The Baofeng UV-5R and its derivatives are maybe probably the most prolific handheld radios in use immediately as a result of their simplicity, versatility, and low value. In a SHTF or grid-down state of affairs, a Baofeng could also be one of many few extensively obtainable communication instruments. The Guerilla Information is written for all ranges of expertise, utilizing strategies taught to particular operations personnel, however with the tip consumer in thoughts.
The 411
The information consists of seven chapters and three appendices. Matters embody area programming, improvised antennas, operation, and communications safety.
Chapter one begins with an introduction to the Baofeng radio and its capabilities and continues with communications fundamentals and the three roles of communication: sustainment, tactical, and clandestine/strategic. The writer explains that the Baofeng operates as a dual-band radio, transmitting in VHF and UHF, and that each bands have their very own professionals and cons.
In chapter two, capabilities and area programming, the writer goes over frequency and reminiscence modes. Keep in mind: All information that you just enter into your radio is probably exploitable. The writer provides real-life examples of this from his service abroad, stating, “Each Taliban member with a radio in Afghanistan turned a goal for us.” Any radio captured was given to the Alerts Intelligence (SIGINT) officer to go looking the reminiscence and analyze their communication protocols. Briefly, “Don’t, below any circumstances, program the reminiscence of a radio you plan on utilizing for tactical or clandestine functions.”
One other professional tip by the writer is “Lock that keypad!” Whereas conducting evening coaching, a squad chief had an unlocked keypad that resulted in him shedding his frequency when his radio shifted on his gear. Now, at the hours of darkness, with misplaced comms, an train that was going easily rapidly went south.
Chapter 5 on the development of improvised area antennae is extraordinarily helpful data, as many individuals suppose the radio vary is fastened at a sure distance. The writer breaks it down in order that anybody can study the essential ideas of antennae in an improvised setting. Essentially the most essential and infrequently ignored component whereas utilizing the Baofeng — or some other radio — is the antenna. In lots of instances, it’s extra necessary than the radio itself.
Relating to “how a lot vary does it have,” radio principle ought to be understood. In layperson’s phrases, three components are concerned: the working setting, the obstacles between you and the meant receiver, and the effectivity of your antenna. The writer retains the technical information to a minimal so anybody can grasp the fundamentals and goes into element on the pluses and minuses of various antenna varieties.
The chapter on communications operations stresses particular issues for the three kinds of communications. Failure to know this precept is probably the most devastating failure of communication safety (COMSEC). The Baofeng radio can save your life or get you killed if utilized in an undisciplined method. When utilizing the Baofeng in a tactical function, hold transmissions brief, use codewords, and all the time function with separate obtain and transmit frequencies.
Chapter seven covers the distinction between encoding and encryption. Because the Baofeng has no built-in encoding or encryption capabilities, the writer goes over transposing a message right into a code, aka encoding. This may be executed digitally by way of software program or manually by way of pen and paper.
The Verdict
I like to recommend this information to anybody seeking to get their comms recreation so as. It is a useful information to the communications world that may assist hold you alive. The Guerilla’s Information to the Baofeng Radio will get you on the trail to communications proficiency very quickly. It’s obtainable in paperback, and a area version that’s spiral-bound and pocket-sized for carrying into the sphere can be obtainable.
The writer’s pen title is NC Scout. He’s a former member of one of many U.S. Military’s Particular Reconnaissance Models and the proprietor of Brushbeater Coaching and Consulting. NC Scout conducts hands-on coaching, and anybody interested by a course in communications in addition to a number of different subjects can go to www.brushbeater.org and think about his coaching schedule.
In regards to the Ebook
- Ebook & Creator: The Guerrilla’s Information to the Baofeng Radio, by NC Scout
- Writer: Independently revealed
- MSRP: $25
- URL: brushbeater.retailer or amazon.com
- Pages: 156
- Ranking: Thrive |
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