What are
/r/gmrs'
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The most popular Products mentioned in /r/gmrs:
The most popular reviews in /r/gmrs:
The Retevis RB75($60) is IP67 rated for water and dust, while the Wouxun KG-905($110) is IP66 rated. I'm not aware of any BTech or Baofeng GMRS legal radios that are IP rated, and the only radios I know of that do GPS and texting are still the $$$ Garmin units.
Most likely yes if the radio has the same connector. Looks like the “kenwood connector” style. I recently bought a Wouxun speaker mic off amazon that works really well with my kg-805g’s that have the “Kenwood connector” style. Got it for $10 a few months back, but looking now it’s currently going for $30, I wouldn’t pay that for either the wouxun or midland. The midlands aren’t going to be any better quality, so personally I’d be looking for a speaker mic that costs half and get the same or better quality than what midland is.
Wouxun SMO-001 Remote Speaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007F7N11Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_i_moD.FbBP7T3E1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I should say a few channels went up to like 1.16 iirc, but like CH 1-7 was about there. It's been a few weeks.
SURECOM SW-33 Mark II 100 W 125-525 Mhz Mini Digital VHF UHF Two-Way Radio Handheld Power & SWR Meter
Don't skimp on the coax. LMR-400 at a minimum.. LMR600 or 1/2 hard-line if you can afford it. I second third and definitely fourth any mention of height being your friend.
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Also consider used commercial radios for this job.. even old Motorola 750s will out perform 99% of the consumer "repeaters" out there. You can find old CDM 750/1250/1550s for around $100 for the pair. Dont forget cooling... Very few mobile radios are made for 100% duty cycle. Get ya a $8 repeater cable from amazon and your set up. Now you need either two antennas and twice the coax or a duplexer. I can tell you those $99 duplexers will just piss you off. Save your money for a decent Cellwave/Phelps-Dodge.... gonna cost ya around $5-700.
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Considering your terrain and lack of equipment already have you looked at MURS? Cant run a repeater but even at 2W (simplex) it will out perform GMRS in more heavily wooded areas.
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Good luck..
I know this is old, but I'm just scrolling through to see what gets posted here. A dipole antenna is a 1/2 wavelength antenna. 1/2 wavelength at 465mhz is almost exactly 1 foot. So anything longer than 1 foot is really no longer a dipole, and probably won't work as well as one. Here's an online calculator: https://www.everythingrf.com/rf-calculators/dipole-antenna-length-calculator
A dipole antenna with 6 inch elements will work extremely well and be only a little directional broadside to the antenna. If you want maximum gain, a UHF yagi pointed right at a repeater or another radio cannot be beat. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G2EVM3G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_TFA00NR0T89FMJZ11MQH
THIS! It is a great little tool!! Be sure to get appropriate adapters like a pl259 double end to connect to your radio or a short cable. My SWR of 12 worked fine and sounded great to the people on the other end but I was only operating at 15w out of a 25w radio and the radio heated up quicker.
Surecom SW-102 Digital VHF/UHF 125-525Mhz Antenna Power & SWR Meter with Ground Plate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D86IKIQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AYA0M26WRB03H44ATEG1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I mean same mic, different branding, fraction of the cost.
Retevis Waterproof 2 Pin Speaker Mic, Compact Walkie Talkie Microphone for Baofeng BF-F8HP UV-5R BF-888S Retevis RT21 RT22 H-777 RT27 RT1 Arcshell AR-5 Two Way Radios (1 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HLSTZMP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_i_wSD.Fb3TZM4VC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It took me a minute to realize this wasn't a ham radio reddit.
For a base station, I'd get this or something similar, https://www.amazon.com/TekPower-TP30SWII-Analog-Switching-Supply/dp/B00L2M2Y5O/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=ham+radio+power+supplies&qid=1606674927&sr=8-4.
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Don't worry too much about how much the power supply can give, it's the draw that matters; the midland won't draw more than a power supply can handle unless maybe it's a wallwart configuration.
If you really want a finished look on that ammo can build a true nmo mount installed flush on the lid would look slick. You’d have to drill a hole in the lid, but they seal and are water proof on car trunks and roofs. You got me wanting to build one now lol.
Browning WSPBR1015 Enclosed Nmo 3/4 Hole Mount https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BLCLUJ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_i3BuFbERYRDK2
Honestly I’d go with a MURS radio for this application if neither of your folks have a GMRS license and you find money doesn’t grow on trees. MURS is license free and runs at 2W on the VHF band which penetrates foliage/trees better than FRS/GMRS UHF band at 2W (2W is the max wattage for non licensed FRS/GMRS use). GMRS radios that transmit more than 2Watts require a GMRS license ($70).
