Afleveringen
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A lot of people treat the Technician license like it's a learner's permit.
It isn't.
In this episode, I break down what a Technician class amateur radio license actually allows you to do â and why most operators never fully use what they already have.
We're talking about:
What VHF and UHF are truly capable of
Why repeaters are valuable but not magic
Why simplex matters more than most people think
Why packet radio deserves serious attention
And why most Technician licenses are underutilized, not underpowered
You don't need an upgrade to begin building real capability.
You need to understand what you already have access to.If you've passed the test and aren't sure what to do next, this episode is for you.
Ready to Go Further?If this episode clarified things for you and you're ready to stop guessing, here are the two ways I help:
1. The 30/30 Ham Radio Challenge
A simple, daily plan to earn your license and actually start using ham radio.
No cramming. No drama. Just steady progress.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome2. The 90-Minute Communications Planning Session
If you want to talk through your situationâdistance, family, expectations, and realistic optionsâthis is where we do that.
No gear sales. No theory. Just clarity.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/first-five-minutesIf neither of those are for you, that's fine too.
This show exists to explain the landscape, not convince anyone to walk it. -
Ham radio testing is where a lot of people stall.
Not because it's hard.
Not because it's unfair.
And not because access is restricted.In this episode, I talk plainly about why testing exists, why it's required, and why the arguments around it haven't changed in yearsâeven as access has become easier than ever.
I've watched this cycle repeat long enough to recognize the pattern. People fear the test, pass the test, and then freeze because they don't know what to do next. The test was never the real problem.
This isn't test prep.
It isn't a debate.
And it isn't a defense of tradition.It's an explanation of how the system works, why it's structured the way it is, and why getting past the test is simply the doorwayânot the destination.
Ready to Go Further?If this episode clarified things for you and you're ready to stop guessing, here are the two ways I help:
1. The 30/30 Ham Radio Challenge
A simple, daily plan to earn your license and actually start using ham radio.
No cramming. No drama. Just steady progress.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome2. The 90-Minute Communications Planning Session
If you want to talk through your situationâdistance, family, expectations, and realistic optionsâthis is where we do that.
No gear sales. No theory. Just clarity.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/first-five-minutesIf neither of those are for you, that's fine too.
This show exists to explain the landscape, not convince anyone to walk it. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Ham Radio: Why I Started the Journey (and Where "Ham" Came From)
Ham radio didn't start as a hobby for me. In this episode, I talk through why I finally took amateur radio seriously, what problem I was trying to solve, and why ham radio kept showing up at the end of the communications conversation.
I also touch lightly on the history of the amateur radio service and where the term "ham" came fromânot as trivia, but to clear up common misconceptions.
This isn't a tutorial, test prep, or a gear review. It's a conversation about motivation, capability, and why ham radio became part of my preparedness plan when other options came up short.
Ready to Go Further?
TrUSDX Micro Ham Radio: https://amzn.to/4boNWDJIf this episode clarified things for you and you're ready to stop guessing, here are the two ways I help:
1. The 30/30 Ham Radio Challenge
A simple, daily plan to earn your license and actually start using ham radio.
No cramming. No drama. Just steady progress.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome2. The 90-Minute Communications Planning Session
If you want to talk through your situationâdistance, family, expectations, and realistic optionsâthis is where we do that.
No gear sales. No theory. Just clarity.
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/first-five-minutesIf neither of those are for you, that's fine too.
This show exists to explain the landscape, not convince anyone to walk it. -
Ham radio usually comes up at the end of the conversation about communications. Not first, and not earlyâafter people have already tried other options and figured out what feels easy and what doesn't.
In this episode, I talk through why that happens. I walk through patterns I've seen over time: how people approach communication planning, how radios get bought and set aside, and why plans often fall apart when they're never used or practiced ahead of time.
This isn't a tutorial or a licensing guide. I'm not explaining how to get started or what equipment to buy. It's simply a conversation about time, familiarity, and why ham radio tends to sit where it doesâat the end.
Trot Over to YoutTube to actually watch the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCSRyX6ECBg&lc=Ugw6l1c4ZMLW_Qb1H6J4AaABAg
30/30 Challenge:
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcomeWhy Your Family Won't Use the Radios - Mindset Book #1
https://prepcomms-shop.fourthwall.com/products/why-your-family-wont-use-the-radiosIf you want someone to look at your situationâyour family, your distance, your goalsâand help you decide what actually makes sense, you can book a family communications planning session with Caleb.
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Most families don't lose communication because radios fail.
