Mobile Radio Headset
A headset is needed to hear well in a noisy environment. It will also reduce noise for others in the environment.
To monitor two frequencies, use a stereo headset with one frequency in each ear. Most mobile radios have two mono speaker jacks, so a Y-cable will be needed to connect both of them to the same headphones.
When using a headset, you will also need to use a separate push-to-talk switch. See the Mobile Radio PTT Switch page for recommendations.
Mobile radio microphone and PTT connectors are not standardized. To use a headset, you will need a custom cable made for your specific radio. These are generally available from the major headset manufacturers.
Net control operators often have a scribe who needs to hear the received audio. If possible, the scribe should listen on a separate radio (e.g., their HT), so they can notify the NCO when they have doubled with someone or are not being received well.
If the NCO and scribe have to use the same radio (e.g., to use a roof antenna), they can use a passive stereo splitter cable running to two headsets. (Only the NCO will have a PTT switch.) Alternatively, the received audio can be connected to a headphone amp, which can then route it to multiple devices with independent volume controls.
* Manufacturer, product, and vendor names and images on this page are given as examples and are not endorsed by SCCo ARES/RACES.