Here are two MURS radios that would work great. The Wouxun is a much nicer option. I have two of the GMRS version (KG-805G) for licensed GMRS use and have been pleased with them for the price.
https://www.buytwowayradios.com/wouxun-kg-805m-basic.html
BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio, License Free Two-Way Radio for Manufacturing, Retail, Personal, and Business https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075VBP9YG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JTjoFbDKSG0MY
Assuming you have the same radio version as the one in this listing, that's just the regular Baofeng 2-way programming cable that u/jack_shid linked in the Google search. Just be careful that when buying the cable you get the one with the small pins (see Amazon listing) and not the larger one that uses the inputs for the mic/speaker (Kenwood style cable).
https://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-Waterproof-Repeater-Rechargeable-Programming/dp/B09Q5XLF1C
Here’s what I got. Search for “flush mount RJ45 jack” on Amazon, you’ll get different styles of the same thing. One of my friends managed to find one that was actually flush with the panel he added it to.
Well I have had these for years… radioshack amplified 12 volt speaker, but here is uniden bc23a 15 watts
Excellent advice.
Have you had any experience with this "lip mount" from Midland?
https://www.amazon.com/Midland-MXTA27-Universal-Connector-MicroMobile/dp/B0842BB2R9
I haven't seen a Pacifica "in person", and I am wondering if this could be clamped onto one side of the gap where the lift gate opens (at the top, between the faux airfoil and the roof).
That's interesting. I thought Midland is not a well regarded brand of radios due to their quirks.
Here's a lot more radio: BTECH Mobile GMRS-20V2 20 Watt IP67 Submersible GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99MHz (VHF) 400-520.99MHz (UHF)) The ability to listen to other bands is a nice feature.
You can get a reasonably priced mag mount with an NMO mount, and then just get the antenna separately that fits. I personally have this Browning that is great for the price. Note that you'll still have to tune it using the swr meter but that should just be a matter of trimming the whip until swr is in line.
I assume this is for a vehicle application. Even if it's not, the same concept I'm going to suggest could apply.
Standard USB, as the other user stated, won't provide the power you're looking for so you need to source your power from somewhere else. What I did was to install a power distribution block (like the one linked below) in an out-of-the-way place in my vehicle. I ran a positive/negative pair of wires directly from my battery to the block. This gave me easy access to 10 fused sources of 12v power I could use for all kinds of things. Including my MX275. I cut the cigarette lighter plug off and ran the wires directly to my distribution block. This direct method of wiring means I can still use my radio when my ignition is off which I like. Although it does introduce the possibility of leaving it on and killing my battery.
Having the block has made a bunch of project much easier to tackle since then. I have an easy and safe source of power for all kinds of things. Running wires for a new use is much easier than before. And I'll never end up with 25 random red wires running through my engine bay to my battery. Some things I have always on. Others are wired to a switch and relay. Others are relayed to the vehicles ignition.
If you're looking for a permanent install, I would go with something higher quality than the 2 you linked to.
I see this (link below) antenna under several different brands, but it seems like a solid build. This with a run of LMR400 and you'd be doing well with that GM-30.
I've had great luck with a Browning NMO antenna (450-470 Mhz) paired to an NMO trunk mount, but would likely work fine on a mag mount too. I can hit our local repeaters 20+ miles in heavy urban environments around Washington DC, granted the repeater is mounted extremely high up.
Great suggestion. I like the idea of installing a 12v USB socket panel within the overhead storage area:
- DAMAVO Panel Dual USB Car Charger Socket Power Outlet with Cap
- DAMAVO YM1124 Below Deck Panels Mini OLED Monitors Square Dual USB
Next thought, for securing (keep from bouncing around) a pair of GMRS Handhelds while charging via the 12v USB socket panel.
My next thought is to find a low-height box with an internal 12v USB socket panel, padded to hold a pair of GMRS Handhelds.
Is there such an accessory?
Ideally, you'd install mobile GMRS radios, or at least an antenna that's outside of the vehicle. The metal enclosure acts as a faraday cage, and shortens the range of the radios DRASTICALLY.
This being said, my favorite of the budget radios is the BTech GMRS-V2. It's got many features normally only found in expensive radios. You can buy a magnet mount antenna similar to this one and connect it to the BTeach radio via the cable draped through a door seal.
I know right lol. Yup I understand it is an m1 style so there should be M1 to K1 adapters out there already. Was thinking of trying this one.
https://www.amazon.com/Klein-K1-M1-ADAPTER-Kenwood-Motorola-Accessories/dp/B01BXM6S5Y
Agreed. Headsets like he is talking about with hearing protection are not cheap.
