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YUP yore right . Beat me up!
I didn't see where anybody had answered this. Many repeaters operate on 440MHz (70cm). What seems to be typical operating procedure around here is that everybody uses 440MHZ for repeater communication then shifts to 2M for simplex communication. In theory the longer wave length should have better range for direct rig to rig communication since longer waves propagate better over uneven terrain. Since repeaters are generally used line of sight the higher frequencies can be used freeing up bandwidth in 2M.
. Anyone with that experience, please feel free to comment with knowledge learned.
Here's the thing, I betcha none of the Yaesu engineers (product development at least) are off-roaders or have done any SAR-related work. (I hope I'm wrong)
Of course this is strictly my opinion, but also an observation based on my experience. And I'll clearly state this is constructive criticism, because I have 3 Yaesu radios (FT-8900r [quad-band mobile]; FT-7100 [dual-band mobile]; and XV-7R [tri-band weatherproof portable/HT] )
If I was going to introduce the built-in capability of Bluetooth, I'd have focused on its compatibility with BT-based GPS devices. Why do you say? To link in positioning info for the other MISSING capability that should be built in and not require an external TNC.... APRS.
"In its simplest implementation, APRS is used to transmit real-time reports of the exact location of a person or object via a data signal sent over amateur radio frequencies. In addition to real-time position reporting capabilities using attached Global Positioning System receivers, APRS is also capable of transmitting a wide variety of data, including weather reports, short text messages, radio direction finding bearings, telemetry data, short e-mail messages (send only) and storm forecasts. Once transmitted, these reports can be combined with a computer and mapping software to show the transmitted data superimposed with great precision upon a map display."
ref: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_Position_Reporting_System
WiRES-ready is a neat technology solution, yet I'm quite skeptical about its practical use out in the field.
Now, if you could not only communicate with spoken information, but additionally have the ability to transmit accurate data on positioning and such without having to manually look it up (handheld GPS unit, or actual map orienteering), then that would be a slam-dunk winner in my book. Not exactly a basic capability that would be used by the average operator, agreed.
Take for example the role of being the coordinator of a trail event with a vehicle amount of small to large numbers. If someone was broadcasting with APRS enabled, I could have a laptop in my rig showing not just where my GPS location was on the trail, but where the other rigs are as well (again, if they're broadcasting with APRS info). I've never been on any of the large trail events out west that I read about in all the monthly rags, but I can only imagine the logistical-hell and tactical challenge of keeping track of all the rigs in your convoy (breaker,breaker)
The same principal also applies with Search and Rescue (SAR) missions/events. The key is, technology has to be there in the HT's and mobiles out in the field.
The life-critical concept of the word "Accountability" has been ingrained into my being from my training and experience as a firefighter. And the key to accountability is knowing where everyone is, as accurately and up-to-date as possible without filling the operations channel with traffic of constant status reports. That's just not feasible when handling operations on a fireground. And remember, our guys aren't trainied ham-operators, though you hear quickly those that are when the broadcast.
At the end of the day, accountability of rigs/people out on the trail is without question important, and APRS capability built into our radios (or mod'd of course) would be a powerful improvement. Being able to track my small club's crew of rigs while out on a day run with my laptop, at the least its pure geek fun. But I'll end my diatribe with one last thought.
As many have said, a key reason they put HAM radios in their rigs is to reach someone...or anyone, when out in the sticks and you're need for help (disabled vehicle, injury, whatever). Factor that IF you do reach someone, and have to direct them in to your position, how accurate do you think you'll be in that challenge? Or would I want my full set of positioning data going out on each broadcast via APRS to search organizations or authorities that would give them a clear positioning lock? Knowing that when someone gets lost and the given the terrain/conditions, the amount of resources needed to do a ground-pounding search is no small task and a large resource challenge, the most accurate information possible is worth....well, it's priceless.
Thanks for your patience and opportunity to get this off my chest. Maybe it'll be food for thought that'll benefit someone. Possibly a Yaesu engineer passing through....
Cheers.
