COMMS

UPDATED-22.02.21

So many choices, ham, FRS/GMRS/MURS, CB… What’s the difference? Which ones do IOR use? Why all these choices?

ham radio offers superior range and fidelity. In remote areas, ham radio is the overall technical preference.
+ Better range, transmission quality
– Requires an FCC license to transmit (anyone can listen to ham radios w/o a license)
– Costlier handsets and mobile radios.

CB radio are a frequent and popular choice for offroaders everywhere with a range of 1-25mi based on numerous factors.
+ Range and quality is roughly equal to FRS/GMRS/MURS
+ Handsets and mobile radios are affordable

FRS-vs-GMRS-vs-MURS(Family Radio Service / General Mobile Radio Service / Multi Use Radio Service ) – These are the ‘walkie-talkie’ radios widely available in popular sporting goods stores and are good for 2-20mi range based on terrain, antenna, and atmospheric conditions.

–License:
» FRS is licensed by rule. (free if you follow the FCC rules)
» GMRS requires FCC license(https://www.fcc.gov/…/applying-new-license-universal…)
» MURS is licensed by rule.

–Antenna:
» FRS may not have detachable antenna
» GMRS may have detachable, or remotely mounted aerials
» MURS may have detachable, or remotely mounted antennae

–Maximum Transmit Power(watts):
» FRS 2w (Ch 1-7, 15-22)
» GMRS 5w (Ch1-7), 50w(Ch 15-22)
» BOTH (FRS & GMRS) .5w(Ch8-14)
» MURS 2w(all channels)

–Repeaters:
» FRS may not connect to a repeater
» GMRS may use any of 8 pre-configured repeater frequency sets.
» MURS may not be connected to a repeater

Frustratingly, many walkie-talkie handsets are capable of FRS/GMRS and even MURS. So how do you use that radio legally?
» If the radio is handheld with non-removable antenna(and not a BaoFeng/or similar), then it’s a 2w FRS radio. –Check the packaging & instructions to confirm.
» If the radio is a mobile(In Vehicle unit) with a detachable antenna, then this likely a GMRS radio. –Check packaging & instructions to confirm.

SOURCE: FRS – FCC page | GMRS – FCC page | MURS – FCC page

Fine… I got all of that, just tell me which radio and frequency do I use when out on runs with IOR?

Ultimately, It’s up to the trail-leader. However, selecting the most accessible option is ideal for a mixed group of FRS, GMRS, ham capable gear and operators.

GMRS (15..22) are frequently chosen because it allows GMRS operators to Tx at higher power levels while allowing any FRS radio to Rx and Tx with the group.

. .. …Stay tuned for a “Which radio(hand held) should I buy” segment comin’ sooon.