I have the study guide, and have not only taken electronics classes but also managed purchasing for the communications division of NEC America (satellite, microwave, fiber, local & long distance radio), so there's nothing in the book so far that's foreign to me...it's just a matter of blowing the considerable dust off. I'd really like to get in a class with folks. I always learn better that way. I was unaware that I could do satellite stuff.
I have tons of stuff, some opened some not. The nots are probably mostly prepping stuff. The rest is mostly left over from kids leaving. Although, I believe I have THREE brand new toilet seats to replace the old ones when we get ready to sell the house. I bought hubby an oak toilet seat as a joke, long ago, which he installed. I bought one that looks like a beach with sand, starfish, sand dollars... you can see through clear acrylic. I thought it would be fun for the kids' bathroom along with Finding Nemo bath mat. Nope! They were too old for that MUTHER. The last is a black one to replace the one in my bath. the 'bumpers' have always been cracked on the present one. I have an unopened sump pump in case of emergencies. Items for replacement at rental. And with inflation, I am glad I have all that stuff.
I forgot to say that HAM repeaters here are usually solar and/or wind powered, so they work even when the grid and cell networks are down here, but I cannot speak for Virginia.
One advantage is that they aren't dependent on the availability of a compatible cell tower. I think the ones I've used had a dependable range of only about seven miles. We used them a lot when we moved from Texas to Maine in two vehicles and used them again while we were in Boston a month or so ago, while I retrieved our car while Michelle was returning the rental. They're easier than cell phones, since you only have to press the button, and you don't have to look for the right button.
That's what Don was saying. I'm not sure the two guys who told me about these were aware of that. Or perhaps I got a different model. I guess there are advantages and disadvantages to not transmitting extra long ranges, depending on the circumstances. You aren't as easily detectable, but you're not gonna coordinate efforts with someone the other side of the county, much less in another state/country.
I don't know if it still exists, but Yukon Territory in Canada had a remarkable repeater network the last time I was there. You could reach any radio in the territory (I was told) from the comfort of your automobile. It was a great thing for emergency situations in remote places.
I would think that satellite cell phones might be big up there, except for their price & monthly service fees.
Most guys and gals I know use one of the Spot GPS devices that will send messages that you are okay and your location. They will also call for help if needed, but they are just one-way communications. The phones allow two-way communications.
I was chatting on another forum and thought I'd mention that SPOT X now sends and receives text messages. You can get a basic one month plan for $15 (for a single excursion), or a basic annual for $12/month. The unit is $250. It seems to be a pretty slick solution...and cheap insurance.
I have unopened stuff I purchased at an auction new stored away that will remain unopened until it is sold at the flea market or yard sale.
I ordered a kitchen ceiling light fixture and the box was opened alright, but it still awaits being installed which has been many months. Planets are no yet aligned I think.