Pairing your two‑way radio with a Bluetooth headset is a great idea if you want to communicate untethered and hands‑free.

And it can’t be that hard, right?

Well, it’s not always easy, either. In this blog we’ve put together tips, tricks, and background information that has helped our customers pair their two-way radio with a bluetooth accessory.

Bluetooth Basics

It may be hard to believe, but Bluetooth technology has only been around since 1994. It was created by the Dutch inventor Jaap Haartsen and developed by Bluetooth Special Interest Group.

It uses UHF radio waves to transmit data wirelessly for short distances, generally up to 30 feet. It uses the same frequency as cordless phones and WiFi routers.

The name Bluetooth comes from the Danish King, Harald Bluetooth, who brought warring factions together.

In the same way that the old king brought together different Danes, Bluetooth is uniting printers, speakers, headsets, microphones, and now two‑way radios.

Two‑Way Radio Accessories

There are plenty of reasons why people might want to use a Bluetooth headset with two‑way radios.

Public safety workers need maximum flexibility, and people working in manufacturing facilities shouldn’t have to worry about stepping around cords. Education staff and administrators, hotel front desk personnel — all of these people are good candidates for using a Bluetooth headset because it enables them to step away from the radio and still stay in touch.

These days, the majority of Motorola’s two‑way radios are Bluetooth enabled. Many of the MOTOTRBO™ radios, for example, are capable of pairing with a headset. A good number of these devices can operate 30‑50 feet away from the parent device.

But just because something is capable doesn’t mean you can just take it out of the box and use it.

There’s a bit of programming that your two‑way radio service provider needs to do first, to make your pairing work.

The Art of Pairing

Non‑display radios are a little tricky this way, because there’s no screen. In those cases, the radios have programmable buttons that we can assign: Bluetooth connect and Bluetooth disconnect.

The Bluetooth‑capable two‑way radios with displays are a little easier. Many of us have paired a Bluetooth printer or speaker, and it works just like that. You just access it through the menu of the portable radio.

Then press the button that says “find devices” and go from there.

But, the service provider still needs to activate Bluetooth before it will work.

Your Friend, the User’s Guide

Your two‑way radio provider can talk you through how to pair your device.

Motorola’s website has great information on Bluetooth accessories. Some of them are specifically designed for police officers, maintenance workers, or first responders.

There are YouTube videos galore on pairing devices, because it seems like everyone’s doing it.

And don’t forget your portable radio’s user guide: It does a fantastic job of talking you through the pairing process in a logical way. Sometimes I’ll print out just the Bluetooth section and share it with people who are trying to figure it out.

If you buy a Motorola accessory that is Bluetooth enabled, the company provides a handy booklet that will help you with the pairing process.

It might be a little confusing at first, but once you get it, it usually works out for people.

Compatibility Matters

If you plan on using a Bluetooth Headset in your work, your two‑way radio service provider can make sure the devices are going to get along. To pair properly, the two‑way radio needs to

• Use Bluetooth 4.0 (the latest version, and the one that comes with the latest Apple products). Your two-way radio maintenance provider can make sure your devices are set up for Bluetooth capabilities. 
• Use push‑to‑talk technology. This allows you to talk to someone with the push of a button.

Don’t Forget to Charge

Some people are hesitant to try Bluetooth because they already have to worry about keeping so many devices charged.

But for others, Bluetooth is necessary, and charging that headset is just part of their routine.

On average, the batteries should stay charged from 8 to 10 hours, sometimes up to 20, so it probably won’t inconvenience you too much, if you get in the habit of charging it when you’re not working.

Worry Less and Communicate More

We all have enough going on these days. We shouldn’t have to worry about something like Bluetooth pairing. Luckily, there are a lot of resources out there to help us all figure it out.

My main piece of advice is to plan ahead. If you are shopping around for two‑way radios, be sure to let your account executive know that you plan on using Bluetooth accessories.

With their help, you can eliminate frustrating experiences and get moving — and talking.

The post Tips for Pairing Your Two-way Radio with a Bluetooth Headset appeared first on .

Radio has evolved in countless forms throughout history. From an essential mode of communication to an advertising tool, it’s a vital landscape in history and everyday life. The radio may seem irrelevant in a world filled with computers, mobile phones, and tablets, but it’s the most expansive audience footprint. According to the National Association for Amateur Radio (ARRL), it reaches 3 billion people globally and 256 million in the United States each week.

Though some types of radio are less popular than others, most have been around since the early days of communications and are more common now than ever. One of these is ham radio or amateur radio, a classic piece of communication that some view as an archaic technology, only applicable to the security forces for emergency communication and communication by movie stars and truck drivers. Amateur radio has numerous benefits and uses, is fun, educational, social, and can be a lifeline in times of need.

This guide goes through everything you need to know about amateur radio and amateur radio stations. It looks into its definition, history, the origin of its name, how some of the top handheld ham radios work, and equipment required for set up. It also features how radio amateurs can use the technology, communication systems, the licensing process, multiple types of licenses available, and the benefits of amateur radio.

Table of Contents show

What Is Ham or Amature Radio?

History of Ham Radio

Why the name Ham Radio?

What Equipment do you Need for a Ham Radio?

American radio relay league: All you need to know

Where Should You Set Up Your Ham Radio?

How Do You Become an Amateur Radio Operator?

What Are the Available Types of Ham Radio Licenses?

How Do You Use a Ham Radio?

What Are the Uses of Ham Radio?

What Are the Benefits of a Ham Radio?

Conclusion

Radio“>What Is Ham or Amature Radio?

Ham or amateur radio is a radio service that uses several frequencies to receive and transmit messages without a mobile device or an internet service. They are operated by amateur radio operators called “hams,” who communicate over VHF and UHF frequencies that complement each other to transmit radio signals. Amateur radios are strictly used for non-commercial purposes such as exchanging messages on sports, weather, politics, emergency communication, private recreation, and wireless experimentation; services known as Amateur Radio Service.

Radio“>History of Ham Radio

The origin of the ham radio technology dates back to the 1890s and early 1900s during the invention of radio communication. It began with Guglielmo Marconi sending the letter “S” in Morse Code from Cornwall in Great Britain to Newfoundland in Canada, across the Atlantic Ocean.
This invention was exciting for many technically-minded people globally as they experimented with wireless telegraphy. As a result, amateurs soon began to cobble together their own radio sets, leading to the term amateur radio.

Radio“>Why the name Ham Radio?

According to the American radio relay league, there are three speculations about the origin of the name HAM radio. They include:

• Ham is an acronym for the first ham radio station’s owners; Albert Hyman, Bob Almy, and Poogie Murray.
• The term “ham” was to mean “unprofessionally made,” hence describing ham radios as ordinary people, not professionals made them, thus the rise of amateur radio societies.
• Ham comes from Oscar Hammarlund, who built a strong radio equipment brand in the early 1900s.

Due to the versatility of ham radio frequencies, the spectrum is divided into twenty-seven different amateur radio bands that bounce off from the transmitter onto the antenna.

Radio“>What Equipment do you Need for a Ham Radio?

The equipment needed depends on your amateur radio license class and interests. Some notable options among these include a transceiver (handheld, mounted, or mobile), antenna, antenna tuner, power source, and repeaters. Other equipment you may need include; extra batteries, a charger, a headset with a microphone, a flashlight, and electrical tape.

If you are in the U.S, you may want to join a community of amateur radio enthusiasts. One of the most notable entities on matters of ham radio has been the Ameican Radio Relay League

radio_relay_league_All_you_need_to_know”>American radio relay league: All you need to know

The Ameican Radio Relay League (ARRL) is the national association for amateur radio in the United States. Founded in 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim as The American Radio Relay League, ARRL is a non-profit organization that promotes interest in Amateur Radio and coordinates voluntary disaster communications response.

ARRL membership includes amateur radio operators of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Membership benefits include QST, the monthly ARRL membership journal; QEX, a bi-monthly experimental radio publication; access to online resources such as the members-only radio.com/”>website, email lists, and discounts on ARRL publications, products and services.

The ARRL also offers a wide range of education and training programs to help new and experienced radio amateurs alike. These include everything from entry-level licensing courses to Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) training and more.

Radio“>Where Should You Set Up Your Ham Radio?

If you plan to use your mobile amateur radio in a vehicle, mount it on your dashboard or under the seat by attaching the antenna to the car on the roof, hood, or tailgate. Have a ham base station in one location like your home if you have a general license. Before setting up this station, have a space within your house that:

• Won’t disturb your neighbors
• You can install cable antennas
• Allows you to keep the optimum temperature required for all your equipment
• You can connect a power source for the ham radio equipment

Radio_Operator”>How Do You Become an Amateur Radio Operator?

Though the technology needed to start using amateur radio is straightforward and possible to master through self-training, you may need to go through a learning curve to become a Ham. This includes understanding the federal communications commission (FCC) rules that permit you to operate and use the proper air etiquette.

You may also need to go through a licensing process. The first step is to study for and pass a written examination administered by the FCC. You will then need to pass a practical exam, which tests your ability to operate an amateur radio station.

Once you have your amateur radio license, you can use amateur radio to communicate with other hams worldwide.

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Radio_Licenses”>What Are the Available Types of Ham Radio Licenses?

Operating an amateur radio without a license in the United States can attract a fine of between $7,500 and $10,000 unless you are in a severe emergency. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates amateur radio licenses in the Communications Act of 1934, and it has three license classes that vary in frequency, availability, and complexity. The class you choose will determine the frequency bands and modes you will be able to operate in:

Technician License

This is the entry-level ham radio license that is meant for beginner amateur radio enthusiasts. To acquire this license, you must pass a test with 35 questions that prove that you know all the essentials of radio rules and regulations. Once you pass the exam, you receive your license and gain access to amateur radio services and frequencies above 30 megahertz.

General License

A general license is more advanced compared to a technician’s license, based on its operating principles. You must pass the technician exam and take another 35-question exam to receive your general mobile radio service license. This license provides you with the same access as a technician’s license but has additional worldwide communications.

Amateur Extra License

After acquiring your General license, you must successfully pass an extra 50-question exam to get an amateur extra license. It gives you all United States amateur radio communications privileges on all bands and modes.

