> Hi All, has anyone done this? That is, used a Yaesu FT-817 5w rig as a > remote base radio on your repeater? Any reason why/why not? Just > curious, thanks.....
My FT817 shows signs of overload when it's connected to my external (omni-) antenna, I'm about two miles away from the repeater site, which doesn't give that much output (about 7 watts). Which kind of makes sense when you realize that the 817 is a compromise receiver, optimized for small antennas and small signals. Typically in the repeater world you want receivers that are hardened against strong signals (how are you going to couple your remote base?) I'd guess that this makes the 817 a sub-optimal choice for this application. Use it for portable hilltop fun, but I'd suggest some crystal-bound a much better choice for your application. 73, Geert Jan PE1HZG
