|
|
 |
|---|
|
Thumbing through a recent edition of Monitoring Times, I ran across a full page
ad for a new book titled Emergency Survival Communications. From the
information seen printed on the cover alone, it looked like a great resource
and a necessary addition to the monitoring library.
What follows are my personal impressions regarding the book in question. This, in no way, should be viewed as an endorsement to purchase this book nor is it intended to discourage anyone from buying it. I have no personal or business relations with either the author or publisher. These are simply thoughts offered to my fellow hobbyists who may be interested in purchasing this particular book or simply want to know more about it. A lot of hard work and effort has gone into the testing and writing of this review. I would appreciate it if every effort is made to keep this document whole with me as the original author. Of course, it doesn't hurt that this document is copyrighted and therefore protected by US law and international treaties governing intellectual property. Except for personal use, and for the sake of brief passages quoted in reviews and given appropriate credit, no part of this work may be reproduced in any forms or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior written permission of the author. And if you want to share your thoughts about this review with me or have further questions, feel free to send e-mail. Thank you and enjoy!
Rich Wells |
Next, a listing of emergency "events" details possible situations to prepare for and the equipment that might come in handy. These events include violent storms, tornadoes, wildfires, snow and ice storms, hurricanes, earthquakes, terrorist activities, and international crises.
In order to follow such events and remain in the know, it is necessary to not only have the proper equipment, but how to use it and use it effectively with the proper frequency information.
To keep current for personal and local events, the author covers the use of CB, marine, business, GMRS, FRS and amateur radios as well as cellular telephones.
There is also mention of the Internet to which the author says "is the last place to run for information" since it is "wide open to opinions to anyone, it is quite time-consuming, opinionated and of questionable accuracy." I really think the author is doing this medium a disservice and needs to spend more time surfing the net to realize it's true potential.
The Internet, like non-Internet resources and communications, is filled with both official and non-official participants/information. It's up to the individual to separate the wheat from the chaff at times. If you are dumb enough to believe anyone's verbal opinion for fact, then you'll likely do the same on the internet with written opinions. It's not the medium but the individual who proves how useful the content is or is not.
And there has probably been more reliable and timely information passed on to hobbyists, and therefore put into use immediately in the last five years on the Internet, than has Probably been published and disseminated in twice that time.
An overview of the communications spectrum is covered next which details the basic frequency bands and the typical services found in each.
The chapter finished up by covering monitoring laws and the requirements for being able to transmit on various services.
Chapter 2 Overview
This chapter starts by stating how the news media is a part of our everyday
life due to the availability of TV and radio as well as conditioning since we
were born. But reporting is not always accurate and can be subject to
"political influence or network bias."
The author points out the information that is available on a normal AM broadcast radio and how, at night, stations can be heard for thousands of miles giving news and conditions throughout a geographic area. There's also a handy chart of clear channel AM radio stations given as well.
Alternative news sources such as talk shows and religious broadcasts can provide needed details but some can "border on sheer gossip and sensationalism."
Chapter 3 Overview
This chapter is directed at shortwave radio. What's there to listen to as well
as the type of radio you'll need to get it.
The author describes this 1.7 - 30 MHz band as "a gold mine of ethnic programs and factual news from around the world". It is not only used by the news media marine and amateur radio operators, but also by "numerous military, guerilla and clandestine forces, and many other services."
The international shortwave broadcast band is covered in fairly good detail noting the times for best listening and the major users of each sub-band. There is both a handy chart and world map to help convert UTC times to local times in the US. There's also a listing of eight shortwave listening clubs.
Next up are brief discussions on the HF marine, aircraft and amateur radio bands. This is followed by a description of signal propagation by skipping.
Shortwave receivers are covered with the major aspects to help choose the model that's should be right for your listening interests. There's also a glossary of some of the popular terms and features you'll find when shopping. A few of the models available from Grundig, Lowe, Drake and Kenwood are covered. The AOR, iCOM and Yaesu brand names are mentioned in passing.
Basic HF antenna design and setup are discussed for long wires, dipoles and inverted-v types. Makeshift antennas are covered in short for use as indoor alternatives. An effective ground system is also detailed.
The chapter closes with a discussion on how to power shortwave receivers. Those that can be run off of batteries or 12 volt DC have their obvious advantages during those times when AC power is not available. The pros and cons of carbon, alkaline, NiCd, gell cell and sealed lead acid batteries are covered.
