Offgrid Communication for Dummies

[@MrWizard65]

The barrier to entry for the amateur radio community is one of the largest I've ever seen. Further, many in the community use this as a weapon or gate keeping method to those seeking to enter the community or to just skim the surface. I got my HAM license but taking the hobby further is literally a full time job. I applaud you for trying to encapsulate some of this information into a more "plug and play" method.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm with you. It's very intimidating to enter the hobby as an outsider. At least that was my personal experience. The digital side is fascinating, but requires a motivated individual that's technically inclined.

[@rdsmith334]

Nailed it. Each and every point. Make the really cool stuff easy and accessible for most folks, and get them hooked. From there, the ones that want to, can go on deep technical dives.

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

I have met those gatekeepers. I have had conversations with a couple. It's a good thing I just do my thing and try to find people that are willing to work with people and not against them. If you need help, there are many here that are willing to help, or point you in the right direction. I basically have 3 elmers, 2 I met through the congregation my wife and I attend and one through amrron.

[@CIATFBI]

You arent wrong. And it's a shame there are so many egos that feel the need to act that way. I wish it weren't so. They are the reason their hobby has declined as much as it has. But we aren't all that way. In my experience the younger generation is doing good work making things approachable and interesting to newcomers. I applaud the efforts of The Tech Prepper and others. 73. AC6DT.

[@vironpayne3405]

I understand the accusations of self appointed gatekeepers to the hobby, but there are plenty of good Elmers out there and most are accessible through a club structure. Gatekeeping by licensing and examination should be appreciated as preserving the quality of communications and propelling the hobby forward technically. Consider how CB radio has devolved into a space that is not necessarily family friendly or beneficial to the community. There are a few clannish potty mouthed individuals in amateur radio mostly on 80m at night, but they are easily avoidable and they do run afoul of the FCC from time to time through monitoring and reporting of other amateur radio operators. License examinations also ensure that amateur radio operators are not merely appliance operators, but they have some basic knowledge that can built upon through self education, mentoring, and experimentation leading to a reasonably competent Ecom communicator. The problem with too many preppers is they buy the equipment, often without getting a license, and they never join a group that practices the hobby that is most often a local amateur radio club. The failure to enjoy the practice of the hobby will lead to many preppers being unable to communicate in an Ecom or SHTF situation. Most larger communities have multiple radio clubs that are loosely based upon contesting, dx, public service, and socializing around the hobby. That later tends to be a good example of a dying club that may still have amazing human assets as mentors. Amateur radio had a lot of good steam pushing it when long distance telephone calls often cost as much as a cup of coffee or more per minute! Prior to the late 1970s it was common to have long distance charges between cities within the same county. Amatuers built repeater systems with tie-in or patching into the local phone system, much reminiscent to cellphone technology. The componets to build ones own transmitters and receivers could be purchased locally and assembled by a person with modest soldering skills. Solid state electronics ended the simplicity and ease of "rolling your own" and the doing away with exorborant long distance charges with cellphone made the hobby less attractive to many. However, the advent of direct digital sampling radios and the marrying of computers to modern radios has breathed new life into the hobby through digital communications and co-opting simple computers into to transmitters and receivers largely through plug and play components and software. Modes like FT8 originally designed for Earth-Moon-Earth communication have had new life breathed into them with modes like JS8 and JS8Call. Amateurs pioneered email via radio only when necessary via Winlink, a system so valuable that it has been adopted by the military. I don't believe amateur radio is dying or is dead. It has morphed into a closet hobby facilitated by the Internet that has done away with one-on-one mentoring. There is no limit as to what can be learned from a glowing talking screen which is why there is more and more effort to commercialize and regulate the Internet. However, in an Ecom or SHTF situation human assets are you most valuable assets. People with skills and real tangible resources overcome emergencies as communities. Too many preppers are not building local communities. Clubs provide a way to build communities and highlight the hobby to the local community in a positive light. Find a radio club. Join a radio club. Learn. Enjoy the hobby. Expand the club to service the community.

[@ke8mattj]

Alienating? Nah, you do you. You went and standardized everything for your group and it works. Keep up the excellent work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good point! Honestly, keeping this type of narrow focus is only way to get this project done. It's hard enough finding time to keep the project alive while pumping out one video per week and keeping up with life. The KZbin Overlords require one video per week before they banish you to obscurity.

[@benwilliams36]

This is an amazing project and so very needed (for such a time as this.) If there was a goal oriented “zero entry“ into digital comms for emergencies, it would also be easier to get friends to get to general. Let the community know how we can help!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Morning, Ben. You are very welcome. I agree. At the end this end of the day this is my goal for people that want to reliable comms without a ton of headache. 1. Get your Tech and General licenses. 2. Buy the supported hardware/radio. 3. Load EmComm Tools 4. Use the simple EmComm Tools field manual (to be written) to get on the air. Thanks for the support!

[@jessicaSmash]

I’m loving this. I just got my general, my husband and I are avid backpackers with some mountains under our belts too. Preparedness lifestyle. You are the only KZbinr I have found who truly embodies these fundamentals. Thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Congratulations on your General and cheers to another backpacker. This project is starting to gain momentum. It has started and stalled so many times due to other commitments, but I have a plan to finally finish it this year. Welcome to the channel.

