28 October 2016

M0OGY Looks At The Anytone Apollo II



Video:YouTube/M0OGY


First 16 Channel PMR446 Appears Online


After some EU countries adopted the new 16 channel PMR446 standard recently the first new radio has appeared online on the Mass Electronik website.

Priced at €98.00 (£88) it certainly isn't the cheapest PMR radio out there but prices will certainly fall as other 16 channel radios become available over time.

Of course this is still 500mw output with integrated antenna but now with 16 channels instead of just 8. 

Link : CLICK HERE

Further informaton can be found on the PMR446 page of this blog


channels
  • 16 channels (PMR-446)
  • Standard programming including 8 old and 8 new PMR-446 frequencies
  • transmission power
  • 500 mW
  • Frequency range
  • 446,00625 - 446,19375 MHz
  • Features & Functions
    • LC multifunctional display with switchable lighting
    • Keyboard with switchable lighting
    • Channel or frequency display selectable
    • Simple 3 button operator guidance
    • CTCSS and DCS Pilots freely selectable (RX and TX)
    • Vox function (voice-controlled transmission) Sensitivity selectable in 9 levels
    • Scambler function - Voice fading (additional monitoring protection)
    • Monitor circuit for receiving very weak signals
    • switchable key lock
    • Channel scan (scan function)
    • CTCSS and DCS search
    • Preferred channel search
    • Rauschsperre adjustable via menu
    • Batteriesparfunction
    • Time out timer
    • Busy channel lockout
    • Button acknowledgment tone (can be switched off)
    • Programmable by PC for extended frequency range and transmission power (please observe the law)
    • Clone function via cloning cable.
    Power supply
  • 7,4V DC (Akkupack included)
  • Headset / microphone connection
  • Kenwood standard double jacks on the side of the unit (3.5 / 2.5mm)
  • Dimensions (mm), WxHxD
  • 56.5 x 245 x 32.7 (with antenna and rechargeable battery)
  • weight
  • 220g (with rechargeable battery)

  • RSGB Statement (Nightmare Neighbour)


    The RSGB have issued the following statement in relation to last nights Channel 5(UK) programme "Nightmare Neighbour Next Door' which featured a dispute between a HAM Radio operator and several elderly neighbours...

    "We work hard to build relationships with the media and often provide facts and help when programmes and articles featuring amateur radio are being prepared.

    Unfortunately, the RSGB was not invited to be part of Channel 5’s “Nightmare Neighbour Next Door” programme or to verify any facts. We have, of course, contacted Channel 5 about our concerns and have highlighted the positive aspects of amateur radio. We have also offered our expertise and input for future programmes where amateur radio is mentioned.

    Our volunteers spend a lot of time helping radio amateurs with planning applications. It is by putting forward facts during those processes that we can help to dispel myths about amateur radio and any impact on the public or environment.

    One of the best ways to counteract the public’s lack of understanding about amateur radio is to offer positive stories to the media. We are always looking for stories to share and will be very happy to help radio amateurs approach their local media too – please contact comms@rsgb.org.uk

    If we receive a response from Channel 5 we will share it with our Members"

    The TV programme can be watched by UK viewers online HERE

    27 October 2016

    Apollo II Lands At Dave's Door!


    Great news from Dave, M0OGY, who once again has managed to get his hands on a new radio. This time it's the Anytone Apollo II.

    Now we just have to wait for his review......!


    26 October 2016

    NEW: Baofeng DMR-82UV Tier 2 DMR Radio


    According to Passion Radio it would appear that Baofeng are about to release a dual band Tier 2 DMR handheld radio.

    Hot on the heels of the DM-5R (Tier 1, upgradeable to Tier 2) this radio is expected to be very popular with a price tag expected to be 'well below 100 Euros'.

    Frequencies - VH-UHF Dual band 
    UHF 400-520MHz 
    VHF 136-174MHz 
    Number of Channels128
    Number of zones
    50
    channel spacing 
    12.5KHz / 25KHz
    Operating Current 
    DC 7.4V (± 20%)
    Battery capacity 
    1800 mAh (Li-ion)
    Autonomy (5/5/90)Digital 20 hours - 14 hours Analog
    Frequency stability± 1.5ppm
    Operating temperature 
    20 ℃ / + 60 
    Impedance of the antenna 
    50Ω
    Transmitter
    RF power 
    5W / 4W / 1W
    FM modulation12.5 kHz: 8K50F3E
    25 kHz: 16KΦF3E;
    4FSK modulation (DMR) 
    12.5kHz (only data): 7K60FXD
    12.5kHz (data and voice): 7K60FXE
    modulation Limiting
    @ 12.5kHz +/- 2.5kHz
    +/- 5 kHz @ 25kHz
    Conducted Emission
    DBm≤1GHz -36 / -30 dBm≥1GHz
    Adjacent Channel Power
    ≤ -60dB
    Noise FM-40dB
    Audio distortion 
    3%
    Audio response 
    + 1 / -3 dB
    Digital Voice coding 
    AMBE + 2 ™
    Receiver
    Digital Sensitivity
    5% BER: 0.25 uV
    Analog Sensitivity0.25 uV (12dB SINAD)
    intermodulation 60dB
    Adjacent channel selectivity 60dB
    Spurious Response Rejection 60dB
    Noise FM-40dB
    Audio response 
    + 1 / -3 dB
    Loudspeaker audio power1W
    Audio distortion 
    3% 
    Conducted Spurious Emission
    -57dBm



    Link to Google Translated Webpage: CLICK HERE

    24 October 2016

    Spooky Backscatter Signals



    Video:YouTube/M0DAD



    Just in time for halloween, some spooky sounding backscatter on 20m!

    President Lincoln II vs CRT Superstar SS-7900 Power Peak & Tune



    Video:YouTube/Klaus R.



    Up to 100w out of a President Lincoln 2 and 90w out of a CRT SS-7900/Anytone AT5555N.....

    23 October 2016

    Video: Galashiels Radio Rally 2016






    Galashiels Radio Rally Today....


    Just a reminder that Galashiels Radio Rally takes place today so why not take the trip up to 'Bonnie Scotland' and see if there are any bargains to be had.......

    Location:

    The Volunteer Hall
    St John Street
    Galashiels
    Scottish Borders
    TD1 3JX
    Doors open at 11.15am (Disabled access from 11.00am)


    Video from last years event: