If you’re deciding on the right mobile radio to purchase for your home and/or vehicle, you’re likely loaded with questions. What features do I need? Should I go with single or dual-band? Would a handheld be a better choice? Am I ready for digital? What about the proper antennas, mounts, power supplies, cables, programming software, and other accessories?
A great place to start your research is with this OnAllBands article from Ward Silver, N0AX, “What to Look for in Your First Mobile Rig.” Also check out this blog post from Mark, K8MSH, “Guide to Choosing the Right Mobile VHF/UHF Antennas and Mounts.”
Perhaps the best piece of advice when choosing a mobile rig is to seek honest direction from experienced operators who can assess your needs, skill level, and budget. Ask members of your amateur radio club about their experiences. Not in a club? You’ll also find friendly support from the Elmers at DX Engineering—plus a selection of mobile rigs and accessories from top manufacturers. Here are a few options to get you started:
Kenwood TM-281A 2 Meter Mobile Transceiver
On road or off, this powerful, rugged radio delivers dependable communication in a compact package. Easy to operate and loaded with advanced features, the TM-281A has a large internal speaker for clear audio, multiple scan functions, and large LCD screen with adjustable backlighting for day or night operating.
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Icom IC-2300H VHF FM Transceiver
Hams know that you can’t
go wrong with an Icom radio—and the
IC-2300H is no exception. This tough and versatile radio features 65 watts of
stable output power, a range of scan options, and weather channel with weather
alert functions in a package that will fit nicely in whatever you’re driving.
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Yaesu FT-2980R 80W 2M FM Mobile Transceiver
From the longtime Ham radio leaders at Yaesu comes this 80-watt powerhouse built for fun or emergency communication needs. Features include three watts of receiver audio output for stellar reception in noisy environments, heavy heat sink with no cooling fan needed, large six-digit backlit LCD screen, and loads more.
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Alinco DJ-VX50T Dual-Band Handheld Transceiver
Whether at work or on your next adventure, this handheld delivers professional-grade transmitting and receiving performance. In addition to FM transmit coverage of 144-148 and 420-450 MHz, you receive built-in wideband receiver capabilities including VHF AM aircraft, FM broadcast, and NOAA Weather radio. 1800 mAh Li-ion battery pack and charging cradle included.
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Comet Mobile Antennas and Mounts
DX Engineering carries a range of sturdy mobile antennas and vehicle mounts from Comet. Choose from durable options for each band or multiband models. Plus, select from various antenna styles for clean, unobtrusive installation on your vehicle. Comet has mounts for every mobile antenna size as well as no-hole fender brackets for specific trucks and SUVs.
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Diamond Mobile Antennas and Mounts
Looking for price, quality, and versatility in a mobile antenna? You’ll find all three with Diamond. Diamond offers an extensive selection of monoband and multiband antennas, screwdriver antennas, and HF monoband antennas. Secure your antenna with motor drive, magnet, luggage and rack, or trunk and hatchback mounts.
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Coaxial Cable Assemblies
These low-loss cable
assemblies are available in standard lengths with
DX Engineering’s revolutionary patented PL-259 connector. Use the online Custom Cable Builder at DXEngineering.com to
build assemblies made to your exact specs. DX Engineering’s coaxial cable is
also available by the foot or in bulk spools.
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Ham Radio Licensing Manuals
Not a licensed Ham radio operator yet? Do you have your license but need to brush up on the basics? DX Engineering has easy-to-understand and up-to-date licensing study manuals from ARRL, W5YI, and others covering all three amateur radio classes.
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Also look for mobile antennas from COMPACtenna; other available mobile transceivers, including Yaesu’s FTM-300DR Digital Dual-Band C4FM/FM Mobile Transceiver with full duplex; mobile whip antennas; and more at DXEngineering.com.
