Posted: 11/25/2013 11:19:01 PM EDT
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Quite a few of you have read and contributed invaluable input to my Yaesu FT-8900 thread, and for that I am most grateful.
I have decided against purchasing that radio. I've narrowed the choices down to a Yaesu FT-857D or a Kenwood TH-V71A, and will almost certainly get the Kenwood for my starter (N4TAX for the antenna if anyone is curious). But, I'd like a power supply that's reasonably priced yet will give me some room to grow. I am aware of the general liking for the Samlex SEC-1223 but I like to explore my options and make an informed decision. So please pardon me while I once again tap the knowledge in this forum. The other power supply I'm looking at is a Jetstream JTPS30M 30A power supply. My questions are 1) Is Jetstream a reliable brand? 2) How many amps do I need? To discuss #2 a bit, assuming a 100W HF radio w/ antenna tuner and a 50W VHF/UHF radio will I be able to supply both radios from one 30A power supply or will I need separate PSUs for each radio? The only number I recall reading is one radio (don't recall which) drew 9A on transmit. I'd rather under use the PSU than run it over 75% capacity on a regular basis. I think we all know that heat is the enemy of electronics here. |
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You are talking apples and oranges here. FT857D is an HF rig with VHF/UHF all mode capability. TM-V71A is a Dual Band VHF/UHF FM Only radio.
What are you looking to accomplish? If course FT-857 would give you much better communication options and has a greater fun factor. This rig has the best VHF/UHF section of all mobile multi-band radios. I own FT-857, Ic-706 and IC-7000 and often compared them. Having said that, your antenna options will differ depending on whether you include HF bands into play. Jetstream is ok but I would opt for a used Astron linear PS. You'll need a minimum of 22A for an FT-857, and a minimum of 15A for a TM-V71A. I would get a 30A Astron and be done with it. Linear power supplies cost more but are build more robust. They are simply a better choice than cheaper and lighter Switch Mode power supplies. I've been using a small and cheap 25A MFJ PS for Field Day type operation with great luck. It has no noticeable RF noise but a cooling fan can be annoying in a quiet shack. Separate PS for each radio is preferred but not required depending on PS size, radios and ability to transmit on more than one radio at a time. |
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Ultimately I'll be getting into HF, the only question is if I do it in the short run or not. I'm thinking I'll be better off waiting to afford a better radio for HF and just get into VHF/UHF for now.
The main thing I'm concerned about at this point is which power supply. I don't want to buy one now and find out I should have spent $50 more to meet my future needs. |
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Gyprat,
I got to thinking about this, and if there are no hot and sexy Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals I might just sit on my money for a bit longer. I'll be working double shifts on Thursday and Friday and might just pick up the Yeasu instead of the Kenwood. Either way, my original questions still stands. Which power supply, or one I haven't listed? And, as always, why? |
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Quoted:
Ultimately I'll be getting into HF, the only question is if I do it in the short run or not. I'm thinking I'll be better off waiting to afford a better radio for HF and just get into VHF/UHF for now. The main thing I'm concerned about at this point is which power supply. I don't want to buy one now and find out I should have spent $50 more to meet my future needs. Then a 30A PS will be a safe start.Theoretically It's still not big enough to allow both radios to transmit at the same time. Practically you may be able to do this if you run SSB voice on HF rig and transmit FM on the TM-V71A at the same time. Get a linear PS if you can afford it. A better HF radio than an FT857 will cost you $1500 and up. You will not notice a significant performance improvements with another HF radio in the $1000 range. I'm talking new prices. Used will be slightly less. |
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Quoted:
Gyprat, I got to thinking about this, and if there are no hot and sexy Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals I might just sit on my money for a bit longer. I'll be working double shifts on Thursday and Friday and might just pick up the Yeasu instead of the Kenwood. Either way, my original questions still stands. Which power supply, or one I haven't listed? And, as always, why? Just to keep it simple: Jetstream on your link will run one radio just fine. It will be a bit noisy because of an internal cooling fan. Astron 30A linear supply is your best choice if you can afford one. No cooling fans but a heavy transformer (linear PS). This power supply is often included with HF rig specials: Link |
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Quoted:
Then a 30A PS will be a safe start.Theoretically It's still not big enough to allow both radios to transmit at the same time. Practically you may be able to do this if you run SSB voice on HF rig and transmit FM on the TM-V71A at the same time. Get a linear PS if you can afford it. A better HF radio than an FT857 will cost you $1500 and up. You will not notice a significant performance improvements with another HF radio in the $1000 range. I'm talking new prices. Used will be slightly less. Quoted:
Quoted:
Ultimately I'll be getting into HF, the only question is if I do it in the short run or not. I'm thinking I'll be better off waiting to afford a better radio for HF and just get into VHF/UHF for now. The main thing I'm concerned about at this point is which power supply. I don't want to buy one now and find out I should have spent $50 more to meet my future needs. Then a 30A PS will be a safe start.Theoretically It's still not big enough to allow both radios to transmit at the same time. Practically you may be able to do this if you run SSB voice on HF rig and transmit FM on the TM-V71A at the same time. Get a linear PS if you can afford it. A better HF radio than an FT857 will cost you $1500 and up. You will not notice a significant performance improvements with another HF radio in the $1000 range. I'm talking new prices. Used will be slightly less. Very sound advice. $1000 dollar-ish radios are all very competitive with each other. It all comes down to what you really want. You can buy larger radios in that price range and have better ergonomics like the Icom 7200 (an arfcom favorite) but then taking it portable becomes a hassle. I would really discourage buying a more expensive radio at first... When you get to the more expensive radios they tend to be designed to specific applications. Some are better CW rigs, and some are better at Digi modes ect. The Kenwood TS-590 is a wonderful base station radio that interfaces directly to digital and sounds wonderful on SSB and is very acceptable on CW. However you are going to spend another 50% compared to 857. Research the radios in your price range and go from there. |
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Thank you both very much.