As a component of your amateur radio operator license, the regulatory body in your country assigns you a call sign such as KC9ANG. A call sign identifies you as the operator or the station and what you will use to identify yourself during communications within the amateur radio community. It consists of the following information using numeric and alpha identifiers:

• The country you are calling from and the license
• An identifier for that specific station
• The subdivision of your country

Most ham radio operators only hold a technician license, which serves their desired purpose. However, there is a limit on the maximum frequency you can reach and requires you to use ham radio repeaters. For a more extensive reach, have a general license. After receiving your license, it will remain valid for ten years, after which you need to renew it. Also check our more in-depth article on how to get any of the above ham radio licences.

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Radio“>How Do You Use a Ham Radio?

Once you have your license, you can start using amateur radio to communicate with other hams worldwide, both as a hobby and during critical moments. There are a few different ways to do this:

Voice

You can use the ham radio to talk to other hams worldwide in real-time. This is similar to a telephone conversation, but it doesn’t require an internet connection.

Data

You can use ham radio to send and receive data, including text messages, images, and files. This is similar to email, but it doesn’t require an internet connection.

The best way to get started in ham radio is to find a local club or group of hams who can help you get the basics. Several online resources can help you get started, including the ARRL radio.com/”>website.

When communicating on amateur radio, speak clearly and at a natural pace- not too fast or too slow. Use appropriate codes to respond and carry on a conversation if someone replies. After your call, log your contacts and send a QSL card to the person you contacted in the form of written mail.

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Radio“>What Are the Uses of Ham Radio?

Ham radio is used for a variety of purposes. Most hams use it for personal communication as a family radio service, whether talking to friends and family worldwide or just chatting with other hams in their local area. The following are a few other popular uses for amateur radio:

Disaster preparedness: During global disasters, when it’s impossible to use the internet or smartphones, you may use amateur radio for emergency communications as it doesn’t rely on data grids or electricity.

International Space Station: As an astronaut, you can carry a handheld amateur radio to connect with your colleagues when flying through space.

Moon bouncing: You can use amateur radio to bounce radio waves off the moon. This bouncing increases amateur radio range and distance, allowing for communication with people worldwide.

Competitions: There are contests for hams that enjoy experimenting with amateur radio channels. A radio amateur can win awards, coupons, and cash prizes for having amateur radio frequencies-improving skills in the matches.

Distance dialing: You can collect frequencies and channels worldwide and showcase your skills online if you enjoy connecting with people in distant locations.

Digital data: With modern amateur radios, amateur operators can send digital signals globally as they enable you to send pictures and other information over the airwaves.

Radio“>What Are the Benefits of a Ham Radio?

Efficient Method of Communication

During disasters such as floods, cell phones cannot make calls, text, or access the internet. In instances where traditional forms of communication are not helpful, you can rely on amateur radio technology to communicate.

Long-Hour, Long-Distance Communication

Thanks to its energy efficiency, you can use amateur radio for as long as possible, which is convenient, especially if you intend to use it for entertainment. You can also use it over long distances as distance doesn’t limit it.

radio_operators”>Effective in Emergencies for amateur radio operators

Ham radio is a perfect device for emergencies due to its long-term usage, low power requirements, and long-distance reach. For instance, on 9/11, New York City agencies communicated using the Amateur Radio Service during the destruction of their command center when other forms of communication were ineffective.

radio_include”>Other essential benefits of ham radio include:

• Extensive range of frequencies, so they don’t get overcrowded.
• Easy to access; no longer need to know Morse code.
• Efficient way to communicate without reliance on cellular networks, especially true for some of the best mobile ham radio devices
• It has more power with a base station having up to 1500 watts; however, it can still communicate with operators with the power of fewer than 10 watts.
• It’s an affordable means of emergency communication with low start-up costs.
• It allows you to directly receive information about extreme weather and disasters from government agencies.

Conclusion

Ham radio is a vital tool of communication that enables you to connect with people you would never encounter in your day-to-day life. While becoming a licensed ham operator may seem a daunting process, it is well worth the effort. Once you have your license, you can start using amateur radio to communicate with other hams around the world.

The post What is Amature Radio – All You Need To Know appeared first on .

ButterflyMX is the most heavily-advertised smart video access control intercom on the market today and it provides the latest in capabilities such as communication with Android or iPhone smartphone apps through a cloud-based service. It can be used for multi-tenant or single-residence applications. In this ButterflyMX Review we will cover the pros and cons of not only ButterflyMX, but also compare it to the AL1002 Touch Screen Intercom from IntercomsOnine.com.

ButterflyMX Physical

The ButterflyMX is available in two screen sizes; 7 inch and 11.6 inch. You can get the either of these sizes in a surface-mount or flush-mount style for integrating into a wall. You will need sufficient wall space to accommodate them. The dimensions of the of the 7″ surface mount are 12.44″ tall x 7.539 inch wide x 2.027 deep. You will need a space about 8″ wide to place the 7″ screen version. The flush mount version of the 7″ screen intercom is 9.6″ wide so it takes up more wall space. The 11.6″ version is 13″ wide for the surface-mount and 14.3″ wide for the recessed mount so you will need even more space for it.

AL1002 Physical

The AL1002 only comes in a 7 inch screen size. By default the AL1002 is a surface mount product. However the same unit can be flush mounted with an optional flush mount housing. However, the housing does not provide true flush mount since the intercom still sticks out approximately 1/4 inch from the wall. The width of the unit is the same for either mounting method and it is only 5.12 inches wide so it takes up less wall space. The AL1002 is 12.76 tall.

ButterflyMX Installation

The ButterflyMX requires a dedicated AC power outlet installed nearby the outside unit to be used with the included 24-volts DC PC laptop-style power adapter. It is required that the 24-volt supply be plugged into a Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS). The intercom requires clean power since it is a computer running the Windows operating system. They recommend using a minimum 600VA/300W UPS which you should be able to purchase for around $100, but they are fairly large and heavy so you need to find a place indoors to put it.

If you cannot have a power supply close to the intercom you can cut the wires on the power supply and splice a section of wire into the cord as detailed in the procedure video shown. You can hire an electrician to install a new dedicated AC outlet within 300 feet of the ButterflyMX to eliminated this splicing.

Electric Door Strike Installation

The ButterflyMX can be wired to an electric door lock for door opening. Since the intercom uses sensitive computer equipment, wiring directly to the door strike requires a separate isolation/buffer relay to prevent “inductive kickback” from damaging the built-in “Windows PC”. This requires purchasing a separate device with additional wiring involved

Internet Access

ButterflyMX requires a minimum bandwidth of 2 Mb/s for uploading and downloading. For the best Quality of Service (QoS), it is recommended that the ButterflyMX has its own connection to the Internet. If your network has a firewall you will need to make sure can get through it. A virtual LAN can be set up to provide these requirements.

ButterflyMX Power Requirements

The power required for the ButterflyMX door station is 65 Watts . If you want to use a backup power supply on the ButterflyMX you will only get about 15 minutes of backup power on the recommended UPS.

Installation of the ButterflyMX takes a combination of skills so you may need several people. Depending on whether an AC outlet with room to place a UPS is available, an electrician may be needed. Someone with low-voltage wiring or access control experience will also be needed for the CAT-5 cable and wiring the door strike. Lastly you may need to get networking people involved to make sure Internet service with the proper QoS is available.

AL1002 Installation

The AL1002 does not require a power outlet since it uses Power over Ethernet (POE). The only wire running to the intercom is a CAT-5 from a POE Ethernet switch near your Internet router. No UPS is required, however some people do use UPS equipment on their Internet router equipment for power backup purposes. Since the AL1002 power draw is less than ButterflyMX, it will not drain the UPS as quickly (see power requirements below).

Electric Door Strike Installation

Like the ButterflyMX, the AL1002 can be wired to an electric door strike, however, it does not require using a separate isolation/buffer relay so wiring is as simple as attaching two wires between the AL1002 and the door strike. AL1002 uses purpose-built hardware that runs an Android operating system designed for the intercom application. Therefore it is not as sensitive or unstable as the Windows hardware and software the ButterflyMX uses.

Internet Access

The Internet access requirements are the same as ButterflyMX. A reliable Internet service will be required.

Power Requirements

The AL1002 only uses 13 Watts of power. Using an equivalent UPS, you can get 5 times longer backup power on the AL1002 than on the ButterflyMX. Of course, using less power is also more friendly to the environment.

Since no high voltage or electrician is required to install the AL1002, it can be done by anyone with the skills to put the ends on a CAT-5 cable as long good Internet service is available.

Administration

For multi-tenant properties, how simple it is to change tenant info is extremely important. Both the ButterflyMX and AL1002 allow you to change or add tenant information though an easy-to-use online web portal.

In addition to the online admin portal, the AL1002 also has an App for Apple or Android phones which enables you to make changes while mobile without having to carry a computer.

ButterflyMX Advantages

The ButterflyMX has an option for a massive 11.6 inch screen which allows more room for larger fonts. It also gives an impressive look on the building.

ButterflyMX has integrations with some property management software where it can automatically receive tenant database changes from the property management software. This eliminates the need for maintaining two databases.

AL1002 Advantages

Cloud Service

If you have multiple access doors you will only have to pay for cloud service one time. ButterflyMX has a cloud-service fee for each door.

Concierge Station

The AL1002 has a physical concierge station phone that has most of the same capabilities as the touch-screen door station. It features a built-in full-duplex handset and 7.0” touchscreen with video camera. It can be used to make and receive calls to and from tenants and the door units. ButterflyMX does not have a hardware station available, but they do have a software that requires a computer.

Tenant stations

AL1002 has both 7 and 10 inch touchscreen video monitors that tenants can use in their apartments instead of having to use their personal smartphones or tablet PCs. You can use these for residents who don’t have a smart device or a telephone. In locations like New York City that require buildings of 8 or more units to have a hard-wired system in place, these tenant stations enable this intercom to still be used. These monitors connect using a CAT-5 Ethernet cable. ButterflyMX does not have any physical hardware available for tenant stations.

Voice Prompts

When Voice Prompts are turned on in the administration the AL1002 will audibly tell the visitor what to do. Every time a button is pressed, the visitor will get verbal instructions telling them the next steps to take. This feature is not available on the ButterflyMX.

Visitor Language Options

The AL1002 displays flag icons for different countries and a user can touch their countries’ flag to switch the text and voice prompts to their language. It currently supports English, Spanish, Russian, French, and German with more in the works. The AL1002 has custom buttons where you can type in the text and even these will be translated into the user’s language. This feature is not available on the ButterflyMX.

