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Frantz · 12-11-2010, 04:37 PM

Wanting to add a NOAA weather alert radio before we start full-timing. What are you all using? Pros? Cons?

Thanks for your help,
Marilyn

**NLOVNIT** · 12-11-2010, 05:55 PM

We got a First Alert one, similar to the one below (ours is black & doesn't have a SNOOZE), from KMart several years ago. Paid around $30 for it. We've also got 2way radios that have a weather alert function to them, for in case we're out hiking. I'm not sure what brand they are, I want to say Midland but am not certain.

L-

ernieh · 12-11-2010, 06:09 PM

I use ones from Radio Shack in my MH as well as my stick house. I believe it's a model 12-260 about $30. Been trouble free for several years.

Shadowcatche · 12-11-2010, 06:37 PM

After Very careful consideration I settled on the Reecom Reecom It seemed to have the most flexibility in programing. Second choice would be a Midland WR300 the main advantage is that the Reecom responds to the signal that indicates the warning is over the Midland has a fixed timer. and if I remember correctly the Reecom lets you easily tell it which i.e. fire/police you do not what to hear.
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Grumpytrkr · 12-19-2010, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Frantz

Wanting to add a NOAA weather alert radio before we start full-timing. What are you all using? Pros? Cons?

Thanks for your help,
Marilyn

Um, can I ask a question? Are you going to full time in a motorhome? If so, Cobra makes a CB radio with a weather alert that scans the weather channels, so you know you are always going to pick up a signal. I use one made by Oregon Scientific that has a travel mode. It will find the strongest station, and switch channels as needed. It sets on a base unit, runs on batteries, and recharges while on the base unit. Even if I'm setting in a rest area, and the reception is strong enough, I will get an alert signal.

Good Luck on your pickin's.

wa8yxm · 12-20-2010, 12:25 PM

I will not recommend a brand as I suspect there is not a lot to recommend one over another.. However I will talk about some different types.

1: Combo units,, IE CB/Weather alert.. You want a radio where you can have JUST the weather alert on and not the CB.. I'd avoid.

2: Portables (pocket size) This is what I have but if I were doing it over I might not get this.. Read on.

3: Any unit with an EXTERNAL ANTENNA connection....
This is best.. You can then mount a 150 MHZ or 2mtr Ham Antena outisde as high as you can safely mount for improved range and performance.

The advantage of the pocket portable is I can remove it and use it outside the motor home when need arises.. But then I can grab my Yesau FT-51R (ham radio) and set it to the weather frequency (Receive only) as well.

melvonnar · 12-20-2010, 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Grumpytrkr

Um, can I ask a question? Are you going to full time in a motorhome? If so, Cobra makes a CB radio with a weather alert that scans the weather channels, so you know you are always going to pick up a signal. I use one made by Oregon Scientific that has a travel mode. It will find the strongest station, and switch channels as needed. It sets on a base unit, runs on batteries, and recharges while on the base unit. Even if I'm setting in a rest area, and the reception is strong enough, I will get an alert signal.

Good Luck on your pickin's.

I second the cobra; even if the CB is turned OFF it will turn itself on as long as its connected to power and give the alert,

Grumpytrkr · 12-20-2010, 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by robert h

I second the cobra; even if the CB is turned OFF it will turn itself on as long as its connected to power and give the alert,

Opps, forgot to say that. And it is loud. It will wake you up. And, the other gentlemen had a point. An outside antenna is nice. I have not yet been able to find a unit that will scan, or go to travel mode, and have an outside antenna.

Regards,

wa8yxm · 12-20-2010, 06:41 PM

I can tell you how to add an outside antenna to ANY weather radio if you wish.. I've not (yet) done it with mine but I have done it with other radios.

You will need, the proper antenna (A scanner antenna for the 150 Mhz band will work) some coax a connector for the inside end and a short length of hookup wire

Run the coax to the side of the radio (next to it) and wire the female connector so there is a short wire from the center pin to the case.. Two turns around the portable's antenna should do it..

Just loop the wire around the radio's built in antenna

The wire (At DC) shorts the connector. It's called "Close Coupling" and it works..