Rav4. I was wondering about putting the antenna on the roof using a Kenwood K400s. My question for you is, does your Atas catch a lot of wind when driving? Thank you in advance, W5MHG,73

[@StealthGTI]

The ATAS does catch wind, but it's held up fine. Also note that the owner's manual says to NOT tune while the vehicle is in motion. Apparently, the extra movement or wind resistance puts additional strain on the antenna motor. BTW, see my "Antenna Farm" video for a look at its new location. My setup has grown a lot since this video was created. Thanks for visiting!

[@lmaoroflcopter]

Why do I have a mobile rig? Because I like sitting in comfort and shelter while using my radio in interesting places without having to set up a tent :)

[@StealthGTI]

HAHA! Very true! I have one POTA video published so far. As more come, I will share the pros and cons of using a mobile station for POTA. "Stealth Operation" and relative comfort, especially on rainy days, top the list of pros. Thanks for visiting!

[@alvarogaitan2529]

good job thanks 73 from kb2uew

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! Wait 'til you see the next upgrade. I'm working on mounting a Scorpion Antenna. It's a beast! Thanks for visiting.

[@rofocowboy84-l9s]

What mounts are those that allow you to attach both heads magnetically to the AMPS hole pattern mount?

[@StealthGTI]

I had to look-up what an "AMPS hole pattern" is. I had not heard of it before. And here I thought it was just a cool coincidence that the holes in my plate matched the holes in the ProClip mount. HAHA! My Icom ID-5100A came with a mounting plate and magnets. I figured it was a great way to mount the Yaesu control head, too. The plate is available separately from Icom, MBA2 Display Mounting Plate - amzn.to/2JkFsza. It's expensive for what it is. BUT, I bought several anyway because it's a very clean way to mount a radio head. I use them for my tablet, too. Thanks for visiting.

[@rofocowboy84-l9s]

@@StealthGTI Haha, sorry, I'm the type of person that when I don't recognize something I waste a whole bunch of time learning about it and then just assume everyone else knows about it too. I had just learned about the AMPS pattern a few days before when researching car mounts. So how did you get the backer onto the Yaesu, just epoxy? Thanks.

[@StealthGTI]

@@rofocowboy84-l9s - I use Household GOOP for all of my project gluing needs. It's marketed as Plumbers GOOP in some circles and and Automotive GOOP at car parts places, but it's all the same stuff. It holds up well to heat and cold changes, flexes just a tiny bit (unlike hard epoxies that can break instead of flex), and it peels away without damaging the interior bits when it's time to remove.

[@rofocowboy84-l9s]

@@StealthGTI Awesome, thanks!

[@vironpayne3405]

Here's how I am currently rolling with my FT-857d. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2Kme5l3hpZomtU

[@StealthGTI]

Nice work! Not sure if I've seen this before. A few old comments suddenly appeared today. Check out my recent lithium battery install if you're interested. I've also added a Scorpion mobile HF antenna since publishing this video, too. Thanks for visiting!

[@vironpayne3405]

@@StealthGTI Scorpion, Wow! They can make trucks look small.

[@engineereuler1762]

your foreign scooter will fail first. get a real car...AMERICAN MADE

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@solrosenberg9924]

Now he can talk to other Dorks about their radio systems while they drive and think about radios 73

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for capitalizing the D in Dorks. It promotes the word to a proper name. ;-) Thanks for visiting.