Looks like there's a sale on the SEC-1235 until 30 Nov 13, so I'll be grabbing that for certain on Friday. I'll still be starting with the V/U antenna from N4TAX since I'll be on V/U long before I'm up on HF. Still have to figure out antenna and tuner for HF. And figure mounting options for an HF antenna as well. The Slim Jim will go in the attic. But I rent the house and need to talk to the owner before drilling any holes in the roof or elsewhere. Anyway, this forum has helped keep me from spending money on the "wrong" things and I appreciate it. Now if you could just keep me from spending at all... 
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You are close to my starting place - a used ft-7800, an j-pole antenna from N4TAX and 50 feet of coax.
But for power I had to improvise. I wanted the same Samlex but couldn't swing it. So I grabbed 4 UPS batteries (18Ah) and a battery tender. Two on the radio, two on the charger. Not only did I save money I proved to myself I was ready to run after a storm. Eventually I did buy a samlex for home use. Quoted:
Quite a few of you have read and contributed invaluable input to my Yaesu FT-8900 thread, and for that I am most grateful. I have decided against purchasing that radio. I've narrowed the choices down to a Yaesu FT-857D or a Kenwood TH-V71A, and will almost certainly get the Kenwood for my starter (N4TAX for the antenna if anyone is curious). But, I'd like a power supply that's reasonably priced yet will give me some room to grow. I am aware of the general liking for the Samlex SEC-1223 but I like to explore my options and make an informed decision. So please pardon me while I once again tap the knowledge in this forum. The other power supply I'm looking at is a Jetstream JTPS30M 30A power supply. My questions are 1) Is Jetstream a reliable brand? 2) How many amps do I need? To discuss #2 a bit, assuming a 100W HF radio w/ antenna tuner and a 50W VHF/UHF radio will I be able to supply both radios from one 30A power supply or will I need separate PSUs for each radio? The only number I recall reading is one radio (don't recall which) drew 9A on transmit. I'd rather under use the PSU than run it over 75% capacity on a regular basis. I think we all know that heat is the enemy of electronics here. |
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SEC 1235M. +1 
http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/sxa-3435 I've been running a SAMLEX since 2001 I really like it Astron is the other choice |
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+1 http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamps/sec1235m.jpg http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/sxa-3435 I've been running a SAMLEX since 2001 I really like it Astron is the other choice Quoted:
Quoted:
SEC 1235M. +1 http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamps/sec1235m.jpg http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/sxa-3435 I've been running a SAMLEX since 2001 I really like it Astron is the other choice Fixed the link to the SEC-1235M. DXEngineerig has changed their part number and therefore the link. That's a nice price on that unit. If there's nothing better by Cyber Monday they'll get my money. And thanks for the link. I've been trying to shop around, but so many parts and so many sites... ETA I am assuming I will be much happier if I buy the programming software and cable for the FT-857D than if I try to key in everything by hand? |
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I like the british software for programming yaesus
Google G4HFQ yeasu I get cheap programmig cables from valley ent. Via amazon The 857 is a very capable rig Because of the tiny display and so many settings inside the menus, i found it A bit difficult to use mobile Sent from iphone |
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Quoted:
But for power I had to improvise. I wanted the same Samlex but couldn't swing it. So I grabbed 4 UPS batteries (18Ah) and a battery tender. Two on the radio, two on the charger. Not only did I save money I proved to myself I was ready to run after a storm. My station doesn't have a conventional power supply. It's powered by a sealed lead-acid battery charged by a Battery Tender Jr. I also have an inexpensive 15 watt solar panel and a Battery Tender Solar in case of an extended power outage. I'm full quieting into the local ARES repeater with less than 5 watts into a small 2 meter yagi. |
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I'd look at the Icom IC7000 as an alternative to the FT857.
