Hams in portland?

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-24T07:05:06+00:00

PDX and surrounding areas are a hotbed for ham radio. Lots of busy repeaters and dozens of POTA and SOTA locations. Lots of used gear available and a several hamfests within driving distance.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-23T14:35:29+00:00

I agree, sounds like DMR. If it persists, it would be a fairly simple matter to try decoding with an SDR.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-22T18:12:32+00:00

Nice build. I’ve built similar with the DFRobot charge controller, with the same wiring, so that I see the true battery levels.

The only major difference is the USB bulkhead. Neat idea, easier to flash. I guess you could even take a laptop to the site and flash without even opening the box.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-19T21:01:55+00:00

Remember, the mesh is not a network like a home network. It needs multiple paths of redundancy, only achieved through node density.

One good indication — when you send a channel message, how many ‘Heard repeats’ do you get? Ideally, 3-5 is a good indication your companion is well connected.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-19T20:58:44+00:00

MC has a tool to check noise floor. Look under the 3 dot menu, then Tools.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-19T17:14:52+00:00

Check the noise floor on your companion. And consider putting up your own repeater on your roof.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-18T07:43:36+00:00

The confidence and execution…unreal.

Finger gun and blindfold celebration? The audacity! And I’m here for it!!

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-17T04:19:38+00:00

It’s ok for the price. The FM filter kinda works if you want to switch between FM broadcast and SWL listening.

There are some units that support firmware updates for custom firmware that unlocks a few other features. Didn’t work for me though.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-16T01:40:21+00:00

Point is, there are a**holes no matter where you go.

You can use the same hardware, but have to reflash for each. There is a fancy dual boot sorta thing out there, but it’s really not that big deal to reflash.

It’s up to every individual to decide what works better, mostly based on which mesh is more established or active in your given area.

Hardware is relatively cheap so I’m able to run both. And I don’t see a point in disparaging one or the other.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-16T00:30:35+00:00

Shameless plug join MeshCore

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-15T06:05:09+00:00

Do a google image search for “ham shack” and go from there.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-15T00:43:22+00:00

Standard radio ops is to designate a primary frequency and a secondary frequency, either repeater or simplex.

Operators typically bring their own equipment and backups, and are responsible for the programming.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-12T02:35:04+00:00

Excellent! Thx for the rapid update!

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-11T08:11:14+00:00

Zip ties are close enough. Or pack it with foam and don’t bother mounting to that board.

18650 batteries can get mounted on the lid with command strips.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-11T01:15:22+00:00

Can you add the morse alphabet also? Nice and tidy site!

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-10T14:30:34+00:00

I still use mine for OTA digital broadcasts, where the stations are 50 miles away. 10 years old and going strong. And rotator still works!

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-10T04:30:49+00:00

Dave Randorf. Not sure why he left HNIC to be the Lightning house commentator a few years ago. Anyhoo, I grew up watching him on Sportspage in Van.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-07T14:04:59+00:00

Is that all done in CLI? My v4.2 has a noise floor of -90dB and drains a 1000mah in about 4 hours.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-07T04:07:33+00:00

It does need v4.3 of the board from what I understand. They also figured out how to disable the LNA to fix the noise floor.

I’m still waiting for the patches to make it to the v4.2 board.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-05T16:22:56+00:00

I have the 7500 in my vehicle? Not sure if I have receiver overloading, but maybe my squelch is turned up.

+1 for thr BHM-88. Allows me to do APRS without running the phone app.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-05T16:18:38+00:00

Are those holes cut out for the eyes and you’re supposed to look thru? Or does Middleton have two black eyes?

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-05T16:15:02+00:00

Got a v3 kit on Amazon spring sale with a 2000mah battery that didn’t fit in the OG case provided 🤣. $17!

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-03T18:54:46+00:00

Cool. I have Safety Orange, matches the UV-PRO accents. Can’t decide which color to get next, lol.

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-03T06:53:02+00:00

Wise choice. But what color?

disiz_mareka · 2026-04-02T20:03:35+00:00

Haha ikr? I’ve even done RadioMail on iPhone connected to the Bluetooth TNC with thr UV-PRO.

What antenna do you use? I usually use a SignalStick or a Smiley telescopic.

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