cell phones) whereas on channels 1-7 all radios can only be used on simplex mode. On channels 15-22, GMRS radios are able to be used in duplex mode (where signals can be sent and received at the same time – explained in our previous blog on two-way radios vs.
GMRS radios share channels 1-7 with the FRS, but have their own specific channels of 15-22. The range for GMRS radios using repeaters can be up to hundreds of miles. This repeater service increases the range dramatically, with each individual repeater being able to send out signal up to a 20 mile diameter around it. Instead of a signal going directly from one radio to another, the signal is sent to the repeater, and then to the intended radio recipient. Similar to cell phone towers that are placed all around the country, wide area service providers are placing radio repeaters high atop buildings and other tall structures. Today GMRS radio’s range is expanding exponentially, due to what is known as Wide Area Service. Some mobile units with higher antennas can have a range up to 5 miles.
Their range is a bit better than FRS radios, with typical hand-held devices being somewhere in the 1-2 mile window. Typically though, most GMRS radios use between 1 and 5 watts of power. Like the FRS, GMRS uses FM rather than AM waves to send signals, but unlike the FRS, GMRS can use up to 50 watts of power. The GMRS system, as mentioned previously, is like the big brother to the FRS. Although this can increase privacy between talkers, it does not guarantee that others cannot hear what is being said. FRS radios also use codes on each of these channels to filter out unwanted noise from other FRS users. Specific to FRS are channels 8-14, but channels 1-7 are shared with GMRS radios. Large trees, buildings or hills will interfere with and reduce the range of communication.Įach different radio service operates on specific channels. Most FRS radios will work up to about 1 mile apart. Because of this, their range is very limited. Unlike their more powerful big brother, GMRS, the FRS system is only allowed 500 milliwatts (half a watt) of power according to the FCC. They are relatively inexpensive, can be used by anyone and are easy to find. Most FRS systems are found at local sports and hunting stores, and used between family members and friends. The FRS system uses frequency modulation (FM) rather than amplitude modulation (AM) which increases its predictability, as opposed to the CB band. The Family Radio Service was created in 1996 for use by individuals in close range.
Gmrs repeater license#
The two types differ in a number of ways, but what many don’t know is that a license is needed for one, and not the other.
There are two main types of handheld radios in the united states, FRS or Family Radio Service, and GMRS or General Mobile Radio Service.
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