Understanding GMRS Repeaters

[@ewicky]

The rest of KZbin could learn a thing or two about this gentleman's professional presentation style, clear enunciation, script flow, etc.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks very much. Glad you find this style effective for you.

[@connorjohn9812]

That note productions dude His 2 way radio lessons are so irritating like I swear to god I wanna break my device every time I watch that other dude's videos on KZbin this guy really is hell of a lot better than alotta tool bags who "try to teach" I actually absorbed this knowledge here enjoyably n didn't feel like I was gonna go into a rage lol

[@experimentalvid]

Yes i do appreciate the professionalism. Well done!

[@Tsch6373]

You are an amazing teacher! I'm going to watch this again and again until I fully understand. Thank you so much, new sub! 😂

[@Bigfoot2025]

Sir, I am new to GMRS radio. What was once confusing is now totally clear! The FCC should post a link to your channel on their GMRS license page. It's that GOOD! Thank You.

[@bereadyeveryday6764]

This is the best demonstration-type video on GMRS repeaters that I've seen. Well done. Thank you

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MrRoman-lo6ih]

After days of watching videos trying to understand all this...................here come Gadget Talk. I apply for my license 2 days ago and Im trying to learn. Im staying in this channel. Thanks for the calm and to the point explanation, sir. I was 3 seconds away from giving up.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Great 👍 Glad you found this video. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Cheers.

[@MultiTestPage]

It's a tax not a license

[@Baasicstuff]

Wow well DONE!

[@NJShadow]

This was so well done, and ACTUALLY educational. Clear description, clear examples, and excellent presentation. This is sincerely appreciated!

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Cheers.

[@blueeyes1325]

What a wonderful "class". We just got our GMRS and are trying to learn how to use it. Your explanations are so helpful! I'm sure I'll be watching more of your videos. Blessings.

[@seanscott3690]

This guy reminds me of one of my favorite professors during my a&p school

[@rbmwiv]

This is the best GMRS video I’ve seen. Thank you for making it. I learned a lot, I am waiting for my radio to get here so I will be revisiting this video when it arrives.

[@domesticatedwolverine4152]

My one stop source for radio talk.

[@SilversKr]

Great presentation. I'm new to hobby and greatly appreciate your time and assistance. Thank you!

[@GadgetTalk4U]

My pleasure. Cheers.

[@connorjohn9812]

Genuinely thank you for sharing this information and thank you for the way you share it you're very good at teaching things and easy to listen to I really appreciate it this video thank you very much

[@connorjohn9812]

Your actually somebody who is really good at speaking and teaching correctly I really do wish these other "NOTA PRODUCTIONS" that make videos on the internet learned from your style

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for the kind words. I appreciate it. His style fills a niche as evidenced by his subscriber count. Different strokes for different folks. I don't do "snark" very well.

[@ThatGuyAceSpitta]

Thanks a lot great sir for this extremely professional and very well explained video. I'm new to the hobby and there's just so much to learn.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

So nice of you. Cheers.

[@sweeperdave1]

Thanks for one of the best explanations of how to setup and use repeaters.

[@Stan_Rich]

Repeaters - Gadget Guy Thanks for your detailed review. Very helpful. Good timing for me as I just received and set-up my Radioddity DB25-G (I liked your review of this radio too) Will be adding GMRS HT’s soon. (Still deciding on make & model) Will use all GMRS radios primarily for On-Road, Off-Roading, Hunting, Fishing, Camping & Mountain Biking. Keep you great GMRS & other Gadget vids coming. Subscibed👍

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Glad it was helpful. For inexpensive HTs consider the Baofeng UV 9G the GM 30 from Radioddity (reviews on the channel) and the Baofeng GM 15Pro. That review will be out this week.

[@PhinAI]

I did not die, and I learned something. Thank you!

[@MyTube4Utoo]

A very easy to understand and helpful video. Thank you, sir. A new subscriber here.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Very good Video packed with great information

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Glad you liked it!

[@Htownpadre]

Nicely done and quite helpful! Thanks!

[@B.91.10]

I always program the Rx and Tx tone (always the same) greatly reduces interference for ham.

[@wheel1775]

As far as the tones go, can you please clarify. The tone listed as output on a repeater directory would be the receive tone setting on a handheld? Is that right? And then the input tone would be the TX tone setting on a handheld?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Yes. You got it. What goes into the repeater goes out of the HT.

[@wheel1775]

@@GadgetTalk4U Thank you Sir! You are a life saver. I was going crazy trying to get my radios to work on a repeater. I had the tones reversed. This is a perfect video for new GMRS users.

[@donjalex2262]

I like those AETC jets sir!

