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Nostalgic ARES
Mr. Haydon (AC2Q)
on
November 4, 2007
View comments about this article!
Below are excerpts I put together on the “Go Box” that I and fellow club member KC9DEQ assembled for our local ARES group.
The case, from a WWII era BC-221 Frequency Meter was donated by another club member. He had purchased the empty case at a Hamfest, so no vintage equipment was harmed in the making of this Go Box.
We did maintain the markings and color as a sort of tribute.
Self Contained Dual Band Station using Kenwood D-700 2m/440 Xcvr
Integral Power Supply, Antenna, and Battery Power
Front panel folds Down for radio Operation
Antenna can remain on case or be remotely positioned.
Showing Battery Pack and power supply
12 Volt 7.5Ah pack for extended operation
Thermostatically controlled fan for extended A/C mains operation
8 position fused 12Volt power panel
This article has expired. No more comments may be added.
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Nostalgic ARES
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by K1CJS on November 4, 2007
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A little bit more of a writeup explaining the various parts, why they were selected, and how they function as a whole would have been nice. How it could be set up and used is briefly touched on--too briefly. The case looks sturdy--and heavy, too.
A look at the pictures shows the batteries out of the case--how are they held in and removed so quickly as they seem to be? I would hope they aren't just put in, as that would allow shorting--or is the case insulated on the inside?
This looks like a nice project using different ideas. The article would have been so much better if a proper write up were done. Please--tell us more!
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by KB1IIX on November 4, 2007
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As far as I'm concerned, the "box" is always the key to this kind of project. This box was perfect, just wish it was available somewhere. If anyone has any sources for good "boxes", please post. And not just a transport box, but one that can be opened up, plugged in and put in service. I also feel that power supplies should be in a seperate box. Weight is very important. I saw an emcomm station that could barely be moved, much less carried. The designer was very proud of having everything in one box. Too bad it just wasn't practical.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by WA1RNE on November 4, 2007
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Although short on the technical details, this looks to be a decent setup using an available case.....nice job.
But to the others points, a Go Box made of steel and containing batteries can be heavy and a literally a "drag" to transport.
Assuming one has a nominal budget for designing one, here's a suggestion for what I consider a really elegant solution for a Go Box enclosure:
http://www.skbcases.com/industrial/media/dynamic/icategory_view_image.php?id=13&role=isheet
SKB makes very durable polyethylene rack mount cases. They are available in various heights, i.e. 4U, 6U, etc. and have built in molded handles for transport, 2" deep covers with gaskets and hardware for mounting 19" rack mounted equipment and instrumentation. They can be designed with built-in cooling such that air is both taken in and exhausted via the front panel, maintaining a sealed water-tight enclosure.
To keep weight to a minimum, I would consider adding a good quality switching power supply as the 13.8 vdc power source and add a connector to the front panel to allow connection of an external battery back up or other DC source.
If built-in battery power is required, they could be installed in the bottom/rear cover and easily accessed for swap out or replacement.
...WA1RNE
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by K5MO on November 4, 2007
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What detail is needed?
There's plenty of detail in the article. It's a WWII freq. meter box, a radio, and some power distribution/charging circuitry with a temp controlled fan. A few min on the web (Google is your friend) can likely produce plenty of detail on how to duplicate the functionality shown.
Ham radio is about experimentation. Take an idea and try it!
John K5MO
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Nostalgic ARES
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by W4VR on November 4, 2007
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Nice pics, but where is the text explaining the details of what's in the pics...inadvertently left out?..or the subject of a Part II article?
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by WY3X on November 4, 2007
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Personally, I would have opted for an Icom IC-7000 or Yaesu FT-100D (or similar) or even an FT-817. Of course it would have driven the costs up substantially, but then, when a hurricane hits here the object is to be able not only to communicate shelter-to-shelter or shelter-to-EOC, but also to communicate with the outside world if necessary to the extent possible*. This is the reason (as someone else points out) experimentation is needed- to tailor the project to suit one's environmental needs. What this guy needs in his box isn't necessarily what needs to be in yours! -KR4WM
*Without demeaning ourselves by resorting to VOIP.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by WY3X on November 4, 2007
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>Nice pics, but where is the text explaining the details
>of what's in the pics...inadvertently left out?..or the
>subject of a Part II article?