If you want something super basic and robust as far as customization goes, or you just like to mess with radios, I'd suggest a software defined radio (sdr) where the scanner is controlled by computer software. A very inexpensive setup is (rtl-sdr) which is essentially just a TV tuner modified with software to pick up a very large bandwidth of signals from ham to cb radio given the right antenna. If this is of interest, Google rtl-sdr as well as joining the subreddit. Amazon and eBay among others sell the kits for around $20ish.
For a professional/all in one scanner unit, I'd look at Uniden's line. I can't specifically recommend one or another without knowing needs, but Amazon sells a plethora of scanners by Uniden from handheld to base station. The base station variety don't really require a PC to program like gmrs radios do. Regardless, while more expensive than a UV5R the scanners are more capable at moving through channels quickly to identify active channels or even to monitor one or more channels long term. I'm linking one such scanner by Uniden that appears to be easier to use than a handheld, but look at the linked products as well if another one suits your needs better.
Ham/GMRS licensee here. I have a couple Retevis RB27 radios for family communications. Simple radios to use. Repeater capable and can also receive weather and 2m/70cm frequencies (you'll have to use chirp to program anything outside gmrs channels though). Battery charger with charging cradle or USB-C.
https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-RB27-Two-Way-Flashlight-Rechargeable/dp/B08VFV7QCB
There used to be a Commountain speakermic that folks said was the bee's knees for the Baofeng. I noticed that Amazon shows it as no longer available, so ..I guess that's pretty unhelpful.
https://www.amazon.com/Speaker-Reinforced-Arcshell-Shoulder-Microphone/dp/B07MX4J3W8
that connector is common on commercial radios. There are antennas made specifically for it, like this one
I used the BTECH cable I got with my Baofeng to program the KG-S88G, worked perfect. Also works with my KG-935G.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HUB0ONK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
> Would I definitely need to upgrade the antenna?
No, but it's definitely an option.
>If so any good recommendations to try and reach further ?
Yeah, mine showed up a couple hours ago. It's nice, and once programmed you dont really need to mess with it, so the lack of num pad isn't a big deal. Programming is fairly easy with the phone app, tho I can't find any kind of hard-save function. Also, you can text from the radio itself, just takes forever.
Appears to be a clone of VERO VR-N75, which uses an app called "HT" https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.benshikj.ht Tho it doesn't like to be paired to both apps at the same time.
Which works with the GMRO-Pro, and has a couple extra functions, bigger APRS menu etc. Looks like the Vero radio is a single-band 2m or 440 tho.
Still playing with settings......
Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771G... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WPXP5Z5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Using this on two, was able to get this tested reception: about 2 miles as the bird flies without line of site in an medium urban environment (no buildings above 3 stories, lots of natural trees and hills) with me on a tall hill and my dad (other end) inside a brick building. Scratchy, but usable.
it'll be a SMA-M to PL259 to connect to the radio, and SMA-M to SO-239 for the antenna side.
here is the kit i've used, and it's covered pretty much all my needs so far, though i do prefer to use SO239 on both sides of the meter (with a short jumper) so it isn't rigidly mounted to the radio when i'm testing.
Those or the T503 H2O are probably the best solution for the OP's use case. Over most lakes an FRS radio is more than adequate due to line of sight.
There may be some radio options available that are usable with a hand crank but likely are gimmicky frs radios. Best bet is to get a gmrs radio with USBc charging that doesn't require a battery charger. The GM-30 comes to mind which has a USBC port on each battery that can be hooked up to a portable power pack.
Amazon carries backup battery chargers with hand cranks and solar panels, although I doubt these are very effective in power generation as it would likely take a long time cranking to generate any usable amount for a radio.
Yeah the ham technician test is fairly straightforward. I bought a book (see link below) and used the arrl online practice tests until I could reliably score above 90% on the practices, then scheduled a test and passed my first try.
boo-YAH! Get whichever radio makes you happy. I have a UV-9G and really like the looks of those G11S. No surprise since I own a pair of Motorola T605 Talkabouts.
I really appreciate it, and hopefully this helps someone who sees this post in the future!
This was mentioned earlier: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00794WPNK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and I picked it up. A substantial gain over the micro sized one. I can imagine yours would perform even better.
I will always recommend the GM-30 as a good, cheap radio. If you want better quality, you get an wouxun but you will pay for it. The GM-30 and its clones are unbeatable for features and price. The GM-30 often has the price on Amazon down to $32.
The TIDRADIO TD-H5 set is a great option if you need two radios. This is the same radio as the GM-30 and the GM-15 pro with a different label but includes many extras. https://www.amazon.com/TIDRADIO-Batteries-Handheld-Repeater-Programming/dp/B08Z7MVVBH
(Sadly, you just missed the prime day deals though)
How heavy is the antenna mast you are trying to use? I use this kit to hold up a DIY tv antenna I made, I'm only using one strap but the antenna is fairly light. It's been up there a couple years now without issue.