[@seanwaltz-gh3kw]

If you have a repeater with a DCS tone of say 411 how do you know which DCS tone to use D411N or D411I if the repeater owner doesn't specify? Great video thank you

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Nearly all DCS codes are normal. Start with the N code. Do a Google search on DCS codes to read more about N and I codes. Quite Interesting.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

I like using Chirp For Programming and you can use it for lots of different radios

[@GadgetTalk4U]

True, I use it too. The factory CPSs are easy to use, too. I don't spend too much time programming radios after the first go around so I'm pretty much CPS agnostic.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

​@@GadgetTalk4UI hear ya once you program you don't tend to need to do it for that radio again

[@thomasdellapenna489]

Thank you for a clear explanation.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@twohandsandaradio]

New to GMRS. Our repeater has a tone of DPL411. DPL is a Motorola term for DCS as I understand it. So it should be DSC411. My problem is my radio (Retevis RA86) only goes to DSC210. What am I missing?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Several brands, including Retevis, number their DCS codes in order, but they actually correspond to other codes. Go figure. Maybe because they also include some inverted codes. Look at the DCS table in the manual. I believe the code you want is DCS 065. Cheers.

[@twohandsandaradio]

@@GadgetTalk4U thank you so much! I saw the codes back there and couldn't make heads or tails out of their 'chinglish'. LOL Thank you again Sir.

[@greggsheena659]

For some reason, when I download Chirp settings to the handheld, some channels default to a different frequency. I have tried a hard re-set then downloading, and deleting the channel then downloading. Nothing works. Any suggestions??

[@stanl3932]

Excellent presentation! Thank you from a new user. I have a couple of questions concerning the paired repeater channels. If a repeater named XYX456 is set up on channel 30, its output will be received on its corresponding channel 22, correct? Should my radio display the repeater name "XYX456" (Channel 30) since it is receiving FROM the repeater, or "channel 22", since that is the channel to which the repeater output id transmitted? Secondly, if a simplex transmission arrived a bit later on channel 22, will it display as "channel 22"? Thanks much!

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I'm a bit confused. Does your radio show what channel is received or what channel is set? You should set the repeater channel and you should see ch 30 or the name you gave that channel. If you have two radios, you'll hear the repeater on both 22 and 30 in your example.

[@dennisjones8991]

I have chosen to use readily available commercial radios that are license compliant. These radios are 250 channels and I can use them how I see fit as long as i follow power requirements of the GMRS service. The radios i chose to use have 16 banks of which I can determine how many channels are in each bank. I have chosen to program one bank like the commercially available bubble paks, but with a few modifications. Mod 1. the last channels which are repeater output channels are entered as repeater channels with the national travel access ctcss. These radios have a 'talk-around' function which allows me to use the channels in simplex mode by the push of a button on the front panel of the handheld. In this way, I can use the repeaters using the national travelers ctcss codes which quite a few repeater use for access, and use the same channels in simplex mode. This reduces the number of channels used. I then use another bank to put in the repeaters I have permission to use with unique ctcss codes with the city and three digits which identify the repeater. Example, a repeater say in LA. CA. is on 462.650, the designation I use is LACA 650. I dont have to remember anything except abbreviations to cities and states to know what repeater I am tuned to. Since these radios are commercial and GMRS compliant, i can use them for ANY radio service licensed by the FCC if I have that license for or a MOU (Memorandum Of Understanding) which is used to allow first responders and volunteers to use public safety frequencies during events such as Search and Rescue. So, the one radio I have can be used for a multitude of uses. I have both my Ham and GMRS licenses, so this is a BIG win for me. Also, handhelds are allowed 5 watts on all channels including the interstitial channels after a rule change. This means, yes, you can talk to other unlicensed users on the FRS channels with 5 watts with your GMRS license on FRS channels 1-7. A base station may also use these as long as the power out is 5 watts with an antenna no more than 20 feet above ground. There are also the line "A" and "C" where power is limited to minimize interference to licensed radio services in Canada. Look up FCC part 95, you should have a copy on your phone for reference if you use GMRS, FRS, CB, and other services covered by part 95. I am NOT listing the GMRS travel tone as ANY licensed operator can look that up after registering with websites such as MyGMRS.com This is to help minimize interference from non-licensed users. As a ham, I have enjoyed the higher powered repeaters that hams use for communications. These are available to us on more than one band like GMRS. Hams are also allowed much higher power, and when used on say 10 meters, can provide almost nationwide coverage during the day with greater coverage at night. Why have both? Mostly because most of my family does not use radio like I do, but they do use them when participating in a myriad of outdoor activities. Example, with myself having both, I have comms outside of the normal 5 to 10 miles with GMRS by utilizing ham repeaters that I can still access when out in the woods away from Cell coverage, but my family can use non-licensed frs and GMRS for local comms. This provides a layer of protection that is invaluable in an emergency as most ham repeaters are able to stay online when the power has failed and quite a few have the ability to connect to the phone system.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Using GMRS for family coms and ham to feed your radio hobby itch is a good plan. To operate within the regs the radio you use for GMRS must be listed as part 95 certified in the FCC database. Your description of transmitting on multiple bands leads me to suspect it's not. Power is not the only GMRS operating requirement. If you meant receiving on multiple bands, I do the same thing. Cheers.