The text is all there, just not where it should be. I can see where a beginning ham might be easily confused... I only see one item that is not described. -KR4WM
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by KG6WLS on November 4, 2007
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Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words and it always makes one try to build a better mouse trap. This "go kit" looks like it would be a little heavy to me though.
73
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W4VR on November 4, 2007
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kr4wm. that's the item I was talking about. Got my ticket 3 months ago. please forgive me father.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by NXET on November 4, 2007
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Nice idea and use for the old box.
I found that the Grab Box was going to be a second radio and second everything else. This adds to the expense of ownership. So instead I started looking at the station in a box.
I looked at the way the WWII command post had theirs. googled the pictures and saw what they used in WWII on both sides of the fence. I then adapted mine to where it can be grabbed and taken to the remote site if necessary. Actually it goes from the house to the motorhome most of the time.
In my experances with ecom and all I would have to say that most gear towards the 2/440 bands. The 440 band is coming under attack by the USAF and I would assume that in the two locations where they are getting the remote drones and PAWS going we will see 440 disapear completeley. 2 mtrs in the field is limited at best to line of sight. So unless someone puts a repeater up high its not much use except locally.
None the less, most ops are not going to run more than one band. Which one? You won't know until you are their. But, which ever it is you need a radio that will work it.
Your goind to need a good antenna for what ever band your going to be working on. Is this going to take a second box then?
While it may seem excessive, the two boxes are better than one thinks. The antenna box then can be used for a op seat. This way you don't have to haul all the other accessories such as a table and chairs along too.
I am not thinking a third box for the power source that then has bat, charger, power supply, and/or small powerplant might be better than having it all in one box.
Now with that in mind and a all in one box station that can be used in the house as well as in the field, I started looking for things like footlockers and small surplus containers. I never could find anything that was not expensive or just didn't fit until one day I came across a camp kitchen. Indeed the box that they built was exactly what was needed. A cover that would open up into a work place, the back opens so that you can get into the guts of the power,antennas and like--along with allowing it to have cool air. (fans take power folks) And the best part, it was compact, stood on its own and cheap. The table saw made quick work out of the cabnet grade plywood that turned into a nice looking 3 level all in one (exept the power supply) station box.
Just some ideas of what can be done. You don't have to go spend twice for radios and expensive boxes to put 'em in.
remember the best ECOM radio is the one that works--not what its put in.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by K9ZF on November 4, 2007
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A very good looking and perfectly functional setup. Although I agree it looks more heavy than what I would care for.
I believe the author probably thought the rest of the "details" were obvious enough.
The SKB cases WA1RNE suggested look perfect, but I'll bet they come with a shocking sticker price as well. I didn't see any mention of price on the link. I love the idea of them being stackable. This would give you the option of setting up a separate box for different "modules"...
I haven't tried to build a "go box" like this myself, yet. But I'm thinking it would be better to leave the battery in a separate container. This would help lighten the load, and would give you the option of not bringing the battery if power is available on site. Although the built in switcher power supply, as WA1RNE suggested, would be a must. I have one of the Samlex 23a switchers ear-marked for a project like this. I'm also considering a small inverter as well.
73
Dan
--
K9ZF /R no budget Rover ***QRP-l #1269
Check out the Rover Resource Page at: <http://www.qsl.net/n9rla>
List Administrator for: InHam+grid-loc+ham-books
Ask me how to join the Indiana Ham Mailing list!
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Nostalgic ARES
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by W7NWH on November 4, 2007
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Nice shack-in-a-box, a tad on the heavy side. SKB cases work great (rack rails) or try "Gator" cases about 20% cheaper then SKB and just as good if not better.