ROHN who makes the towers makes interconnecting mast segments but I'm not sure how many you can hook together or how many you'd want to put on a strap mount. https://www.amazon.com/ROHN-Steel-Tubing-Locking-160505GHS/dp/B00M3G8SFI/
Yes, the GM-30 is a great option.
The GM-N1 is another option with no buttons. I believe power is only 3 watts on them though.
https://www.amazon.com/Radioddity-Handheld-Canceling-Channels-Rechargeable/dp/B0992FHY2G
These Nagoya 771G's fit my UV-9Gs. The fit is very tight, and I've thought about sanding down the plastic but I can still get them on and off and don't plan on swapping them out often so I haven't yet. I may just put a smear of plumbers grease on it to lube it next time versus sanding. I really haven't noticed a difference when using it with simplex or repeaters compared to the shorter stock antennas. I even swapped one unit back to the shorter stock antenna for my kid when it didn't seem to improve our communications in the neighborhood much.
Check that yours is not a fake when you receive it, just google it to see packaging, etc.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KS96DWH?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details
I purchased this Abbree speaker mic a month or two ago and it seems to work fine on my Baofeng UV-9G. The pins in the pic match what I received. I haven't used it in the rain or anything yet to vouch for its long-term reliability.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GLCS9BF?ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details&th=1
I used that book and the ARRL online practice exams. That book only teaches the correct answer and does not include the incorrect answers so you learn to recognize the right answer. Got 34 out of 35 on my tech exam using this method.
Sorry that should have been the mic and not the whole radio. Just wondering if anyone owns that mic: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YTQVQS8/ref=emc_b_5_i
My first radio was the UV-9G. I thought it was odd that right out of the box, the antenna "wobbled" as I screwed it on. It's actually a real pain to install and remove because with every rotation, it gets VERY tight, then loose, then VERY tight, then loose. I can't tell if the contacts in the antenna are bent or not, but they definitely are in the radio.
I also have this antenna. It screws on more easily, but it's still difficult. Still has a lot of resistance.
That being said, both antennas do screw on fully, and both fit within the well on the radio. Both function perfectly once fully attached.
I'm not too familiar with this one, but my first real GMRS was a Baofeng UV-9G. Pretty great little radio. They look to be pretty similar.
One recommendation that I might make is that you pick up an antenna upgrade. I was pretty surprised by how much this addition boosted range and performance. There's a review of it here.
Also, I'd plan on grabbing that programming cable ASAP so you can program it with your computer instead of the menu system. It works, but it's pretty cumbersome.
>I read a few places that after-market antennas don't fit it well without modification to the plastic case, but not sure if this is still an issue.
I upgraded my UV-9G with a Nagoya NA-771G antenna without issue. It just screwed right on. Increased my range by close to a mile.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KS96DWH?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
I have a similar roof rack. I mounted this antenna and mount on it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PT44LSZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_G2PJJV7HWMBJYV710VR5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have put it through quite a few branch hits and it has held up great. I like how I can rotate it out if the way to load kayaks.
Radio reports say I'm very clearz using a Baofeng UVS9 "8" watt.
For the time, effort and money attempting to make it work it’s a parts and/or trash bin item. Hard to say after install without a meter it’d even match gmrs freq.
For $15-$20 your off to the races.
1126-B Antenna Tram Black UHF 1/4 Wave NMO https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9D2N6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6VX0Y85TM311XF5SQ8Z5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I mounted an antenna on my 3rd gen with an NMO hood lip mount on the passenger side, on the back of the hood nearest the windshield; not the side. Went with a Midland 6 dB Gain Antenna.
you mean this one?
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Does it have removable antennas.
watts?
I almost want to get it it looks good enough for the trails even if not gmrs its a nice radio.
When I needed the extra features, I bought a waterproof Baofeng UV-9G. I still have my pair of waterproof Motorola T600 Talkabout for GMRS/FRS/simplex only. Being able to use AA batteries is a tremendous benefit. I'm trying to now to not get anything that doesn't run off AA, but if not it must support 12V DC.
Other than people that bash Baofeng, I don't see people strongly not recommending any particular brand, with the possible exception of Midland doesn't make any top-five lists. :)
this, or its' anytone twin would be my choice. small size, small power requirements even on high, good sensitive receiver, still 20 watts, and more flexible with added channels than comparable midlands. generally $99 to $119 depending which brand and source you pick, programming cable included, and both part 95 certified.
software wise, the anytone works fine with the radioddity softwware. in addition to the base 30, you get 31`-39 as additional transmit channels, and a bunch more from 40 up that are rx only. (unlocked, all of the channels can be transmit channels, but requires being more careful that your programming is on point.)
antenna wise, i've had good results with a 8"x12" piece of sheet metal and a `small midland 1/2 wave whip mag mounted on it...that's discontinued, so a 5/8 wave whip for 450-470mhz (such as this Laird) may be a lot easier to find. i've also had good results with the browning br-1713-bs antenna (double 5/8 wave for uhf, 406-490 mhz, i saw 1.2 or better swr everywhere i checked in GMRS).
For handhelds, my wife and I use Baofeng UV-5X and it works great. ITs just a firmware locked version of their ham radio. YOu can get a pair for $60.
https://www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-UV-5X-Repeater-Rechargeable-Handheld/dp/B08T9BCXVB/
Bridgecom is probably the "best", but it costs $1500
If you get lucky, you could find a used Motorola GR1225 out there, but reprogramming it is a bear because it uses ancient proprietary software.
There's the Retevis RT97, but it's low power [cue arguments over power vs antenna height]
I'm a believer in these inexpensive 30A power supplies from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06VWV5YCH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I run a 50 watt ham radio and a 100 watt ham radio off of one (just can't transmit on both at the same time, but why would I do that?). You will need to provide your own power cable, but I used one from an old computer power supply, or you could cut the end off of an extension cord or something.
>Laird 450-470Mhz
Which HYS vs which Laird? HYS makes everything from a 1/4 wave to 1/2 wave and 5/8 or even a Yagi in that frequency range as does Laird. If comparing apples to apples, meaning the same type of antenna, you shouldn't see an appreciable performance difference between the two brands if both are installed and tuned correctly.
If you get something like this: QC 3.0 USB Outlet 12V Boat Marine Waterproof Cigarette Lighter Socket Splitter 12 Volt DC Power Charger Adapter DIY Kit with Blue LED Dual USB Ports for Rocker Switch Panel on Car RV Golf Cart ATV https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RHY97ZZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_FESVF0W8X4CXMNCH2R8D
You can hook it to your car's 12v line and run the radio and the USB ports simultaneously. There are lots of other options out there. This is just one.
6” pretuned, all you’ll need. Select whatever flavor of nmo mag mount you want. Shorter coax = less loss. Longer coax = more loss.
1126-B Antenna Tram Black UHF 1/4 wave NMO https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9D2N6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_94X9ZHKC7GRSK6GEB19P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Tram 1235 3 1/4" Magnet with NMO Mounting, 17ft Cable with PL-259, Gold https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K4R31QS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_QC07GVBSW3RESW7VEP4E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Tram 1126-b. Pre tuned (swr 1:1) so no trimming. Practically all you need for gmrs which is line of sight. You should learn about antenna length, antenna styles and swr, pretty much antennas are your performance bang for buck. SWR meters can be had for more or less. I’ve been happy with my Surecom swr meter.
1126-B Antenna Tram Black UHF 1/4 wave NMO Pre Tuned 410-490Mhz Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9D2N6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ATH7M9NZ7D4KBX626VTQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Surecom SW-102S SO239 Connector Digital VHF UHF 125-525Mhz Power & SWR Meter with Ground Plate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7QPXEY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_FXW3DP7VKZC1KBMZYDTN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
folded dipole? https://www.amazon.com/Harvest-FDU2-310-480-2-Elements-Antenna/dp/B09269H95D
they have a single element version, too, for half the price.
Been using this on a remote station for a year. 20’ (10’x2 of 1.25” emt) mast no issues. They’re offered in different off set lengths to accommodate various soffit depths.
Skywalker SKY32815 (1 Pair) 12" Heavy Duty Wall Mount (SKY-32815) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008USJ1CW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_YTAGNDDH85MHBMR77YJ3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The Midland you mentioned is not waterproof. Instead of the BTECH GMRS-V1 I just bought the really waterproof BAOFENG UV-9G. I consider them to be similar and the UV-9G as an upgrade, but you'll need to compare the features. The UV-9G comes with a programming cable and more memory locations. I bought a GMRS-V1 a few years ago but decided to not keep it. The UV-9G was the first one that caught my eye since the GMRS-V1.
For casual use I bought the Motorola Talkabout T605. Also waterproof, floats, and the light automatically comes on if dropped into water, and has a red flashlight.
I attached this mount to the baseplate mount that came with the radio https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KO5XVU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Doesn’t get better than this pairing for mobile gmrs. Perfect swr 1:1 and the price is right compared to other goofy options.
