This was a great video. Nobody could explain the FRS/GMRS radio situation any better. You did a great job doing so. More than a single thumbs up is definitely warranted.
Answered many of my questions on the differences. Leaning towards a GMRS unit for my Jeep. I have a pair of FRS radios already. Nice to know they will work with a GMRS radio too. Thanks for the info.
Just learning about GMRS radios because of their repeater capabilities but for general local city and on the road info if TSHTF scenario.....nothing beats a CB Radio with a good antenna and a kicker... The info coming from truckers coming and going is an extremely valuable in that SHTF scenario along with the other radios. hence my interest in GMRS (retired 30 year trucker here)
Hi Joe, thanks for watching and commenting. Purpose and audience are both important considerations when defining your particular communications need. You make a good use case for CB. For family use or groups wanting a more private channel such as hunting groups, the Part 95 services are good choices for that need. The relative low cost makes having several types of radios in the ole kit bag a smart move. Cheers!
@@GadgetTalk4U Quick question you might know..... With the GMRS radio can you extend your range out through the use of several Repeaters in line if trying to communicate with someone in another state for example?
Thanks for watching and commenting. Many ham radios can broadcast on GMRS frequencies. The legal aspects are the big reason. They are not certified for Part 95 operations and are thus not legal.
Very Nice Video presentation best I've seen on TH-cam. Would you mind giving just your opinion on what GMRS radio may be the better of the lot that's out there then I will do my home work and decide. Sure appreciate and thank you again sir.
I've done several reviews on my channel. Check them out if you haven't already - from really inexpensive to more costly. In the $40 to $50 range, the Radioddity GM-30 and the Baofeng UV-9G seem pretty good. Both have additional DIY channels if you have several repeaters with different codes where you live or travel. Both feel solid. The GM-30 is a bit smaller and the UV-9G is a bit larger and has a heavier feel. They claim the UV-9G is submersible but I'd take that with a grain of salt. Certainly splash proof, though. Wouxun brand radios are good but 2 to 3 times more expensive. Not a bad choice if you have the money. My affiliate link will get you $15 off at Radioddity on purchases greater than $65. Here it is: radioddity.refr.cc/jmohan351 . If you're just starting out, even the BaoFeng UV-5X pair are OK, but basic.
Hello, I am a pastor just getting into GMRS and have many questions. We have a daycare that has an FRS system. How can I get them to come through on my GMRS radio when they need help in a pinch? I've tried pairing them to a channel but to no avail. Any help would be great. Thank you. Great videos by the way.
Hi, Jeffery, GMRS and FRS channels are the same up to channel 22. First set a couple of radios to say channel 6. Make sure all the privacy codes are set to off. You may see menu items that say CTS or DCS. They are the same thing. All should be off. All radios should now receive each other. If you have a lot of traffic on a channel change channels. Avoid 8 through 14 as they are low power channels. If they work up close but not across your campus, your buildings may be too dense. Good luck. If all the FRS radios have the same privacy codes for transmit and receive, set those in your new GMRS radio.
@@GadgetTalk4U Thank you for that. That helps...but they I can hear them but they cannot hear me. Sorry, for the questions but I am new to this and just learning.
@@jeffreyhodge3088 That likely means they have codes set and you do not. Yours need to match theirs. Look through their menu system to see what they have set and set yours to the same thing.
Very noob question. So if I buy a brand new FRS radio i.e. BAOFENG 88A etc. It is advertised as open box and talk without programming needed. It is my intend reason to buy these. I will be just using them as pre-progammed. Will I hear neighbours and other families on it if neighbours also have FRS radios too? Will my new FRS radio channels be heard by them?
Just getting into gmrs radios as of last week. I live in Alaska and the only repeater is in Anchorage about 35 miles away. I’m not in the range as it shows on the map. Am I going to be limited to “line of sight” radio traffic? I don’t know if can connect to the repeater. I don’t have my radio yet.
Having the right tool for the right need is important. Keeping track of family fairly close to you while driving or hiking/hunting is a good fit for GMRS. UHF radio is indeed mainly line of sight. If your goal is to chat with others who you don't know over a wider area, then getting a Technician Operator's license would probably be better. There are numerous ham repeaters in and around Anchorage, Willow, Wasilla etc. You can also go world wide with a digital mode such as DMR or D-Star or Fusion through your home's internet connection if you have one. You may want to do both. Right tools for the right job. I have some videos on these topics on the channel. Cheers.
