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2m / 70cm ham mobileKenwood TM-V71A / dual-band mobile
Professional dual-band mobile — clear audio, strong receiver, popular emcomm and public-service auxiliary install.
Technician or higher · Upper ($350–$500 used/new)
Quick start
First-hour checklist
- Separate control head cabling from power leads during install — reduce alternator whine.
- Program analog memories first; add D-Star only if your served group uses it.
- Use memory names that match your ICS-205 frequency plan labels.
Emcomm notes
Deployment & nets
- Strong candidate for COMT vehicle and command-post comms layer.
- Log installs in ICS-217 for multi-vehicle deployments.
Install checklist
Vehicle & 12V wiring
- Professional NMO install worth the cost for permanent emcomm vehicles.
- Consider secondary battery or isolator if operating with engine off during incidents.
Antenna & mount
Where range actually comes from
- Dual-band NMO antenna — check SWR on both bands after install.
- Horizon calculator for simplex range expectations.
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Radio plus typical install accessories — verify vehicle fit before ordering.
Kenwood TM-V71A
Pro dual-band mobile — emcomm and public-service aux.
~$400 · Amazon →
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 →
Upgrade path
Comms layers — what comes next
HandheldFirst radio & go-bag
MobileVehicle ERP & install
BaseFixed shack & mast
HF emcommRegional contingency
Part 90 / privateEncrypted & dedicated
Property owners: comms assessment wizard · PACE examples · consulting