Here is info from Ed at Import Communications on the FHSS option:
"they actually work, using a 1 MHz spread. For example, if set for 439 MHz, the transmission spreads from 438-439 MHz. It is undetectable by a radio tuned to either of those frequencies.
To set it up you program one of the side buttons to activate the FHSS function. You set a certain channel with a MSK tone in it. This channel can be any frequency. The FHSS function is set to any frequency you want to use. All radios in the group are monitoring the same channel. When the side button is pushed, all the radios in the group pick up the MSK tone and switch to FHSS mode and can talk to each other."
An answer to my question about the legality of FHSS on the amateur bands:
"Allowed on all bands above 2 meters.
Rules and Regulations on Amateur Spread Spectrum Communications
Part 97.311 Spread Spectrum FCC Rules for Ham bands:
97.311 SS emission types
(a) SS emission transmissions by an amateur station are authorized
only
for communications between points within areas where
the amateur
service is regulated by the FCC and between an area
where the amateur
service is regulated by the FCC and an amateur station
in another
country that permits such communications. SS
emission transmissions
must not be used for the purpose of obscuring the
meaning of any
communication.
(b) A station transmitting SS emissions must not cause harmful
interference to stations employing other authorized
emissions, and
must accept all interference caused by stations
employing other
authorized modes.
(c) When deemed necessary by a District Director to assure compliance
with
this Part, a station licensee must:
(1) Cease SS emission transmissions;
(2) Restrict SS emission transmissions to the extent instructed;
and
(3) Maintain a record, convertible to the original information
(voice,
test, image, etc.) of all spread spectrum
communications transmitted.
(d) The transmitter power must not exceed 100 W under any
circumstances."
This opens up a new world of FHSS experimenting in the amateur bands with an off the shelf radio.
prcguy
Import Communications claims their version is made to their specs and not available until later this month, so maybe it has the additional features. I've dealt with Ed Griffin at KMA Antennas/Import Communications for many years and he is one the most honest guys you will find in the business. Maybe I'll give him a call to clear up questions about the FHSS and other features.
prcguy