[@AD6DMDennis]

I'm glad you're going this route and greatly simplifying the path to preparedness. Then we can get past the complex matrix of tool selection and just get to training and operating.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, man. I am trying to build a tool that puts communication at the forefront. Spending a weekend or even weeks to configure everything is not in the cards.

[@purplerays6]

Awesome, a simple way to get started, and then learn as much, or as little about the hidden workings as the user wants. You are my radio hero! I can't wait to see you succeed.

[@gt4rs429]

This is very cool - mad props to you man. I work in IT as well so seeing Linux being used here is super cool to me. As a guy in his early twenties that just got his tech license, the quality of documentation and support for stuff like this is surprisingly archaic and/or non-existent. Being buried in school and a full time job doesn’t allow me the luxury of spending hours on end trying to put together the puzzle that is digital modes. Will be following to see where you go with this. Cheers!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the support. I've been a tech guy since the mid 90's and digital modes are unnecessary complex and are a black hole of time. This feels like the obvious engineering solution to the problem. Other than outside the US Military, I have no idea why something like this does not already exist for amateur radio. I feel your pain. I have a full time job, family and try to maintain fitness while doing all this on the inside. Personally, I wake up at 0330 every morning to do this, so I appreciate the support.

[@Sean-AI7EQ]

This seems like a very unique idea in ham radio. I'm excited to see where it goes (and getting my hands on it). Keep up the good work and sharing your videos.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Sean. It's an ambitious goal, but it's finally coming together.

[@Brood_Master]

This simple radio appliance concept sounds awesome... I can't wait for the emcomm tools to become available.

[@JohnStys]

Hi from Chicago - I have a lot of respect for you and the direction you’re going. I think it’s what the ham community needs right now. In my 23 years as an operator I’ve probably spent most of my ham time figuring out configurations - the details of which are spread everywhere across the internet. A couple of thoughts: 1. I think when you have emcomm tools up and running you’re going to find a lot of hams who want to be in a community of Known Contacts as you demonstrate. Problem is, this doesn’t really happen at the ham club level anymore. There are some Elmer’s out there but it’s inevitable that it’s too hard to find that guy in your area who has your equipment and trying to do the exact same things with it. So building a community of like minded users may be important over time. 2. Don’t apologize or fret so much about causing “disruption” within the hobby. To use your own example of Steve Jobs, he certainly didn’t care about what people thought about his disruptions to the industry. You’re doing some great stuff and I think you’re starting to see there are (tens of) thousands of hams out there who will be along for the ride. So, kudos to you. And count me in as a beta tester!

[@BobBob-il2ku]

Maybe a Facebook group for the tech Prepper followers or something like that

[@samuel.langhorne.clemens]

I’ve started to try getting into HAM radio a few times over the years for SHTF. I always get overwhelmed and end up distracted with full time job, family, etc and I end up just moving on. I am 100% in support of this idea! Will be following, and happy to support.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It is overwhelming. Personally, I almost exited the hobby at the beginning. In fact, I was licensed in 2017 with the express goal of rounding my preps. I did not make my first contact until 2019 as I did not have time to deal with all the technical issues and ramp-up. Take care.

[@gpsmith5818]

I'd say get a radio. Receive but do not transmit. You will learn a lot while listening and seriously, if SHTF who cares if you are licensed.

[@CovenantAD33]

@@gpsmith5818Good point!

[@auburnalum9019]

This is outstanding and thank you! I am an Extra and have been very disillusioned with the Ham community over the years. There are no Elmers out there and only bitter "I took my test when it was on paper and had to make my own pencil to write down the answers. You will never be a real HAM!" I am an Auxcomm/Ares member but even frustrated with the leadership that will not even embrace digital. Thank you for all your efforts and glad I found this channel! 73 Nxxx

[@TheTechPrepper]

Its comments like these that keep me motivated to keeping going. Some mornings I wake to a decent backlog of angry emails that start with, "How dare you.! You are going to destroy this hobby..." Personally, I almost walked away from the hobby a few times as well as the KZbin channel. As long as there's a group that sees value in what I am doing, I'll keep on pushing as long as I can. If you're interested, here's a private video I released on a new feature: www.buymeacoffee.com/thetechprepper/emcomm-tools-update-operator-mode 73's

[@shannonmuchka8543]

We have comprehensive quarterly local/section exercises on VHF simplex, HF and digital modes. Multiple field teams, EOC’s and home stations. We even have a station at the local hospital. We are working on a portable Mesh network too for video comms in our shelters when they open during big NorEasters. We use 2m simplex now for the shelters. During our exercises, we use NBEMS and Winlink, P2P. Our DCM is a meteorologist and we have a team of about 20 ARES members. We are also very active with Skywarn for the NWS. And yes, most of them are old…but who cares! I’m learning a ton and they are nice and we work well as a team!