I was surprised to see no mention made of Nickel-Metal-Hydride nor Lithium-based technologies. The "memory effect" of NiCds was mentioned though.
Chapter 4 Overview
Chapter four introduces the reader to the world of amateur radio. The author
not only discuses the hobbyist perks for belonging to this group but the
important role they play when involved with the military, Red Cross, FEMA, EOC,
RACES, etc.
The basics of obtaining a licenses are covered as well as a quick look at the frequency bands available to the amateur for transmitting. Common misconceptions regarding the need for expensive equipment and comprehensive electrical backgrounds and knowledge are put to rest.
The world of HF communications are covered next with respect to antennas, equipment and modes of operation. There is also a breakdown of the HF amateur bands with each listing the frequencies involved, modes of operation, times of best use and effective antennas.
This is followed by a section on VHF/UHF usage. An interesting chart shows the bands available and the modes available to the various amateur license classes. The importance of repeaters is covered along with computerized controllers which allow various functions, including autopatches to landline phones.
Satellite communication is discussed briefly right before a list of the popular bands and their frequencies and antennas are covered. This is followed by a brief section on selecting equipment and antennas for working the various amateur bands.
The various classes of amateur radio operators are covered along with what one must pass to get the license. Each class is listed with the operating bands and modes available to that class. There is also a handy chart displaying the 16 amateur Volunteer Examiner Coordinators in the US which can help you locate a club in your area which administers the license exams.
Next up is an overview of equipment available from several manufacturers which caters to the amateur market. Various handheld, mobile and base models from Yaesu, Alinco, Kenwood, Icom and Standard are covered.
With consideration given to the receivers, attention is now turned toward the antenna. The basic design and use of dipoles, inverted vees, twin-leads, G5RV multi-bands and delta loops are covered.
Chapter 5 Overview
This chapter is devoted to the scanning hobby and scanning receivers. The
evolution of the scanner, from the days of public safety monitoring on HF, to
its move to VHF and UHF are detailed.
These days, the author states that "scanning is hotter than ever before" and that a scanner "is a vital part of any survivalist's equipment". He also states the use of 800MHz trunking and the cat-and-mouse game this creates between the radio manufacturers and the scanner technological gains.
It does bother me that the author considers one of the recent innovations in scanner development to be "units with more than 100 memories for keeping track of everything".
The issue of legal concerns when monitoring is then covered. The Communications Act of '34, ECPA of '86, and Telephone Disclosure and Dispute Resolution Act of '93 are highlighted. The author also draws attention to the fact that everyone needs to keep in mind that some states have their own laws regarding what one can and can not do with the use of a scanner.
It is also interesting to note that the author says that most people are intrigued by the cellular phone transmissions but that it should obviously be kept to one's self and that the "curiosity will wear off after a day or two of monitoring."
What follows is a decent listing of the agencies that can be heard with a typical scanner and the frequency ranges to look in.
We them move on to a section which details how to select a scanner. Considerations such as easy or complex should be considered as well as technical specifications. Portability and power requirements are also an important feature to think about. The importance of sensitivity, selectivity and intermod rejection are stressed as well.
The importance of a high scanning speed is also mentioned by the author. Here, he talks about the "latest scanners that will zip from 30 MHz to 1 GHz in less than two seconds." Doh! That's not a scanner by either definition of the FCC or a hobbyist! I can only imagine the newcomer who reads that and then zips down to Radio Shack or other local electronics shop to pick up just such a speedy radio. He later mentions that Optoelectronics makes such a receiver and that it comes with a speaker to hear the displayed signal's audio. How excited will the foaming-at-the-mouth buyer be when they realize that this model, the Xplorer sells for $900?
The next section covers power sources and the importance of having a radio which can be run off of alkalines or 12 volt batteries. I couldn't agree more. Both base and mobile units can be found that will run off of AC or DC but they will require higher voltage and current drains. As the author states, "the handheld scanner gives one the best of all worlds." Due to their compact size, low power requirements, wide frequency range and features, they make the perfect companion, wherever you choose to roam.
And an interesting piece of advice is given by the author when he states, "Base, mobile , handheld - which scanner is best for you? If in doubt, get one of each!" Now he's starting to make some sense...
