Communications Trailer

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Donated Trailer

Donation

In 2019 BEARS was given a trailer by the Smoky Mountain Amateur Radio Club.

When we received it, the trailer was in need of some care. It consisted of just a box on wheels with tires that needed to be replaced, one ceiling light, a built-in counter and two doors. We had the funds to replace the tires, but we didn't really have funds to take on the other improvements that were needed.

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Improvement Project

In 2020, Dave (N9KMY), learned about an organization whose mission it is to support, promote, and enhance digital communication and broader communication science and technology, to promote Amateur Radio, scientific research, experimentation, education, development, open access, and innovation in information and communication technology.

That organization was Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC) and after a lot of work from Dave to develop a proposal, we received a grant from them to improve the trailer.

Current Status

November 21, 2024

The trailer has been used several times since being acquired to offer a place out of the elements for operators.

Our first event was the 2019 Tour de Blount shortly after we received the trailer. Since then, we've used it at the Dancing Bear events, Tour de Blount events and Winter Field Day.

The grant funds were used for needed repairs and to outfit the trailer with better lighting, masts for antennas, antennas, radios, plus other supplies and equipment to make it usable for local emergency communication operations in support of the local public. Nearly all labor to outfit the trailer was completed by volunteer amateur radio operators.

We started by fixing the water leak that we have and repairing the damage that had occurred as a result of that leakage. Afterwards, we moved to safety and security items before moving into the heart of the improvements to the trailer.

The installation of a 12-volt electrical system was one of our first functional improvements. This system allows us to easily power radios, lighting, and accessories. Having two 100AH batteries and a 175-watt solar panel as part ot this system allows us to operate for an extended period without relying on an external power source. Along with this came shelving used to mount the equipment along with a place for radios.

When we need heat or A/C, we put our Honda generator into service. We modified the A/C unit on the trailer to have a "soft-start" system to facilitate it working with the small generator. We also added some extension cords and power strips to make using shore power (when it's available) easier.

Not to be forgotten is the need for digital capabilities. For this, we purchased a computer, HF radio and interface equipment. Digital modes are key to moving text-based data for events and especially the Knox/East Tennessee Health Care Coalition.

Due to the BEARS relationship with the Blount County Emergency Management Agency, the trailer is allowed to be parked in a secure area of the Blount County Emergency Communications 911 Center where it can quickly be deployed. As the County does not have a dedicated communications room for their EOC, the trailer can be moved adjacent to the building and provide an operational place for ARES® members in the event they are called upon.

Improvements

Significant effort has been put into the trailer improvement project. As of 2024-11-21, here is what has been completed:

  • Flooring with rotted areas replaced
  • Carpet cleaned and glued back down
  • Updated electrical AC input to load center
  • Added 2nd input AC power allowing for separate power for the radios vs other systems such as the A/C unit
  • Installed DC ceiling lighting
  • Installed outdoor DC perimeter lights
  • Installed switching for DC lights
  • Re-installed work-table and bolted in place
  • Built and installed a wall shelf above the table
  • Installed two new cable entry ports
  • Repaired front and back doors
  • Repaired roof leaks
  • Installed new brake battery
  • Installed rear door latch and fixed door weather stripping
  • Installed SoftStartRV into air conditioner
  • Constructed and installed the DC breaker system
  • Acquired radios, DC distribution equipment and antennas
  • Installed two batteries, LV disconnect and charger system
  • Installed two mobile antennas
  • Acquired 10/3 AC extension cords
  • Acquired new office chairs, step ladder and step for trailer access
  • Created internal trailer mounts for antennas and spare tire
  • Acquired fiberglass mast