Manpack Mobile Ham Radio Install: ATAS-120a + TPA 857 Pack Frame

[@davidsradioroom9678]

You are going in the right direction. You can have mobile comms everywhere with the same rig. For EmComm, though, you might want to have 80 meters capabilities.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have a PackTenna Linked Dipole for 80/40/20m, a 20m EFHW and a PackTenna TrekMount for 2m SSB in my pack along with my mast and solar panel. My go bag is essentially my SOTA backpack, so it complements the capabilities shown here. I mentioned it in a video clip that didn't make the final edit, so thanks for the call out. 73 de KT1RUN

[@davidsradioroom9678]

@@TheTechPrepper Good deal!

[@timevans239]

Thetechprepper, you got me. I was on the fence about this antenna. Watching countless videos. Just received my ft891 from HRO and was eyeballing this antenna. Would make a nice addition to my jeep. Great video TimE

[@TheTechPrepper]

If you get this antenna make sure you bound the hood to the body and exhaust to the frame. It makes all the difference. I just used this antenna this past week at Quartzfest. Enjoy your FT-891. I am designing a manpack for that rig right now.

[@backcountryamateurradio]

Gaston, if I had a mobile situation like that, I also would be reluctant to commit a radio to the camper, rv, etc. I really like the idea of plug and play with these expensive rigs. That man-portable setup is impressively versatile. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Eric. It seemed like a great application for the manpack--practical and cost effective. I failed to include a clip in the final edit that included re-use of my other portable gear. I also ran the PackTenna TrekMount off the ladder as well as my Carbon 6 mast off a flag pole mount using the receiver hitch. Take it easy!

[@martykm6pra114]

Great setup. I run the atas120 and a ft 891. Love that setup. Thanks for all the videos 👍

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Marty. Any tips on the ATAS-120A? I've only been using it for a few weeks. The FT-891 has a great receiver. The DNR is fantastic. I'm on the fence about selling it. Glad you enjoy the videos. It's fun sharing the journey with everyone.

[@Scout75PortableRadio]

Very slick setup. Keeping things as modular as possible it a great way to go.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. It's also nice really knowing one radio rather than bouncing between different radios for portable, mobile and home. Take it easy!

[@Scout75PortableRadio]

100% agree. Ease of use plus, as you stated in the video, why spend hundreds for a radio that takes up space and isn't used very often.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You make an awesome counterpoint. I have the FT-818 with an identical configuration. It's just limited to 6 watts. If I could get my hands on another FT-857D at a reasonable price, I would. The prices on the secondary market are nuts.

[@WR3ND]

Nice setup and qualifying utility breakdown. 👍

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. I still use this setup to this day. This even works with a temporary mag mounted in my wife's car as she does not want any permanent installation. Cheers!

[@TheNoCodeTech]

Dude, I built the same case out of PVC for my ATAS-25. great minds think alike.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're my brother from another mother it seems. PVC for the win!

[@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures]

Good job Hope it works good for you. I mounted a quick connect set up on my ladder to get my Hustler ham sticks above the roof line seems to work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's a nice approach, Chuck. I failed to show the temporary antenna that's mounted on the ladder. It's just a trekking pole with the PackTenna TrekMount. It provides me 20 watts of 2m SSB goodness while stationary. 73

[@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures]

@@TheTechPrepper I have a Hi-Q screw driver antenna and the plan some day is to get it setup above my the roof of my Motor home I just have to tune it with my remote switch.

[@ronhuggins696]

Will you once again break down the 851B and display the radio, radio connections. Please name each Recommended connectors, fastners and where you order most products Thank you. 😊

[@fullmetalradio869]

Nice set-up 👍 as usual a very informative video. Keep up the good work 👍

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you, Peter. It's always nice when gear you already have can serve multiple purposes. This setup would be great for a quick evacuation. We're seeing some forced evacuations in the USA due to fires in California. 73

[@glmorley]

Interesting modular configuration particularly the ARMOLOQ product. If you haven't already, consider the Chameleon MPAS 2.0 in lieu of the ATAS-120.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm aware of the MPAS 2.0, but it's a bit out of my price range. I've heard good things about that antenna system. I really enjoy my CHA LEFS that I reviewed recently on the channel. Chameleon makes goods stuff.

[@testerchannelcycle]

Just letting you know your Armoloq link in description is 404 and needs updating. Keep up the great content.

[@Blue-Collar-Radio]

That's an awesome setup! Well done!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Rob. Equipment repurposing for the win. Take care.

