A Split-Level VHF/UHF Go-Box Plus Base Station

Over time, my VHF/UHF go-box has been re-configured according to changes in technology, communication requirements, and operating preferences. As I thought about updating it again, I studied online sources such as <shack-in-a-box.com> to decide how to balance the inevitable trade-offs. I wanted to use it both as a base station at home and as a portable station for Amateur Radio Emergency Service activities in the Greater Manchester, New Hampshire area <http://gmares.org>. I ended up with a split-level arrangement which allows me to just lift everything out for home use when I’m not taking it portable. Photo A shows the updated go box (orange box), laptop, and solar panel ready to use.

Capabilities

I had in mind maximum flexibility for voice, Narrow Band Emergency Messaging System <>, Winlink Global email <>, cross-band repeating, position reporting, and remote computer access through a Raspberry Pi in the go-box. I also planned to use a laptop computer connected directly to a sound card to function as a Winlink RMS gateway or digital repeater for Winlink packet and VARA FM modes (VARA is a Winlink weak-signal digital mode in HF and VHF versions. It can achieve data rates comparable to Pactor without violating the 300-baud FCC constraint on HF ham bands.). A GPS receiver