They lose it because there's no routine, no shared rhythm, and no clear understanding of what silence actually means.In this episode, Caleb closes out the GMRS series by walking through how families should actually use radios day to day â how to structure simple check-ins, why calm routines matter more than gear, and how to respond when the radio goes quiet without panic.
This episode focuses on habits and decision-making, not technology for technology's sake.
What We CoverWhy communication routines matter more than emergencies
What a proper family radio check-in should sound like
How often families should check in under normal and elevated conditions
What silence really means on the radio â and what it doesn't
When to wait, when to retry, and when to escalate
Why calm leadership matters more than signal strength
Planning HelpIf listening to this made you realize your family doesn't actually have a communication plan â not gear, but a real plan â Caleb offers a paid 90-Minute Family Communication Planning Session to help you decide what to rely on when phones fail.
Book here: https://plan.prepcomms.com
GMRS Resources MentionedThe First 10 Things to Do with a GMRS Radio (Mini-Book)
https://prepcomms-shop.fourthwall.com/products/the-first-10-things-to-do-with-a-gmrs-radio-family-connect-mini-book-2Pelicomms GMRS Œ-Wave Base Antenna
Found Here in the Prep Comms StoreWilComs Roll-Up Antenna (portable GMRS/MURS use)
Looking Ahead
Available via the Prep Comms storeGMRS provides solid local communication for families when phones don't cooperate.
For those ready to expand beyond local coverage, Ham Radio conversations begin in 2026.If you want a head start, Caleb offers a simple 30-day path to earn your amateur radio license before the end of January:
https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome
No pressure. No rush.
Caleb Nelson, K4CDN, WRBR237
Prep Comms Podcast -
Most families don't lose communication because the radio fails.
They lose it because stress changes how people talk.In this episode, Caleb breaks down how families actually communicate on GMRS â the common mistakes that create confusion, and the simple habits that keep radio traffic calm and clear when it matters.
This isn't about gear.
What We Cover
It's about behavior, clarity, and confidence.
Why stress breaks radio communication
The three most common family communication mistakes
How talking too fast and over-explaining kills clarity
A simple, repeatable family radio pattern that works
Why roles matter more than radios
How to teach kids calm radio habits without fear
Need a clear family communication plan?
Caleb offers a paid 90-Minute Family Communication Planning Session to help you decide what to rely on when phones fail.Book here: https://plan.prepcomms.com
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Most families buy GMRS radios⊠then realize no one actually knows how to use them when the phones go quiet.
This episode fixes that.Today we walk through the simple, practical skills every household needs to use GMRS with confidence:
âą The 3-button rule
âą How to choose the right channel group without a chart
âą How to know if you're hitting a repeater
âą What to do when you hear nothing
âą The 10-second teaching script for non-technical adults
âą A weekly household radio routine that actually worksNo programming. No deep tech. Just clear steps any family can follow.
Mentioned in the show:
Register for the Winter Backup Plan Webinar (Dec 9): https://live.prepcomms.com
Prep Comms Network Founders Pricing: https://founders.prepcomms.com
Family Advent Calendar: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/advent-calendar
GMRS + MURS Gear (my store): https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/storehome73 y'all & God Bless.
****Master Class (12/15/25) https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/masterclass-order-page
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Most new GMRS users hit the same wall: thirty channels on the screen, all looking equal⊠but they're not.
Some are full-power.
Some are handheld-only.
Some can hit repeaters.
Some won't carry your voice past the yard.In this episode, we break down GMRS the way real families actually use it:
âą The three channel groups that matter
âą What power limits mean in the real world
âą Which channels give you real range
âą Why Channels 8â14 feel so weak
âą The only three channels your family needs to know
âą How repeaters actually work on GMRSIf you've ever wondered why GMRS feels "strong one minute, weak the next," this episode clears it up.
BLACK FRIDAY LIVE:
I'm hosting a Live Zoom call on November 29th at 1 PM Eastern to help you build a simple winter-ready communication plan. (your invited!)
Register at: https://live.prepcomms.comDECEMBER 9 WINTER WORKSHOP:
Same link gets you access to the Dec 9th session as well.News Mention:
This week's nationwide CodeRED outage is a reminder of why you need a WX radio & alternate comms matter. Full WYFF report here:
https://www.wyff4.com/article/emergency-notification-system-offline-after-vendor-cybersecurity-incident-officials-say/69533822Show close:
73 y'all & God Bless.
Yes, Night Cafe assisted with the photo for this episode (like always) -
Prep Comms 2025 Christmas & Black Friday Special
Host: Caleb Nelson, K4CDN âYour no-nonsense guide to smart radio gear and real-world readiness.
