I see no problem with using two mobiles and I do it all the time and the performance is identical to the fancy repeaters.?
Sensitivity: I don¡¯t see much difference in RX sensitivity between most mobiles and purpose built but if need be I can add a pre-amp.?
Selectivity: This is where many mobiles are lacking. BpBr Duplexers seem to give me enough selectivity for an average mobile but if it¡¯s really bad, I will add another pre selector.?
Keep in mind the average Motorola mobile is much more selective than the average Yaesu repeater.?
Duty Cycle: another big issue, you will blow up your mobile if you talk at full power on full duty. I have never had an issue full duty half power with a nice fan on Motorola mobiles. In addition I have often used repeater grade PA¡¯s from old crystal controlled repeaters like the GE mastr because crystals are more expensive than mobiles.?
Standardization: this is my weak point. I have different configuration of mobiles all over the state of Colorado and if one fails it¡¯s going to have a completely different construction than another. If every repeater was a standard it will save me time in the future. Hopefully I have all my documentation.?
Intermod: NEVER interface a mobile directly to an antenna at a high RF site, but I think the same would go with repeaters so I don¡¯t think there is any reason a mobile would be worse, a PA is a PA and it¡¯s gonna mix if there¡¯s enough RF coming back. But some PA¡¯s have built in circulators which I guess would never happen on a mobile.?
I have never had a site owner care about mobiles at a site vs ¡°professional¡± repeaters and I have been able to make pretty nice looking mobile installs and I have seen pretty ugly looking ¡°real¡± repeater installs.?