[@golden_shadow_defense]

Just wanted to say that I'm a huge fan of your work and your content. As a non tech savvy person I am very excited to see someone developing turnkey solutions for such valuable comms methods that allow people like me who struggle heavily with computers and tech to communicate effectively when the need comes. Thanks again and keep up the good work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. Like I mentioned, the only downside to turnkey is that this project can't be everything to everyone. In order for me to deliver this vision, I need focus. To have focus, I need to narrow my implementation to small set of known components. We'll see how this goes. At the moment, this direction is looking good.

[@alabamathunder2891]

I'm a ham of 10 or so years, and a lifelong tech enthusiast. This is the right approach. Consider channel/frequencies accessible to tech class as well - the long-neglected group, but largest in ham radio.

[@theamericansilverback]

As a prepper, this is wonderful news... I just purchased a G90...I so hope that radio is able to be used. Bravo to you for doing. This, it's exactly what we need

[@TheTechPrepper]

I love it when preppers pop in. Welcome. Enjoy that G90. I broke my own rule and added support for my new Xiegu X6100 yesterday, so there may be hope for the G90 at some point down the road. If it works with the DigiRig it might be possible, but things may not be as plug-and-play.

[@johnk23705]

@@TheTechPrepper I think Yaesu and Ziegu use the same Digi-Rig with different cables. As far as hardware and software, that's for you Gaston. Again, I really interested in having it work with the 891.

[@mrbyamile6973]

@@johnk23705 I was just looking at the Amazon link he listed in the description and the images show it hooked up to a G90. I also already own a G90 with its intentions for digital use so this is all very intriguing 🤔

[@voxpopuli1121]

Love this idea! Had my license for 10 years and I haven’t been this excited since I first started! I’m NOT techie - so teaching myself how to do digital - became daunting. Looking forward to this! Great job!

[@garry8390]

Love what you're doing. Simple, cheap and reliable is the way to go.

[@simonhboom5806]

Looks cool! Icom 705/7300 support would be super. I will keep an eye on this project thanks

[@davemichaeli5339]

I think this is a great approach. The iPhone analogy is perfect. Well done, and I look forward to the next chapters of this story.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you liked the analogy. It's funny, my wife who is a non-ham will be my first alpha tester. If she can operate under my callsign and make a contact then I have succeeded. I can't wait to share it with y'all.

[@ryanc5517]

When I was in school, one of my professors used an anecdote about Henry Ford when he was asked about offering different paint colors of the Model T. Ford responded saying, they can have whatever color they want as long it's black.

[@joshualeesherman]

I definitely support this approach. This is the first video of yours that I watched and I subscribed because I want to watch this develop more. Some in the amateur radio community may not like this, but everyone should see this as a win because it shows how versatile the amateur radio network can be. Great job!

[@COUREURSdesBOIS88]

This is long overdue and I’m excited to see it come to fruition! You have a great vision Gaston. All the best!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, but there's still a lot of work ahead before it's released. I'm focusing on the CAT control and chat messaging next. The Tactical Awareness Map is done for now.

[@Aidenjh11]

Very interested to see what you develop here. Thanks for following your intuition and bringing this out regardless of established community expectations. Follow your gut - we need this.

[@phillipalbert8918]

I’ve completed a similar project with my final off grid setup using Meshtastic, TBeam Lora device, CivTak & a Samsung S10 phone. It’s a solid setup now with Meshtastic 2.0 and above.

[@TravisGDecker]

Fellow software dev and radio tech enthusiest here! I just discovered the channel but I love what your doing here, I cant wait to see more!

[@wjf213]

FINALLY, someone with common sense when it comes to PREPPING COMMO. Like my father used to say, "I don't want to hear about the labor pains, I just want to know if it's a boy or a girl". Let the pro ham guys be pro ham guys, but for the rest of us, we just need to know when Johnny is coming home from the farm 5 miles away or if Pete and the family have made it across the state line 200 miles away, and for that to happen, you have to have a STANDARD PLATFORM to operate from for EVERYONE, and it has to be so simple to use that Ray Charles or Stevie Wonder can see how to use it. I'm so happy you're doing this, and I cannot wait for you to have the bugs worked out and start selling this system. Keep up the great work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Nice analogy. It's a boy.

[@shannonmuchka8543]

Nice dad

[@criscross6591]

Sign me up, I’ve taken the time to learn winlink etc, but if you don’t do it every day you loose the skills. This approach is fantastic! Sign me up!

[@TheTechPrepper]

You are right about these being perishable skills. Thanks for the view, comment and interest in the project. I'll keep everyone one posted as I hit important milestones.

[@1FRANHER1]

This is amazing! I will definitely support the project!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Awesome, thank you!

[@ericsolomon9522]

Count me 100% IN !! As an Absolute “Newbie”, Your operating Style Is EXACTLY why I became interested in the radio world. Btw… Love the way You keep your foot ON the throttle 24/7/365! Literally JUST began looking into the toughbook’s last week. Funny how things work sometimes. Lastly, your EMCOMM software will make it SUPER EASY for the non licensed to use. Incredibly in-tune with the main concern of the family ALPHA.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Eric. Welcome to the hobby. This stuff can be intimidating, but don't get discouraged. Cheers, my friend.

