It's that time of year for me to go through every form of communications, from laptops to PC's, walkie-talkies to HAM, GMRS, FRS and other radios and everything else imaginable. The goal is to perform basic checks and services, and in the military we call this "PMCS". I do regular checks every month on some communications equipment. Typically, whenever I have the time, but usually on a day off -and I normally only check battery levels on my most critical items. But, once every year I make an effort to do a thorough check on basically...everything. It has been an ongoing process over the last few days already, and one thing that also follows is perusing Amazon for upgrades and replacement parts. This is a Cliff Notes version of what has transpired thus far, and what I still have to do. Accomplished: Went through all of the handheld radios (Checked batteries, reprogrammed with CHIRP as needed.) Purchased new components and radios. (Always a symptom.) I got the Panasonic Toughpad fully updated and charged all batteries. (Ordered new cables for various charging capabilities) Set up the new handheld for the car, replacing the old one. (Currently using a UV-5R with backup battery and eliminator with Faraday bag) Getting ready to set up the new POC handheld devices. (TIDRadio TD-G18 unlimited service 4G) To Do: Must prepare a UV-5R from the many I already have for the motorcycle. Acquire a Lora P1 solar node for mesh network. Go through the old Panasonic Toughbook and update as needed. (It's a redundant system non-critical.) Upgrade to latest Kindle for E-Book readiness. (Done, awaiting delivery and setup.) Test and charge the FRS handhelds. (redundant radios used for ad-hoc non-secure groups) Package all loose radios and other bulk electronics not part of essentials into new EMP proof bags. Service the mobile truck radio, reprogram to latest channel settings. I've been testing out the new 5R mini radios, they are cool. I like setting up a custom startup image and they permit this just like the AR-5RM I use as my couch radio. Looking forward to getting the TD-G18's running and tested with my brother. These will work anywhere in the world as long as there is a cell tower, free forever and has end-to-end encryption.