Tram 1235 3 1/4" Magnet with NMO Mounting, 17ft Cable with PL-259, Gold https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K4R31QS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_P9MPESV9H0XXZNQTPRK3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
1126-B Antenna Tram Black UHF 1/4 wave NMO Pre Tuned 410-490Mhz Antenna Motorola Kenwood Icom Vertex Blackbox HYT Hytera Mobile Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9D2N6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_8AEZ8KPC2MERZMQFGYFT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just put one of these on my UV-82hp and I love it. I'm using it for receive mostly, so haven't tested SWR but it's surprisingly sensitive for the size.
Bingfu UHF 400-470MHz Two Way Radio Antenna Replacement Walkie Talkie SMA Female Short Antenna 2-Pack Compatiable with BaoFeng BF-888S Arcshell AR-5 AR-6 AR-7 Retevis H-777 H-777S Kenwood FRS Radio https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P6JHTVF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_QWZEHFPGK89CKD733QBB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Good deal. Here's what I bought.
I then printed a label with my call sign and put it on all the radios. I don't like the midland radios because of the stupid 50 channel thing. It makes it difficult to talk to people with other branded radios.
TIDRADIO TD-H5 GMRS Radio with 4pcs 1500mah Batteries,Handheld 5W Long Range Two Way Radio for Adults,GMRS Repeater Capable,with NOAA Dual Band Scanning Receiver,Programming Cable Included (2 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Z7MVVBH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_4JAH65XYGG2B769N2ZAP
This is what I have on my truck:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043310ZO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
it's pretty long though, so car parks can be a challenge, the one you ordered should be ok.. gain isn't as high, but it'll still do well.
SWR is standing wave ratio, it basically means how much signal is getting out and how much is reflecting back into radio radio. Reflected power is lost power, reflected power is also heat which will damage your radio.
so onto squelch, what you are doing is adjusting a filter so signals don't break through until they reach a certain strength, this is alright if you're talking to all and sundry, but it can be pretty annoying to get bursts of static as the noise floor increases, it's a knob you'll be constantly messing with.
Tone squelch, and in this particular explanation, specifically CCTSS (continuous tone coded squelch system), your radio transmits an inaudible tone along side your voice, say, 141.3hz (also known as the travel tone), that way you don't have to keep adjusting the knob, as long as the other person has that tone programmed into your radio, when you call them, the squelch will drop......
You're gonna need to get to know this and something called offsets if you ever use a repeater.
With regards to CB, I don't know where you are, but there's very little activity up here on the freeways of the PNW.
No kidding! Not sure what I was thinking when I ordered it. The frequency ranges listed on it dont seem to be appropriate for CB or GMRS, Im going to see if I can still return it. I went with one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IDTJ2EA/
Im hoping to be able to switch out my antenna & radio between CB / GMRS using the same cable and NMO mount (use GMRS when im out with the guys wheeling, keep the CB in there day to day) but CB will come later, for now I want to dial in the GMRS first.
I appreciate you putting this on my radar - I had understood that tuning your antenna could get you better reception, but I didnt realize that having your antenna not tuned could potential damage it. Ive looked up a few tutorials on tuning GMRS radios and will do some learning.
The squelch thing - I kinda get what youre saying there, I havent made use of the squelch yet, but it seems kinda goofy, I like how on the CB`s you can adjust the squelch with a knob, seems more intuitive.
The midland ghost antenna really isn’t a good antenna for GMRS. Most, if not all, have a swr over 2:1 which is awful for an expensive and non tunable antenna from a brand that spends more on marketing to new users than R&D. If you value a small, compact and practically invisible antenna, look no further than the “Tram 1126-B”. It’s 6” tall, thinner than a pencil, costs less and is a perfect 1/4 wave match for GMRS having a swr of less than 1.2:1 in all I’ve come across. Less expensive and works far better. I pair mine with a nmo mag mount with coax run inside the vehicle. I have a proper mobile radio now, but this is how I ran my kg-805g prior and how I have friends and family run a quick setup in their vehicles while traveling together.
There is no Morse code human conversation on GMRS. You may be hearing the automatic identification of a repeater station, which is the station's call sign in Morse code.
If you want to practice and get comfortable with the service, I'd suggest buying another radio and giving it to a friend or family member to take out on a walk or whatever. It doesn't have to be a high-end/expensive radio; the Retevis RT76P would be fine: https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-Talkies-Rechargeable-Display-Outdoor/dp/B08FWWTZT4
> You could look into MURS which requires no license, but that's limited at 2 watts and can't use repeaters
This. Outdoors, where the OP is most likely to be using the radios, MURS will work perfectly fine. My Retevis RT47V's cover the whole of our families 25 acre hunting/recreation property. Two watts is absolutely more than enough plus you won't run into kids on FRS radios, ID requirements or licensing issues if you do need to hire a person/people for a day.