From AM/FM and weather radios to shortwave, scanners, CB, MURS, FRS, GMRS and power setups â what actually works and what's worth buying.
Full storefront and extra gear at https://amazon.prepcomms.comBONUS: Family Comms Advent Calendar PDF
AM / FM & Weather
Vondior NOAA â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P7QDJZX
Sangean MMR-99 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWPSGM18
Midland ER10VP â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SYK7LJT
Midland WR-120 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY
RCA RCWR7V â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HSTL7JYShortwave
Tecsun PL880 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDM4N5K
Tecsun PL368 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZY9GTJV
County Comm GP Series â https://countycomm.com/collections/radioScanners
HomePatrol-2 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JJY6S72
BCD436HP â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I33XDAK
BC355N â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00972M9VKCB Radios
Uniden PRO520XL â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004VXNI
Bearcat 980 SSB â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G610DEY
Galaxy DX-959B â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V8C1N96
Radioddity CB-27 Pro â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B56KST6F
President McKinley â https://amzn.to/4nRUcXeMURS
BTECH MURS-V2 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS8KW399
Dakota M538 Base â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K370GA
Retevis RT27V â https://amzn.to/3LJmOEF
WilComms Roll-Up J-Pole â https://prepcomms.shop
More info â https://MURS.prepcomms.comFRS Radios
BTECH FRS-A1 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2X58BJ5
Motorola T605 H2O â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMWBVCB5GMRS Radios
BTECH GMRS-V2 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Z1NJ1M3
BTECH GMRS-50PRO â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT7KC686
ÂŒ-Wave & Roll-Up Antennas â https://prepcomms.shop
GMRS License Guide â https://GMRS.prepcomms.comPower & Preparedness
EcoFlow DELTA 2 â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHMD99Y4
Honda EU2200i â https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YJVDGS1Ham & Advanced
Favorite Radio â BTECH UV-Pro
Best Dealer â https://mtcradio.com
Ham Radio Prep (Code HAMRADIO360) â
30Ă30 Challenge â https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcomeJoin the Prep Comms Network
Private training for families and teams who want to communicate reliably â now, not later.
Monthly training that builds confidence through practice. No theory. No jargon.
Founders get half-price lifetime access, a seat on the Dec 2025 Founders Call, and entry to our private online group + Discord.
Enrollment closes Nov 30 â https://founders.prepcomms.comExtra links:
Amazon Storefront â https://amazon.prepcomms.com
GMRS License â https://GMRS.prepcomms.com
PrepComms Gear â https://prepcomms.shop
30Ă30 Challenge â https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome
Prep Comms Network â https://founders.prepcomms.com73 y'all & God Bless.
â Caleb Nelson K4CDN -
This week's Prep Comms Podcast digs into the real part of GMRSâhow to use it day-to-day.
No hype, no theory. Just what works.Caleb Nelson (K4CDN / WRBR 237) walks through:
Teaching your family how to power on, adjust volume, and find the right channel
Labeling radios so anyone can grab one and talk
What privacy tones really do (and what they don't)
How GMRS repeaters extend your range â and the simple steps to use them correctly
Why practice matters more than equipment
You'll also hear about the new BTech GMRS-50 Pro, the PeliComms ÂŒ-Wave Base Antenna now in stock at PrepComms.shop, and the launch of the Prep Comms Network â a private members-only group for real-world radio users who want to keep learning together, solve problems, and stay connected without the noise of social media.
Gotta Have Info: www.myGMRS.com
Show Links & ResourcesGet your GMRS license the easy way: FamilyConnectSystem.com/GMRSLicenseExpress
Find local GMRS repeaters: MyGMRS.com
BTech GMRS-50 Pro Base Station: Amazon Listing
Retevis RA86 GMRS Mobile Radio: Amazon Listing
Retevis GMRS Base Antenna (7.2 dBi Gain): Amazon Listing
Nagoya UT-72G Mag-Mount Antenna: Amazon Listing
PeliComms GMRS Œ-Wave Base Antenna (Made in USA): Shop at Hub City Mercantile
ZBM2 QP Whip Antenna (use code PREPCOMMS): Product Link
WilComs Roll-Up J-Pole (MURS/GMRS): Shop Here
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This week, we're hearing from you â real operators in real situations.
From Hurricane Helene reports to mountain-range tests and home-built towers, listeners across the country are proving what GMRS can actually do. Caleb Nelson (K4CDN | WRBR 237) shares lessons from YouTube and podcast feedback, covering antenna height, coax loss, repeater etiquette, and why practice still beats theory.
