Our first rig is the FT817. This is a portable 5W transceiver covering all bands from HF to 70cm (with the exception of 4m).

This is an execellent unit: so far it's done everything asked of it. For portable operation it is unmatched; simply take it out and operate. For "base" use its controls are really too cramped. You can do a lot with the various menus, but you **have** to navigate them. With a PC connection and "Ham Radio Deluxe" it is easy to configure; that's probably a better way to use it when at home.

ft817

 It does need some kind of "foot" to tilt the display up; mine is an offcut of timber for the moment!