Secure Door Release Relay

For secure buildings there is an external door release relay option available. This removes the door unlock capability from the intercom to somewhere inside the building, but still allows tenants to activate the electric door strike to let people in.

Relay Signal Boards

These boards have a matrix of relays that can be activated by the AL1002. The primary use for these boards is to replace an old-style push-button type door entry button panel with the touch-screen AL1002 and still be able to use the building’s wired tenant stations (audio only). These signal boards can handle up to 512 apartments. The relays replace the buttons on the existing door panel and when someone selects a tenant from the directory, their relay closes to simulate a button press. We have stainless steel covers to replace the existing button panel, but the existing speaker and microphone are removed from the button panel and then mounted to this new steel cover. The AL1002 will also call the tenant’s App on their smartphone, but if they pick up through their existing wired tenant station, they will not be talking through the app or AL1002, but rather through the old speaker and microphone.

This allows for upgrading old multi-tenant intercoms to newer video intercom capability with smartphone or tablet PC apps.

Card Reader

ButterflyMX currently recommends using a third-party card reader system even though there a card reader inside their intercom. This is said to be for future development. The AL1002 has a built in proximity card reader it supports 13.56 MHZ and 125KHZ RFID Cards.

Cloud Service Contract

ButterflyMX requires a 12-month contract for cloud services. The AL1002 has a monthly cost so you are not locked in to long contracts.

Multiple Resident Calling

The AL1002 can be set up to call multiple residents at the same time. It can call multiple apps simultaneously, and the first person to answer gets the call. It can also call multiple telephones simultaneously and the same rules apply. When both apps and telephones are involved, the telephone dialing is delayed about 20 seconds (prioritizing the app video calls) because often with cell phones, an incoming phone call will kill any data/video that the app might be utilizing.

Priority Listings

You can assign priorities to directory entries so they appear at the top of the directory when the Directory button is pressed. You can use this to place property managers at the top of the directory for instance.

App Rotation

When a call comes in to the app on your smartphone you can rotate it sideways to get a larger view of the visitor at the door.

Conclusion

This ButterflyMX Review covered just the major differences between the ButterflyMX and the AL1002. Both systems also have a lot of the same features not mentioned here and they serve the same function. We mainly pointed out the differences between the two. You will need to decide if these differences matter to you and then choose the system that best fits your unique application.

The post ButterflyMX Review – Choosing The Right Door Intercom For You. appeared first on .

What Exactly is a CB Radio?

The Citizens Band (CB) radio is an open radio communication system that allows people to communicate with one another over radio-waves. It is a completely open system, and used for both business and personal use. In the United States, there are 40 different radio channels for those who wish to chat over the air.

You may sometimes see CB referred to as a ‘Land Mobile Radio System’, or LMRS for short. That doesn’t mean anything technical. But to clarify, LMRS refers to any two way radio system that is set up for communication between people. This means that the radios can both send and receive audio communication. Devices that are one-way, allowing you only to listen in such as a police scanner, would not fall under the LMRS umbrella.

Since the CB is an open system, one is permitted to broadcast on the radio-waves, assuming they have the right equipment to do so. However, certain radio frequencies are often used for specific purposes which we will cover shortly.

The History of CB Radios

In the 1940s, the FCC started to designate certain radio frequencies for public communications. The Citizens Radio Corporation, was founded by the inventor of the CB radio, Al Gross. The Citizens Radio Corporation went on to sell over 100,000 radios, primarily to farmers and the US Coast Guard. CB radio technology in general began to grow out of being used among the public communication sector. At the time, if you wanted to use these radio frequencies, you would need to obtain a license. However, this requirement was soon dropped. Anybody could then broadcast on the CB radio channels, assuming they stick to FCC rules regarding range and equipment types.

In its earlier days, while CB was a bit more affordable than other types of tech, it didn’t really take off outside the world of hobbyists. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the technology started to really take hold. Around this time, truckers really began installing and using CB radios into their vehicles, which quickly became the norm. It allowed the truckers to communicate with others on the road better, which helped to up their productivity and keep them safe. The popularity of CB world really took off at that point and is still used all around the world today.

CB Radio Frequencies (Channels)

Each country has different frequencies for CB radio. In the United States, CB radio operates between 26.965 Mhz and 27.405 Mhz. You do not need to know the specific frequencies unless you have an ‘old’ radio. Most modern radio options on the market will, instead, have a channel list instead. Each channel will be tied to a specific frequency. There will be 40 channels in all.

Most of the CB radio channels are going to be empty. This means that you are free to transmit on them to your heart’s content. In fact, you are free to do that with all the channels bar one (Channel 9). However, it is worth noting that specific channels have evolved to really only be focused on one type of discussion. We want to run you through these channels now. It is these channels where you will likely find the most activity:

Channel List

• Channel 1 (26.965 Mhz): truckers in the east of the USA use this channel frequently. However, it is more suited for those close to the Canadian border, as it often broadcasts maritime discussions.
• Channel 4 (27.005 Mhz): this is for off-road vehicles.
• Channel 6 (27.025 Mhz): no specific purpose, but a LOT of people will talk here in major towns and cities. It is a general-purpose channel.
• Channel 9 (27.065 Mhz): this is for emergency service broadcasts only. You are free to use this channel in an emergency ONLY.
• Channel 10 (27.075 Mhz): this is for discussions while traveling on regional roads.
• Channel 13 (27.115 Mhz): this is, mostly, for maritime traffic. However, in certain regions, you may find it is used by RV owners.
• Channel 14 (27.125 Mhz): this is used by old-school walkie talkies. Not much traffic on these channels nowadays, sadly.
• Channel 17 (27.165 Mhz): truckers traveling on north or southbound roads
• Channel 19 (27.185 Mhz): truckers traveling east or west.

Generally speaking, these are all the channels you really need to know. Any other channel is going to be fairly empty most of the time. If you are a trucker that wants access to the most conversations, then Channel 19 is where most of it happens. However, you may also wish to scan Channel 10 and 17 for maximum coverage.

CB Radio Range

A CB radio will have a maximum range of about 30-miles. However, this is going to be in absolutely perfect conditions. In most cases, you can expect there to be a range of somewhere between 3-miles and 10-miles. In extremely rare cases, you may be able to get slightly over 30-miles, but it wouldn’t be that much over.

To achieve the absolute best range on your CB radio, you need to purchase a quality antenna and spend some time setting it up the antenna i.e. ensuring it is in the best possible place for the best possible signal. In most cases, this is going to be as high up as possible. This will ensure that there is a minimum amount of signal interference.

When you are setting up your radio to ensure the optimal range and signal quality of your radio, you will need to use a gadget known as an SWR meter. Without going into too much detail on the technical use of an SWR meter, the purpose of this device is to ensure that the position of the antenna, as well as the length of the antenna, matches the received signals perfectly. With an SWR meter, you are trying to ensure that everything is in line.

There are some situations where no matter what you do, the range of your radio is going to be limited. Obviously, for the absolute best range, you need to be in an area with absolutely no obstacles. Every obstacle, whether it is a vehicle, hills, buildings, or trees will reduce the range of your radio a little bit. This is why you should never expect full range with your radio. It is nigh on impossible to find an area that is completely free of obstacles.

CB Radio Amplifier

The purpose of an amplifier is to increase the range of your CB radio, often by a considerable amount.

It is illegal to operate a CB amplifier in the United States, and you could be subject to fines from the FCC if you are caught using one. They may even provide you with a ban from being able to communicate via CB. Yes. We know that there are some stores in the US that sell amplifiers, but you are encouraged not to use one.

Some people may also encourage you to use a process known as ‘skip’, which, if done properly, can offer you a virtually limitless range on your CB radio. While we are not going to go into depth on this process, ‘working skip’ involves bouncing your radio signals off of the Earth’s atmosphere. If this is done correctly, you could feasibly talk to people thousands and thousands of miles away. However, do bear in mind that other countries will have different rules about CB radio operation, and you are really just going to be interrupting people who are trying to communicate within their local area.

CB Radio ‘Skip’

Just like with amplifiers, it is illegal to ‘skip’ with a radio. Again, if you are caught doing it, the FCC has the ability to fine you and to ban you from using CB. Granted, it is going to be difficult to catch you doing it, but a lot of people have reported being reprimanded. There are other ways to communicate with people over long distances, so it is best if you use those.

Long story short; you are not allowed to do anything that will increase the range of your CB radio, outside of using a quality transceiver and antenna. There is a range limit in place for a reason. CB has only ever been designed for communicating with people within the local area. Nothing more. Obviously, the FCC knows that there are some situations that radio will transmit signals further than intended. This is why they have a maximum limit of 160-miles before they take action. If you go beyond that, then you are running the risk of having to deal with some legal consequences.

CB Radios in Trucking

Nowadays, the most popular users of CB radios are truckers. While there is better ‘tech’ out there for communicating on the roads, most truckers will never shake the use of CB radio. It is something that they have grown up with. Nearly every trucker on the road will have a CB radio built into their vehicle. If you are a trucker without one, then you are going to be missing out on a lot of important road conversations.

For truckers, most radio communication is designed for keeping other truckers up to date on road activity i.e. if there is any traffic, whether there are police or other emergency services, etc. They are pretty brilliant at sharing this information too. This is why many people who are planning long haul trips, particularly those in an RV, may also have a CB radio installed in their vehicle. It allows them to keep ‘up to date’ with road conditions.

It is important to note that truck radio channels are not exactly the ‘cleanest’ channels ever. A lot of the discussions can get pretty filthy. So, if you are not a fan of extensive swearing or discussions about whether to find the closest brothel, then you may not want to be listening in too much. Although, to be honest, a lot of truckers have cut back on this sort of chatter in recent years, and a lot of areas just have people talking about road conditions and nothing more.

Any portable CB radio will be great for use in a truck. Just make sure that you purchase a quality antenna for the best signal quality.

Marine CB Radios

For a while, the main way to communicate with marine vessels in the immediate vicinity was via a CB radio installed on a boat. This was mostly due to the fact that CBs being far more affordable solution than VHF radios. The popularity of CB radios has declined somewhat in the marine environment, there are still many boaters still using it as their primary communication method. Many coast guards in the United States still monitor these CB frequencies.

If you have a boat and haven’t installed a radio yet, understanding the differences between CB vs VHF radios could be helpful. Both are affordable solutions nowadays, and they will provide you with multiple ways in which you can keep in touch with people in the immediate area. However, do bear in mind that as of this writing, VHF radios are becoming the more common choice when equipping marine vessels.

