I picked up a Wouxun KG-UVD1 the otherday.  While programming I see a function called "Wait Back".  Options are ON or OFF.

What the heck is the "Wait Back" function?

 ???ds

I want to add a 2M to my Jeep but I hate the little nubby antenna.   Anyone have a recommendation of good LONG 2M ant?  Maybe a 5/8 whip?

What did that video have to do with HAM or repeaters?  Unless you were talking about repeat-offenders?

Told ya I was too dumb. I am surprised I passed any of the tests… let alone all three back to back.

I am to dumb to be a Lid

Ok… I will admit I was a CB-er back in the 70s.  Thought HAM would be an interesting hobby so here I am.

That said.  I read and read a lot on the internet.  I have yet been able to find the answer to what I thought would be an easy question.

What is the proper protocol for trying to get a Radio Check on a repeater? 

The repeater call sign, my call sign, then ask for a check?
My call sign, the repeater call sign, then ask for a check?
Toss out my call sign and hope for an answer?
Never say the words "Radio Check" ever again?
Never say "Check" ever again?
Something different entirely?

Some help here please.

Only a few weeks back here is the Dallas Fort Worth area we were hit with 4 tornados all occurring at the same time.  Is EMCOMM needed?  I can only say “SKYWARN”.  If you live in an area prone tornadoes you will find EMCOMM (or at least the SKYWARN part) life saving.

Even with live TV, Live Broadcast radio and all the RADAR in the world it was the feet on the ground (HAMs) that were informing the media and the rest of us where to duck for cover.

As far as people thinking Cell Phones are the end all be all… forget it.  For hours after the tornados the Cell service was useless.  Either from downed power lines, downed towers, or just jammed with calls way above and beyond what the system is designed for.

I would ask, if EMCOMM wasn’t needed why would towns and country bother with having a paid staff member as a liaison between Emergency Management and HAMs?  The answer is… they wouldn’t. 

I can see the point about the lights, vests, hard hats and the magnetic car door signs being a bit over the top… But if the cost doesn’t come out your pocket… who cares. 

To the remarks about When All Else Fails..  I kind of agree, if that happens I will not pickup a microphone.. it will be my AK.   I always say… 911 is for the folks that find your body.
However, that situation will not last forever and folks will need to pick up the pieces.  Society will need all the skilled technicians that can be found.  And having a pre trained communication network might come handy. Just saying.

As far as an ongoing push… Don’t be sheep.  If you’re not interested.. Don’t do it!