Same where I am in New England in that there are only one or two repeaters but they are not near me. I bought a 15 watt mobile radio with outside antenna and am surprised that I am hearing chatter from people using repeaters 30+ miles away (mileage guess based on their discussions). Also surprised to hear a lot of businesses using GMRS when I drive around town with the radio in scan mode. If you have a handheld or go with a mobile and use a good antenna, line of sight can be many miles. I'm in the hilly woods and using handhelds only was able to talk to my kids about 1.5 miles away. haven't tested the mobile to handheld yet.
You might be able to hit that tower with either more power OR a higher gain antenna...or both. High gain ( measured as “ DB’s) which increases your signal strength. Typically if you can Hear them , it is possible to get back with the right equipment. Andy N3QZF
I really can't say anything negative about FRS or GMRS. They'll wonderful communication tools that are available when cell phone are useless. However I perfer using MURS for camping or road trips, because VHF is an excellent choice over UHF in some situations. MURS maybe limit to 2 watts simplex only, but they'll another tool to add to the toolbox
@@GadgetTalk4U Talk abouy Amateur Radio Operators as individuals. We each took the exam for a reason ohter then the ability to press the PTT or ponud the paddle. Some of us like myself are big Railfans and chit-chat about railroad operations and the abililty to carry one radio while monitoring Railroad. 73 K3JCP / WQAI363
@@Adamdaj While not really related to GMRS, are you on digital voice of some kind? So many topic related talk groups, reflectors or rooms, it should be fairly easy to find other Railfans! I've been meaning to drop in on an RV Ham group. AA7JM, 73
@@GadgetTalk4U I'm DMR sometimes, mainly on Tri State. Once in a while trow out my call on Florida State TG 3112, but most of the time on Tri State 73 Adqm K3JCP
Good video. Perhaps you can clear up some confusion. I have a Motorola T7200 from many years ago. It can switch from 12.5 to 25 kHz bandwidth on GMRS which was the standard back then. Now that the standard changed to 20 kHz, will the T7200 not function properly if it's set to 25 kHz?
The difference between 20 kHz and 25kHz bandwidth roughly translates into a signal deviation difference of 1 kHz. 20 is 4kHz and 25 is 5kHz. You probably won't notice a difference if both GMRS radios are set to wide. It becomes more pronounced if you were trying to mix narrow at 12.5 kHz and the older 25 kHz wide standard. Ultimately, give it a try to see. There are some good explanations on the internet if you search wide and narrow bandwidth.
No test. You need to go to the FCC web site, get an FRN number -free, then apply for the GMRS license, then pay. Kinda like getting a fishing license. BTW, the website is terrible to navigate. Expect to be frustrated. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Handy Talkie or HT and sometimes Handheld or HH are the current terms. I didn't choose them. Maybe because folks don't walk and use 'em? Go figure. Cheers. Thanks for watching.
Most hammers that also have a GMRS license do not use part 95 compliant radios. They use the same equipment for GMRS that they use for ham. The bottom line is that no one knows what radio you are using on GMRS unless you tell them.
I believe they become authorized on that date. Will likely not take effect until later this summer. Procedures and IT will have to be updated. GMRS licensees hope sooner, hams are hoping for later. We'll see. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I know, I am one year late. 😥 Thanks for a very good explanation of GMRS / FRS radios, except for one thing @ 7:58 I have a very different understanding of CTCSS and DCS "privacy" codes. These codes use your radio squelch function to block your "reception" from radios that are not using the same code on the same channel/frequency. These codes do not block your "transmission" signal from other radios on the same channel/frequency, they only block your "reception" from other radios on the same channel, using your radio squelch controls. Consequently, true "privacy" has been a myth for years.
just wanted to add. dont belive the marketing hype on alot of ht gmrs radios that say they have up to 50 channels, this is smoke and mirrors at its best... its the same channels 1-22 (unless there repeater channels) just using a preset privacy code by the manufacture.
@@GadgetTalk4U Should I go for one least expensive super heterodyne, or appease the wife and 2 uv9r’s from Abbree? Also I’m probably going to get a six pack of BF 888S for the grandkids.