Mentioned in this episode:
âą Free GMRS License Express Guide â https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/gmrs-license-express-funnel
âą @TerminalElement on YouTube â https://www.youtube.com/@TerminalElement
âą UHF Yagi Directional Antenna (Prep Comms Store) â https://amzn.to/48Weco0Stay Connected:
Live Family Connect Webinar â Thurs 7 PM ET | Replay FriâMon â https://www.familyconnectsystem.com
All episodes â https://www.prepcomms.com73 y'all & God Bless
â Caleb Nelson | K4CDN | WRBR 237 -
In this episode, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN | WRBR237) breaks down what GMRS can really doâand what it can't.
You'll learn how far GMRS actually reaches, why antenna height beats transmitter power every time, and what equipment upgrades make the biggest difference for families building real communication plans.
We'll also cover license coverage, the truth about 50 watts, repeater basics, and why investing in a better antenna might triple your range overnight.
Links & Resources:
Free GMRS License Express Guide â
Live Family Connect Webinar â Thursdays 7 PM ET | Replay FriâMon â
More episodes â @PrepCommsRecommended Gear:
BTECH GMRS-50PRO â
Retevis RA86 â
ZBM2 QP Whip (use code PREPCOMMS) â
Wil-Coms Roll-Up J-Pole â
Centerfire Ground-Plane â
Find Repeaters â https://mygmrs.com -
What you'll learn (fast):
Why GMRS is the practical "bigger brother" to FRS: same 22 channels, different rules, more capability.
The license is simple: $35, 10 years, one license covers your whole household (apply at FCC.gov).
Range reality: terrain + antennas matter. Main channels allow up to 50W transmitter output; interstitials are lower.
Privacy tones â privacy. GMRS is open-air. You must ID every 15 minutes and at the end.
Why certified radios matter (and why new FRS/GMRS combo handhelds aren't sold anymore).
Links & resources:
Free: GMRS License Express Guide
Read: How to Get Your GMRS License
Vetted Gear: Amazon GMRS List â https://www.amazon.com/shop/hamradio360/list/3NJ7FK9BFG6V9
www.PrepComms.com
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FRS radios are a great start, but they aren't the whole plan. They work for kids, neighbors, and short-range use â but when the storm hits or the grid goes down, you may need more.
In this episode, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) explains how FRS fits into a complete family communication plan, including:
The strengths and limits of FRS radios
How GMRS, MURS, and ham radio build on that foundation
Why thinking in layers â the Cascade Protocol â makes families stronger
How National Preparedness Month is the right time to move from gear to plan
FRS is a tool worth having, and combined with clarity, it's what keeps families connected.
Mentioned in this episode:
BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK
Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki
Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt
Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T
Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q
Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com
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FRS radios aren't all created equal. Some blister-pack sets are cheap toys that break in a weekend, while others are solid enough to trust on family trips or in an emergency.
In this third episode of the FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) takes a practical look at the gear:
What really matters in an FRS radio (durability, batteries, usability)
Why you shouldn't believe the "35-mile range" marketing
The difference between throwaway blister packs and quality FRS options
Caleb's go-to pick for a reliable family radio
This isn't about buying the most expensive radio on the shelf â it's about choosing gear that works when your family needs it.
And with September being National Preparedness Month, there's no better time to make sure your radios are ready.
Want the bigger picture? The Family Connect System webinar replay is available now. Watch here: www.familyconnectsystem.com
Mentioned in this episode:
BTECH FRS-A1 (Caleb's pick): https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK
Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki
Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt
Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T
Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q
Blog recap: hamradionetwork.com/
Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com
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August 29, 2005. Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast, the levees failed, and the water swallowed entire neighborhoods. Phones went dead. Power grids collapsed. Families were cut off and 911 calls were rerouted anywhere a signal could land.
In the middle of that chaos were volunteers â amateur radio operators who carried their share of the load when the systems failed.
One of them was Carl, KB5WMY (Silent Key). In 2015, he sat down with me to share his story of working at the Bossier Parish 911 center after Katrina. Carl spoke openly about the calls he could help, the ones he couldn't, and the weight of serving in those days.
Now, on the 20th anniversary of Katrina, we honor Carl's memory and service by replaying that full conversation. It's a behind-the-scenes look at how ordinary people with radios made a difference when everything else went silent.
vist www.prepcomms.com for more including the bonus audio material -
FRS radios aren't long-range or flashy, but they're still one of the most useful family tools you can own.