[@CrusaderNate]

Count me in. I got my technician license back in August and spent 4 months trying to figure out how to use FT8 digital modes with my X6100 and studying for my general license. Count me in on this project when the time comes

[@KeithGuyer]

Got the 817 and am planning on getting the tough book for emergency ops. Doing research on digital and found this. Perfect. As an old commo sgt ham is so much more than I have done or really want to. I just want good coms if things go sideways.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I should have clarified that the Toughbook is not a hard requirement. Any Intel-based computer that can run Ubuntu Linux 22.10 should work fine. The Toughbook is what I am calling my "reference hardware". It will have the best user experience as it will literally by plug and play if you connect it to a radio using the DigiRig Mobile. Glad to see that you have an FT-817. It works perfectly. The DigiRig Mobile and the Yaesu 8xx cables work well with it.

[@fitzventure]

That's a great idea. Your own Linux distro with everything setup for use at a high-level. Looking forward to seeing how it progresses.

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's the plan!

[@billyrose2112]

I live in the Cascades of Oregon prone to bad weather and wildfires . These scenarios are a matter of life and death without normal channels of communication. Thanks for posting this video ..

[@polarexpeditionmedic]

You are the first person on KZbin who understands the community and there needs, what do I mean by that ? There is not one group and there is not one need. I am a paramedic working in the polar regions and I need to send my paramedic protocoll to my station and this has to be a 100% independent system so 2 stations talking to each other, I have a feeling by following this channel I might find finally a working solution. Choosing the tools and making them work and talk to each other is great and I agree there is no need that we all understand all of that at least at the start. I dont know exactly how a microwave works and I have sucessfully warmed up a lot of food in it.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. It's baffling that this does not exist already. Glad to hear that you're a fan of the approach and vision. Be safe out there. Your job sounds amazing!

[@polarexpeditionmedic]

@@TheTechPrepper I am sure there is a solution for that which you can buy but I dont think I have the budget for that. What I would like to do is to write a protocoll on my Ipad press share and be aible to send that over some "sort of wireless network" to a second device which can receive that and show it on a laptop. Telemedicine does that but I am missing the 30k to buy that. Plus I dont need my Bloodpressure cuff to be connected all I need is the result to be shared.

[@dsawyer8]

DUDE , this is exactly what I have been looking for. IM SERIOUSLY SO EXCITED!!!! Please do not stop!!°°°

[@TheTechPrepper]

Keep your fingers crossed. I have no idea if this will work. Let's give it a whirl. Stay tuned.

[@DaneStolthed]

Count me in, I’m looking forward to the new venture!

[@KK7BGA]

I found your channel right after I received my tech license a year ago. Since then I been following along and buying everything you have since you already did the testing. Just got a 818 a month ago, currently building antennas… waiting in a bag and EmComm tools 😂. Thanks for keeping the channel going for us!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Keep up the good work. I know that the FT-818 is not a sexy radio, but I honestly believe that this rig has a proven track record of reliability over the last couple of decades. It's basically a Swiss Army Knife. Thanks for the ongoing support.

[@gizmojeff]

Looking forward to this for sure. I run a Surface Pro for digital comms and would love something like this from a bootable thumb drive. Radio has evolved quite a bit over the years, this is a logical step, no matter who is "upset" with the method of operation. Back in the day it was all CW anyway, do not concern yourself with the establishment and Ranger on.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the support. There seems to be a decent following of ham radio operators using the Surface Pro. Stay tuned for more.

[@rms1154]

Thank you, this intro was great. This is something I've been looking for for a while..

[@jblewis8061]

Thanks for your video!!! This exactly fits what I’ve been looking for years . Im still new and ready to get into amateur radio for our family , and simplicity and standardized will really help to make the learning curve less difficult which we all need. Really looking forward ecomm tools to become available might sound childish but I’m excited!! We’re ready to get started. Really looking forward to seeing more content on this . If you did a 20 or 30 video I’d be glued to the screen! Maybe in the future a Q&A live chat on just the e-comm. Absolutely fantastic content keep up the good work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good luck getting into amateur radio. It's worth the pain of getting started.

[@bj6875]

This is an ingenious idea with a solid approach. During austere, non-permissive conditions no one will have time for troubleshooting and calling a help desk won't be an option. Developing a reliable, no fail, intuitive system is exactly what the application needs. I wouldn't worry too much about the "old guy" mentality of people not being able to use their pet systems.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's funny that you phrased things this way. The initial version of EmComm Tools ran on a Raspberry Pi computer and was designed just to help me "spot myself" (i.e. let people know that I was on certain frequency and specific summit) and sent text messages to my wife on various peaks in Arizona. There were a few times where the weather turned quickly and I only had minutes to get our a message. Under those scenarios, it was nice having simple, push-button approach.

[@jdan6102]

I’m one of those get in the 600 page manual guys to make it work. Very time consuming. Your work in this project is greatly needed and would be a wonderful contribution to ham radio.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Some of the manuals are written very well. But sometimes, you just want to hop in the car, turn the key and go.

[@jdan6102]

@@TheTechPrepper I wholeheartedly agree. Thanks for working to make things easier.

[@donzaleski8264]

I agree 100% with your platform architecture. Being a retired DoD Enterprise Architect contractor I know all too well how HW and SW needs to be standardized to maintain interoperability and maintainability. Good luck with your business venture. It’s a great idea.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you for the confirmation that this indeed the right approach. I'm having great success keeping simplicity at the forefront by artificially restricting the components to a small set of reliable components. At one point, I opened it up based feedback, it was nothing but headaches and instability. Cheers!

[@ptkx1877]

I love this approach to ham radio, standardizing and simplifying things.

[@kevingross7139]

Keep up the great work. What amazing idea. I so need this for me and my family and friends.

[@jcrosby735]

Love what you’re constructing here. I am in the need for the same set up.

[@willcorsair6099]

Great approach, especially for the No Random Contacts idea. Simple, no laborious setup, and, for those who want to spend hours rtfm, they can do that if they like. Thanks.

[@TheTechPrepper]

This solution requires specific radios and reference hardware which puts off a lot of hams, but it is designed for easy of ease. Thanks for getting the vision.

[@dimitdamnit]

Who ya calling a DUMMY? 🤣 I know this has been a chore for you to develop while working full time, filming your weekly KZbins, and remaining married all at the same time! We appreciate all of the time you've put into this TOOL!

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're damn right I am. ;-) It's my pleasure. It's finally coming together.

[@johnstraub7065]

NAIL IT! You & every one else in your circle that develops this WILL be kazzillionaires!!!! I'm 58 yrs young, 6 months with my teck lic & getting totally discouraged by how much one MUST learn & spend $$$$$$. I'm not looking for a hobby, I'm looking for fast easy communication for emergencies when the grid goes down with free over the air communication. I wish I could join your mission! Best of luck!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Keep at it and don't get discouraged. This project came out of me being 100% frustrated. I have a software engineering and systems background and I have sunk entire weekends and sometimes weeks trying to get various digital modes working. Glad to hear you like the direction.

[@StaffAction]

this is exciting. Thank you for thinking to do this and putting in the effort. so many people, myself included want to learn all the ins and outs but we have so much else going on our lives so it's hard do devote the time and practice....families, full time jobs, etc. but we still want to be prudent and have the "emcomm" aspect of our lives take care of..

[@TheTechPrepper]

Awesome. This stuff is a huge sink of hole of time. I have also found that once you get things working, that the knowledge will quickly decay unless you keep at it. The digital mode scene is a nightmare. CHeers!

[@ericsolomon9522]

Watched this for like the 9th time. LOVE it. Super Intuitive & a Needed product in market. Should prove to be a HOME RUN !!

[@TheTechPrepper]

As always, thanks for the support, Eric. The KZbin algorithm and myself thank you.

[@SimonVK3XEM]

I have no issue with the direction you are taking in Ham Radio. I view the hobby like a large tree where you can climb out onto any branch you want, you climb out on many branches if you so choose. EMCOMM is simply one of those branches of the tree and by it's very nature needs to be kept simple. I love how your app is basically a skin over the many moving parts required to make it work. Once it is OPERATIONAL there is no need to worry what is under bonet, as long as it just WORKS and gets the job done. Just like myself in the hobby I operate an APRS iGate on 2M for my local community and an Allstar Node on 70cm that covers the local area as part of a Linked Repeater Network for others to access also. I don't understand everything under the bonet of my set up but the objective is to provide a solid service to the Ham Community. I am slowly learning more about APRS and Allstar but my primary objective is to provide that service to others. Although I don't get involved in other modes and bands, I certainly respect others that do and also take interest in their acheivments in the hobby. We all learn from each other and should not knock how others choose to enjoy the hobby. Good luck my friend and enjoy YOUR hobby the way you see fit.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The hobby and this project sure have taking me down a variety of rabbit holes. I think I found a rabbit hole that I really like. I can't wait to get this project further along and out to you and the community.

[@kevin_m_clark]

I really dig this approach! There is absolutely nothing wrong with amateur radio as a hobby, and as such is a good way to hone one’s skill set. However, a hobby and true communications preparedness are very different constructs. Standardized processes & equipment are what make the highest performing teams successful. Looking forward to see what the future brings.

[@vironpayne3405]

Standardization is good, but flexibility always needs to be kept in mind. Gaston is well aware of this in his plan. BRAVO! The undisputed workhorses of Ecom are VHF and HF in that order, but it would be a fool that only builds his ecom plan around one. Likewise, no one mode is sufficient, which again is reflected in Gaston's plan. Again, BRAVO! Sadly, I fear the possibility of the day when for personal safety operators may be reduced to digital weak signal modes through NVIS antennas running a few hundred miliWatts to avoid DF. But I believe that type training should be in every ecom or preppers regular practice. I encourage starting with a QRP capable radio when entering the hobby and getting real experience of what "minimum power necessary to make the contact" means from an experiential standpoint. That experiential standpoint means through different parts of the solar cycle, different antennas, different antenna deployment configutations, different times of day, different terrain, different modes, etc. Its a lifelong pursuit honing good operating skills. Being able to improvise is a great skill to develop. You never know when you may have to communicate without your kit, or you may experience equipment failure and not have a close matching spare. I tore apart an OCFD at a QRP and I didn't have a spare antenna. Instead of accepting fellow QRPers hamstick l loaded up the gutter of the pavillion working it against a cast iron park grill. I made contacts on 20m and 40m near and far in fairly short order. Tuned resonant dipoles are the king of wire antennas, but every kit should probably have a wide range tuner capable of at least handling 8:1 mismatches. If your dedicated battery fails, what is your alternate plan?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for jumping in, Viron. I share your sentiments 100%. Personally, I am thankful that I struggled with a QRP radio (FT-818) as my first radio. It really forced me to select antennas and modes that work well at low power. Occasionally, I'll pull out the FT-857D or FT-891 when I need more power to punch through.

