Hey guys,
For those that ever wondered what the Armed Forces Communication and Equipment Association show is all about, I had an opportunity to attend it this year and it was interesting. I should caveat, that I'm coming from an 18E perspective or used to be ODA guy.
I would say that about 1/2 of the show was a bunch of network stuff and software programmers - BORING!
The other 1/2 had guys like all the big radio manufacturing companies, Harris, THALES, General Dynamics, etc... There was every array of antenna you could think of. Some were GIGANTIC while others were so discrete they looked like little black coat hangers haning from a tree - more on that later (hopefully for sale on
www.bhigear.com - lol). Still, from a guy who spent most of his adult life either responsible for comms or carrying them for the commo guy it was fun. I learned a lot - its suprising just how small the communications industry is, compared to the SHOT show I went to in January. I walked the entire AFCEA show in just a day. That would be impossible at the SHOT show. Well maybe not impossible, but it wouldn't be productive 'cause you wouldn't stop to talk to anyone!
If you are a commo guy and working at the BN or Group, I would HIGHLY recommend it. Otherwise all you team guys - stay away 'cause it's too geeky.
DeMo