Timz GMRS
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FAQ

Note: this info is about recently mfgrd FRS & GMRS radios; made after the FCC clamped down on their frequency ranges and capabilities. I am not
commenting about older radios, or radios that have been modified (opened up). Tim doesn't worry about which radio you are using to access the repeater, but you must have a valid GMRS license.

 

1. Can a FRS exclusive radio be used to talk through a GMRS repeater?

No. Even if the user has a GMRS license. It is not just a licensing issue; more a hardware issue.
FRS radios are simplex only. Although you may be able to listen to conversations on repeaters, you will not be able to transmit into the repeater. Only genuine GMRS radios will allow channels 15 through 22 to transmit using an "offset" needed for repeater access. On newer GMRS radios, they've added channels 23 through 30; these are the same receive freqs as channels 15-22, but 23-30 are already configured to use the +5mhz offset with transmitting. Earlier GMRS radios will allow you to reprogram the radios to perform this "offset" on channels 15 thru 22 that will gain access to repeaters.
click HERE for help in adding a repeater to your GMRS radio

2. Are GMRS users to give their call sign during transmitting?

Yes; during your last transmission of the overall conversation, and every 15 minutes if your conversation with other GMRS radio operators lasts over 15 minutes.

Example 1: a total length conversation between users only lasts 7 minutes total; each user would "sign off" on their ending transmission by giving their call sign; the only time it is required.

Example 2: a 20 minute conversation takes place between users. At the 15 minute mark all users should give their call sign, although they aren't finished yet. Then 5 minutes later as the conversation ends (now at the 20 minute mark), users should sign-off using their call sign as well.

Summary: you always give your call sign on your final transmission of a conversation. If the overall conversation goes past 15 minutes of time, you give your call sign at the 15 minute mark, and then again on your last/final transmission. 

3. Do you give your GMRS FCC call sign "phonetically"?

Although ham radio operators use the phonetic alphabet (ex: Kilo - Xray - Charlie - 4 - Bravo), GMRS users generally don't. GMRS call signs are lengthy and most just say it as written: "W-S-L-A-4-2-7". 

4. Is GMRS wide or narrow band (using the 21st century definition for W/N FM)?

Channels 8-14 are narrow band only (12.5khz). All other channels can be narrow or wide. But most GMRS users prefer wide band whenever possible. Timz GMRS repeater is wide band. 

5. What are the maximum TX power limits per channel for GMRS?

GMRS channels 1 thru 7 are allowed up to 5w TX power. 

GMRS channels 8 thru 14 limit transmit wattage to 0.5w (1/2w).

GMRS channels 15 thru 22 allow 50w. Repeaters can output up to 50w. 

6. Are any of the GMRS channels designated for specific use?

other than the repeater channels 23 - 30, no. Some older GMRS guidelines did suggest a "calling/travel " (ch 20 462.675 with a CTCSS of 141.3) and an "emergency" channel, but that is no longer the case. Some like to use ch 16 for 4x4 offroading.  

7. I already have a ham license; can my GMRS call sign be the same?

no. Your GMRS call will conform to the GMRS identifying scheme... which is different than Ham radio; and there are no GMRS vanity calls either.

8. Can GMRS radios broadcast their location (GPS coordinates)?

Yes... some can, click HERE

 

 

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click HERE to reprogram your radio

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