[@bhoward9378]

Very informative. Subscribed.

[@taonow369]

Aloha I just got my tidradio tdh3 and I’m doing the od Bluetooth programming and I can’t find any gmrs repeaters on Maui ? Is this possible ? I have my radio on gmrs only too

[@GadgetTalk4U]

I checked myGMRS.com and found no repeaters there. There is one ham repeater listed on Repeaterbook.com. Since you have the H3 and can change it to ham mode, invest a couple hours of study and get a technician class license if your goal is chatting with others. Otherwise, if you have the $$, be the first GMRS repeater there! Cheers.

[@eugenemoran2329]

I am having a lot of trouble in getting my db25g gmrs radio to program to repeater channels in my area in Conroe texas, I am doing something wrong.

[@1_lens_view]

I am curious if anyone has run into the following: My radio is set up with a particular CTCSS input for a repeater operating on 22R/22. I can activate this repeater with a momentary key press of the transmit button. However, if I attempt to talk on the repeater, it will not activate. This doesn’t sound like typical CTCSS behavior. I’ve tested this scenario multiple times and the result is the same. What am I failing to consider?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Just looking for more info. Why do you believe the repeater isn't activating?

[@matttemplin1676]

If were talk to somebody on GMRS radio with codes already in set, how do I know if somebody else is using the same frequency?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Two easy ways. Most radios have an LED indicator that shows when transmitting or receiving. It will illuminate regardless of CTCSS or DCS code. Or, press the side key programmed for Monitor. That will break the squelch and allow you to listen regardless of code.

[@Wirenutby]

I have been subscibed to your channel. Great review, you cleared up for me the difference in repeater analog vs digital tones. I also noticed the model of one your jets to the right when looking into that upper cabinet behind you. I had the exact model hanging from my bedroom ceiling when I was a young kid. My Uncle Joe flew a Northrop T38a Talon back when he was in his early 20's. He also flew Spooky the gunship in Vietnam, I am talking about back in the 1960's. Would that T38a be the same model as yours?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

It's probably a model of the same airplane. And they're still flying. Amazing. I got this one while flying in pilot training in 1977. When did I get old?

[@Wirenutby]

@@GadgetTalk4U I must be right around your age, me being 67. The good old days. On a radio/ antenna note, I am looking at the Wouxun KG1000G Plus on the web site for "Two Way Radios". On their site, it reads the Nagoya UT-72G has been discontinued. Hear anything about that? More research on mobile antennas coming up for me.

[@chrisnigro1968]

Thanks Alot for your presentation I'm just starting out with the ham radio thing I'm waiting for it to get delivered from Temu and I got a 15 inch antenna 📡 for it also

[@timl9495]

So how do I know if I successfully transmitted to a repeater? How about an example.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

When you key (kerchunk) the repeater and you hear it identify itself or you hear a second or two of carrier (squelch tail) and then a "pfisst" sound as the carrier ends, you know you hit the repeater. Obviously, if you hear yourself on a second radio, you'll know. Cheers.

[@MrSabram07]

so i find repeaters and all repeater tones are unlisted. Leaving me left out and my radio useless. How did i get these tine freqs?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Unlisted tones are a sign of a private or closed repeater. If you look at the repeater info at myGMRS.com, you'll find that you need to join the club sponsoring the repeater or ask permission.

[@kennethsmith3843]

I received my UV 9G radio I have a hard time to set all channels on wide band any sugestion?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Channels 8-14 are narrow by regulation. The other standard GMRS channels plus the DIY channels should be wide. It doesn't matter for the other RX only channels. Have you tried the CPS? I find that easier than faceplate programming. Cheers.

