Subj : Todays New Gear Tip
To   : All
From : Daryl Stout
Date : Tue Oct 17 2017 12:07 am

Programming And Configuration Software

With so many memory channels and radio configuration settings to manage,
having some software to assist you is very useful. Programming and
configuration software is available from the radio manufacturer and from
independent authors. Along with the software, you'll need a programming
cable to connect the radio to the computer. Cloning is another way of
configuring your radio by transferring the memory contents from an
identical radio. If your radio supports cloning, a special cable is
usually required. Your club or emcomm team may have cables and software
for common radios, including files that will program your radio with the
common channels used by members.

Mobile radios are intended to be operated in a vehicle, but they can make
an excellent base-station radio, especially if you have limited space.
These radios consume somewhat less current than fixed station radios when
not transmitting. This may be important if you intend to use the radio
for emcomm and expect to be operating on battery power occasionally.
If not used in a vehicle, a dc power supply will be needed. The same
concerns about small front panels and ease of use apply. 

Radios for base stations are available in many different price ranges
because of the great differences in performance and features. Some will
operate directly from ac power outlets. Most of the performance
differences are associated with the receiver. High-performance receivers
have better selectivity and strong-signal performance as discussed
later. Some radios even have two receivers! It is normally best to start
with a basic radio and develop a feel for what is important to you. 



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