GMRS Mobile Radio Choices

[KX4KDH]

Wirelessly posted (BB8330: BlackBerry8330/4.5.0.186 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/104)

I am in the market for a mobile radio to use for GMRS. I am looking for a couple of key things in a radio: One is high power 45 or 50w. I am going to use the most they will let me. (Yes, I read the thread about power vs distance). The other real biggie is being able to change PL tones on the fly without having to reprogram. I am looking at an Icom, and a Yaesu so far. I would rather not have a dual band radio, though. Any thoughts?

 

[KC0CSE]

4150 Maxon radio 40 watts....

 

[KX4KDH]

And only 16 channels. I have a lot of research to do.

 

[KX4KDH]

Well, it doesn't quite have the power I want, but as far as functionality is concerned, it is starting to look like the Blackbox UHF Mobile.

 

[b7spectra]

Mine is a Spectra A9 (large head) 40 watt radio. I've got a button programmed called MPL (Multiple Private Line) where you can switch the tones. 120 channels minimum capable.

 

[SkipSanders]

Well, it doesn't quite have the power I want, but as far as functionality is concerned, it is starting to look like the Blackbox UHF Mobile.

Hopefully you realize that it's illegal to use the Blackbox radios on GMRS? They are certified for Part 90 only.

Very, very few commercial radios are permitted on GMRS, as few manufacturers care about the market and bother to get their gear certified for Part 95A use.

 

[KX4KDH]

Hopefully you realize that it's illegal to use the Blackbox radios on GMRS? They are certified for Part 90 only.

Very, very few commercial radios are permitted on GMRS, as few manufacturers care about the market and bother to get their gear certified for Part 95A use.

Great... Another obstacle. So now I have to figure out which radios are part 95A certified.

 

[gewecke]

Great... Another obstacle. So now I have to figure out which radios are part 95A certified.

The kenwood tk805/d is a 45watt uhf 16ch radio which can be prog without a computer and has pl and dpl, AND is part 95 certified.
I have one and I use it every day.
Google it for a pic and more details.
n9zas

 

[KX4KDH]

Okay.... What about the TK-830? I know it is only 35w, but shoould be a good starter radio.

 

[gewecke]

Okay.... What about the TK-830? I know it is only 35w, but shoould be a good starter radio.

Possibly,but I'm not familiar with it since I've never had one. However google it,and you'll have more info then you want!
I also suggested the 805d because they can be had for $75-150 used,and don't require software to program.
n9zas

 

[KX4KDH]

Well, I just got a TK-830 for $60 delivered. We shall see.

 

[SkipSanders]

The only way to tell if a unit is GMRS legal is to get the FCC ID number, and check it at the FCC site to see if the grant includes Part 95A. (or just Part 95)

Get the FCC ID, and use this page to check:

https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/GenericSearch.cfm

There are a whole bunch of different 'TK-830' models. Some are Part 95 certified, some are not. For instance, the TK-830G1 is... the G2, G3, and G4 are not.

 

[KX4KDH]

It looks like the answer is YES


Parts Grant
450 470 35 0.00025 % 16K0F3E 22,90,95 BD
450 470 35 0.00025 % 11K0F3E 22,90.210,95 BD

 

[KX4KDH]

Let's try this again:

 

[gewecke]

Well, I just got a TK-830 for $60 delivered. We shall see.

GREAT buy!
n9zas

 

[b7spectra]

Just remember, unless you are a SAPS, who will really care? Uncle Charlie has a lot more to do than go after someone who is not using a type accepted radio or not. If they did, most every VFD in the nation would be shut down!

 

[East_Algoma]

check into some Import CHINA Models....nice features avail on some models....

 

[SkipSanders]

Not a single one of the chinese import radios are legal on GMRS. Nor are most of them legal to import at all.

All moot, if the current proposed rule changes for GMRS go into effect, since NO handheld with a removable antenna, or more than 2 watts ERP (non-removable antenna to have no more gain than a half wave dipole), will be allowed for GMRS. Mobile units still get more power, though.

 

[b7spectra]

Yeah, that is what is really strange. Your portable can only do 2 Watts ERP, but your mobile can do 45. Derf?

 

[SkipSanders]

Your government is 'protecting' you from RF Exposure to high power signals an inch from your head. Of course, that leaves cops as 'who cares', since they use higher powered HT's, oh, and business, etc.

It's mostly a 'we don't want to require manufacturers to do RF Exposure tests' thing... I think.

Of course, it also matches US rules up with Canada, which already has a 2 watt limit.

What's really annoying is it bans ALL 'non-FRS, non-bubblepack, actually well made and with full CTCSS/DCS capabilities' handie-talkies by requiring a fixed, non-removable antenna for all GMRS portables, even if they don't have FRS.