[@kevin_m_clark]

I couldn’t agree more. It’s been my experience that working from a solid set of standard procedures (SOPs), that can be executed on demand - allows for flexibility when the situation arises. That said if there is a sound PACE plan in place flexibility can become more of a constant than a variable. I concur, Bravo, sir!

[@vironpayne3405]

@@TheTechPrepper Weak signal digital modes are the saving grace, even if they are a bit of a pain to setup. Right now I have no radio capable of less than 5W. Professional NVIS testing suggest that to avoid DF operating levels of 100mW using modes like FT8 may be required. The only solution I have at this time is a dry dumby load with an antenna pass through that can be used as an attenuator. That is no solution as it also attenuates RCV. That can be overcome with a second receiver and antenna, or second antenna and antenna switch. Neither is an ecom solution.

[@Littrell1966]

I think you are 100% on the right track!!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the confirmation. I think so, too. It will be an interesting journey to pull this off.

[@TexasProbate]

Subscribed with notifications! This is the exact content I was looking for.… I just started my ham license training.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel! Good luck with your journey.

[@slik560]

You are most definitely heading in the right direction. I’ll be one of those following along. Well done. 👍🇺🇸

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you think so. Cheers.

[@jjrobiso]

Thank god someone wants to make ham radio easy! Just powering some base stations seem like a daunting (and expensive) task. I’m all for it. Learning for the technician license and want to get to general sooner rather than later. But the only reason I want those licenses is for this specific setup. You’re right on track.

[@jjrobiso]

Also, not just communicate, but listen…scanning, NOAA/GOES, ADS-B those things are important too.

[@davidharkonen3696]

Thank you so much for this video and working to simplify ham communication for the average prepper!

[@ohiorivervalleyhomestead]

Love it! This is what is needed. I know this has been your baby for awhile.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am getting closer. The custom OS was the missing ingredient. I'll keep pushing as this project has evolved over that two years. I hope to have it out early next year. Cheers!

[@chrisherd991]

Hi I like what you have done. I have been playing with radios and computer hardware for years with a massive dose of frustration. That journey has evolved to almost the same destination as you, ft817, digirig and linux mint with the spaghetti soup of apps (flrig pat etc etc). Your work will help a lot of folk who just want things to work out of the box.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I share your frustration. I did a series on why digital modes are so difficult earlier this year. Hang in there.

[@chrisherd991]

Does the memory stick have some kind of protection in case a system proof idiot like myself accidentally does something stupid?

[@Androctonus84]

This is an awesome project. If I had the time, I’d love to just dive into the minutiae of amateur radio. But I got into it primarily for practical application, and I unfortunately don’t have the time for much else. The problem is that virtually nothing in the hobby is plug and play, even at the most basic level. It’s real work that requires a significant investment in time and effort to be able to do almost anything of real practical use. Even with a PhD. So I love that you’ve taken on this project. I’ll definitely be watching to see how it goes. Thanks!

[@troymalaspino3574]

I can name quite a few outstanding software projects that were torpedoed by user demands for their specific hardware compatibility. Eventually the demands drained the developer's "fuel tank," the developer walked away from the project, and we were left with ghost-ware (i.e. it's dead, it just doesn't know it yet). In light of this, your strategy seems sound, and I can't wait to see it released! All the best Gaston

[@TheTechPrepper]

Finally, someone who understands where I am coming from. Well said. Thank you. Here's a good example. I picked up a Xiegu X6100 last week for a different project that I plan to work on. I sat down to add support for just this one radio so that it would have the same turnkey, zero-configuration support as my FT-818ND and FT-857D. It took 8 hours. Cheers!

[@ME-qq3gr]

Around the year 2000 I worked as a motorbike courier in Australia. We each had a CB radio hooked up to a palm pilot and the jobs would get sent through the radio to the palm pilot. No phone or internet needed. It was easy to use without knowing how the back end of it worked. I can see some similarities between that system and the one you are talking about here.

[@YeloSub7]

Appreciate what you have accomplished so far, and how far you've come in only a couple years. I also have a similar mindset with HAM... on focusing on real life capabilities off grid vs contesting. Keep up the great work! Thanks!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I appreciate that! The hobby is still new to me, but this direction looks very promising.

