SEPAR Comms Trailer

One of our long-serving volunteers, Kjeld VE7GP (SK), took the trailer home and began the transformation. He installed cabinets, insulation, and interior paneling, converting the plain trailer into a functional, efficient communications unit. With help from other SEPAR members, it was outfitted with three radio operating positions, two Icom 2820s for digital and D-Star communications, and a Kenwood 480SAT for HF. A Hi-Q screwdriver antenna was mounted to the front frame of the trailer, while whip and fan dipole antennas were stored inside for deployment when needed. The trailer even included a fan dipole, purpose-built for NVIS operation, ideal for local emergency communication.

From the beginning, the trailer was more than just a mobile shack. It was also designed for field deployment, with space and tie-downs to carry pop-up tents, folding tables, extra chairs, and even SEPAR’s three “grab-and-go” radio kits. It could also transport a generator. Built-in LED lighting and a roof-mounted RV-style fan kept the interior lit and ventilated. A small portable heater added comfort during cold-weather operations. Inside, a Pactor modem and computers enabled robust Winlink connectivity for digital messaging.  There's even a printer there.

A BC Warn node was installed, complete with switch and microwave dish, allowing the trailer to link—at least in theory—with the Concord Tower to provide internet service. In practice, that connection has become more difficult as urban highrise development increasingly blocks the line-of-sight path.

The trailer was originally stored under cover at a City of Surrey Fire Department station, alongside our 105-foot portable antenna tower known as Bigfoot. Unfortunately, during a routine check, the trailer was found damaged and had been broken into. That incident triggered a rethink—and a reinvestment.

Security upgrades were the first step. New locks were installed, and the coax entry point was moved to reduce the chance of failure during deployment. We also removed the old mast and ladder setup used to mount the microwave dish. Not only had the connection become unreliable, but balancing heavy equipment on a ladder during an emergency was no longer an acceptable risk. In future, we may add a telescoping mast for safer and easier setup.

In the years that followed, members continued to modernize and improve the trailer. Steve VE7SXM led the charge by rewiring the unit, relocating radios to a wall-mounted plywood panel, and installing a proper battery and charger to provide 12V power throughout. The old 120V “wall wart” power adapters were removed and replaced with Anderson Powerpole connections, enabling quiet, interference-free operation. John VA7XB helped construct a new desk support that also functions as storage for a pop-up tent, and designed brackets to mount folding chairs securely to the rear door, freeing up floor space and improving setup speed.

Outside, John also installed a lockable metal gear box on the front tongue and added stabilizer jacks to the rear. These upgrades allowed us to relocate tools like hammers, traffic cones, and rope—keeping the interior organized and clutter-free. Extension cords and coax now hang under the front counter, neatly stored beside the battery compartment. When generator or commercial AC power is available, the trailer can be plugged in to both charge the battery and operate the stations inside.

Inside, a magnetic map board allows the trailer to double as a net control hub, where magnets can be used to track deployed volunteers. Heavy wooden steps were built for both the rear and side doors to provide safe and stable access, especially during public demonstrations.

The upgrades aren’t done yet. A large flat-screen monitor is planned for the rear door, allowing us to display maps and data during operations. A Kenwood TM-D710 will be added to expand APRS and Winlink capabilities, along with a 220 MHz radio. Additional wiring refinements and aesthetic updates are also in progress.

The trailer has always been more than a piece of equipment. It’s a strategy—a way to provide flexible, mobile radio support wherever it’s needed. Compared to repurposed ambulances or motorhomes, it offers practical advantages. It requires no fuel, no engine maintenance, and minimal insurance. With just two tires and no brake system, its mechanical upkeep is limited to lights and bearings. Most mid-sized vehicles can tow it, and SEPAR keeps the correct ball and hitch mount inside for quick transfers.

It’s also light enough to navigate through damaged or restricted roads, and at our recent City Hall deployment, we confirmed that the entire rig was comfortably under the weight limit for parking above underground infrastructure—something larger vehicles couldn’t manage.

For all these reasons, the trailer continues to serve as a vital mobile asset in SEPAR’s emergency communications capabilities. Rather than trying to build one large command center, we’ve embraced the flexibility of having a dedicated, scalable, radio-focused resource. With careful stewardship and ongoing upgrades from our committed volunteers, the SEPAR trailer remains ready to deploy, wherever and whenever we’re needed.