The next section lists an assortment of scanner features and functions available in today's market of radios. Once the radio is purchased, the author states the importance of sitting down with the manual and taking a little time and patience to learn their new device. Much agreement there!
What follows is a section which details some of the radios on the market today. The author is definitely familiar with the Bearcat line as four of the six models mentioned are Uniden made. The other two are the AR5000 ($2000) and the Xplorer ($900 and not a scanner). No Radio Shack? At the VERY least I would have liked to have seen these since they are available to nearly everyone in the US and parts of Europe (as Tandy models). Instead, he lists the outdated BC220XLT and similar SC150 while also ignoring popular iCOM models.
Attention is then turned on external antennas with mention of the Diamond D-130J and Grove Scan Beam. Mobile antennas are covered very briefly and no mention is given at all to upgrading the stock antenna on a handheld.
The chapter closes with a page dedicated to Senator Tauzin's HR2369 bill which started out as a large threat to the scanning hobby. I would hope to see this removed for any next edition as it is a page from the past and we don't need people starting more rumors that will spread like wildfire on the Internet.
Chapter 6 Overview
This chapter is dedicated to covering CB radio which the author states is a
vital piece of survival communications gear because it is "the most popular
and readily available form of two-way communication on a large scale".
What initially started out as a two-way service requiring an FCC license in 1958, the Citizens Band "grew into an absolute craze during the mid-1970s." Today, it enjoys 40 channels, a "most commendable nationwide emergency monitoring network (REACT) on Channel 9", and is undergoing a "vigorous comeback."
The author states that over 50 million CB radios are used in the US with typical mobile unit costs as little as $50 adding to its prevalence. With so many people sharing a limited number of channels, interference is a problem but the main limiting factor is due to power restrictions and channel congestion. While communications distances of 10 to 20 miles is possible, such conditions reduce this to 4 or 5.
Used in a courteous manner, the author states that CB communication can be used during times of emergency to gather information about local conditions. It's even useful to gain traffic info to help avoid costly and aggravating delays. He also states that CBs are useful for neighborhood watch programs as well as maintaining relations in rural areas were homes are further spread out.
For emergency purposes, many "police and highway patrol vehicles even have a CB monitoring channel". Boaters can use the devices as well and the Coast Guard listens to Channel 9 for emergency calls.
The author then moves on to discuss various inside information about CB. AM is used on channels 1 through 23 and is the most prevalent mode for most CBs. It's also restricted to 4 watts. Single sideband (SSB) is mainly used on channels 24 through 40. The necessary equipment is more expensive and output power is limited to 12 watts. The author says that operation in this mode is "more akin to Amateur Radio than CB."
What follows next is a description of the common usage for some of the CB channels as well as a chart listing the popular CB 10-codes. This is followed by a small section on using shortwave receivers to monitor the CB band. But the author cautions that inexpensive and older models have poor sensitivity in this range and that a wire of length 9 or 18 feet can be connected to the antenna terminal to aid in reception.
The next series of sections deal with covering the various features and functions available in today's CB model market. The author tells what to look for as well explaining the good and the bad. A number of models are then covered from various manufacturers. Major considerations are covered and a few pictures are included.
Antennas for use with CBs are covered. Basic considerations are covered for both base and mobile units including verticals, beams and cross polarized models.
The last section covers power sources which largely consists of units that can run on 12 volts DC power. During the loss of power, a 12-volt gell cell or motorcycle battery "will work nicely." However, be sure to note the model's specifications to note the current drain; especially if the radio will be used for transmitting.
Chapter 7 Overview
This chapter is devoted to covering various types of personal communications
systems. The devices that fall under this category include low power business
band radios, marine band handhelds, GMRS and FRS models, cell phones, 49 MHz
units and field telephones.
The first item covered is signal propagation for these VHF/UHF devices. Line of sight is discussed as well as long range effects that occur during temperature inversions usually during spring and fall. VHF signals will penetrate foliage and wood but are blocked by metal objects and buildings. UHF are almost an exact opposite being blocked by foliage and wood but reflecting off of metal objects and buildings.
