This is nothing new.  We have had problems with unlicensed operators getting on some of the wide area multi-site systems here in Atlantic Division.  They ask for a “radio check” and when asked for a call sign, they have none.  Their response is we are only testing this for emergency use.  Not uncommon.  Some have a particular transmitter finger prints like a roger beep.  They kerchunk the repeater frequently.  The University of Pennsylvania 20 site, 5 state system, for which I am a control operator, has been off the air since about January now only because of unlicensed operators using it frequently.  This kind of threat is a troublesome issue.  Using win link is likely someplace they will end up.  The article Fred found in a popular publication is not the first.  Check out You Tube.

Bob Famiglio, K3RF

From: arrl-odv On Behalf Of rjairam@gmail.com
Sent: Sunday, June 30, 2019 12:30 AM
To: Fred Hopengarten <hopengarten@post.harvard.edu>
Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>
Subject: [arrl-odv:28267] Re: FW: Radios and Prepping

As much as I welcome any and all into the hobby, my experience with preppers has been disappointing, to put it mildly.

Most of them have their radio plan as a box full of Baofengs. It will work for round the block comms, but not much more. Not to mention the spurious emission issues with some of these cheap radios as documented by ARRL lab.

Many don't bother to get a license. I have tried to coach those I've helped to get a license, even offering to hold a license class and VE sessions at a local gun range where I shoot and where I'm friends with the owner (who is also an NRA board member). I've spent time with sessions on how to get started. A license is always very low down the priority list. Some flat out just don't care because the attitude is that if society breaks down, a license won't be needed anyway. Many fear being on a list and having their address posted in a public database. They can buy all the radios they want on Amazon and just use them on any random frequency. I've even heard some on 2 meters locally. 

Yet during an emergency or otherwise you can hear them kerchunk the local machines getting ready... for something.

Then there is the case of a ham, an actual ham with a home station who appeared on Doomsday Preppers and was just plain mental, to the point where he was raided and his firearms seized. 

I'm of the opinion that we should distance ourselves from the kooky prepper crowd. But those who are level headed and sane, no problem and would be more likely to get licensed. 

That said if we gain a few hams out of the deal, all well and good. There must be a few good ones. 

Ria

N2RJ

On Sun, 30 Jun 2019 at 00:12, Fred Hopengarten <k1vr@arrl.org> wrote:

I attach an excerpt from the August 2019 issue of American Survival guide.

Will preppers be our next influx? Will they decide to go without a license?

Fred Hopengarten, Esq.   K1VR

Six Willarch Road

Lincoln, MA 01773

781.259.0088, k1vr@arrl.org

New England Director

Serving ME, NH, VT, MA, RI and CT

From: Aaron (kc1cxx) Addison [mailto:rangerfriday@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, June 29, 2019 10:58 PM
To: Fred Hopengarten
Subject: Radios and Prepping

Hello,

  I wanted to share the latest article from one of the prepping mags I read from time to time.  Note the full page add for a radio reseller..  

  Aaron

Virus-free. www.avast.com

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