I would certainly recommend Motorola over the Retevis if budget allows, though the RT47V's are IP67 rated and mine have held up well to abuse(dropped/dunked/stepped on). You can also get 6 of them for less than a single new Motorola. They'll never be as clear as a RMM2050 or Icom V10MR, but the only real downside is they don't use the ubiquitous Kenwood 2 pin connector for earpieces/speaker mics.
The main place MURS really sucks is near a Walmart/Sam's Club. As long as you program the radios for CTCSS/DCS codes different than what they use, you'll be fine^(*).
​
^(*Walmart/Sam's buy their RDM2070d radios in bulk from Motorola with default settings, and no Bob the store manager doesn't know how to reprogram them.)
not the original commenter, but ayoooo..
Don't have a Kenwood so can't vouch for it, sometimes the cheapie cables off eBay and Amazon have problems with the Prolific (or counterfeit) serial chips. If you don't mind paying a little more, this one with an FTDI chip is probably a better guarantee.
That is odd. Mine works perfectly.
I assume that all the wires were the same from radio to radio.
I did have a noise that would break squelch once but it wasn't the radio. I had an aftermarket USB port in my Jeep. It was poorly built and was causing RF noise. I removed that and the problem went away. If that's your issue you can take that small antenna that came with the radio and move it around the car to find where the signal is strongest.
The offender was something like this. (It's not this exact one) https://www.amazon.com/Charger-ADSDIA-Aluminum-Waterproof-Motorcycle/dp/B07PN5YZX3/ref=sr_1_11?dchild=1&keywords=car+usb+port&qid=1631817006&sr=8-11
Oddly enough I have another one from another brand and it's fine.
It's fine if the repeater is close but I don't see how it can have great range unless you have perfect LOS to your repeater.
Compare the side of that non-swappable antenna to these -2dB and -2.5dB diamond antennas so lets assume a 4dB loss vs a +2dB standard antenna.
Then 2W to 5W is another 3dB at least. So really just estimating but it seems to be that you would get something like 7dB more power out of a GM-30.
That being said when my kids are older and I put a repeater together I'd definitely be looking at these to hand out to them because they're super compact and cheap.
This only applies if you have an antenna analyzer to use to sweep the antenna and then trim it for tuning.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TY2KOFG
That antenna is roughly 1/4w for VHF range but can be trimmed as a 3/4w antenna for UHF/GMRS range.
You sweep it with an analyzer and find where it resonates in the UHF range, likely below the GMRS frequencies. Then slowly trim it 1/8-1/4" max at a time, re-sweep it and see where the center is and slowly progress until you get it close to GMRS.
It is a simple antenna that won't snag as easily because it's smooth and rigid wire with a spring base if you whack a branch with it.
I’ve been using the mxta12 mag mount for about a year now. No complaints except the coax is way too long. Skip the mxta25, they’re usually mis-matched for GMRS having a high swr. Far cheaper and better is the Tram 1126-B 1/4wave antenna. I’ve bought two from two different vendors and the swr on both is 1.1-1. It’s only 6” and is all that’s needed for mobile GMRS. I also have the midland 6db gain coil over antenna which is fine, but it stays in the trunk because the tram 1126-b works just as well if not better and doesn’t slap drive thru’s or tree branches.
1126-B Antenna Tram Black UHF 1/4 wave NMO
I came across this while looking around on Amazon. Which works on Baofeng radios
I have this mount already so it being nmo should work then?
Also, please tell me more about your repeater!
This is ultimately what I want.
From what little I've read of Canada's GMRS rules, it is essentially the same as what FRS is here in the US. I don't know that the channel frequencies are exactly the same though, so you'll want to check that and go through a Canadian distributor. That said...
The Motorola T600 has a full 2W of output, is IP67 water resistant and available up north on Amazon as a two pack for $111CDN. They come with rechargeable battery packs, but will also take AA's. With the wattage and antenna restrictions you have, going for more expensive units probably wouldn't make sense. You could likely get away with the T100's(1.5W-$66 for 3) if you weren't looking for weather sealing.
Inside the school, the T600's should work absolutely fine. UHF is great at slipping through modern construction. In the woods though, if it's dense forest(particularly pine or other conifers), 2W might have a tough time pushing through at any appreciable range. My 4-5W Kenwood and Retevis radios, with upgraded antennas, lose range on my family hunting property/surrounding state land during the summer compared to fall/winter when the trees are bare.
I don't know what if any unlicensed VHF options there are in Canada but, for use in dense forest and without a repeater option, I'd take something like the 2W MURS radios we have here over 2W FRS radios any day of the week. Of course they don't do as well inside buildings.