[@shandybrandy5407]

I am a fan of your channel. Really excited about the EmCom tool which you are working to make it simple an user-friendly in the digital space communication. Eagerly waiting for the progression in the next video Wishing you loads of luck. Cheers! New Delhi

[@diegocasati]

Love this idea Gaston. I’m also in tech and I think you’re spot on. Looking forward to test EmmComm Tools.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you like the approach. This tool offers a ton of capabilities for the Technician class operator. More on this topic in the coming months. 73's

[@HumilityListens]

i admire people like you thank you for sharing

[@SectorZeroOne]

Just found your channel. I've always wanted to get into amateur radio but it's so over my head that is hard to know where to start. With this approach, it'll be much easier to follow along, I think. Subbed too.

[@aviboaz90]

Good to see you on QRZ, I am K5SCI and I was reading your bag, most of the letters are obscured for me to read but I see together is a good thing.

[@billjohnston9451]

Thanks for putting this together for the community.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're welcome. It still needs a lot of work. I'm still chipping away at the development as I have spare time.

[@elliottdmann]

I think one of the great things about ham radio is how broad a "hobby" it is. If there are those who don't like your idea for radio, that's fine. For me, I think it's brilliant. I have the same goal in my use of amateur radio: to be able to communicate in an emergency. Sounds like you're well on your way to solving some of the very problems I've been thinking of, and I'd be delighted to use your system. Count me in.

[@harvest3070]

Fantastic! I’ve been waiting for something like this! Just how constrained will radio choice be? Will there be several viable options? I have an FT-891

[@TheTechPrepper]

It will work with the FT-891 as well. I have and love my FT-891. If you're a Yaesu user chances are good that you're covered. For the most part it will work on any x86 (Intel) computer post 2008. For the initial testing, I'm focusing on Toughbooks.

[@thesickhorseranch]

@@TheTechPrepper I'm glad to see this small clarification. I'm not terribly tech savvy but I am trying to immerse myself. I took up using Linux a couple years ago and progress is slow, and forced, but it's still progress. I have two retired laptops that I would love to resurrect for EMCOMM.

[@WillReece]

@@TheTechPrepper Looking forward to this project. I started into amateur radio for weather reporting and operating as a SAG vehicle for various events. Now studying for my general and eyeing the FT-891 for use as we travel the country.

[@prioritymaleman]

New sub here. I LOVE this idea! Embarrassed to admit, got my license 3 years ago, bought a radio...and haven't ever used it...still in the box. If a simpler way to use it to communicate was available, I'd be all over it. ALSO...I hate relying on the unpredictable internet. I won't buy software that is only usable online, if there's an alternative (example: NO Office 365; no google spreadsheet...I buy the software/cd so I can use offline). Good stuff and I'll be buying you a coffee later this week. Jim in FL

[@_Mordion_]

Dummy checking in. Thank you for this video!

[@davidchambers6654]

This is a tool that would be a gateway for many 1st time users. And also a tool for many of us that do not have The time to delve into the many new ounces of the hobby before SHTF

[@jeffedoe4189]

I'll definitely be following this and would like to see how well it works .

[@rlcarbo]

This is what I have been looking for/ wanting! I know short wave is the solution; but, I have not been motivated to commit to another large learner curve project. I only want plug-n-play, short term learning projects at this point of my busy life.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Amateur radio has a huge learning curve, however, this should make the entry into the digital data modes easier. Using this software will still require a license as most of the features transmit on the amateur radio bands.

[@VMXGroove]

Great information! Very interesting. With the way the world is going, these tools may be needed sooner then we think.

[@Bob814u]

Thinking about it there was/is a reason for the COMMS guys to put a "fill" into a radio for it to work in the miltary. I remember taking the Comms guys with us on missions outside the wire so they could get off the FOB and see what the war was really about. In return they would meet us at our vehicles with the 'box' and have our radio ready to work. When the emcom tools is completed and ready let us know. I will be purchasing it and recommending its purchase to like minded individuals in my area.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for your service. I like your approach of buttering up the comms guy in your unit. I'll definitely let you know when it's ready. Lots of work ahead.

[@ajdu5390]

This seems like a great idea! Thank you for your efforts. I'm going to enjoy following along!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@MichaelGolpe]

The algorithm did something good: I came across your channel! 😂 I don’t have time for Ham radio study, so for me this is great 👍 I’m a new subscriber now!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel. The KZbin Overlords got something right! Enjoy and good luck with your journey.

[@mattjames9755]

ATW! Great concept... looking forward to it.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. It was nice looking at this problem from the perspective of an outsider. I hope to make this easier for everyone. Cheers.

[@korystewart3799]

Meshtastic.. couple nodes,couple tablets or smartphones and you have a great communication network for you and your local community.

[@hlarks]

22 year ham radio operator here and I like this idea. The fancy apps are useful because they have a ton of capability but there are times when KISS applies.

[@toneklein8950]

I glad you're doing this, it's needed. I have spent months trying to learn reliable emergency comms, for my wife and I, and it is more complicated than it should be. This last month working with APRS and the TinyTrak4 has been a battle. I'm learning, but after spenting hours and hours on the internet and watching KZbin trying to find the information I need, I have gained little ground considering the time spent. I like learning and figuring things out, however time is precious, there are other things that need my time as well. I am very interested in the work you are doing.

[@robert8342-w7x]

I can't wait for you to get this all setup. I'd buy it in a heartbeat

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the interest. More next year.