CB Radio Use on Tractors

Much of the farm land within the United States is miles away from the nearest cell phone tower. Installing a CB radio on a tractor makes for a simple communication method to the family and other workers on the land. Most tractors and combine harvesters already have 12-volt wiring, so the only real requirement is finding a good spot for it. While most farm equipment spend the bulk of their time outdoors, there are important features to consider like general ruggedness and being able to handle exposure to the elements.

How to Use a CB Radio

Honestly, using a CB radio isn’t all that difficult once you have switched it on. If you have done everything properly, it should start to receive signals right away, and you can listen in to your heart’s content. If you can’t hear anything, then switch to one of the main channels that we mentioned under the CB Radio Frequencies section to see which channels are going to be the most bustling with activity. We suggest that you only listen in on conversations to begin with. It will get you familiar with how everything works.

The one thing that we do want to point out is that each CB radio will only allow one person to transmit on a channel at any one time. This means that you should not ‘hog’ the radio waves. Say your message and be quiet. If you don’t, somebody might tell you that you are talking too much. Unless you are on a channel that you know is empty, you should not be having full-blown conversations. Just share short, snappy messages. This is especially important on dedicated trucker channels. Those guys can be pretty mean if you are interrupting their important communications.

It is also important to note that unlike other types of radio, there is no way to make your conversation private. So bear in mind that everything you communicate over CB radio is public. Even if you think nobody is listening in on your conversations, assume that they are. There isn’t really any way to tell. So, never communicate private information over a radio.

Do You Need a License to Operate a CB Radio?

One of the main benefits of a Citizens Band radio is the fact that you do not need a license to operate one. It is also a simple technology to use. For the most part, you pick yourself up a radio at a quality online retail store, switch it on, and you will be able to communicate with people effectively. Just make sure that you pay attention to general etiquette when operating your radio. Nobody really wants you to be clogging the radio waves with pointless comments when CB is still an important communication method for many people.

It is worth noting that while there is no license required to operate the radio in your vehicle, the same rules for operating a cellphone in your vehicle apply to the operation of a CB radio. So, in some states, you may not be allowed to hold the microphone when you are driving. Instead, you will need to look into some sort of hands-free operation. This to help ensure that you stay as safe as possible on the roads. There is nothing that says you can’t listen in on conversations, as long as you are not directly interacting with the CB radio.

CB Radio Codes

When you use a CB radio for the first time, you will often notice that there is a lot of lingo happening on the radiowaves that you just do not understand. CB radio operators tend to try and limit the amount they are speaking. This is partly to ensure that the radiowaves are kept open. Remember; only one person can chat on a channel at once. The second reason is to ensure that their message is received properly. The more words you use in a message, the more chance that something will get lost in translation.

Before you talk on a CB radio, we suggest that you listen in for a short while. This will allow you to get a rough idea about how people tend to communicate in your area. It will allow you to learn general etiquette. It is important to note that there may be differences based upon where you are using the radio. This is why it is important that you always get a feel for local etiquette and what is being discussed on certain channels. Yes. There is a little bit of an overlap between locations, but it is still worth learning the local nuances. It will make communicating via radio so much better!

There are some general two-way radio communication codes that you may find used all over the United States. It is worth learning a few of these codes, as it will make communication a little bit easier for you. It will also make it a little bit easier for you to understand what is going on. This is not a complete set of CB radio codes by any stretch of the imagination, but they are certainly the ones that you are going to be hearing the most:

Discussing the Quality of Transmissions

When you talk on CB radio, it is generally a good practice to ask if your message can be heard. This will help you to identify any issues with your signal quality. When you ask, you may be greeted with one of these radio codes as a response. Some of these you may have heard of:

• 10-4: this means that you can be heard clearly or that your message has been received properly and has been understood.
• 10-1: people cannot hear you clearly
• 10-2: your signal quality is good
• 10-11: your signal quality is good, but you may be talking a little bit too fast for people, and thus they cannot fully understand you.

General Language

You may also find certain words that seem a little bit out of place. These words are really just ‘slang’ words, initially designed to obscure what people were talking about, but the codes are so well-known now that it doesn’t really obscure anything. These codes include:

• Brake check: this indicates that there is heavy traffic in the local area.
• Advertising: there are police in the area. This mostly means they have their sirens on.
• Band-aid buggy: there is either an ambulance in the area, or somebody needs an ambulance.
• Chicken coop: this is a trucker-only term that indicates that there is a weigh station in the area.
• Drop the hammer: you can go fast. There is no traffic. Just clear roads.
• Kojak with a Kodak: slow down. the police are using radar guns to check speeds in the area.

You may find that there are even more codes for your local area. The best thing you can do is just listen in and see what people are talking about! Yes. We know some may seem a little bit odd to you, but this is part of the charm of using a CB radio. The sense of culture.

In larger towns and cities, you may actually find that there are courses for CB radio operators. These will teach you the basics of using a CB radio, and thus if this is something that you are planning on taking seriously, it may be worth looking into one of these courses. The fee shouldn’t be that high, most of the courses will only last a day or two. However, at the end of them, you will be armed with the knowledge that you need to communicate via CB radio confidentially.

CB Radio Shops

Sadly, CB radios are not used to the same extent that they were in the past. Trying to find a place where you can buy a CB radio can be difficult. It is a bit of tech that seems to be limited to truckers and hobbyists. This means that you will need to hunt around a little bit in order to find a reputable CB radio shop to purchase from. You will not really be able to find quality radios from your typical radio supply store, this is because most of them are trying to push more recent technology (e.g. VHF radios)

This is why we always recommend purchasing your radio from a supplier like Amazon. While they are a ‘general store’, they do have one of the larger ranges of radios on the market. This includes offerings from a lot of the bigger manufacturers out there. They also have a good range of accessories to boot. All of this will come in at an affordable price, which means you can get started with your brand new piece of kit sooner as opposed to later.

Remember; before you purchase any radio, you will always want to ensure that you read through reviews. The reviews that we have on this website are a great start because we have spent a lot of time working around CB technology. You can also use the user reviews on Amazon to supplement with a bit of extra information to ensure that you are getting the best radio for your needs.

CB Radio Base Station

Generally speaking, when we talk about a CB radio base station, we are talking about a radio that you will have permanently wired into your home. This is how a lot of hobbyists communicate via CB radio. Obviously, you will be unlikely to move this around, although some do provide you with the option of being able to power them from your vehicle. However, the sound and signal quality tends to be a little bit better on a base station. This is because you are not constantly ‘on the move’, and this will provide you with more of an opportunity to set things up properly.

In many cases, a radio base station is only there to interpret the signals it receives and code signals it sends out. This means that you may need to purchase the following bits of kit separately:

• Antenna
• Microphone
• Speaker

The benefit is that because a lot of these stations are not designed to be portable, they often boast a few more features. There are some models on the market, for instance, that may boast an SWR meter. Of course that would save you from having to purchase one separately. Although, as always, make sure that you read through reviews so you know exactly what you are getting for your money.

Portable CB Radios

Portable radios can fall into one of two categories:

• Vehicle radios
• Handheld CB radios

The second option isn’t as popular as the first. This is because CB technology is a bit more limited when you are out, wandering around. Remember; you cannot make your radio broadcasts private via CB. This means that it isn’t a great technology for being outdoors and exploring. It is also not a great technology to run your business on, or for running an event. Yes. There will likely be some open channels that you can broadcast on. There is always the chance that somebody could be ‘joining’ you on those channels. Handheld CB radios are more suited for those who just want something a bit more portable than your average radio.

Vehicle radios are, of course, exceedingly popular. Most of them will be permanently wired into your vehicle, so they will operate just like your typical base station. The only difference is that you are roaming the roads, so you will always be picking up on different broadcasts. Remember; the range of a CB radio is pretty small, so you could drive 30-minutes up the road, and you will be able to enjoy a completely different set of broadcasts. This is why CB is so fantastic. It means that you will always be able to keep up to date with very local information.

Accessories for CB Radios

If you pick up a CB radio, you are going to need to load yourself up with a few accessories at the same time. This is why it is important that you pick up your radio from a reputable store. It ensures that you will be able to get the right accessories for your bit of kit.

Even if your radio comes equipped with an antenna, it is still wise to purchase a separate one. Generally speaking, even the ‘high quality’ radios tend to have rather abysmal antennas. They are more there to ‘get you started’. Purchasing a separate antenna will offer you a larger range on your radio. It also provides you with better sound quality. The best part is that these antennas tend to be fairly affordable, even if you purchase one from a top manufacturer.

You may also wish to purchase a separate speaker for your radio. While most radios nowadays will come equipped with a speaker or headphone jack, the sound quality is never going to be perfect. Many people who are using a CB radio on a regular basis will purchase an external speaker that they can attach to their radio. This will ensure that you are able to hear absolutely everything that is broadcast.

Tuning A CB Radio

To get the best performance from a CB radio, you will want to tune it upon initial installation and whenever you suspect it may not be performing up to expectations. To do this, you will need to purchase an SWR meter for CB radios. The meter is there to ensure that you have set-up your antenna correctly. It is the only way to guarantee that you are getting the best signal quality with your radio. If you use your CB radio often, there are styles of SWR meters that are meant to be left plugged in. This way, you will have instant feedback if any adjustment is needed.

Other than this, there isn’t much extra you will need to purchase for your radio. Some people may purchase a separate microphone. Others may purchase a better power supply. However, generally speaking, pretty much everything that you need to operate your radio will be included in the box, with the exception of an antenna. However, it may be worth reading through some CB radio reviews to get an idea as to what you are going to get exactly with your radio. Our reviews go into depth on a lot of this.

If you wish to find out more about CB radios or are perhaps looking to pick one up, then we encourage you to browse this website. We have packed it to the brim with information on all sorts of reviews of all kinds of wireless communication, as well as a bit of information on how you can ensure that you can get the most out of your brand-new gear.

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Remember; boats are probably going to be a lot further apart than your average radio ‘on the road’. Not to mention the fact that you are going to be dealing with the elements. Thankfully, there are options available. Let us introduce you to our top pick, the Uniden UM435.

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What Makes a Great CB Radio for a Boat

Well; for starters, it is fully submersible. The microphone can also put up with quite a battering from the water and function well. Let’s be honest; when you are out there on the water, the conditions are not always going to be perfect. Things are going to get wet. The last thing you want is a CB radio which is going to falter at the slightest hint of a stray wave. We had a look around before we wrote this review, and we can’t find evidence that a single person has had their Uniden UM435 break because it got wet.

