Quote Originally Posted by badkuk View Post
Tama ba pagkaintindi ko, handheld/base radios can pick up FM/AM stations?

Lastly, advisable po bang kumuha ng submersible/marine type? It seems a little extreme for me, baka pwede na yung splashproof?
Handheld radios are basically transceiver(transmitter and receiver). They operate on certain frequency range LF, HF, VHF, UHF(check the electromagnetic spectrum). Household AM and FM bands does not fall on HAM radio fruequencies because it is illegal to use them for personal communications esp in larger power outputs. There are only alloted bands for HAM/Amateur and commercial enthusiast. The rest like Radio/TV broadcast, radar, microwave transmission like point-to-point terrestrial, satcom, cellular are licensed bands - operator need to apply for the frequency before they acquire the radio equipment.

Same reason why our cellular phones have NTC sticks on it or similar radio equipt. HAM falls on semi regulated and the purpose is for users not to tweak and go beyond the rated power and frequency thus affecting other licensed freqs. Some frequencies under microwave and nearing light spectrum are not so regulated so most of home appliance are made to operate on those range. Example of which are those WiFi transceivers, your typical magnetron microwave oven, and micrometer wavelength in laser/optical communications.

It is encouraged that you get to know more on electronics if you want to maintain the equipment. Tuning the antennae requires you proper tools like SWR meter, PL259 RG6/58 crimper plus a very good 13.8VDC power supply.. I remember those times i could make 5l8 lambda whip antenna out from PL259 connector and a piece of brass rod.. The most simpliest i made was the quarter wave antenna for the 40meter CB using a home insulator and 10gauge solid-wire. Now most of the old radio are in the box, i think the capacitors dried out and the HF needs retuning.. I dont bother checking them anymore since i only use the newer compact mobile-base for maritime application..

IDK about the submersibles, unless you live under the sea, own a submarine, or hiding in the bottom of the sea then it should be interesting.