[@davidpatrick1813]

Nice lookin pouch situation ... Are you still using it or have you done some more updates... I'll check your channel site.

[@z3r0c00l2]

Nice video. How deep does the whip on top goes in ?

[@slappypickle3973]

Nice work

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@mtngr1]

How much does your 857D manpack weigh with everything you take on a hike? So the TPA frame is inside the PRC 117? Ive been watching your videos and you have peaked my interest. Thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, the TPA pack frame fits inside perfectly inside the PRC/117G pouch. I don't recall the actual weight, but the full manpack with all the components is around 10-12 lbs. I typically take the lighter FT-818ND manpack if I climb a peak these days. Thanks for the support.

[@mtngr1]

@@TheTechPrepper Thank you for replying. I want to get one for my 817 for hiking and one for my 857 when doing training exercises from my vehicle. I also use the Rpi4 with js8, Fldigi and a few other programs for digital mode. I want to improve my portable setup and I believe you have now helped me with that. I've been binging on all your videos. Keep the videos coming!.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@mtngr1 My pleasure. I'm transitioning to the DigiRig Mobile for the digital interface for all my manpacks. The DigiRig 8xx cables work great for both radios. Good luck with your build and thanks for the support.

[@mtngr1]

@@TheTechPrepper Yes, I got one, and trying to set it up with my pi4. I got spoiled with using the Signalink, but love the small form factor of the digirig. Also got the cables for my baofeng radio to use with the digirig. , but haven't played with it yet.

[@andrewfiertek5937]

I’ve tuned my ATAS120A at 70-80 mph without any issues just need to have it properly grounded.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Very nice. So you haven't experienced any issues with the motor misbehaving?

[@KM4ALT]

Same. And in regards to "waterproof" i leave mine on the truck all the time. Going on 4 years, and except for breaking off the whip on a tree limb, it has never been a problem. I did put screws through my mount into the bed metal so well grounded there.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

absolute fantastic video thanks 73 from kb2uew

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. Come visit again.

[@frankwc0o]

In your further discovery of the Manpack Mobile, have you thought of removing the faceplate so you can have it more eye level? I'm liking this setup. I want to use my 857 only for mobile, but haven't found a clean way to mount it.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, I have. In fact, I worked with ARMOLOQ and tested a relocation head mount prototype for the FT-857 and FTM-6000, but I found it to be too cumbersome most of the time. Check out this video if you have time. I would be curious on your thoughts. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpjQY36ji6tgqM0 There's another shot of the prototype head mount in this video at 15:13. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZnJpn2saqZ1fKc

[@frankwc0o]

@@TheTechPrepper Super. Thanks.

[@Zayne_24]

Do they have a setup for the Yaesu Ft 991A Radio and can you put this into a backpack and mount the radio mic to the backpacks shoulder?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes to all of the above. Checkout @armoloq on Instagram.

[@Zayne_24]

@@TheTechPrepper thank you so much

[@kurt53641]

Did you get your ic705 yet?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Not yet. I have a few more radios and equipment that are higher up on the list. The next radio is the FT-2980R for use as dedicated 2m packet station. It looks like the IC-705 will be on the list for 2022. I'm actually keeping my fingers crossed that Yaesu releases a modern QRP radio designed for field use that is comparable to the 705.

[@forgetyourlife]

@@TheTechPrepper I thought you had that 2980 by now. You said you were "driving into Phoenix" lol, Got my 2nd last week. The price just keeps going up!

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@forgetyourlife I tried but they were out of stock and their demo unit was not in a demo state, so I picked up an Arrow II yagi. I'll order one next month.

[@pauloost59]

I'm seeing the early signs of a Yaesu addiction...😄👍🏻

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@pauloost59 You would be right. I like the consistency of their menu system and rugged construction. At the moment my Yaesu includes two FT-60R's, an FT-818ND, FT-857D, FT-891 and VX-6R. For my 40th next month, this little family will be joined by the FT-2980R. Take care!

[@danford7532]

I would like to talk to you, name the time and frequency, I am in Arizona

[@TheTechPrepper]

Dan, would you mind looking me up on QRZ and shooting me an email so we can coordinate? It's nice to meet another local.

[@tienmou68]

Great info, but the music made it somewhat difficult to hear you. Just sayin.....

[@TheTechPrepper]

I learned my lesson on the music last year. All 2022 videos are music free.

[@mavrick34]

Why not have a drink before you start. Seriously, I was expecting you to have a bathroom break as well ;-)

[@TheTechPrepper]

Haha. I had a full pot before that cup. :-)

[@mavrick34]

Good vid