It also has a built-in distress call feature. However, we are going to cover that in a bit more depth in a bit. You will not find something like this on your typical CB radio. This is part of the reason as to why the UM435 could potentially save your life when you are out on the water.

Waterproof

Being on a boat, surrounded by water and potentially being exposed to rain, it’s important that the CB radio be waterproof. While it’s not made to be completely submerged, the plastic, closed-cell style buttons, will prevent any water from reaching the interior electronics. So if you get caught in a downpour, or god forbid spill your beer on the dash, you won’t have to worry.

Having a waterproof or water resistant CB radio is key for use on a boat, and is the most important criteria in our opinion.

Distress Call

This is one of our favorite features in the UM435. Although, in order to use it, you will need to have your CB radio linked up to your GPS. Don’t worry, this is simple to do. If you get into any trouble, you can hit the distress call button on the radio. This will send out a distress call repeatedly until somebody responds. You do not need to do anything other than press that button.

Obviously, you can make a distress call the ‘normal’ way if you do not have a GPS on your boat (most people do nowadays), but this feature makes everything a whole lot more automatic. Honestly, we would probably pick up this CB radio for this feature alone.

Good Range

On a clear day, you should be able to get at least 5-miles range on your radio, although some people have claimed that they can get a lot more than this. 5-miles seems to be about the ‘average’ range, though. This is going to be more than enough if you want to get in touch with boat crews in the local area, or maybe talk to the harbor. It should also be enough for those distress calls.

You probably could boost this range a little bit if you get your hands on a better quality antenna. Although, if you do that, make sure that the antenna is rated for ‘boat use’ because some of them do rust quite easily.

Easy to Use

For the most part, you will be able to use your CB radio right out of the box. It does come with a hefty instruction manual, but all of the features are clearly laid out. In fact, this is probably one of the best CB radio instruction manuals we have ever read (it even goes into depth on the technicalities of making a Mayday call). Even if you do not read the manual, you should be able to get to grip with the vast majority of the functions.

Multiple Modes

You have three different modes built into the CB radio:

• Normal – This will allow you to monitor a single channel.
• Scan – This will allow you to scan through several programmed channels.
• Weather – This will allow you to monitor the weather for the area

The normal and weather modes should be fairly self-explanatory. The scan one can be a bit confusing, though. It won’t actually scan radio signals in the local area. Instead, you must program select frequencies into your radio, to begin with. It will only monitor those. This can make it perfect for those who are operating boats as part of a team, although it can be a bit annoying if you are a solo boater as you won’t be able to hear anything through your CB radio.

Loud Speaker

Considering the speaker inside of the UM435 is so tiny, it is surprisingly loud. That being said, we doubt that you will be using it that much. Most people who take their CB radio seriously will consider picking up a PA speaker that they can hook up to their radio. We don’t think that the UM435 on its own will be loud enough during the most intense storms. Although let’s be honest, you probably won’t be focusing too much on the radio if you are battling to keep control of your boat.

The Downsides

One of the issues that a lot of people seem to mention about the Uniden UM435 is the fact that the microphone clip isn’t the best. Most people with normal use don’t report any issues, but of the few complaints, it appears to be the most common.

Other than this, for the money you are going to be getting something that works well. In fact, the Uniden UM435 performs just as well as a CB radio on a boat, that is 4-5x the price. You can’t really go wrong here.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a quality CB radio for use on your boat, then there is little that can beat the Uniden UM435. If you’re not sure if a two-way radio would be better, review the differences between a two-way radio vs a CB radio here. This CB is well-built, will last a good few years, and offers unmatched sound quality. It also comes in at a ridiculously cheap price. Yes, it does have issues, but nothing that will put your life in jeopardy.

Resources

• Owners Manual

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While there are plenty of communication options for farms now, there is still no technology that comes anywhere close to being as reliable as CB radio. Some are surprised to hear that CB radios are still used on farms throughout the United States and Canada. Of course, to take advantage of CB radio, you will need to invest in some quality gear.

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We aren’t going to beat around the bush. There is barely a CB radio for tractors which is good. We don’t want you to pick up a poor quality product. After all, there is nothing worse than buying something that will last a year or two before giving up. This is why we want to introduce you to the Cobra 29LTD Professional CB Radio. This is by far one of the best CB radios for the money.

The Specifications

We know that most people who are planning to pick up a CB radio for tractors will want something that ‘just works’. After all, when you are out in the field, a CB radio is something you need for work. It isn’t something that you want for fun. However, we did think it would be good to give you a quick overview of the specifications. You may not understand everything here, but we will talk about some of the specs in a bit more depth shortly:

• 40 CB radio stations
• Instant channel 9
• Heavy-duty microphone
• Dynamike boost
• RF Gain
• Switchable noise blanker

Radio Channel Options

With the right antenna (yes, you will need to purchase one separately), you will have access to the full range of CB radio stations. It is lacking access to the NOAA weather stations that other CB radios on the market provide, but if you are in a tractor and working the fields, you will probably already be up to date on what the weather is like, so this isn’t going to be that much of an issue.

There is a button which will provide you with instant access to channel 9. This is the emergency channel. While it is unlikely that you will use it, it is useful to have. If you are in a tractor and you have broken down, then you are going to provide quite a risk to other road users and you will need to tell people about it.

Basically, it is only lacking access to NOAA weather stations. It isn’t a major issue for tractor users, however.

Heavy-Duty Radio

This is the main reason as to why we think that this radio is going to be perfect for tractor users. It has been built to an incredibly high standard.

Cobra has been in the radio business since the 1930s, and they have been producing CB radios for as long as that has been a thing. The whole reason why they have been in business for so long is that they are able to make something that actually lasts. We have seen Cobra radios built decades ago which are still in operation, barely a spare part having been installed. Basically, if you want something that is going to last, then Cobra is the way to go.

The Cobra 29LTD Professional CB Radio has, in itself, been built to be used daily. It has been built to put up with quite a battering. While there are some plastic components that may falter if you bang them around a little bit, they are all easily replaceable. The bulk of the unit is going to work well.

One thing that we particularly love about the Cobra 29LTD is that it has a heavy-duty microphone. You will be surprised at how rare that is on CB radios nowadays, even the professional ones. When you are out in the field, it is likely that you won’t have time to take care you aren’t bumping the microphone around everywhere. That isn’t going to be an issue with the Cobra 29LTD. It really is built to last.

Maximum Power

The maximum amount of power allowed by a CB radio is 4 watts. Thankfully, the Cobra 29LTD works at a solid 4 watts.

What does this mean? It means that you are going to have a range of a good few miles with the Cobra 29LTD. We doubt that you are going to be going much beyond this when you are farming, which means that a CB radio is absolutely perfect for you. Remember; the range that you can get on your radio is just as much based on the radio that you get as it is the antenna that you have paired with it.

Fantastic Sound Quality

Being on a tractor can get pretty loud. Pair the Cobra 29LTD with a quality PA speaker (they are really small), and you have a radio that is fit for even the loudest of conditions.

It all begin with the Dynamike functionality. With a small adjustment, you can change the sensitivity of the microphone. Somebody saying they can’t hear you? Well, play about with the settings and eventually, they will be able to do so.

Our favorite feature, however, is the inclusion of a switchable noise blanker. This, essentially, will cut out the static that is caused by the engine of your tractor. This will ensure that outgoing and incoming transmissions are perfect every single time (well, as perfect as conditions will allow).

Easy to Use

Finally; the Cobra 29LTD is easy to use.

It comes with an in-built SWR meter, so you don’t need to purchase a separate one. It saves you both space and money. In addition to this; there is a little indicator on the radio which will tell you whether the antenna needs to be adjusted or not.

The screen is easy to read, and absolutely everything is clearly labeled. You could dive in without reading the manual and have some idea about what you are doing. This is great if you are regularly switching people in and out of your tractor fleet. You don’t really want to spend hours teaching them how to use the radio, do you?

Conclusion

The Cobra 29LTD is well-built. With its premium sound qualities and rugged nature, this is the perfect addition to any tractor that needs a CB radio.

Additional Reading

• Cobra 29LTD Manual

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Stationary Mount

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Magnetic Mount

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Why a CB Radio Needs an Antenna

When you buy a CB radio, you are often just going to get the transceiver, microphone, and if you are lucky the power supply. You can plug all of this into your vehicle (or wherever else you are planning to put the CB radio), but it won’t work. You need the antenna.

The antenna is what will draw in the radio waves which will be converted to audio for you to hear. It will also be the item that takes your audio signal and sends it out as radio waves so that people can listen to you talk. Basically, without an antenna, your CB radio is pretty much useless.

In most places where you buy a CB radio it is likely that it will have an antenna included. This is going to be fine if you are ‘on to go’ e.g. outdoors on a hunting trip. However, if you are in a vehicle, you may want to unscrew that mini antenna and screw the new one into place.

The Placement of The Antenna

In a short while, we are going to talk about an antenna that we really, really love. However, we need you to remember that the selection of the antenna is not everything when it comes to the quality of the radio signal that you receive. You will also need to think about the placement of the radio antenna. You need to ensure that you put it in exactly the right position on your vehicle.

The correct position will be different for everybody. Most people find that putting their antenna on the top of the vehicle is more than enough. Once it is in place, you will need to fine-tune the radio antenna using an SWR meter. This will ensure that you are always going to be getting the perfect radio signal with your CB radio.

Actually hooking up your CB radio to a base antenna to the rest of your system shouldn’t be that difficult. You just screw the antenna cable into the back of the radio and you are done.

Our Recommendation for A CB Radio Antenna

We are going to round off by talking about a CB radio antenna brand which is absolutely huge among CB radio enthusiasts and professional users alike. Our top pick include the antennas made by Nagoya. There are several reasons why we love them, and we are sure that you are going to love it too.

Everything You Need Included in The Box

If you pick up a Nagoya antenna, you will be pleased to know that it includes everything you need to get it hooked up. Complete with mounts and cables. You won’t need to purchase anything separately.

That being said, some people have complained that the included connectors are not all that great. You may want to purchase a few more. They will only be a few dollars, so this isn’t really an issue.

Easy to Install

In our experience, the majority of people who are using a CB radio don’t want all the fuss. They just want a system hooked up, and they are ‘good to go’. The Nagoya antennas offer simplicity.