The only difference between "ham radio" and GMRS are frequencies..........all the same science, other than FCC "permission" and marketing and selling radios.
GMRS is limited to 50 watts. Ham is allowed up to 1500 watts. Hams have MANY, MANY more frequencies and allows you to talk around the country if not the world. GMRS maybe maxed out at 50 miles. So to compare GMRS to a few ham bands ( 2 meter and 440 MHz) is somewhat fair..
This was a great video. Nobody could explain the FRS/GMRS radio situation any better. You did a great job doing so. More than a single thumbs up is definitely warranted.
Much appreciated! Cheers.
Couldn't be more clear than this! thank you for taking the time to explain it sir
You're very welcome!
Thank you. You presentation was very helpful and easy to understand.
Love the way you explain things. Awesome video. Thank you so much.
Very well done sir, I really like the way you layed it out for everyone to better understand.
Thank you kindly!
Excellent introduction to FRS & GMRS. Thanks for sharing. 👍🏻
Glad it was helpful!
Answered many of my questions on the differences. Leaning towards a GMRS unit for my Jeep. I have a pair of FRS radios already. Nice to know they will work with a GMRS radio too. Thanks for the info.
Glad I could help
Really interesting and helpful, cuts through all the jargon in an easy to understand manner, spot on for the uninitiated like myself! Cheers
Super good job on explaining everything simply sir.
I am new to this, especially to GMRS. I appreciate the information you give that is informaive and easily understood. I am also a new subscriber.
Thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers
Just learning about GMRS radios because of their repeater capabilities but for general local city and on the road info if TSHTF scenario.....nothing beats a CB Radio with a good antenna and a kicker... The info coming from truckers coming and going is an extremely valuable in that SHTF scenario along with the other radios. hence my interest in GMRS (retired 30 year trucker here)
Hi Joe, thanks for watching and commenting. Purpose and audience are both important considerations when defining your particular communications need. You make a good use case for CB. For family use or groups wanting a more private channel such as hunting groups, the Part 95 services are good choices for that need. The relative low cost makes having several types of radios in the ole kit bag a smart move. Cheers!
@@GadgetTalk4U Quick question you might know..... With the GMRS radio can you extend your range out through the use of several Repeaters in line if trying to communicate with someone in another state for example?
@@notwrkn2mch I believe the answer to your question is yes. I'm not big into GMRS repeater use so can't say for certain.
@@notwrkn2mch Yes, several GMRS repeaters are linked via the Internet.
Thanks for sharing this valuable info! Thank you man. Love from India
Close but no cigar...when the repeater input is above the output, that is called a positive offset.
Thank you that was very informative. Why is it that a HAM radio cannot broadcast on GMRS other than legality sake?
Thanks for watching and commenting. Many ham radios can broadcast on GMRS frequencies. The legal aspects are the big reason. They are not certified for Part 95 operations and are thus not legal.
@@GadgetTalk4U thank you I appreciate the response
Great info!
Thanks for watching!
Just subscribed great video and new to GMRS.
Glad it was helpful
Very Nice Video presentation best I've seen on TH-cam. Would you mind giving just your opinion on what GMRS radio may be the better of the lot that's out there then I will do my home work and decide. Sure appreciate and thank you again sir.
I've done several reviews on my channel. Check them out if you haven't already - from really inexpensive to more costly. In the $40 to $50 range, the Radioddity GM-30 and the Baofeng UV-9G seem pretty good. Both have additional DIY channels if you have several repeaters with different codes where you live or travel. Both feel solid. The GM-30 is a bit smaller and the UV-9G is a bit larger and has a heavier feel. They claim the UV-9G is submersible but I'd take that with a grain of salt. Certainly splash proof, though. Wouxun brand radios are good but 2 to 3 times more expensive. Not a bad choice if you have the money. My affiliate link will get you $15 off at Radioddity on purchases greater than $65. Here it is: radioddity.refr.cc/jmohan351 . If you're just starting out, even the BaoFeng UV-5X pair are OK, but basic.
Hello, I am a pastor just getting into GMRS and have many questions. We have a daycare that has an FRS system. How can I get them to come through on my GMRS radio when they need help in a pinch? I've tried pairing them to a channel but to no avail. Any help would be great. Thank you. Great videos by the way.