I have 3 of em, two for broadcast work and one for ham radio use.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by N6KYS on November 4, 2007
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Let me get this straight....a guy buys a big old box, puts a small modern rig with batteries in it, and this is supposed to be innovation and creativity? All in the name of ARES....what a surprise. Those dorks will do anything to get noticed.
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Nostalgic ARES
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by DOUGG on November 4, 2007
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Iv'e never seen so many Grumpy Old Men in any other Hobby.
These People are posting Articiles for our enjoyment, and someone might learn something, even if You know it all !
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W7ETA on November 4, 2007
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Thanks for taking the time to take the pixs and sending them in for everyone else to see.
We'll wait for the complainers to submit their improved version.
Many of us anxiously await seeing your perfect units accompanied by your perfect articles.
Bob
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by W7ETA on November 4, 2007
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Thanks for taking the time to take the pixs and sending them in for everyone else to see.
We'll wait for the complainers to submit their improved version.
Many of us anxiously await seeing your perfect units accompanied by your perfect articles.
Bob
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by N6KYS on November 4, 2007
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"ARES......Over 50 years of getting in the way"
"It's an emergency....quick, someone find me a ham operator!!!!"
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by NXET on November 4, 2007
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Don't you just love it. Some people can't seem to stay on the topic of conversation.
If these so called higher levels of intelligence are so smart how come they can't come up with a better mouse trap or grab box?
Notice they are inept to do so but are quick to make fun of somones attempt at the problem.
Sure its easy to snicker about the fact that ecom and ham radio has been degraded now and not thought of in such high circles but, it has proven that it still gets out when everything else goes down.
these same inept smart people that are harrassing the efforts of those who are trying are probably the same ones that flocked in and got their license when they did away with the code requirement. How dumb can that be?
I say its good food for thought for a lot of new hams who ARE interested in serving the public and come forth to answer the call if it ever comes.
Keep up the good work... I enjoy seeing how others are attempting to solve the current problems.
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Nostalgic ARES
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by KG4RRN on November 5, 2007
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What a waste of space in an old box.
Does anyone else see this is a waste of space?
Actually, my suggestion is to use pelican boxes, they are waterproof, and hold a lot of radio/amp/battery/power supply equipment and and so versitle, some case have handles which pull up and wheels, now imagine you are in ARES, and deployed to
say a high school shelter, which box would you rather be going in with, the one shown here, or something on wheels and a nice bar handle?
You decide, and this message has been approved by KG4RRN, who remind all to VOTE on Nov 6th !
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W7ETA on November 5, 2007
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How many days, weeks, or months before you post pictures of yours?
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W7ETA on November 5, 2007
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How many days, weeks, or months before you post pictures of yours?
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by KB1EVZ on November 5, 2007
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In response to KR4WM's comment about VoIP:
If a VoIP system is up, why not use it? Sure, you should be prepared for when it's down, but if the Internet is still working, there's no sense in wasting your batteries sending a signal directly when other modes will still work. If the VoIP stops working, then by all means use HF, but don't eliminate it categorically.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W9WHE-II on November 5, 2007
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Nice work!
Its great to see that some hams actually build things, as opposed to just buy things.
W9WHE
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by WY3X on November 5, 2007
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I got my ham RADIO license in order to use a RADIO. No amateur radio license is required to use an internet chat room. Any non-ham can start a Yahoo or AOL Chat room and effect digital comms! Why is it that Echostinkers feel they're accomplishing something unique when they use the same commercial service that any unlicensed person has access to? Ham operators have -one- unique difference over the average person, and that is a license to transmit! We need to stress that as an advantage, and showcase it. Why go through all the trouble to get a license and plop yourself behind a keyboard hooked to the internet? In my mind, it's kind of like a highly educated cardiac specialist doing yard work for a living. Personally, I can't wait to see the AMSAT "Eagle" fly!
