Thanks Geoff. Yes, the VX-5R, with it's amazing frequency coverage, looks
like an excellent candidate for an emergency radio: however, after looking
at the conversions for extended transmit it is unclear if it will operate in
AM mode for the aviation band. Furthermore, I found a bit of discussion
that the cpu chip on the newer units are now programmed for band coverages
and simply removing the solder bridges won't 'open' it up.

Your selection did get me looking a bit closer at the Yaesu handhelds. I
noticed that the VX-7R had AM mode and besides that it covered 70 cm through
6 m! I found conversion notes for extended transmit that includes the
aviation band and it does appear it will operate in AM mode in that band.

Oddly, I noted that the VX-7R is identical in appearance to the VXA-700
nav/com handheld. Besides the aviation band the unit also includes the 2
meter ham band which leads me to suspect it can be converted to the marine
band when it is 'opened' up. I don't think it can transmit on the 243.000
MHz military emergency channel---would be nice. I suspect the VXA-700 costs
a bit more than the VX-7R and would also offer a VOR receiver for
navigation. Probably the best option is the VXA-7R 'opened' up.

Thank you for your reply.

Best regards

vk3vfl wrote in message
u...
Hi You could look at the Yeasu Vx-5 Hand Held small 5w and it will do what
you want
Geoff

"Tom" wrote in message
...
Howdy:

I'm looking for an emergency radio to cover the marine, aviation and 2
meter ham bands. The Yaesu VXA-700 looks good as it covers the ham and
aviation bands but I have found no conversion for transmitting on the
marine
band---just receive only.

Anyone know of any handheld tranceiver that has the capability of
transmitting and receiving on the three bands modified or otherwise?

OK... OK... yes I know... legal issues... I've been a ham for 40 years,
flying for 30 and sailing aboard ship as a Radio Officer for 20. I'm
just
looking for one unit for emergency communications instead of two or
three
separate units and associated accessories; batteries, charger...

Best regards