Ham radio, also called amateur radio, utilizes radio communications equipment operated by radio amateurs, or "hams," for public services, recreation and self-training. Even though it is described as an amateur form of radio operation, its actual use should be licensed by an appropriate government entity like the FCC in the United States. Instead of referring to lack of skill or quality, the term "amateur" merely refers to the radio being used outside an official, governmental or commercial capacity.
Instructions
1. Choose a place to mount the radio and install the unit there. Usually the radio can be mounted under the dash if there is enough room for it. For a radio with a standard mount, the space requirement is much less. It is also possible to have the radio bolted directly to a surface. Depending on the size of the unit, it must be bolted to a surface at least 4 inches deep. Vehicles with center spreader bars in between the driver and passenger can also support radio placement. A lot of room is typically available within the compartment where a cover plate can be used to fill the gap around the radio, if needed. This area is an ideal spot for putting switches as well.
Prior to mounting or installation of a rig for your ham radio, prioritize safety by consulting experts and appropriate handbooks and manuals as fuse problems may cause fatal accidents.
2. Drill a hole large enough for wires to pass through. The radio generally requires about 5 feet of wire to connect it to the battery. Note that your ham radio will draw a lot of power when in high power mode. To avoid blown fuses and electrical fires, do not splice power from the fuse box or radio.
You may be able to use the holes at the bottom of the console in your car for passing wires. Most drink holder holes can also fit mounts, thereby avoiding the need to drill new holes in the lock box. If there is a need to drill any hole for the wires, you may do so, but consult experts first as the varying layouts and designs of car interiors may require more specific requirements. Many vehicles equipped with large rubber grommets in the firewall would also require using the grommet just above the gas pedal so that you can properly drill a hole large enough to pass the wires through.
3. Install the antenna with a mount and connect it to the radio from either the passenger or driver side of the car. There are many types of antennas available including magnet mount, hard mount and glass mount.
Depending on the car's interior, you may have to drill about three holes through the body for the connections needed. While hiding the cable is not necessary, it is best to secure every wire in place by sliding each one in a toolbox.
4. Attach the connector at the end of the cable. This task would require soldering. Cut the insulation off and slip on the connector's smallest part. Peel back the braided ground over it and let the largest collar drop onto the cable. Screw the last piece over the braid, which will show the holes and areas where soldering is required. Once the large collar has already made its way to the other end of the cable, securely screw it onto the other pieces. Test your newly installed ham radio.
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