[@MrGwkj]

So just subscribed, ex Military here 20 yrs, Great Idea, KISS principle. look forward to more info

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel and thank you for serving our great country. It's been a work in progress. Every field testing is adding a ton of value and making this solution simpler. Stay tuned.

[@tyroncalta]

We are on similuar paths. I would like to add an additional component: -Consider getting licensed for your own HF frequencies. You will have to work with an FCC frequency coordinator AND you will need to send a justification letter. There are examples available online. -Also, look into FCC Public Notice 4126. -Furthermore, an LLC in AZ is $85 and an EIN/TIN/FRN are all free. -Consider ALE (automatic link establishment) -Consider voice squelch boards for the radios.

[@omardejesus2940]

I like this approach, I'm studying for my license now, soon should be taking the test. Your Ecomms approach fits my plans well, looking forward to learning more about all this "new to me" endeavor. Thank you.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the new hobby. It's a hobby of a thousand hobbies, but personally, I enjoy the practical aspects of communications for real-world scenarios whether it be public service, emcomm, or just a bit of fun in the backcountry. Good luck with your license!

[@melodydawn]

I like this idea, alot plug in , plug out for emergency communications, but privacy is key, sense that has all gone out the window.

[@REXOB9]

Great principles to make offgrid communications straightforward. Looking forward to it!

[@TheTechPrepper]

More to come!

[@backcountryamateurradio]

Can’t wait Gaston. The digital stuff is such a pain, almost all the time. And it doesn’t mean that once it’s configured it will continue to work. And most of the configurations don’t make sense either… this will be a game changer for sure. Keep it up man!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I echo your sentiments, Eric. I personally struggled with digital modes. My frustrations and journey with regard to digital modes are well documented on the channel. I likely ran into every issue that you experienced Let's see if this whacky approach works. More next year.

[@backcountryamateurradio]

@@TheTechPrepper I loved your firearms and iPhone analogy. All about keeping it simple. I’ve followed your many frustrations. Many I haven’t attempted myself, mostly for lack of time. But it sure looks like I’m going to need a toughbook.

[@benhouse5515]

Power to you. I like the idea, The personally I don't love the idea of locking it down to those particular choices of radio and laptop. Laptop in particular granted is tough, but also pricey for the actual capability you need from it. Either way I'll definitely be monitoring and who knows may jump on further down the road. Godspeed to you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Technically, it will work with any laptop that runs well with Ubuntu 21.x or newer. EmComm Tools OS is based Ubuntu 22.10. As for the radio, any radio should work with a seamless experience if you use the DigiRig Mobile as the interface. My focus will be first to ensure that this runs bullet proof on the gear I presented since our group has heavily standardized on this hardware combo.

[@luissanchez3214]

Because I am not technically savvy, I also thought you were saying to use that specific radio and computer with digirig or else. I also got the impression that the contact needed to have the same computer and radio for this to work. Hope people don’t tune away due to misunderstanding because less technically inclined people that actually would benefit from this product can take advantage of it.

[@_RadioMadeEasy]

Love your philosophy and looking forward to learning from you as you continue down this path! Thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

You are so welcome! It's going to be a practical, yet fun ride.

[@johnb9045]

I really love this concept.

[@anthonyglaser929]

Amen. I look forward with great enthusiasm to pulling your project from github.

[@Dolmdemon]

I like this idea. When I started out, the real barrier of entry to amateur radio is amateur operators. Old crusty sock curmudgeons who talk down to people who don't know was pretty much my experience, that or being ignored completely. I had to learn everything on my own and I think this project is fantastic, and is a big up'yers to the lids that talk down to "appliance operators".. usually doing the talking down on their shack-in-a-box. Get people on the air practicing with this, building their skill for when real emergencies happen, and let them learn more along the way if they want to. The time for the old school mentality that you're not a real HAM if you didn't build your own rig out of bailing wire and spit needs to end.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Agreed. I had my share of OM's that almost pushed me out of the hobby when I got started a few years back. Ignoring them was a good call. More updates as there are new developments. Cheers.

[@rj44319]

I love it. Looking forward to seeing where it goes.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. Wait until you see the next update. There's a lot of working remaining, but it's finally taking shape.

[@rj44319]

@@TheTechPrepper How great would it be to display battery pack capacity on the webpage. I PM'd you the other day and will get back to you as requested. Looking forward to helping out. There are many mutual benefits between the project I am working on and what you are working on.

[@deoprinsloo1]

You are definitely moving in the right direction! Keep up the good work! 🤙🏻

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it. Will do.

[@dankdark974]

This is exactly what i need. Theres only so many hours in my day, and most of those are already booked up full. That being said ive always wanted to get into ham and civilian radios. I was shocked to find out how much more complex radio operations on the civilian side of things was, compared to the military. I wish i could just buy an ASIP equivalent and be on my way!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you found what you're looking for.

[@norm_sueb122]

Thanks for the video! Looking forward to Emcom Tools! I picked up one of those toughbooks from one of your other videos. Works perfect.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Not a bad unit considering they're from 2008. I need to find a new refurbished source Glad you like yours.