As we mentioned before; everything that you need to get up and running is included in the box. This includes the magnet mount or base bracket. Just choose where you’d like to install it and you are ready to roll. The magnet version does make portability a lot each if the location is subject to change.

When people ask if CB radios really need antennas, it’s usually because they sound intimidating. The only real upkeep is optional and it just involves a little tuning using an SWR meter. Some CB radios have this ability built-in. This isn’t something you absolutely have to do. Any adjustments and tuning are just to get the most out of your setup, but most often everything will be operational without having to tune or adjust anything.

Fantastic Audio Quality

Some people have claimed that these antennas don’t really increase their CB radio range. Honestly, in most cases, we doubt that it is really going to change the range that much. CB radio is already going to be quite limited. Most people are never going to get more than 30-miles. So, if you are purchasing a new antenna for extended range, you are only ever really going to see benefits if your current antenna caps you out at 10-20 miles.

The Nagoya line will offer better audio quality in other ways, though. This is due to the tightly wrapped coil inside of the antenna. This is fantastic at picking up and sending audio signals. Once you have this hooked up to your CB radio set-up and tuned properly with your SWR, we can virtually guarantee that people will see a change in your audio quality…for the better.

Affordable

To cap it all off; Nagoya antennas are affordable. You don’t need to be spending hundreds and hundreds of dollars on a radio antenna. Most often they’re installed outside and will be exposed to the elements. You want something that is affordable. You want something that ‘just works’. That is exactly what thse antennas are able to provide.

As you can see; Nagoya antennas offer the perfect blend of quality and price.

Beware of Counterfeits

Even with the low price point, do bear in mind that there are a few counterfeits of these particular radio antennas on the market. If you want a genuine Nagoya antenna, we suggest that you purchase from Amazon or another reputable vendor. This will ensure that you end up with a product that matches your expectations.

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One of the most important aspects of survival is communication. When it comes to leaving everything behind, an essential for your bug out kit is a two-way radio system. Such a ham radio can be particularly useful when normal modes of communication aren’t available.

A two-way radio transceiver completes a survival kit and the Baofeng GT3 is an excellent option. Baofeng is a popular name among ham operators because the brand offers affordable, entry-level radios starting for just a few bucks.

As they feature small size and pack a lot of power in their battery, Baofeng radios are ideal for emergency situations and travel. They can keep you connected for weeks. In this post, we take a closer look at Baofeng GT3 transceiver and learn more about its features, battery and manual to help readers who are considering the product.

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Baofeng GT3 Review – UPDATED 2020

A powerful and compact two-way radio that comes loaded with some advanced features from the brand, Baofeng GT3 uses the latest integrated circuit to deliver a real-world performance that users expect. It excels at what it does with its improved anti-interference functions. It also comes with new noise-reduction capabilities to block out noises during receipt and transmission between 50Hz and 55Hz.

Look and Feel

The Baofeng GT3 has an impressive build quality and looks very much like any other Baofeng variety. Orange accents add a modern touch to the appearance of the radio. The accessories it includes are worth the price. It comes with a belt clip, antenna, charging stand, car charger, wrist strap and mic/earpiece.

Antenna

The Baofeng GT3 comes with a SainSonic antenna which is drastically improved over the standard antenna. This improved antenna enhances the radio’s ability to receive and transmit signals and allows a better range on the handheld radio. Moreover, when used under such a high-power operation of the radio, the antenna does not get so hot as other radio models.

LED Flashlight

While a flashlight does not affect the performance of the radio, it is a desirable feature. The inclusion of an LED light at the top saves you when you don’t have another flashlight in your survival kit. This can also save you space when travelling and it serves its purpose. It is bright enough to help you navigate the way in darkness.

Battery

Baofeng GT3 battery life is great. It has a 7.4V 1800mAh lithium-ion battery which is built to last for few weeks to keep the radio working. This means your radio can serve you even when the emergency lasts through weeks. The powerful battery makes the radio more reliable.

Display

The radio uses a different display where the background is dark and the text is white. Though it looks cool and different from regular LCD displays, it can be disappointing to some as it is difficult to see when the backlight is off. The backlight goes dark when the radio is idle and seeing the info becomes hard. It is desirable to have the backlit display constantly on.

Keypad

The keypad of this transceiver has a better feel than previous models. Moreover, it illuminates the background to make it easier to identify keys at night.

Buttons

The radio has a number of exterior sockets and plugs that you can use to enhance usability. It has a Call button that turns the device on and helps send out an alarm in case of emergency.

Then there is a MONI button that turns the flashlight on. Pressing and holding this button releases the squelch on the frequency you are monitoring.

Push to Talk button located towards the left can be used to transmit.

Ports

Towards the right side of the radio, there are ports for microphone and speaker. You can plug in standard earphones or the included mic/earphone headset into this port.

Cover

There is a protective case that keeps the radio from getting lost. There is also a belt clip that allows clipping the device to your belt when you are on the move.

Car Charger

The Baofeng GT3 radio includes a car charger that saves you from the worry of battery life. Whether you are hiking, camping or travelling by car, you can always keep your device powered. This charger works with other models of dual-band radio as well.

Speaker

Another improvement in this radio model is the speaker which delivers louder and clearer sound. It performs better than the previous models and enhances the experience with this radio.

Programming

Those who are not familiar with programming frequencies into a handheld radio can find it difficult at first. While the user manual describes the programming procedure, it can be tedious to follow the steps. However, it becomes easy once learnt. You can use the programming cable and software from Baofeng to make the task easier. YouTube videos can help a lot. Once you program a few radios, it would become simple.

Best Antenna For Baofeng GT3

The Baofeng GT3 transceiver provides an excellent transmission and receipt range. However, you may sometimes want to extend the range of your radio. The antenna that comes with your device is short to maintain portability. You might realize at times that you should upgrade your radio antenna to use the device to its full potential. An upgrade will give the radio a better signal over extended distances, allowing you to deliver uninterrupted communication without any issue. Here are some of the best antennas for Baofeng GT3.

Walkie Talkie 15.6 inch Dual Band Antenna

About 16 inches in length, this antenna is ideal for outdoor use and is quite flexible and durable, making it easy to carry around. It can give a frequency range of 144-430MHz. It works with Baofeng radios and features a rubber spacer and cover to protect the base from any damage.

Nagoya VHF/UHF Antenna SMA-Female

Compatible with Baofeng models, the Nagoya antenna is 16 inches long and a great way to improve radio signal when using it outdoors. This antenna is durable and withstands rough use. Its frequency range is 144-430MHz. It also includes an extended cover and rubber spacer.

Retevis 2 Way Radio Antenna Extension

Designed to suit Baofeng 2way walkie talkies, this antenna is made out of durable material and is foldable and flexible. You can carry it easily by tucking inside the backpack. It is 15.5 inches long and gives a power gain of 2.15dB to your radio thereby boosting its performance at receiving and transmitting signals.

Baofeng GT3 Battery Life & Backup

The Baofeng GT3 transceiver uses a high capacity lithium ion battery. It is a 7.4 volt battery with 1800mAh capacity. The radio boosts an excellent battery life to provide amazing performance during travel and emergencies. The battery of this transceiver is built to last for weeks together without having to recharge. Charging time for this battery is about 5 hours. You can use the device for days together to receive and transmit due to the outstanding battery life it provides.

The radio ships with a new battery that you should charge for a minimum of 5 hours before the first use. After three full charge/discharge cycles, you can experience the optimum battery capacity and performance. A battery backup is necessary in certain situations. Battery performance can decrease at a lower temperature and a spare battery may be needed. The regular battery can operate at room temperature and can be saved for later use.

Baofeng GT3 Manual – Getting Started

Getting started with Baofeng GT3 is extremely simple. It comes with a user manual that contains detailed instructions on setting the device up, programming and troubleshooting.

Here are some safety instructions listed in the manual.

• The device should not be modified manually
• Only Baofeng approved batteries and chargers should be used
• Do not use any damaged antenna
• Turn the radio off before entering a blasting area
• Avoid exposing the radio to direct sunlight for a long time
• When transmitting, keep the microphone 3-4 cms away from lips and the antenna at least 2.5cm away from the body
• Turn the radio off before boarding an airplane
• Turn it off before entering an area with explosive material

The user manual also lists all the functions and specifications of the radio. It describes the installation procedure for antenna, battery, micro headset and other components in detail. You can also find the battery charging instructions in the manual. The manual also shows all the ports, controls and keys with position and function. You can find a number of shortcut operations to control the radio.

Conclusion

The Baofeng GT3 handheld ham comes at an affordable price and packs a lot of features into a compact device, making it a great bargain. The radio offers exciting features and improvements over the previous models from the brand. Those who want to get a backup communication device without having to spend a fortune would definitely find this radio a worthy purchase.

The post Baofeng GT3 Review – UPDATED 2021 – Battery, Manual & More! appeared first on .

Who Benefits the Most from Two-Way Radios?

This is a question that we tend to get asked a lot. People seem to think that since cellphones exist, that they might never have a need for a two-way radio. However, there are several situations where it would be a whole lot more useful than your typical iPhone. Let’s take a little look at some of them.

The major benefit is that a two-way radio will allow multiple people to keep in touch with one another, all at exactly the same time. With a cellphone, conversations are typically limited to two people. You simply dial the person you want to talk to and wait for the person to answer. With a two-way radio, the communication is instant.

With a two-way radio, you do not have to worry about cell phone signal coverage. This means that two-way radios might be your only communication option, when it comes to more remote locations. They are most reliable, as long as you’re within range of one another. Range is usually the only real limiting factor when it comes to a radios usefulness, so we’ll cover that in more depth shortly.

Two-way radios are a whole lot cheaper than cellphones too, and the battery capabilities are better. This means that you can equip a good number of people with radios for the same price that it would cost to pick up just one or two cellphones.

Finding the Best Two Way Radio – Top 5 Ranking Criteria

Since No Wires Radio specializes in radio technology, we’re used to digging deep and answering what makes a two-way radio – great. There are the core criteria that we use to judge every single radio we field test and review. In this section, we are going to explain our reasoning behind each. This will provide you with a bit more information about the processes that we use, and hopefully most of all, help you find a radio that best suites you.

1. Range

For us, one of the major considerations when finding a two-way radio will be the range the radio can extend to. Obviously, two-way radios are always going to be for more short-distance communications. However, it always helps to have the longest range possible. It will provide you with more versatility when using your radio system.