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by AC2Q on November 5, 2007
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OK, thanks for the responses, and a little more detail might be called for.
I will add some specifics to aid in understanding, and of course to provide fodder for the Nattering Nabobs of Negativism who no doubt are taking time away from thier extensive homebrewing to set me straight =0)
The Box: Is made of WOOD, 1/4" 7 ply plywood, the case weighs about 2 pounds, has metal corners, very sturdy.
The Antenna: is a 1/2 wave or better on both bands, and was chosen based upon members of the group owning same and reporting positive results, it is advertised by the manufacturer as not requiring a ground plane, you're mileage may vary. I don't recall the brand/model at the moment.
The Power Supply/Battery: P/S is by NewMar, and is rated at 6 amps. It was chosen because I had it and donated it.
I did not mention the battery charging circuit, which is pure K.I.S.S.
It consists of a #1816 Incandescent bulb in parallel with a 20 amp diode. The #1816 bulb limits charging current to 300mA, the diode supplies current to the radio. this is mounted underneath the Powerpole panel. "If the light is bright, the battery is light"
Certainly there are other, perhaps better ways to do that as well, but they are also more complicated.
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Nostalgic ARES
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by KE7MU on November 5, 2007
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Hey great idea, I have one of those boxes in the shed. Looks perfect for a shack in a box, line it with MU metal and it's EMP resistant (depending on how close you are). I have priced the SKB/Gator/Storm/Pelican boxes and think you are saving a $100+. Others have mentioned too much weight, no wheels, waisted space... You could probably stuff a porta john, some food, a rain pancho, solar still and put it in a wagon, but someone will still find fault. I think I'll dig my box out and make a porta station too. But I'll add 110v converter for a coffee pot, chili pepper Christmas lites and TV to boot.
Good Job
KE7MU
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by AC2Q on November 5, 2007
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To KE7MU:
If I were to build another GoBox, I would include this:
http://www.tailgatorzone.com/
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W5HTW on November 5, 2007
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<< by K9ZF on November 4, 2007 Mail this to a friend!
A very good looking and perfectly functional setup. Although I agree it looks more heavy than what I would care for.
I believe the author probably thought the rest of the "details" were obvious enough. >>
"More heavy?" Hmmmm. Is it also "more tall" than a "more short" one? Or "more short" than a "more tall" one? Or maybe just "more small." Of course, there are those that are "more big."
Ha. Now I am trying to get "more unheavy." Too many burgers and pizzas. At the same time.
When I saw the title of the threat I thought it was going to discuss ARES back in the days when we were hams who volunteered to help in emergencies, rather than emergency volunteers who agreed to be hams. Uh, more hams. I had high hopes we would see what ARES used to be. Nope. Didn't happen.
Ed
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by W3JKS on November 6, 2007
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Another idea for a more portable setup - find an old Motorola APCOR UHF EMS radio. Designed to be carried, and it has a very nice handset inside.
(http://www.browards-bravest.com/Images/BCEMS%20LifePak5_small.jpg) <- unit on left of picture
I am in the process of mounting a Yaesu quad-bander inside mine along with a TNC and (hopefully, if it fits!) a nano-ITX PC board with WiFi. All you need is a keyboard and flat-panel for a fully-functional packet station which runs on 12V or AC power.
73,
john
(brings back memories of running around Wilmington with an APCOR and a LifePak in the old days :-)
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by N6KYS on November 7, 2007
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RE: Nostalgic ARES Reply
by AA9YA on November 6, 2007 Mail this to a friend!
No more whacker tards!!!!
Careful, KF8ZN will send you a private email like he did to me, whining about you not being TOTALLY thrilled with his creation. I guess, the cover of QST is where he wants his big box to be shown next.
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by AC2Q on November 7, 2007
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N6KYS writes:
Careful, KF8ZN will send you a private email like he did to me, whining about you not being TOTALLY thrilled with his creation. I guess, the cover of QST is where he wants his big box to be shown next.