BUT Any compact size "mobile" HF radio is a severe compromise in usability and is more difficult to operate and learn on versus a standard size radio. For that reason I'd recommend a larger size HF radio for a beginner. There's nothing wrong with the FT8900, and having the additional bands might be fun, IF you can find anyone to talk to on them. They won't do anything for your emcomm needs other than add to your radio knowledge base. Quoted:
On the subject of power supplies, some have gauges, some don't. I like to see some representation of what's going on, but I notice that the Sanlex doesn't have a gauge. Why? Gauges add cost and most people don't use them. http://www.12voltpowersupplies.us/ 30amp/33peak barebones power supply, $55 shipped, gets excellent reviews: http://www.repeater-builder.com/other-mfrs/megawatt-ps/megawatt-ps.html http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/11114 http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/11133 |
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The big pluses of the Yaesu over the IC-7000:
1. The more simple display consumes far less power 2. You can add mechanical filters to it. 3. Very small The big pluses of the IC-7000 over the FT 857d 1. Looks much cooler 2. Microphone has rig control buttons 3. It sounds great 4. Menus are not "as bad" |
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On the subject of power supplies, some have gauges, some don't. I like to see some representation of what's going on, but I notice that the Sanlex doesn't have a gauge. Why? The SEC-1212 and SEC-1223 do not have gauges. The higher priced SEC-1235M does. http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamps/1235.html
http://www.powerwerx.com/power-supplies/variable-digital-meters-30-amp-desktop-power-supply.html 
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Quoted:
My station doesn't have a conventional power supply. It's powered by a sealed lead-acid battery charged by a Battery Tender Jr. I also have an inexpensive 15 watt solar panel and a Battery Tender Solar in case of an extended power outage. I'm full quieting into the local ARES repeater with less than 5 watts into a small 2 meter yagi. Quoted:
Quoted:
But for power I had to improvise. I wanted the same Samlex but couldn't swing it. So I grabbed 4 UPS batteries (18Ah) and a battery tender. Two on the radio, two on the charger. Not only did I save money I proved to myself I was ready to run after a storm. My station doesn't have a conventional power supply. It's powered by a sealed lead-acid battery charged by a Battery Tender Jr. I also have an inexpensive 15 watt solar panel and a Battery Tender Solar in case of an extended power outage. I'm full quieting into the local ARES repeater with less than 5 watts into a small 2 meter yagi. I've talked to more than one ham that does the same, or maintain charge via solar panel. |
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The big pluses of the Yaesu over the IC-7000: 1. The more simple display consumes far less power 2. You can add mechanical filters to it. 3. Very small The big pluses of the IC-7000 over the FT 857d 1. Looks much cooler 2. Microphone has rig control buttons 3. It sounds great 4. Menus are not "as bad" I own both . I find IC-7000 multi-level menus 10 times more complicated than an FT857.It took me 10 minutes to learn menus on the Yaesu. I've owned ic-7000 for 5 years and still can't remember which menu level to go to an how to get there. And Im talking about changing basic settings, not programming FM Repeaters (which is another story). Icom 7000 has the worst microphone of them all. It sounds muffled on the air and in many cases requires an aftermarket microphone upgrade. Just google - IC-7000 microphone. The microphone cord is very stiff and gets almost unmanageable in cold weather. |
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I own both . I find IC-7000 multi-level menus 10 times more complicated than an FT857.It took me 10 minutes to learn menus on the Yaesu. I've owned ic-7000 for 5 years and still can't remember which menu level to go to an how to get there. And Im talking about changing basic settings, not programming FM Repeaters (which is another story). Icom 7000 has the worst microphone of them all. It sounds muffled on the air and in many cases requires an aftermarket microphone upgrade. Just google - IC-7000 microphone. The microphone cord is very stiff and gets almost unmanageable in cold weather. Quoted:
Quoted:
The big pluses of the Yaesu over the IC-7000: 1. The more simple display consumes far less power 2. You can add mechanical filters to it. 3. Very small The big pluses of the IC-7000 over the FT 857d 1. Looks much cooler 2. Microphone has rig control buttons 3. It sounds great 4. Menus are not "as bad" I own both . I find IC-7000 multi-level menus 10 times more complicated than an FT857.It took me 10 minutes to learn menus on the Yaesu. I've owned ic-7000 for 5 years and still can't remember which menu level to go to an how to get there. And Im talking about changing basic settings, not programming FM Repeaters (which is another story). Icom 7000 has the worst microphone of them all. It sounds muffled on the air and in many cases requires an aftermarket microphone upgrade. Just google - IC-7000 microphone. The microphone cord is very stiff and gets almost unmanageable in cold weather. The 7000 was my first rig. I always got good audio reports. I wonder if the guy I bought it from modded it? I didn't find the menus that bad. The goofy labeling on the Yaesu drove me batty. It's almost as bad as Elecraft
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Quoted:
The big pluses of the Yaesu over the IC-7000: 1. The more simple display consumes far less power 2. You can add mechanical filters to it. 3. Very small The big pluses of the IC-7000 over the FT 857d 1. Looks much cooler 2. Microphone has rig control buttons 3. It sounds great 4. Menus are not "as bad" and filtering... the 7000 has IF DSP; the 857 has AF DSP. ar-jedi |