MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH THE REDELL UV97

A RADIO AMATEUR’S TALE

CATCHING WAVES WITH THE REDELL UV97: A HAM’S TRUSTED COMPANION

Introducing My Reliable Journeyman: The Redell UV97

From the moment the Redell UV97 arrived, it promised to be more than just a piece of equipment—it was a companion ready to explore the vast world of amateur radio with me. With a design that marries durability with comfort, it’s been an absolute pleasure to carry around, whether I’m on a casual stroll around the neighbourhood or scaling the local peaks for some DX action.

Design That Fits Your Palm and Adventure

The UV97’s compact frame (119x60x41mm) is a marvel of engineering – it’s sturdy, yet not cumbersome, perfect for my field days and SOTA (Summits on the Air) activations. Weighing in at a modest 295g, it’s the radio that has accompanied me on countless treks without being a burden.

Display and Interface: Clarity Meets Convenience

The 1.77-inch color display is a window into the UV97’s soul. Crisp, bright, and easy to read, even in the harsh sunlight of a mountain summit. The interface is intuitive, a boon for newcomers and veterans alike. I’ve fiddled with knobs and buttons in the dead of night, and the UV97’s layout always felt like second nature.

Performance That Packs a Punch

With a frequency range that spans from the familiar 2m and 70cm bands to the intriguing aviation frequencies, the UV97 has opened new doors for me. The dual-watch function lets me monitor the local repeater while keeping an ear out for distant contacts. And with 128 channels at my disposal, I’ve organized my favourite frequencies with room to spare for new discoveries.

Enhancing the Experience: The Antenna Setup

To take my radio adventures to the next level, I coupled my UV97 with a Bombastik rollup VHF J-Pole antenna, mounted on a DX Commander 9.5m fiberglass pole. The setup is a game-changer, with the J-Pole’s considerable gain propelling my signal across the horizon. My reach expands dramatically, connecting me with fellow hams I would otherwise never hear.

Features That Fuel the Fun

The UV97 isn’t shy on features either. The air band reception has turned me into a regular at the local air show, listening in on the pilots as if I’m in the cockpit myself. The VOX function has been a godsend during antenna installations, allowing me to keep in touch hands-free. And when I’m out on a public service event, coordinating with my team is seamless, thanks to the crisp audio and powerful transmitter.

Customized for the Curious: Expanding Use Cases

As I’ve grown with the UV97, so have its uses. It’s been a reliable companion for:

Community Events: I’ve coordinated with event organizers at fairs and marathons, ensuring safety and smooth operations.
Educational Outreach: Introducing the world of ham radio to students has never been easier, with the UV97 demonstrating the magic of wireless communication.
Disaster Preparedness: When the unexpected strikes, the UV97 is my go-to for emergency communication, offering peace of mind that I can stay informed and connected.

In Summary: The UV97, Through My Eyes

The Redell UV97 is more than just a piece of hardware; it’s an extension of my passion for amateur radio. It’s a reliable workhorse with a finesse that appeals to the hobbyist in me. From the clarity of its transmission to the depth of its features, the UV97 is a testament to what a handheld transceiver can and should be.

Final Thought: “The Redell UV97: Not Just a Radio, It’s a Radio Amateur’s Lifeline to the World.”

As I conclude this reflection, I can’t help but feel grateful for the UV97. It’s not just another gadget in my shack; it’s the one I reach for when I’m heading out the door, the one I rely on when the quiet of the noise floor breaks into the symphony of voices from around the globe. It’s my trusted companion, and for anyone who shares this wonderful hobby, I believe it could be yours too.

73 Marius ZS1ML

Now available here: https://shop.bombastik.co.za/products/REDELL-UV97-New-Generation-HT-Radio-p617503056