Assess Coverage Requirements
2 hoursMap served agencies, repeaters, and simplex fallbacks for your jurisdiction.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for emergency comms prep — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Map served agencies, repeaters, and simplex fallbacks for your jurisdiction.
Calculate path loss and required EIRP for critical point-to-point links.
Size batteries, solar, and generator runtime for 72-hour operations.
Execute simulated outage net with message handling and backup paths.
Document dead zones, equipment failures, and update channel plan.
Model path loss and required power for emergency links.
Estimate repeater coverage for served facility locations.
Baseline path loss before terrain and clutter adjustments.
Verify effective radiated power meets link budget target.
Estimate copy reliability under noise during drills.
Baseline gear checklist for deployable amateur station.
| Item | Qty | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dual-band radio | 1+ | Voice + packet |
| Extra battery | 2 | 72-hr runtime |
| Antenna + coax | 1 set | Field deploy |
| ICS forms | Pad | Traffic logging |
Drills should include simplex fallback when repeaters are congested or down.
ICS agencies may not know Q-codes — use clear voice traffic.
Deep-cycle batteries left discharged fail quickly — top off monthly.