---------------------------------------------------
What I wrote was "It is a pity you are so bitter OM."
I didn't publish this for fame, merely as information, and yes I do enjoy building things.
We have used "the box" at several Public Service Events, and it often elicits comment. Some think the whole thing is WWII Vintage, which gives us a conversation starting point to spread the COMRADRY of Amateur Radio.
That's part of what the Hobby is about Brad!
I refuse to be crabby and out of sorts, Amateur Radio is a great Hobby, and although off topic, since you mentioned your belief that ARES "gets in the way", I would ask you the direct question:
What VOLUNTEER Organization, entirely self supplied and trained at no expense to anyone else, does it better?
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by WA2JJH on November 7, 2007
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NICE! Everybody has their unique way of doing things.
The photo's were worth a tons of words.
Great Job. People may nit-pick. However, some never wrote a single artical on e-ham!
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RE: Nostalgic ARES - 440 & USAF
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by N2OBY on November 8, 2007
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<<The 440 band is coming under attack by the USAF and I would assume that in the two locations where they are getting the remote drones and PAWS going we will see 440 disapear completeley.>>
INCORRECT. As the Air Force is the primary service in the 440 band, not the amateur service, it would be more accurate to say that they are "coming under attack" by amateurs.
However having said that, if you were to actually follow the story closely you'd learn two important facts:
1) The issue does NOT affect all amateur 440 operations as a whole - rather only REPEATERS within a specific distance of the PAVE PAWS sites.
2) The Air Force has no desire to see amateurs vacate the band. In fact it is more than willing to work with us to minimize the impact on our service.
Folks should have their facts straight before they make erroneous statements in public forums. This only serves to spread misinformation and make themselves look stupid.
-Ken N2OBY
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RE: Nostalgic ARES (MORE INFO)
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by W9DML on November 8, 2007
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Mike, the antenna is an Arrow J-Pole ($39.00)
http://www.arrowantennas.com/j-pole.html
that can be hoisted as high as available coax will allow. As you may remember, we cut a few pieces of PVC and put them in the 54" aluminum gun case along with the antenna and some bungee coards,tent pegs and some guy wires/cords to allow "instant erection".
The entire station can be carried by a 100% disabled 67 year old AF Veteran. (ME)
'73
daVe
%^)
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RE: Nostalgic ARES (MORE INFO)
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by WA2JJH on November 8, 2007
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Love using war surplus. If you can find a RACAL loud speaker...buy it! I have a few. Makes any rig sound great.
Vietnam ERA broadband discone antenna's are around.
They are 2 feet longer than commercial ones.
One Discone, great for UHF/VHF/6M/10M. All military green fiber glass. They open and close like an umbrella!
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by KD7YVV on November 9, 2007
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Interesting go box, I'm curious, do you have a solar
panel also? I'm not too good on sizing things from
pictures, but wouldn't a small solar panel be a good
wan to give your batteries a trickle charge?
I too would have liked to know more about how ARES
used to be, but still, this is an interesting
construction project. In case I missed it, what is the
total weight with batteries and all?
I forget what they're called, caster wheels I think.
Doesn't Home Depot sell rubber caster wheels you can
screw onto the bottom of things?
If I were to use that particular box, I'd try putting
the batteries on the bottom since they're heavier than
the radio. Overall it looks like a good portable setup
like those used when monitoring river levels.
Also, is this meant to sit on a table or the floor?
--KD7YVV, Kirkland, WA
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by AC2Q on November 13, 2007
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The GoBox is appprox 16" tall 10" w 10" deep.
Completely outfitted with batteries, etc, I am guessing it weighs no more than 15 pounds.
SO, no casters or crane required =0)
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RE: Nostalgic ARES
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by N6HPX on November 13, 2007
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Nice idea unfortunately for me I couldnt be able to use it..as I wouldnt be able to set it up in my suit case..
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