Handheld business radios are covered first. These devices operate in the business and land-mobile bands. The are primarily used by industrial operations and businesses and operate in the 150-173 and 457-470 MHz ranges. And, of course, an FCC license is needed to transmit legally. Such radios are usually low power, rated at 1 or 2 watts. Depending on the terrain, signals can be received across 2 to 5 miles. Most units also allow use of CTCSS to cut down on interference from other users on the same operating frequencies.
Covered next are the marine handhelds which are especially useful for short range communications if you live along a major body of water or waterway. These radios operate in the 156 to 162 MHz range and are allowed to be used when within 10 to 20 miles of the water. Many models are also set to receive the NOAA weather frequencies. These are also low power so the range is limited to a few miles at best. Again, an FCC license is required for transmitting.
An important note for these radios is that a "recent amendment to FCC rules now allows private land-mobile users to share 18 of the VHF marine band frequencies/channels for inland communications." This amounts to anything within 125 miles of a major waterway or coastline.
GMRS and FRS radios are up next. Both of these "personal" communications systems use a simple pairing of frequencies in the 462 MHz range and allow communications over a 2 to 10 mile range. One of the GMRS channels is set aside for emergency use and is monitored by REACT personnel.
The growing popularity of GMRS (and its subsequent abuse by business users), the FCC approved the new FRS in mid 1996. While GMRS operation required an FCC license to be legal, the FRS has no such restriction and also uses less power. The author points out that FRS units are ideal gear for the survivalist for staying in contact; say, around the home, out shopping or while on a road or camping trip.
Cellular telephones are covered briefly only because they are so popular these days. While they may be handy in densely populated areas, they are useless in remote areas without coverage. They might be fine during an emergency but should power fail, they are a useless tool. But the author does point out hope for the newest technology units that operate via satellite rather than ground based, AC powered repeater towers.
The older 49 MHz communications radios are covered next. These include many voice activated-units used by motorcyclists, walkie-talkies, old cordless phones and baby monitors. With so many uses, there can be a lot of interference in densely populated areas or complexes. The author does not particularly recommend these units for survival use since their range of a specific distance is not reliable.
The last devices covered in the chapter are field telephones. Similar to regular landline telephones, the operate using battery power and communicate via a simple wire. The range is obviously dependent on the amount of wire that can be strung between locations but the author mentions that the range can be up to 20 miles. Such units are available from specialized dealers as well as military surplus shops.
Chapter 8 Overview
This chapter is dedicated to covering GPS receivers. Today's units are
relatively inexpensive, give accuracy within 25 meters and allow a level of
self-reliance with respect to navigation that was unheard of just a few years
ago. Many models are so small that they can be slipped into coat pockets and
mounted unobtrusively on the dash of a vehicle.
GPS works due to the continuous operation of 24 satellites located about 11,000 miles above the earth. Such an arrangement assures that at least four satellites are always within line-of-sight at any one time.
The receiver operates on 1575.42 MHz and uses an extremely accurate clock in order to triangulate a position based on radio wave travel times which are moving at the speed of light!
Becoming more popular are databases of geographic information which can be plugged into the GPS allowing local details to be plotted as the unit is moved about. These moving map displays can be programmed to show details as large as cities or as small streets and rivers. Once attached to a computer, the amount of detail and information available is simply staggering. No wonder that auto manufacturers are adding them to their luxury models to help people navigate from point to point.
The final few sections cover a number of GPS receivers on today's market. Models by Trimble, Garmin and Magellan are covered.
Chapter 9 Overview
This chapter dedicates itself to "radios that operate completely
independently of normal energy sources." The author suggests that such devices
can be useful during extended power outages when your backup forms of energy
are exhausted.
The first such device which is covered is the quaint crystal radio. The author explains the basic components and how they all work together to receive signals. An important piece is the antenna which can be built simply. You might think of such things as common wire but the author also points out the use of "metal rain gutters, balcony rails, or chain link fences". To construct a more portable setup, the author describes how to use an empty Quaker Oats boxes wound with 16 to 24 gauge wire.
Other pieces, like the tuning capacitor and crystal diode, can be easily purchased from any number of electronic suppliers for minimum cost. For the earphones, special models with 2000 to 4000 ohm impedance must be used.
Step by step instructions are then given on how to construct this home-brewed AM receiver. Once completed, the chosen antenna is put up, connected to a good ground and attached to the radio.
