On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 22:01:08 GMT, Trainman52
wrote:

Took the test on Saturday, got my call sign today. EXCELLENT service
from Larkfield ARC, Huntington, N.Y.

Now comes the moment of truth. Thanks to Gary for his recommendation
of a VX-150 handheld. At some point in the future, I would also like
to get a mobile to use at home. I've looked at the Astron VS35M as
well as the MFJ-4225MV. The latter looks a little smaller and a lot
lighter. Does it have enough power to run the IC-2100H without a
problem? Are there any issues with this ps that I should be aware of?
Does the supply have to be connected to a ground rod or cold water
pipe? There are really none available where I will be setting up my
"shack". The outlet that I will be plugging it into is a 3 prong
outlet.

I plan to get the VX-150 with the E-DC-6 cable which appears will
allow me to run it off of a power supply (which may be a down the road
purchase). Does the dry cell pack accomodate NiMH batteries? I have
several sets from my digital camera along with a charger. Any other
recommendations here?

Is it worth getting the Yaesu combo mike/speaker?

Lastly, any recommendations on a reliable mail order dealer? I've
been looking at HRO and they appear to get some pretty positive
feedback.

Sorry if I've been rambling, but I'm kind of excited. I thought that
I would be waiting several weeks for the call sign.

Thanks and 73

Rich
KC2NUQ

Rich,
Congratulations on the license! Will try to answer your questions:

1) Power Supply - go with the Astron, they are well built and the 35
amp model you are looking at will be more than enough for powering a
dual band mobile unit in the home. In general I think you should
avoid MFJ, some of their products are good but it is a gamble and I've
found their customer support to be lacking. Seldom do you hear of
folks having problems with Astron power supplies though.

2) Yaesu and accessories - you'll find that folks have allegiances to
manufacturers (the big 3 being Kenwood, Icom & Yaesu) much like some
folks swear by GM and others at it. I don't think you'll be unhappy
with your choice, though I do suggest that if at all possible you view
this (and other) radios in person and see if you are comfortable with
the layout of the controls and also read the manuals on programming to
see which ones seem more intuitive to you. If you don't have a local
dealer you may wish to check out a local ham club and get the chance
to meet others in the hobby and actually play with some different
radios. A speaker mic can come in handy, but is not necessary up
front and there are non-OEM models that you may like more than the
Yaesu offerings and they are typically easier on the budget.

3) "AA" Pack & batery type - Wouldn't recommend rechargeables in an
"AA" case though as they only give 1.2 volts and that may not provide
sufficient voltage for the radio - others more familiar with this
consideration will hopefully offer their input on this. Also, check
out the radio manual (many are online) and see what it says about
minimum voltage requirements. You may be just fine, I'm just not
"expert" enough on this to give you a definite answer.

4) Dealers - I've mail ordered from AES and they have shipped
promptly. Have also dealt with HRO, in person, and have had good
service. Best to see which offers the best pricing and buy there.

I hope this helps to answer some of your questions, welcome to
amateur radio!

Howard
KE6MAK