My interest in ham radio and telecommunication started in the country of Panama, where I am from originally. I watched the movie “Smokey and the Bandit” back in 1980 something and developed an interest in CB radios. A couple of years later, I was able to participate in a couple of scout events called Jamboree on the Air were scouts from all over the world got the opportunity to make contact using ham radios. It was at that point that I knew radio/telecommunication was for me.
Like many other ham radio operators, I started on the Citizens’ Band. My first radio was a Cobra 21 LTD, a home-made linear regulated power supply and a dipolar antenna. Then, I upgraded hardware little by little. First the antenna was upgraded to an Antron A-99. This improved coverage; however, it caused our neighbors to experience TV interference. Needless to say, I learned quickly about band pass filters and SWR measurements. Finally, I graduated to a Cobra 148-GTL-DX. This radio enabled me to make DX with other countries.
I moved to the US in 1997 in order to attend college and find a job. I did not have much time to do anything radio-related. This year I found some time and decided to give ham radio another chance. I studied for the technicians test and on November 20th I was granted KC2UEZ by the FCC. A friend and a local ham radio operator lent me a Yaesu FT-2600m power supply and an antenna. I am now back on the air. I am in the process of studying for my General’s license and hope to be able to take the test and pass it soon.
Currently, I am thinking about purchasing the Yaesu FT-857D to use as my base radio after I pass the Generals test. I will also upgrade my 2M Jpole antenna to the UVS-200 by OPEK (sub-licensed to other manufacturers). If you have any opinions or comments about this radio or antenna, please let me know.
