Recent content by pagero

Fair enough, I was referring to actually using the service. I've sent messages via satellite when in a cellular dead zone about a mile's hike from my house and I was able to both send and receive messages.

Disabling cell service and wifi is not sufficient. You need to leave leave cell service enabled and go to a place where there is no cell reception.

I have an inreach mini, but I haven't used it on my last few trips. Instead I rely on my iphone's sattelite mode for texting and reporting position. And SOS should I need it. Using the iphone is not as convenient. I have to stop and look for a satellite, but it's good enough as long as i...

If you're open to ditching the ditch light mount (!) I recommend this one: https://www.gamiviti.com/antenna-brackets I have two of these on my 4Runner. Puts the antenna a bit more forward than a ditch mount, and the antenna stays in place when you open the hood. Not stong enough for a 40"...

As far as I can tell, that radio covers the Australian CB frequencies, but not the ones used in the US. From the description on Amazon: Frequency Range: VHF:136-174MHz UHF:400-490MHz

For what it's worth, I noticed on my last trip that my inreach mini wouldn't charge from my portable battery bank, but it would charge just fine when plugged in to a USB adapter plugged into my vehicle. Best guess it draws so little power my power bank shuts off. Other than that, my unit has...

Forget about TP altogether and bring a few sheets of paper towels. It's not like you're going to flush it anyway!

Now you made me go back and look at the cable I'm currently using between the display and the main unit... It's this one from Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B076PCCGMX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1 It's a flat cable, and from the looks of it I'm guessing each...

Haven't extended the cables, but I use a regular CAT6 between the control panel and the main radio unit. Found one on Amazon with a flat cable & a 90 degree angle on the control panel side, makes the cable a little less obtrusive. Have not noticed any problems.

Options to consider include: A Garmin InReach - I like the Mini - for reaching out in case of emergency whether you're hiking or driving. It's also a great device for sharing your location with others using a password protected website. Requires a subscription. Those that you give access to...

I use a Garmin Inreach Mini for emergency comms and for texting those that might be joining up with our group later. I'd imagine the spot can do the same thing, but I'm really happy with the Inreach for that purpose. As a bonus I also use it put down breadcrumbs. I figure my family can look...

@DaveInDenver RC-D710 is the front panel, right? Yes, I was indeed able to program channels as well as other settings using the Kenwood MCP-6A software with my ebay sourced cable connected to the front panel. I like the Kenwood software better than Chirp, although it is easier to get data in...

@SmoothLC I actually purchased a cable on ebay. Seller was bluemax49ers, and I paid $26.95. Works like a charm!

I can program my TM-D710 using the Kenwood software by plugging into the back of the head unit. If I want to use Chirp then I need to plug the cable into the main radio unit. Why the difference? I don't know, but I tend to use the Kenwood software.

I like the idea of adding a second battery, although I with your wiring you risk blowing a fuse if there's significant voltage difference between the local and starter batteries and you turn the key to the Accessory position. Most of the smaller batteries I've found are AGM, and from what...