Surecom Mcbazel SR-629 2 in 1 Duplex Cross Band Radio Repeater Controller with Radio Cable for Walkie Talkie https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0KVOC2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_r5EJhisHTFV8M
This works, you will need a duplexer as well to get it working right but if you separate the antennas far enough it should work fine as well. I run one of these, debating on adding an amplifier to the transmit radio.
Yeah the more I'm thinking on it, the attic seems to make more and more sense. Height as well as no HOA, lightning or weather issues to contend with.
The roof on the deck is mostly flat, so I picked up a piece of sheet metal for it to attach to.
I'm probably going to use this:
to mount a 6db antenna as high up as I can in the attic.
No, I for sure need to update firmware. Any male SMA antenna works. I have great luck with my nagoyas on my other radios. Ordered this one for the 76p Nagoya NA-771 SMA-Male 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna for YAESU, Vertex, TYT, and Wouxun Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RM6PJ62/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_jAr3FbFXDDVVJ
the 50x1 DOES have some limited remote control via dtmf tones (stun, kill, revive), but whether it will listen to those if it gets stuck in tx...don't know.
on connections, there ARE interface cables out there to connect the clones of the btech to a McBazel Surecom Repeater Controller, such as these. i've toyed with the idea of setting something like this up, but using one of the non-approved clones to save a little money on the receive side. that said, surplus commercial repeaters are around the same money.
If you have two spare radios that are capable of duplex/repeater rx/tx transmission you can use a cheap controller like this one. Never used one before so can't tell you the quality of them.
https://www.amazon.com/Mcbazel-Surecom-Repeater-Controller-QUANSHENG/dp/B01M7YTI16
This is the simplest way to go. This, plus an antenna, and something to get the antenna up. I will echo the others to recommend powering it independently, though it shouldn't take a lot of storage keep up with 5 watts for the day. Couple surplus 12 car batteries, lock the repeater in a toolbox, and get an antenna up.
If you are parking somewhere without a try to hang from I'd look at something like this for a base: https://www.amazon.com/ABN-Car-Flag-Pole-Stand/dp/B07C3DZHSM
For hilly terrain, look at 1/4 wave, if it's flatter, gain antennas will buy some extra range.
I suspect that much of the noise would be much less noticeable on GMRS vs CB since we're talking different bands. That said, whenever I've had a cb radio plugged into any circuitry that would be connected to the car's wiring harness, I get electrical noise, usually engine rpm dependent, usually from the alternator and maybe the coil packs/distributor. I typically can isolate this using a direct hot wire to the battery.
Edit: Also didn't notice it til now, but like the other commenters said, the plug you have chosen is 10 amp which won't be enough at full power. Car socket amperage is also something to consider. I've got one of these plugs which I believe the wire is thick enough for up to 25-30 amps, and comes with an in line fuse. https://www.amazon.com/CUZEC-Adapter-Socket-Terminal-CU10191B/dp/B075KF1K84/ref=sr_1_29?dchild=1&keywords=battery%2Bto%2Bcigarette%2Blighter&qid=1601343799&sr=8-29&th=1
This is basically the unit that Midland sources for their MXT-400, only you will have to program it yourself, it does split tones and will cost half as much.
AnyTone at 588 UHF 400-490 MHz Mobile Radio with Scrambler https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CBA136G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_TFCBFbM9VF944
Take a look at this one. I think it meets your requirements for handheld.
As far as a repeater, that will require some knowledge and expertise to acquire, tune up, and install.
Was it this one from Amazon?
How did you end up attaching the 17' antenna to the flagpole without it messing up the telescoping part?
If you don't go the repeater route and just use this as a base station, I'm assuming that the base station can easily talk to the HT, but can the HT reach the base station?
This is the one I use :
It says it only covers to 450MHz but seems to work fine at 462. But there are lots of cheaper and more expensive ones on Amazon, just check reviews.
It should change power automatically per the channel list but I'm not 100% sure.
For an SWR meter I have one of these and it seems to work pretty well.
Look at the Tera TR-505. It does GMRS and MURS legally. You can run a linear with the HT for more power.
$65 for a licence, good for 10 years. Obviously, people will tell you to just get your amateur licence. These people won't mention that your GMRS licence covers your entire family (step-kids, in-laws, uncles, nieces, etc.), while your amateur licence covers only you. Amateur FM is also a very different culture, featuring very serious and anal personalities. Many of these personalities are 'convinced in advance' of a whole lot of crazy stuff regarding your goals and interests (e.g. HF operation), and they will treat you like a moron on principle alone. GMRS is more relaxed and less serious (in general).