Reception principles are covered and what to expect to hear. The author mentions that even VHF airband transmissions can be heard, provided you're within a quarter mile of the airport!
The next section details how such crystal sets were constructed and used by troops during World War II to keep up with events. Obviously, a number of innovations had to be dreamt up since no electronic parts were available. The author covers the materials and techniques used to put together this makeshift radio.
The final section covers the new Baygen wind-up radio. This radio, made in South Africa, can receive both AM and FM broadcast bands as well as 3 to 12 MHz. It gets its power from a small internal electric generator which must be wound up by the user. A good cranking for 20 seconds is supposed to deliver about 40 minutes of listening time.
The author states that "reception is reasonably good" but only typical of such a low cost model. It should be valued for its ability to be always ready and its rugged construction.
Chapter 10 Overview
This chapter concerns itself with obtaining weather information. Not only
should a battery powered AM/FM radio or TV be handy, but NOAA weather radios
and satellite weather faxes are excellent sources for keeping up to date with
Mother Nature.
The NOAA weather radio system is covered first. It starts with a chart of the seven US allocated NOAA weather frequencies; all within the 162 MHz range. The author states that 90% of the US population is within a 40 mile range of one of this 24 hour a day broadcasts. He also states that NOAA is trying to get this figure to 100%. A map of Florida is provided as an example which shows that state's NOAA signal coverage.
The sever weather broadcast alert is covered as well as the importance of buying a weather radio that can receive it. The author makes it clear that the costs of such radios makes it possible for everyone to own such a radio for "personal safety and security." The author also mentions that many marine, CB, amateur and portable AM/FM/TV radios are coming equipped with NOAA weather coverage as well.
The author also includes a number of paragraphs taken directly from the NOAA weather information booklet. One paragraph mentions the new Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) digital weather signals which helps NOAA to target severe weather information to intended individuals, typically at a county level.
The author then discusses amateur radio weather watches and emergency nets. Most are known by names like SKYWARN, AREC (Amateur Radio Emergency Corps), RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service). These also include related state A, B or C emergency networks.
Aircraft and marine weather stations are covered. Weather information for the local area can be heard on airport frequencies in the 118 - 136 MHz range. The author states that such transmissions "can be received between 10 to 20 miles" from the airport which I personally think is a bit on the optimistic side unless you've got a good beam antenna at a decent height.
The author notes that many other aircraft frequencies can be monitored as well to get other weather-related tidbits. He suggests scanning the 325 - 375 MHz band, if possible, to find FAA and military frequencies as well. The HF band is also not to be overlooked and the author provides a few choice frequencies to try out.
Turning to the marine realm, the Cost Guard supposedly "broadcasts weather data several times daily on marine radio channel 22A (157.100 MHz)." HF Coast Guard weather frequencies are also listed as well. Also listed are high power coastal stations which provide weather information to ships at sea. Stations and their frequencies are listed and the author also points out their weather fax capabilities as well.
The next section deals with weather faxes which consists of pictures and maps "transmitted daily on HF, VHF and satellite TV frequencies." The author states that these maps "typically show cloud cover, temperature, barometric pressure, and wind direction." Comparing a series of such pictures over the course of a few hours can give show frontal boundaries and storm movements.
How such data is gathered and then transmitted is covered as well as the equipment one needs to receive and process it. The most unusual piece is a converter or decoder which can take the signal from the receiver and feed it to a computer for any further processing and display. If a hard copy is needed then a printer will come in handy.
We then move on to antenna recommendations for receiving NOAA weather. TV antennas are covered, as well as FM, whip, dipole and ground plane models.
This chapter finishes up with a NOAA frequency listing for all fifty states, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin and Mariana Islands.
Chapter 11 Overview
This chapter covers a number of emergency and alternate power sources. The
author states that most emergencies result in power outages of less than 72
hours which can usually be handled by typical batteries. During severe times
when outages might last much longer, alternate sources need to be seriously
considered.
Rechargeable batteries can be a good choice for everyday use but they must be kept charged and at the ready at all times. And for long power outages, once they are drained, you'll be unable to recharge them. The next step is to use alkalines in the everyday AA, C and D sizes. To be sure we have an ample supply on hand, the author covers the energy potential of such cells and how to figure the current drain for typical devices. Knowing this, you can calculate the approximate time of one set of cells.