We are going to talk more about what can impact the range of a two-way radio in the next section. However, we do want to point out that we recommend opting for a range on your radio that exceeds your requirements. For example; if you are mostly communicating with people within the same building, you still want to ensure that the range of the radio is decent. It will result in better sound quality at short distances, and it also ensures that if there are any obstacles in the way, they are not going to hamper the radio signal too much. This is because long-distance two-way radios tend to have more powerful radio-waves.

2. Durability

Obviously, when you are buying a two-way radio, you want to be on the hunt for something that is going to last you for as long as possible. We all know how the saying goes, right? Buy cheap, buy twice.

You are going to drop your radio. You may avoid it for a while, but it is inevitably going to happen. You may get your radio wet. You want to ensure that you pick up a radio with the most durable components that you can afford. Not only will this often mean better sound quality when you are using your two-way radio, but it also means that you won’t be replacing that radio any time soon.

Ideally, you would also ensure that the radio comes from a reputable manufacturer. No radio is going to last forever, sadly. You could treat it as an absolute god, but it will eventually give up the ghost. One of the perks of buying from a reputable company is that these companies often have spare parts available e.g. if your radio antenna or the battery has gone, it is probably going to be cheaper to replace those as opposed to picking up a whole new system.

3. Sound Quality

Obviously, if you are using a two-way radio, you want to be able to be heard, and you want to be able to hear other people. When we are reviewing two-way radios here, pay special attention to the audio quality at both short and long distances. Remember; generally speaking, the more you spend on the radio, the better it is going to sound.

4. Channels & Privacy

The best two-way radios will have a multitude of channels that you can broadcast and receive audio on. Although, to be honest, most radios seem to fit the bill here nowadays.

In our opinion, the best radios will be ones that allow you to lock down specific channels with a ‘private key’. This will help to keep your conversations private, even if the channels tend to be open. This makes these radios perfect for businesses that are operating in particularly busy areas. It means you do not have to worry about non-permitted parties from being able to listen in on your conversations.

5. Battery Life

Obviously, a decent two-way radio will boast a substantial lifespan on its batteries. If you aren’t getting at least half a day of use out of a radio before it needs to be recharged, then the radio probably isn’t all that good. Although, do bear in mind that the more you are using the radio, the quicker the battery will drain.

When we are talking about the battery life, we are not just talking about how long the battery will last before it needs to be charged again. We are also talking about the overall number of charges a battery can take before it needs to be replaced i.e. the durability of the battery. Obviously, the best radios can put up with hundreds of charge cycles.

Don’t forget about whether you can replace the batteries too. If you are out in the sticks with little opportunity to recharge your radio, then obviously you will want to pick up a two-way radio that allows you to swap the batteries out. This means as little downtime as possible.

Finally; you will also need to ensure that the charge time of the radio batteries will be nice and quick. Some of the radios on the market have a woeful charge time. We are talking along the lines of 24-hours to recharge. In an ideal world, a good quality two-way radio will sit somewhere in the 6-8 time to recharge range.

Extra Features

We also consider the ‘extra features’ of a radio. Although, we see these more of a bonus than an absolute necessity when we are reviewing radios here. When we consider extra features, we often consider the main use of that particular radio.

While there are some people who are not massive fans of it, and we will explain why soon, there is no denying that a lot of people are going to find some use in having a voice-operated two-way radio i.e. one that you can operate completely ‘hands-free’. These radios are perfect for people (e.g. hunters and sports enthusiasts), who probably do not want to have a radio in their hands at all times.

Contact List

We talked about privacy features before. However, there are some radios that will take this to a whole other level. Some radios function in a similar way to a cellphone. This means that you will have a contact list built into the radio. You will be able to call the specific radio in your contact list and be thrown into a private conversation with them. This can be highly useful in some situations but, of course, not everybody is going to have a use for this sort of thing.

In certain situations, you may also find that having the radio gives you regular weather reports or even function as a radio scanner can also be useful. The former is especially important if you are outdoors. It always makes sense to keep up to date with the weather, right? Radio scanners are not as useful if you are using your radio for private purposes, but some people love them when they are looking for a bit more of an open communication.

We also like to consider radios that can easily be synced up with any radio system. We are not massive fans of radio systems that try and force you into using the same brand of radio to communicate with one another. Obviously, doing this is great for the manufacturer as it means that they will be able to get their hands on more of your money, but it isn’t really going to be a brilliant thing for your wallet. These radios tend to be a lot more expensive, mostly because the manufacturers know that you have little choice but to stump up the cash for it.

Long Range Two-Way Radios

As we said before; it is highly unlikely that you will ever be able to achieve the maximum quoted range with a two-way radio. The quoted range will always be for the most ideal conditions that you could be using your radio in. This means that if you were standing in the midst of a wide-open field within the direct line of sight of the other person using the radio. Obviously, this is unlikely to happen. In most situations, with a decent radio, expect a range of about 5-10-miles for the absolute best audio quality.

We are going to talk more about the different types of radio frequency soon. However, at this point we do want to point out that the type of frequency has an impact on what can impact the range of the radio. Generally speaking, though, the more obstacles there are in the way, there more there is that will end up messing up the signal, and this means a shorter range. So, you would get a far better range in an area that is completely wide open than if you were in a building, or in a forest full of trees.

Battery-Life Matters for Long Range Two-Way Radios

It is also worth noting that the power of your radio can have a massive impact on the range that your radio can accomplish. As your battery starts to drain, you will often find that the radio frequency can reach smaller and smaller distances. Radios are designed like this. The manufacturer wants to help to preserve your battery life so, as a result, your radio simply will not be able to cope with broadcasting long distances unless you have a fully charged battery. So, if that is your plan, then make sure the battery is charged at all times!

When you are looking to boost the range of a signal from a two-way radio, you will often have two options available to you.

Repeater

The first is a repeater. This is a rather simple option. The idea is that you have a two radios connected up to a system. One radio will receive the incoming signal, and the second one will send the signal out again. As the name suggests, it is ‘repeating’ the signal. This is probably one of the best ways to (legally) increase the range of your two-way radio. Repeaters do cost a decent chunk of change if you are opting for the best of them, though. However, in theory, if you have tons of repeaters at various points of the radio range, the signal range could be unlimited, although setting up that number of repeaters would certainly be expensive!

Amplifier

The second is an amplifier. This will send out a more powerful signal from your radio and, ultimately, this means that it will have a greater range. However, you do need to be aware that it is not always legal to use an amplifier, particularly if you do not have a license. This is because on some frequencies, the range is limited for a reason. For example; with a CB radio, you are not technically allowed to boost the power of the signal, which is exactly what an amplifier would do.

In some cases, you may find that you can boost the signal of your two-way radio by investing in a better antenna. However, this is not always going to be possible, particularly if you want your two-way radio to be portable.

Motorola Two-Way Radios & Commercial Applications

If you are after quality two-way radios that really shine in commercial environments, then Motorola radios are the best you will find. These radios boast superior sound quality, battery life, and durability. It is these reasons why you will find them most commonly in both retail stores and on construction sites.

Durability and the Motorola brand is what really sets their radios apart from the rest. The Motorola radio lineup was designed to be dropped on the ground and beat up a bit. Most people recognize that any electronics on the jobsite might experience some abuse. When it comes to business, you need to have something dependable. Their reviews speak for themselves. The Motorola brand is well recognized, respected, and has been around a long time. Their customer service is great and specifically tailored to support other businesses.

Motorola offers a full lineup of two-way radios and accessories to go along with them, more geared for the business setting. A lot of these, you won’t find in other brands. You can purchase the radios in large packs with large charging bays made to go with them. So if you’re trying to equip a group of say 20 people to be able to keep in touch on the job, there’s no need to setup 20 individual chargers etc. The larger, multi-bay charging accessories can handle many batteries at the same time.

If you are using radios regularly to keep your business running, then Motorola radios are the defacto standard, and for good reason. However, do bear in mind that Motorola radios do come with a higher price tag. Not to be overly cliche, but this is one of those times when you really do get what you pay for.

Two-Way Radio Headsets – What You Need to Know

A lot of two-way radios will now include a headset with them. This allows hands-free operation and means you do not have to have your radio out, exposed to the elements, to listen in on broadcasts. The problem is that most of the two-way radio headsets that are included, tend to not be all that good. The sound quality is never going to be as great as if you were listening out of the speaker. If you do need a radio headset, then it may actually be worth purchasing a separate one. They are often going to be far, far better built.

VOX Capability

A lot of the newer models of two-way radio on the market boast a nifty little feature known as VOX (or voice-operated exchange if you want to sound cool). This simply means that your two-way radio works by voice operation. If the microphone connected up to the two-way radio handset detects that you are speaking, then your voice will be broadcast. There is no need to continually push the button to speak.

Obviously, VOX does have its uses. There are some situations where you really can’t press your two-way radio handset for whatever reason. For example; if you are cycling, or you are doing certain jobs. However, do bear in mind that VOX is not all that it is cracked up to be. Due to the way in which two-way radios work. only one person can be broadcasting at any one time on a channel. The problem is that some VOX systems are hypersensitive and can clog the radio channel. This is annoying. So, if you are looking for a two-way radio handset that has VOX, make sure you read a couple of reviews to see how good it actually is.

Two-Way Radio Frequencies

When you are looking to buy a two-way radio, you will want to pay attention to the frequencies the radio broadcasts at. This will give you an idea as to the type of jobs the radio is going to be best suited for.

VHF Radio Signals (Very High Frequency)

VHF operates at 30-300MHZ. Not all of the frequencies in this range will be public, but your two-way radio will come programmed with channels that you can access, so do not worry about stumbling across something that you shouldn’t be listening in on!

One of the main advantages of VHF is the length of the radio waves. They are nice and long, which means that if you want a radio that has a fantastic range, then VHF is the way to go. However, due to the shape of the radio waves, they are not particularly brilliant in areas that there are a lot of obstacles in the way. Throw a wall or a couple of trees in the way of the radio signal, and the range is going to be drastically reduced. However, if there are no obstacles, or they are very minor ones, the range of VHF cannot be beaten.

UHF Radio Signals (Ultra High Frequency)

These start at 300 MHZ and go all the way up to 3GHZ. These two-way radios are going to be the most versatile radios you can buy.

The advantage of UHF is that it is fantastic for getting through obstacles. If you want a two-way radio system designed for use in a building, then UHF is absolutely the route to go down. However, do bear in mind that this will come at a price. UHF radio signals tend not to have a brilliant range on them.

