Parks on the Air (POTA) activations are often associated with HF, but VHF can be a useful part of a park operation—particularly for operators who enjoy local contacts, portable operating, or Colorado’s higher terrain. Colorado operator Bob Witte, K0NR, makes the case that a modest 2-meter or 70-centimeter setup can add another practical operating option when you take your station outdoors.
His article looks at three ways VHF can fit into a POTA day: operating VHF-only from a favorable location, pairing a park activation with a Summit on the Air activation, or using an HT as a simple add-on alongside an HF station. The middle option will sound especially familiar to Colorado hams, where a summit or high overlook can make a handheld station surprisingly effective.
There are practical details worth considering before heading out: POTA contacts must be made without repeaters, a better antenna can help more than expected, and monitoring simplex can bring local operators into the activation. Whether you are chasing, activating, or simply looking for a low-complexity portable outing, the article is a useful field-minded introduction.
Read the full article at Above Average Terrain →
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