For large quantity demands, the author covers heavy duty batteries like those found in golf cart, trolling motor and RV/marine lead acid batteries which come in refillable and sealed types. Car batteries are not really the best choice due to their high current which results in high voltage drops over short distances, and the risk of heating/melting soft metals. To keep such batteries in good condition does take some maintenance.
Portable energy sources, like those sold by Valor and Whistler are also covered which are based on sealed lead-acid technology. The author seems impressed by these for not only their ability to power radio equipment for a few days, but their ability to jump start a vehicle.
Also mentioned here are solar powered AM/FM radios and battery chargers.
What follows next is a description of power converters and inverters. Convertors are used to convert one level of AC or DC voltage to another level of DC voltage. Inverters are used to convert DC power into AC. As such, an inverter allows typical AC equipment to be powered by batteries or run off your car's electrical system. A big consideration when selecting an inverter is its efficiency. Due to the necessary conversion from DC to AC, the voltage must be significantly increased which results in the generation of heat. The more heat that is generated, the more energy is lost in the process. To get the most out of your DC source, the most efficient and affordable unit should be chosen.
Next up are motor driven generators. Such motors run off of gasoline or diesel fuel and turn a generator capable of pumping out 400 to 25,000 watts, depending on the size and style. The down side to such generators are the amount of fuel and maintenance they require. To generate the proper output, such engines must be run at nearly full throttle. Doing so consumes a lot of fuel and creates more wear on internal parts, not to mention the noise and exhaust which must also be considered.
To maximize the benefits of such a generator, the author suggests using a diesel version (which has a serviceable life four times that of a gasoline driven unit) along with a muffler, to reduce noise, and burying 55-gallon drums for storing your own supply of fuel. Also discussed are a few models on today's market which are worthy of your scrutiny.
The author then points out the drawbacks of storing your own fuel and how it can oxidize as well as forming films and residues that will disable a generator in short order. Fuel treatments and other maintenance procedures are needed as well as controlling rust and corrosion. And let's not forget about gaskets and other parts which can dry out and crack, making them worthless. There is also a short discussion on storage of gasoline versus diesel fuel.
Wind and water powered generators are discussed next. The author mentions that several companies manufacture such equipment these days which is capable of delivering 300 to 3,000 watts. If you live in an area where you can harness the power of the wind or water, it can not only be used to power your equipment, but also used during non-emergency times to charge up a series of batteries.
And of course, what discussion of alternate power would be complete without covering solar energy? While not enough to generate enough power on demand, they are useful for charging multiple storage batteries. The author states that these days, solar panels "are now sold in an endless array of sizes to fit various needs."
What follows is an explanation of how solar energy is collected and turned into energy. More important, how much sun energy is needed to collect the proper amount of energy to supply your setup is discussed. This will vary based on the time of year, your geographic location and configuration of the cells.
Chapter 12 Overview
This chapter details the alternative TV and audio news and programming
broadcast by satellites. Such services can be received using C-Band type
antennas which are the older, 7.5 to 10 foot diameter dishes. Such systems can
be moved to any of 32 satellites. Each satellite carries at least 24 channels
with over 50% of these being free; no subscription needed or charges incurred.
The author recommend picking up such an antenna from local satellite dealers. Who, many times, are eager to have you take the large dishes off their hands. A 6 to 7.5 foot dish will pick up good audio reception but 10 feet is your goal for best reception. If unable to locate such a dish, the author says that late models are available starting at $300.
Used feedhorns and LNBs (? I guess the equipment mounted inside the dish to receive the focused radio energy) ) can be picked up at many dealers as well for as little as $30 - $35 dollars. When it comes to coax cable, the author says that only new cable should be used. He suggest RG-6U capable of carrying 950 - 1450 MHz frequencies (not TV coax cable) with F connectors at each end and to keep the length as short as possible.
The satellite receiver is responsible for selecting satellites, channels and tuning the audio subcarriers. It also sends voltage to the LNB via the coax. The author states that hundreds of thousands of such receivers are still around suitable for this purpose and can be had in the $25 to $45 range. He classifies it as "a non-IRD receiver that accepts a 950 - 1450 MHz input from the dish/LNB." Do not accept older, 70 MHz receivers. He suggest scouring the weekly classifieds and perhaps even placing a wanted ad yourself.
