In case phones are down and stuff during a disaster, what would be the best way to communicate? Ham radio? Satellite phone? I need options guys.

  • Retro_unlimited@lemmy.world
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    2 months ago

    I have a few 2 way radios, ham radio, emergency satellite communicator for search and rescue.

    Lots of people have been getting into such as the lilygo t-deck, I might get a few of them some day.

    I also have a cell phone booster and a digital TV tuner, just in case.

    • Dr. Wesker@lemmy.sdf.org
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      2 months ago

      Avoid the T-Echo model, at least currently. Lots of problems with recurring firmware corruption right now with that specific model.

      • Retro_unlimited@lemmy.world
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        2 months ago

        Good to know. I have been waiting for a more complete device to come out eventually. Figure I will wait a few years and see how these devices advance.

    • /home/pineapplelover@lemm.eeOP
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      2 months ago

      My main issue with 2 way and ham radio is they don’t go that far. Say I’m like 50 miles away. A whole state away or something. What’s the best form of emergency communication? Emergency satellite communicator I recall you have to pay some subscription fee right? Additionally, if phone lines are down, you can’t expect the other person to receive that message on their phone.

      • Retro_unlimited@lemmy.world
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        2 months ago

        The satellite one I have is a one time fee, you push a button then search and rescue come to your GPS coordinates. It’s mainly if I get stranded and it’s life and death situation.

        Sadly now a days almost everything is internet based, and can be shut off remotely by governments or hackers. Wish there were more options for communication.

        As for long distance, I think you would need an expensive ham radio and a huge antenna.

        • /home/pineapplelover@lemm.eeOP
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          2 months ago

          I thought it was a subscription. I think the garmin ones you need to pay a fee to be able to use. Which I find kinda dumb

          • Retro_unlimited@lemmy.world
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            2 months ago

            The garmin ones allow you to use a phone and send txt using the satellites and they have agents that help with things. That’s why they have a monthly fee. Mine only calls emergency rescue.

      • BearOfaTime@lemm.ee
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        2 months ago

        HAM can do 50 miles, under the right conditions.

        GMRS can using repeaters or a repeater network (which is essentially what cell phones do).