Reference
Handheld vs mobile
Structured comparison — deeper narrative in the property owners article.
| HT (handheld) | Mobile (vehicle) | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 0.5–5 W typical | 25–80 W typical |
| Antenna | Rubber duck | Roof NMO / mag mount |
| Best for | Walking, go-kit, first radio | Truck, ranch routes, mobile NCS |
| Weak in | Vehicle cab, long acreage drives | Pedestrian carry, indoor without remote head |
| Tools | Handheld guides | Mobile install hub |
Install checklist · GMRS vs ham mobile · ERP calculator
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Mobile install essentials
Antenna, coax, and DC distribution — where mobile range actually comes from.
Tram 1185 mag mount
Dual-band 2m/70cm mag mount — budget mobile antenna.
~$35 · Amazon →
NMO roof mount kit
Professional vehicle mount — drill once, swap antennas.
~$25 · Amazon →
LMR-400 coax 25 ft
Lower-loss feedline for mobile and base — PL-259.
~$45 · Amazon →
Anderson Powerpole kit
30A pairs — standard DC connector for emcomm go-boxes.
~$18 · Amazon →
RIGrunner 4005
Fused 12V distribution — clean go-box wiring.
~$55 · Amazon →