Connunications update following Polls:

[Paul]

Hi LS.
Good to be back.
Hope the xyl is well.
Got to take issue with range, power, and simplicity though.

Low power to me means what to takes to power something?
My new 12 watt SSB CB draws 2.2 amps on transmit and me screaming into the mic (110% modulation).
Standby, 0.35 amps.
Change to AM, 4 watts, 0.85 amps.

Simple technology?
Don't get much simpler than a CB set the ultimate transceiver.
No pratting round with frequencies, simple channel switch.
Bit fiddly with a Delta tune for SSB but that's familiarization for you.

Off the shelf consumer product as found almost everywhere in Europe.
Cheap too, mail order, 60 Euros (£48).
Thus avoiding UK rip off pricing.

Range?
Want to talk further than mainland UK or Europe in your case? Why?
I know I endlessly keep on banging on about it (probably boring you all to death) but communications in an emergency is predominately used to SUMMON HELP and maintain contact with your base / group. Not for social long range 'chit chat'.

10 miles good comms is my goal.
10 miles is 3-4 hours walking or 15 (ish) mins in a car.
Anything else is too far and would arrive too late if at all.

I really must change this record I keep playing, it's wearing out!

73's
Paul.