Going Mobile
At some point you will want to put a radio in a vehicle. There are so many things to consider so let’s look at the basics. Will it be permanent? What band(s) do you want to operate? Where can you put everything? Will you be breaking any laws?
Some people lease cars and cannot make any changes to the vehicle without risking a big Bill to repair when returning them. For these folks and those who only want to do something Every now and then you can find a great way to temporarily place equipment in a vehicle. (This is important if you want to work special events/public service events) First you need a source of power. A cigarette lighter or 12v power port is great for that. Next an antenna. Magnetic mounts are wonderful but get one that will hold the antenna in place and give you a good signal. When you bring the cable into the vehicle try to do the least amount of damage possible. I have seen cables totally flattened and that is bad. Last, you need somewhere to place the radio where it will not hurt you if you are in a crash. Stuck between the seat and a console is usually the easiest place.
Permanent mounts require a lot more thought and work. First you will need to find a place to mount your antenna. The roof is the best place for most VHF/UHF antennae. There are Special tools to drill in rooftops and snake the coax down to where you will place the radio. BEWARE of airbags, electrical harnesses and the like. Most radios come with a mounting bracket that you can attach in a spot where you can have access to the controls and your microphone will be within reach. Finding a good spot to get power is becoming more challenging. If your fuse block is inside of the vehicle you can use a power tap or an unused spot. Just remember the higher the current draw the larger the fuse and cable size. So many of us like running directly to the battery and putting a fuse right there. Be careful when coming thru any part of the
Chassis that you do not nick the cable.
Having someone who has done an install work with you the first time is a great help. Check out other installations and see what you like. As a side note, make sure you check the Laws of the state your vehicle is registered. Most hams have exemptions to place and operate Equipment in vehicle….however there are some very strange rules still on the books out there. I advise all hams to have a copy of their license in the vehicle. Law enforcement will likely not bother you if you have a current license in your possession.
Whichever way you go with antennae make sure you take them off before going into a car wash, Parking garage or other place with low clearance. (You will probably hit signs at drive-thrus. I always made a big racket at a bank drive thru.)
Be safe, drive safely and l will see you on the air!
73 WA2NTW