Hi, Jeffery, GMRS and FRS channels are the same up to channel 22. First set a couple of radios to say channel 6. Make sure all the privacy codes are set to off. You may see menu items that say CTS or DCS. They are the same thing. All should be off. All radios should now receive each other. If you have a lot of traffic on a channel change channels. Avoid 8 through 14 as they are low power channels. If they work up close but not across your campus, your buildings may be too dense. Good luck. If all the FRS radios have the same privacy codes for transmit and receive, set those in your new GMRS radio.
@@GadgetTalk4U Thank you for that. That helps...but they I can hear them but they cannot hear me. Sorry, for the questions but I am new to this and just learning.
@@jeffreyhodge3088 That likely means they have codes set and you do not. Yours need to match theirs. Look through their menu system to see what they have set and set yours to the same thing.
Very noob question. So if I buy a brand new FRS radio i.e. BAOFENG 88A etc. It is advertised as open box and talk without programming needed. It is my intend reason to buy these. I will be just using them as pre-progammed. Will I hear neighbours and other families on it if neighbours also have FRS radios too? Will my new FRS radio channels be heard by them?
Thank you.
Excellent my friend. Will subscribe to your channel.
Just getting into gmrs radios as of last week. I live in Alaska and the only repeater is in Anchorage about 35 miles away. I’m not in the range as it shows on the map. Am I going to be limited to “line of sight” radio traffic? I don’t know if can connect to the repeater. I don’t have my radio yet.
Having the right tool for the right need is important. Keeping track of family fairly close to you while driving or hiking/hunting is a good fit for GMRS. UHF radio is indeed mainly line of sight. If your goal is to chat with others who you don't know over a wider area, then getting a Technician Operator's license would probably be better. There are numerous ham repeaters in and around Anchorage, Willow, Wasilla etc. You can also go world wide with a digital mode such as DMR or D-Star or Fusion through your home's internet connection if you have one. You may want to do both. Right tools for the right job. I have some videos on these topics on the channel. Cheers.
Same where I am in New England in that there are only one or two repeaters but they are not near me. I bought a 15 watt mobile radio with outside antenna and am surprised that I am hearing chatter from people using repeaters 30+ miles away (mileage guess based on their discussions). Also surprised to hear a lot of businesses using GMRS when I drive around town with the radio in scan mode. If you have a handheld or go with a mobile and use a good antenna, line of sight can be many miles. I'm in the hilly woods and using handhelds only was able to talk to my kids about 1.5 miles away. haven't tested the mobile to handheld yet.
@@GadgetTalk4U thank you for the info.
You might be able to hit that tower with either more power OR a higher gain antenna...or both. High gain ( measured as “ DB’s) which increases your signal strength. Typically if you can Hear them , it is possible to get back with the right equipment. Andy N3QZF
Thanks
If you have a group of off road enthusiasts and some are using gmrs and some using fmrs, are there channels they can all communicate on together?
@jamesc6137 The FRS and GMRS channels are all the same. Use any one you like.
I really can't say anything negative about FRS or GMRS. They'll wonderful communication tools that are available when cell phone are useless. However I perfer using MURS for camping or road trips, because VHF is an excellent choice over UHF in some situations. MURS maybe limit to 2 watts simplex only, but they'll another tool to add to the toolbox
Thanks for commenting. I like your point about having another tool in the toolbox. Exactly right. Cheers
@@GadgetTalk4U Talk abouy Amateur Radio Operators as individuals. We each took the exam for a reason ohter then the ability to press the PTT or ponud the paddle. Some of us like myself are big Railfans and chit-chat about railroad operations and the abililty to carry one radio while monitoring Railroad. 73 K3JCP / WQAI363
@@Adamdaj While not really related to GMRS, are you on digital voice of some kind? So many topic related talk groups, reflectors or rooms, it should be fairly easy to find other Railfans! I've been meaning to drop in on an RV Ham group. AA7JM, 73
@@GadgetTalk4U I'm DMR sometimes, mainly on Tri State. Once in a while trow out my call on Florida State TG 3112, but most of the time on Tri State 73 Adqm K3JCP
Good video. Perhaps you can clear up some confusion. I have a Motorola T7200 from many years ago. It can switch from 12.5 to 25 kHz bandwidth on GMRS which was the standard back then. Now that the standard changed to 20 kHz, will the T7200 not function properly if it's set to 25 kHz?