CB Radio

CB radio isn’t a specific type of frequency in itself, although it does operate on shortwave frequencies.

CB radio is more of a ‘type’ of radio, often used by truckers and in the marine industry. CB radio consists of 40 open channels. You will not be able to go private on them. CB radio is for when you do not mind your communications being open, or if it is important that they are open. One of the main reasons why CB radios are used so extensively in the trucking industry is because communication is open. It will allow people to easily discuss road conditions and the like.

There is nothing that says you will not be able to use a CB radio for private purposes. After all, the technology is not as popular as it was in the past. However, as we said before, there is no way of actually making the channel private, so even if you feel nobody is listening in, you should probably assume that they are.

Need a Two-Way Radio That’s Waterproof?

If you are ‘out and about’, then you need a radio that is able to brave the elements just as much as you can. This means picking up a radio that is quoted as being waterproof.

Most of the radios built for ‘outdoor use’ e.g. radios for construction sites, hunting, or other outdoor activities, are able to put up with a decent amount of water getting on them without faltering. Obviously, no radio is ever going to be 100% waterproof. Not unless you pick up a specific diving radio, but most of the normal two-way radios on the market can stay submerged in water up to 1-meters deep for a fairly substantial amount of time, normally around the thirty minutes mark.

These radios tend to have protective coverings on, mostly made of rubber. These coverings help to stop water from getting into the cracks of the outer shell which can, of course, end up ruining the sensitive electronics contained within.

Even if you are not taking your radio outdoors, it may still be worth investing in a quality two-way radio that is rated as being waterproof, or at the very least water-resistant. These radios tend to be a little bit more durable which, of course, means that they are going to last longer. We all know how likely it is a stray drink can be knocked over onto the most sensitive of electronics too, so it is nice to know that there is a little bit of extra protection there.

Two-Way Radio Reviews

If you are looking for the best two-way radio reviews around, we’ve published some of the very best.

When we review two-way radios on this site, we take an objective approach. We judge all radios against the same criteria, while also considering the reasons why that radio was designed. For example; the ‘base criteria’ e.g durability, range, channels, etc. will also be the same, but beyond that, the purpose of the radio will be considered. One designed for ‘commercial use’ may be looked at in a different way in comparison to a radio designed for hunting. This helps to ensure that we are giving you the information that you need in order to make a more informed purchase.

We ‘field test’ all of the radios here, so we know exactly how a unit is able to stand up to the rigors of regular use. However, we also like to dive into a few Amazon reviews too. As much as we love our radios, we know that we are never going to be able to spot every single pro and con with the units that we test. By going through Amazon reviews, we can get an overall feel for how other people have experienced a radio and can convey that information to you. Once again, this will allow you to make a far more informed decision with your purchase.

The post NWR’s Best Two Way Radio Review Guide for 2021 appeared first on .

Two-way radios are meant to provide a simple, reliable way to communicate without the need for satellites or towers. However, not all of these handy devices offer a good range, quality and other desirable features.

As a prepper, you need a radio that promises not to fail when the emergency strikes. Anything can trigger the survival mode when you are on your adventure. You definitely don’t want something that lets you down at such a critical time.

One of the most popular choices for two-way radios is Midland GXT1000VP4 which comes with a boom style headset that fits inside a helmet. In this post, we take a closer look at this device and compare it with other models to see what you can expect from it. 

» Click for Current Pricing, Pictures & Amazon Reviews

Midland GXT1000VP4 Review – UPDATED 2020

It has been designed to be one of the most powerful and reliable walkie talkies on the market. The Midland GXT1000VP4 is loaded with lots of options and outstanding features.

It provides dependable push button communication in case of emergencies. The radio features:

• 22 Channels
• 28 Pre-programmed privacy channels
• Multiple power settings
• Silent operation

Design

The radio has a durable, professional-looking design. It is made out of high grade plastic. The belt clip also has a plastic construction and a metal hinge with a spring. The buttons are large, rubberized and easy to use – even with gloves. The ports for a microphone and headset are also covered with a rubber cap that stay in place. This helps avoid any moisture and dust entering into the radio.

The Midland GXT1000VP4 is weather-resistant and has a waterproofing rating. It can be used in rainy weather without need for any concern. It also does not get affected by dirt and dust. Its design is perfect for all hand sizes and not bulky. However, the earpiece is something that Midland could have done better.

Weighing 7.4 ounces with the battery, the radio is a bit heavier as compared to other walkie talkie models. Its length is about 8 inches with an antenna, which of course contributes to its overall size. It can feel bulky to carry in a pocket and is often carried in a backpack or with carabiner type clip. The radio also includes a car charging adaptor that allows charging the device while traveling.

Setup

It is really easy to set up the radio. It comes complete with a user manual that provides a comprehensive guide to every process. The menu descriptions in the manual may seem intimidating at first, but it becomes easy once you get started with it.

You can quickly open the battery door, install the batteries and charge the device using the stand. Both the units charge at the same time and a snap ensures they don’t fall out accidentally.

Display

The radio has a large, black-white display that shows everything clearly in any lighting condition. It also has a red backlight that automatically gets activated upon switching the device on or pressing the buttons. It turns off after some time to save battery. The simple display, though clear and crisp, limits the amount of information it can display. This means you may have to decode abbreviations to understand the menu.

Performance

The Midland GXT1000VP4 features 50 channels and claims a range of 35 miles. The radio performs well in this range when there are small obstructions like small hills and houses. But the performance degrades if you use it amidst large buildings.

In normal outdoor conditions, you can expect the radio to deliver a practical range of about 2 miles. Overall, the sound quality and reception of the radio are impressive.

As long as you stay in the range, everything is heard clearly and loudly. You can use one of the privacy codes of the device to make sure the other team does not listen to the conversation. In case of any trouble, you can use the SOS signal to alert the team that you are in a jam.

The included features work flawlessly but the menu system is quite complicated and it can take some time before getting used to them. The weather radio scans well and picks the correct channel quickly and other features like privacy code, group call and hands-free operation perform well.

Pros

• Comes with a boom headset
• Extra channels and privacy channels ensure private communication
• SOS siren to send alert about an emergency
• Captures weather alert broadcasts
• Excellent range of 35 miles
• Can work in the rain
• Backed up with a 3-year warranty
• Excellent audio quality

Cons

• Does not work well when buildings are around
• USB charging facility is not available
• Complex menu
• Somewhat expensive

Best 2-Way Radios For Preppers

The best 2-way radios for preppers are different from normal walkie talkies used for casual purposes. The best two-way radios are sophisticated devices that enable people to communicate clearly over long distances in times of emergencies. A survival radio is aimed to replace other modes of communication and expected to prove useful when no other communication method is available. This is why it has to provide the best performance, range and battery life to serve its desired purpose.

Not only do these radios feature excellent range and clarity, some of the better models even come with privacy features to block eavesdroppers. The best radios for preppers should also be highly durable as they are intended to be used in times of disasters and post-disaster. They should be able to take a beating.

Cellular Outage

Imagine an earthquake or a terrorist attack just took place and your family is not with you. Cell phone towers get congested or stop working. In such a time of crisis, a two-way radio is the tool you will need to get in touch with your family. It will help you locate your family, confirm their situation and bring them to safety. The best two-way radios for preppers are the ones that help you deal with the panic by allowing you to find your family quickly and getting them to a place of safety.

Communication is quite important in times of disasters so it is essential for preppers to get two-way radios that are specially designed and well-equipped for survival situations. When you look for the best survival radio, it is important to note that cost guides the quality. But you don’t want to end up in a disaster where your radio does not perform as expected. So you should not hesitate to invest in a high-quality radio to get the quality and performance you desire.

Weather Coverage

The best two-way radios for preppers are those that have access to NOAA weather channels. They provide weather updates to let you know about safety conditions and dangerous areas to avoid. They also use this feature to provide non-weather data in times of natural disaster. Access to NOAA channels is one of the most important considerations for preppers when selecting the best two-way radio.

It is essential that you select a model that suits your needs from privacy and durability to range and battery life, so that you can be well-prepared for emergencies. The Midland GXT1000VP4 combines outstanding features with a good range and clarity and makes an excellent choice for preppers.

Midland GXT1000 Battery Life

The Midland GXT1000VP4 ships with rechargeable battery packs to power the device. The batteries are NiMH, alkaline type and have a battery capacity of 700mAh. While the radio offers a host of extra features, excellent range and clarity, it disappoints when it comes to battery life. Most test results suggest the batteries last for about 9 hours on full charge. This is quite less as compared to other models.

The good thing is that you can use 4 ‘AA’ batteries per radio to run the radio. You can purchase a few sets of batteries when you go out for camping or pack your survival kit. With AA batteries, the device can provide a battery life of about 15 hours. This is quite satisfactory as compared to the rechargeable battery packs.

Midland GXT1000VP4 Vs GXT1050VP4 – How They Compare?

» GXT1050VP4’s Pricing, Pictures & Amazon Reviews

Both Midland GXT1000VP4 and GXT1050VP4 are feature-packed compact 2-way communication radios to suit preppers. Both these models are quite similar in terms of features and functionality. They offer up to 36 miles range with 50 channels and 284 privacy channels to facilitate desired communication privacy.

The GXT1050VP4 features 5 animal call alerts including duck, turkey, crow, wolf and cougar to make it ideal for hunting. While the GXT1000VP4 radio only comes in black/silver design, the GXT1050VP4 comes in a Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camouflage design that makes it a great walkie talkie for hunters. It also includes a vibrate function to silence all tones.

Though both these radios from Midland share a lot of features, specifications and functions, deliver a similar performance and make the best options for preppers, there are minor design and function differences that make the GXT1050 exclusively suitable for hunters. 

Conclusion

What makes Midland GXT1000VP4 a great choice for preppers is the variety of exciting features it comes with. It includes scanning and monitoring buttons, a keypad lock function, NOAA weather scanning and an SOS siren. The weather scanning feature is quite useful as it allows getting forecast data in locations without cell service and makes it an important part of an emergency survival kit.

Though it is somewhat pricey as compared to other two-way radios, it delivers an audio quality and performance you would need as a prepper. The price is justified for those who want to communicate among a group, stay on the top of weather patterns and talk with privacy. It does have some hiccups but the plethora of features it packs into a beautifully style unit makes it worth giving a try.

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