In this episode of the Prep Comms Podcast, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) dives into how families actually use FRS today, including:
Keeping kids connected in the neighborhood
Calling everyone home for dinner without shouting
Car-to-car communication on road trips and caravans
Staying in touch at theme parks, malls, and campgrounds
Why short range and lack of privacy don't have to be deal-breakers
FRS may not be perfect, but it works â and when it comes to family connection, that's what matters most.
Learn more in the blog: hamradionetwork.com/blog/frs-realworld
Radios mentioned: BTECH FRS-A1
Build your full plan: Family Connect System -
In 1996, the FCC created the Family Radio Service (FRS) to give everyday families a simple, free, and legal way to stay connected.
You've probably seen these radios before â blister packs on the shelves at Walmart, Bass Pro, or Target promising 30 miles of range. The truth? They don't go nearly that far, but they've kept families connected for decades.
In this first episode of our FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) shares:
The history of FRS and why the FCC gave it to the public
How blister-pack walkie talkies became household items in the 90s and 2000s
The real strengths of FRS (simple, free, license-free)
The real limits (range, fixed antennas, crowded channels)
Why FRS still matters in your family's communication plan today
Whether you've already got a set sitting in a drawer or you're new to radios, this episode will help you see FRS in a whole new light.
--Mentioned in this episode:
BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK
Family Connect System: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com
Listen, learn, and share this with someone who still thinks those blister-pack radios can go 35 miles.
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Episode 4 â Is MURS Still Worth It?
Why This Forgotten Band Might Be the Most Reliable Tool in Your Family's KitAfter four episodes, we're wrapping up the MURS Mini-Series with a hard look at one questionâdoes MURS still have a place in 2025?
For 15+ years, I've used MURS radios on our farm for everything from driveway alerts to in-vehicle comms on family road trips. In this episode, I'm breaking down:
Real-world MURS performance from long-term use
Why antennas matter more than radios (and my trusted picks)
How MURS compares to FRS, GMRS, CB, and ham radio today
Who MURS is perfect forâand who should look elsewhere
If you've been wondering whether to add MURS to your comms planâor keep using itâyou'll have the answers after this.
Mentioned in this episode:
Amazon Storefront (MURS Gear): https://amzn.to/3DKR8Lx
ZBM2 QP Whip (Use Code: PREPCOMMS): https://zbm2industries.com/products/qp-whip-antenna-thicc
Ed Fong DBJ-1C Antenna: https://www.kbcubed.com/DBJ-1C-GMRS-MURS-Dual-Band-Base-Antenna-by-Ed-Fong-p406162512
J-Pole for MURS: https://www.jpole-antenna.com/shop/murs-151-154-mhz-land-mobile-j-pole-antenna
Centerfire Folded Dipoles: https://centerfire-antenna.square.site/product/folded-dipoles/5
Centerfire Ground Plane: https://centerfire-antenna.square.site/product/vhf-uhf-tunable-ground-plane-antennas/8
Comet GP-9 Vertical: https://rwantennastore.com/comet-gp-9nca-gmrs-frs-commercial-dual-band-vhf-uhf-base-vertical-antennas
Low-Loss Coax: https://amzn.to/40xx47F
RG8x for shorter runs: https://amzn.to/4m6EuqP
30/30 Ham Radio Challenge: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome
Family Connect System Webinar: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com
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Digital Modes, Text Messaging, Repeatersâand Why Clarity Matters
In this episode of the Prep Comms Podcast, we dive into one of the most misunderstood parts of MURS radio: digital modes.
Is digital really banned on MURS? Can you send a text? What about crossband repeaters or modes like MT63, RTTY, or APRS?
Caleb clears the air by breaking down what the FCC actually allowsâand where people still cross the line. From legal analog data modes to banned digital voice, this episode brings clarity to a confusing corner of the radio spectrum.
We'll also hit:
Texting over MURS (yes, it's possible)
Why repeatersâincluding crossbandâare a no-go
How your antenna system makes or breaks signal strength
What "manual control" and bandwidth limits really mean
Mentioned in this episode:
đ Webinar + course for families: www.FamilyConnectSystem.com
đ Amazon gear list: https://amzn.to/3DKR8Lx
đ ZBM2 QP Whip Antenna: ZBM2 Store â use coupon PREPCOMMS
đ Ed Fong DBJ-1C: Ed Fong Store
đ Centerfire Ground Plane: View Here
đ JPole for MURS: J-Pole AntennasRattlegram: Blog Post
đ Rattlegram: Android
đ Rattlegram: iOS
Want to stay legal and stay connected?
Join the families building real emergency comms systemsâwithout the confusion:
đ www.FamilyConnectSystem.com - Laat meer zien