The difference between 20 kHz and 25kHz bandwidth roughly translates into a signal deviation difference of 1 kHz. 20 is 4kHz and 25 is 5kHz. You probably won't notice a difference if both GMRS radios are set to wide. It becomes more pronounced if you were trying to mix narrow at 12.5 kHz and the older 25 kHz wide standard. Ultimately, give it a try to see. There are some good explanations on the internet if you search wide and narrow bandwidth.
@@GadgetTalk4U Thanks for the explanation.
Good summary.
Excellent
I thought you had to take a written test to use a GMRS radio. So there are no papers to fill out to get a GMRS radio License ?
No test. You need to go to the FCC web site, get an FRN number -free, then apply for the GMRS license, then pay. Kinda like getting a fishing license. BTW, the website is terrible to navigate. Expect to be frustrated. Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@GadgetTalk4U Oh thanks. I guess I will just keep my FRS. They work fine for us. I don't like to be frustrated. ( smile )
Is frs/gmrs license free in canada? Thanks.
FRS and GMRS are US only services. Canada has similar but different radio usage programs. Best to check a Canadian source. Cheers.
am-a-tur... never heard it that way... am-a-chur is the way I've always heard it.
PotAto, patawto. www.thefreedictionary.com/Amatuer
Thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers!
Handy talkie???
What happened to the normal walkie talkies.
Handy Talkie or HT and sometimes Handheld or HH are the current terms. I didn't choose them. Maybe because folks don't walk and use 'em? Go figure. Cheers. Thanks for watching.
You reminded me of mr wizard. Anyone remember mr wizard?
I do remember Mr. Wizard. I hope it was a good memory!
@@GadgetTalk4U yes it was! 😊
@@adamstruthjourney1226 oml we are really dating ourselves because I too remember Mr. Wizard.
Most hammers that also have a GMRS license do not use part 95 compliant radios. They use the same equipment for GMRS that they use for ham. The bottom line is that no one knows what radio you are using on GMRS unless you tell them.
New FCC GMRS $35 license fee is supposed to go into effect on 19 April.
I believe they become authorized on that date. Will likely not take effect until later this summer. Procedures and IT will have to be updated. GMRS licensees hope sooner, hams are hoping for later. We'll see. Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@GadgetTalk4U another TH-camr thinks that the new fee will be in effect sometime this quarter.
I know, I am one year late. 😥 Thanks for a very good explanation of GMRS / FRS radios, except for one thing @ 7:58
I have a very different understanding of CTCSS and DCS "privacy" codes. These codes use your radio squelch function to block your "reception" from radios that are not using the same code on the same channel/frequency. These codes do not block your "transmission" signal from other radios on the same channel/frequency, they only block your "reception" from other radios on the same channel, using your radio squelch controls. Consequently, true "privacy" has been a myth for years.
You are correct. That why squelch is part of the name. Thanks for commenting. Cheers.
Is there a good argument why the FCC has any business telling anyone what frequency one can talk on.
Yes. They set the rules. They are in charge of the radio waves. They set the rules for the requirements to use certain bands.
just wanted to add. dont belive the marketing hype on alot of ht gmrs radios that say they have up to 50 channels, this is smoke and mirrors at its best... its the same channels 1-22 (unless there repeater channels) just using a preset privacy code by the manufacture.
Exactly
Yeah but can GMRS and FRS radios communicate with each other?
Yep. they use the same channels.
@@GadgetTalk4U Should I go for one least expensive super heterodyne, or appease the wife and 2 uv9r’s from Abbree? Also I’m probably going to get a six pack of BF 888S for the grandkids.
The only difference between "ham radio" and GMRS are frequencies..........all the same science, other than FCC "permission" and marketing and selling radios.
That's like saying the only difference between apple and cherry pie is the filling.
GMRS is limited to 50 watts. Ham is allowed up to 1500 watts. Hams have MANY, MANY more frequencies and allows you to talk around the country if not the world. GMRS maybe maxed out at 50 miles. So to compare GMRS to a few ham bands ( 2 meter and 440 MHz) is somewhat fair..