As a side note, the author states that he has counted over 140 TV channels and many more audio carriers which are in the clear, unscrambled.
There's a small section which mentions how to use such a system to create your own FM radio station using a small, FCC legal transmitter that is available cheap and often in kit form. Such a broadcast can be heard up to a mile away.
A new section starts by explaining how an inexpensive Single Channel Per Carrier (SCPC) receiver can be used to receive hundreds of radio stations using this dish system. Many stations even carry the popular collegiate and professional sports games. Other services include talk shows, alternative news, weather faxes, press faxes, NOAA weather photos and other world news. All these services are free and not scrambled. They can be found in a yearly publication titled "Satellite Radio Guide". At this time, the author mentions that this guide lists 800 services.
To close, the author mentions two books, Satellite Radio and Install, Aim and Repair Your Satellite TV system. The first covers the services available on domestic C- and KU-Band satellites which can be received with TVRO home systems. The second book is a handy reference, written to for any layman to read and help with installation and alignment as well as diagnosing and fixing problems with home satellite systems.
Supplement
Included with the book was an eight page supplement which states that it is
updated every three months and furnished with the book to provide the most
current resources.
Two pages are used to list a number of magazines which can be used to obtain the latest information on particular aspects of monitoring as well as reviews of the latest equipment.
Following sections include updated information for Alternative Shortwave Broadcasts, Alternative Satellite Radio Guide Audio Subcarrier, Internet and Survival Communications, Ground Wave Emergency Network (GWEN), and Worldwide Shortwave Radio Guide.
Summary
Whenever I think of disaster or emergency situations, I think about three
things: the equipment I'll need, how I will power it, and where I need to tune
to get the information I need to keep on top of things. On all three counts I
think the author has done an excellent job.
In the space of less than 200 pages, he manages to cover traditional news sources, shortwave, VHF/UHF scanning, amateur radio, CB, GMRS/FRS, business and marine radios, walkie talkies, cell phones, GPS receivers, weather faxes, NOAA resources, and satellite reception.
As if this weren't enough, he also covers all sorts of antenna systems for the various types of radios you might use. Normal (AC/DC, batteries, gell cells, gas/diesel generators) and alternative (hydro, wind and solar) sources of power are discussed as well as the pros and cons of each. All I can say is, "What? No geothermal coverage?"
One bit of advice would be to update the book to cover new advances in technology like Nickel-Metal Hydride and various Lithium powered cells. Also helpful might be some feedback on state-of-the-art battery chargers using microprocessor control and "pulse" charging techniques.
Also handy is a breakdown of the services available for monitoring across HF, VHF, and UHF as well as the amateur bands. Basic info is given on where and how to find things like local and government frequencies that will prove quite helpful when the you-know-what hits the fan. And it always does, sooner or later.
After finishing the book, it will be the reader's responsibility to find out the necessary local and global frequency information they'll be interested in monitoring. The worst must be anticipated and prepared for!
Also, and here is where I will fault the author a bit, the choice of some of the equipment which is mentioned could have been different. I think better choices for some of the radio gear could have been made rather than mentioning such radios as the AR5000, IC-R8500 and IC-R9000, which few will ever be able to afford. I also question the reference to a $900 frequency counter.
I think coverage from more manufacturers would be nice as well. He seemed to do this for the amateur and HF gear but when it came to scanning, only Uniden models and the AR5000 seemed of importance in being mentioned.
But the final burden does rest on the shoulders of the reader whose job it will be to use other resources to find the HF, VHF, and/or UHF receivers that will fit the job as well as their budget.
What I find most useful about this reference is all the things I began to think about when reading. I found some areas where I don't think I'm adequately prepared to handle certain situations. I also found new avenues of exploration in familiar areas as well as totally new directions to travel in. The last chapter on satellite reception seems like a whole new world to explore with all it seems to offer for free.
All things considered, it makes a great reference for the shelf that any serious receiver buff shouldn't be without. It's one of those books you'll be able to read again and again, and each time you'll find something you forgot about or could better prepare for. This is important stuff and if you prepare now, you'll be very thankful later, rather than kicking yourself in the backside for being shortsighted or lazy.
So why not surf on over to your favorite radio dealer or give them a call and pick up a copy? Now!
| Copyright © 2010 by Richard J. Wells |
 |