Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the WB2EHG.radio FAQ! Here you’ll find answers to common questions about who I am, my amateur-radio station in Brooklyn, the equipment I use, and my interests in DMR, APRS, and emergency communications. Whether we have met on the air or you are simply exploring the world of ham radio, this is a good place to learn more about WB2EHG and how I connect Brooklyn to the world.

Who is WB2EHG?

WB2EHG is my amateur-radio callsign. My name is Eric J. Hébert. I first became interested in radio as a teenager in Brooklyn and originally held WB2EHG during the 1970s.

I am a U.S. Coast Guard Quartermaster veteran and longtime Coast Guard Auxiliary officer. My principal interests include emergency communications, DMR, APRS, digital voice, and connecting with other operators around the world.

Where is WB2EHG located?

I am located in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City, USA. I operate primarily from a 17th-floor apartment, so my station is built around handheld radios, local repeaters, digital networks, APRS, and a personal DMR hotspot.

What class of amateur-radio license does WB2EHG hold?

I hold an FCC Technician-class amateur-radio license. My current WB2EHG license was granted on December 17, 2024, and is valid through December 17, 2034.

What radios and equipment does WB2EHG use?

My primary radio is the BridgeCom Systems Maverick, a dual-band handheld that supports analog FM, DMR, GPS, and APRS. At home, I commonly pair it with a HamSpot 5 personal hotspot for access to the BrandMeister DMR network.

My other handheld radios include an AnyTone AT-D168UV, a TIDRADIO TD-H9 with GPS and APRS, and TIDRADIO TD-H3 and TD-H8 radios for analog operation and backup use. You can find more information on my My Station page.

Does WB2EHG use DMR and BrandMeister?

Yes. DMR is a central part of how I operate. I usually access the BrandMeister network with my BridgeCom Maverick and HamSpot 5, although I also use local DMR repeaters.

You may find me on NY-METRO, North America, Worldwide Talkgroup 91, or one of several regular nets and reflectors. I also experiment with other digital-voice systems through QSO One, including EchoLink, AllStarLink, M17, and YSF.

How does WB2EHG use APRS?

I use the Automatic Packet Reporting System, better known as APRS, for position reporting, station identification, messaging, and experimentation with both radio and internet-connected APRS services.

My APRS station identifiers include:

  • WB2EHG-5: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

  • WB2EHG-7: BridgeCom Maverick

  • WB2EHG-8: TIDRADIO TD-H9

  • WB2EHG-10: BrandMeister DMR APRS

  • WB2EHG-D: HamSpot 5

Current station information and links to my APRS activity are available on the WB2EHG Live Station Dashboard.

What is WB2EHG’s interest in emergency communications?

Emergency communications is my primary amateur-radio interest. My background includes 13 years of active-duty service in the U.S. Coast Guard, 17 years as a Coast Guard Auxiliary officer, search-and-rescue communications, Incident Command System experience, and emergency-preparedness work in New York City.

I continue to develop my skills in amateur radio, DMR, APRS, emergency operations, and field communications so I can be a dependable operator who is ready to serve when called upon.

How can I contact WB2EHG?

The easiest way to reach me is through the Contact WB2EHG page. You can also find me through my QRZ.com profile and the social-media links displayed throughout WB2EHG.radio.

If you hear WB2EHG on the air, feel free to give me a call. I am always happy to meet another operator.