SamUpstate (he/him)2d ago

I passed my Technician's exam today, so I should be a fully licensed ham radio operator in a few days.

Now I need to start looking for some gear. Initially I'll just be looking to learn, but eventually I want to figure out a setup that I can easily pack (and possibly use?) on my bike.

#HamRadio

Show threadJon in Albany2d ago

@SamUpstate I have no idea of this is good gear or a good price, but it is local

https://albany.craigslist.org/ele/d/wynantskill-portable-ham-radio-reduced/7913220886.html

Portable ham radio reduced price - electronics - by owner - sale - craigslist

Xiegu model X5105 highly portable HF transceiver with Xiegu CE-19 data interface card kit. This is a multimode radio, supports ssb, cw, fm, am and digital inputs. Power output .5- 5 Watts (there is...

craigslist
Show threadB. Garfoot  
@joninalbany @SamUpstate It's not a terrible deal - looks like they're currently around $500 new.
Jun 24 at 12:56amWeb
Show threadB. Garfoot  2d ago

@SamUpstate However, I don't think I'd recommend it as a first rig for 2 main reasons:

1) as a technician, you have fairly limited access to the HF bands, especially if you don't know CW.

2) QRP operations can be a bit of an art, especially as they get more difficult with the decline of the solar cycle

I would personally start out with a 2m/440 handheld (HT) to get onto your local repeaters. Then, study for your general license, as you look into used HF rigs