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What Kind Of Range On 900 MHZ One Watt Portable To Portable?

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JASII

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As psoted above, what kind of range can I expect on 900 mHz, portable to portable, using 1 watt on each portable? Yeah, I understand that range varies depending on the terrain, atmospheric conditions, etc., but in the real world, what can I expect? How would it compare to FRS/GMRS/MURS in the city, in rural areas, on a cruise ship, etc? I assume it is ALWAYS better than FRS in any case. I suspect 4 or 5 watts MURS always wins out in the woods, but what about 4 watts GMRS vs. 1 watts 900 MHZ? Does 900 win on a metal cruise ship? Does GMRS win in an area somewhat less obstructed?
 

Drachen_Fire

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The range depends on conditions, much like any band. You can expect a mile at least. A lot less inside of doors. Range would be comparable to MURS, FRS, and GMRS in open conditions, with open conditions technically favoring MURS. A cruise ship? Not sure. You should be able to cover a whole deck outside, but inside is anyone's guess. Also, check laws and regulations regarding use of radio communications devices onboard of ships in international waters, and in port in foreign countries.
 

N4KVE

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Depends on conditions. Years ago my GF & I would talk car to car simplex with 2 MTX9000's & barely got 1/2 mile. I then tried using 2 similar UHF radios. The range doubled. Most cruise ships actually sell bubble pack radios on board, so I wouldn't see a problem using radios on UHF while on a cruise ship.
 

Spankymedic7

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Beware of cruise ship rules

My wife, a friend, and I just cruised on a rather reputable cruise lines, before which I researched whether or not we'd be able to bring portable radios for on-board communication only. The answer was "yes"...I even checked the cruise line's rules on the matter.

Long story short, my radios were confiscated, with no good reason by either the port authority or the cruise line security team. We did wind up buying blister pack GMRS radios, which didn't work well, the range was very limited.

It seems that it's hit or miss on the topic. Research before taking them with. On the "what band is preferable" question, I have heard that 900MHz works well on board (I.e. TriSquare).

Hope this helps.
 
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