Local radio FM 2meter handheld 5 mile range repeater (electricty) dependent radios are useless toys in the event of widespread prolonged disruptive event power outage.
CB’s are also static blare nightmares.
Go $$$ HF capable long distance (DX) comm, or go home.
Without reliable trustworthy communications SITuation REPort news, you have no command and control.
If the internet, cell phone repeaters, land lines and/or power is out for and extended period of time, this thread is meant to help fellow FReepers with obtaining:
1. Reliable independent news sources to Monitor (RX) via shortwave broadcast frequencies, ie: Int’l, Nat’l, Regional
2. Reliable means of communication (RX/TX) between FReepers, friends in order to provide Situation Reporting, request help, etc.
Shortwave HF (long distance - DX) and VHF/UHF (local) Winlink RMS Packet radio email is the only way to go.
Its what the Red Cross, FEMA, and Peace Corp use.
Thats what were talkin bout.
For those so inclined and able - get this stuff sooner than later. Chinese / Japanese supply chain is fragile, and this stuff is imported by the hundreds / few thousand.
You are looking at a $1300+ minimum (new purchases unless you get used gear or build your stuff)
And remember, you need to invest in a ham radio class exam to become minimally licensed, then invest Dozens of Hours in understanding how to use your gear for effective receive and transmit communication.
Heres what you need for SHTF long distance communication:
Flexible 20+ w solar panel - $100 A
Deep cycle marine 24F battery - $65 W
300w inverter. - $50 W
Yaesu FT817ND HF all band mobile ham radio - $630 HO
Portable antennas Wonder wand mag loop & yo yos. $300 HN
TNC type HF/VHF 300 / 1200 baud modem - $200+ HN
Cables, manuals, software - $150 HN
*must have compatible working laptop and/or Tablet or smart phone with ham radio Winlink email software.
You can currently get this stuff at:
Amazon (A)
HamradioOutlet (HO)
http://www.hamradio.com/detail.cfm?pid=H0-007097
http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/75 (HN)
Walmart (W)
Your list is comprehensive but perhaps out of reach for most FReepers here. Most information is local and the 2 and 70m bands should suffice for local information. And hand held like a Yaesu FT60 should suffice as an entry into the amatuer radio field. Low cost (relatively) and a decent hand held. That and a programming software should be adequate for most uses.
Information can be relayed from one area to another through the repeaters to a local level. You list is a basic nice to have list, but I suggest a more modest list that can easily be expanded once the basics are learned. Let folks get a tech license first and then expand.
For example I was listening to a net call in tonight that orginated in Newport Oregon. I am in Northern California. Call Signs came in from Lake Havesu, Mesa, Orange, Murrietta, Modesto and Canby Oregon that I heard during that short period with my little five watt with a diamond 77 antennae. On a very basic level, that is what people need, to be able to tune in to channels and listen to what is happening where. Not all of us are going to be able to afford big rigs, but most of us can afford a very modest set up.
Anyway, that is my two cents
—73