[@kennethsmith3843]

I'm just getting started on this GMRS and Ham radio experience, dumb like a box of rocks but learning. I used chirp to download repeaters got static on all channels. much needed help with this thanks @@GadgetTalk4U

[@kennethsmith3843]

CPS ? I'm new to the GMRS /ham radio experience so if I seem dumb well. thanks @@GadgetTalk4U

[@garynewton1263]

So how does GMRS in the US differ from UHF CBRS here in Australia? What does GMRS stand for? And how many channels are allocated? Our system here has 80 channels on 476/477Mhz, 12.5 khz steps and the Repeater channels are 1-8 & 41-48 with the corresponding inputs on chs 31-38 & 71-78. Is your GMRS a general service for anybody or do you guys need a licence/permit?

[@themikeroberts]

I don't know the answer to most of your questions, but GMRS does require a license. There's no test or education for the license (which makes them pointless IMO), you simply pay for it and are given a license and call sign. But it's suspected most users don't have a license.

[@marvinrivas5415]

I am new on gmrs,and I have a question related to transmitters, my son live 15 miles away from my house , to comunícate to him I need to use a transmitter near me, once I connect to transmitter, my son needs to have a transmitter to in order to receive my signal ? Or is good enough with one person using the transmiter ?? I appreciate your help

[@GadgetTalk4U]

You both need to have transceivers, either handheld or mobile styles, that can access the same repeater.

[@marvinrivas5415]

Thanks

[@fredpassafiume2218]

That’s is a very nice explanation

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Hope you find it helpful.

[@brianbahr74]

I’m having such a hard time getting my radios to work. Is there a way to find someone in my area who can help? I’ve been watching videos for days and still can’t get 2 radios to talk to each other.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Try getting an account on myGMRS.com and looking for a repeater near you. Most have contact info. If so, check with the owner for help or a referral. Otherwise, a business that sells business radios may be able to help. Good luck.

[@sogent56]

I am in Lex SC. I can talk to Ft Collin’s Co via a local open repeater with my little uv5g plus.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Repeater linking is becoming more and more popular.

[@geemoney6742]

Ok see if I have this right... my repeater rx channel is 462.700 and the tx channel is 467.700 If I want my portable radio to connect to the repeater do I need its tx channel to be 462.700 and rx as 467.700 (in duplex mode)?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Think channels, not frequencies. Set your radio to channel 21R or on some radios, 29. If entering data as a DIY channels, duplicate channel 21R on a DIY channel and add your required CTCSS or DCS codes.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Yes, to your question.

[@WilliamParmley]

Excellent, thanks.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Thanks for watching.

[@james-rr4dw]

Thanks for this information

[@kevinhawkins82]

Can you please explain why a repeater would have a Transmit DCS/CTCSS code? I understand that you need a code for the repeater to pickup the signal, but why a Transmit code coming out to he repeater? Isn't it true that no repeater is private on GMRS? So, what is a "Private" repeater? Also, what does it mean you have to have "permission" to use a repeater? Thank you for the videos!

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Since the repeater outputs on a channel where simplex is allowed, my guess is that an output code would limit what others on that channel would have to listen to. A private repeater simply means it is on the air to serve a private individual or group, as in not public. Some owners want people to obtain permission or join a community club to help defer costs. Think about a pool in an apartment complex.

[@oneonta310]

So you can only listen to the repeater traffic, and not someone talking simplex on the channel

[@GadgetTalk4U]

@@oneonta310 If the repeater has an output tone and you have that set you would not hear simplex conversations on the repeater output channels which are channels 15 - 22 unless a simplex user had the same code set as an output tone on his or her simplex channel. No tone set would receive both repeater output and simplex from the simplex channel.

[@DirkaDirka-n9j]

Nice T-38!

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Indeed! Seems like a lifetime ago. Oh, wait. It was! We used to say the only things the T-38 was good for was looking good and going fast!

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Love the Arizona map of Phoenix

[@Bluediesal1978]

HELP! I AM A NEW GMRS LICENSED PERSON. NEED HELP SETTING UP MY RADIOS. I HAVE CHIRP ON MY LAPTOP LOCATED IN INDIANA

[@he7637]

We’re you at Randolph AFB in the mid 80’s?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Assigned there 90 thru 96.

[@choocandoit867]

Thank you. This video was very helpful. Liked and subscribed. 8-)

[@centralfloridagmrs]

Great Channel!!

[@lolafreeze5678]

What about channel 60 32

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Don't understand. 60 32 what?

[@cowboy6591]

It doesn't get better then this. You sir should be a college professor.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Funny you should say that. I've taught from community college through grad school over the years. Cheers.

[@toubqalatlaslion7324]

❤

[@kidvision564]

Good idea but very difficult to follow new things without illustrations or video

[@jweaver7170]

Back to the buttons again. I always have the total reboot button.

[@mr.2d749]

#Airpower!

[@duaneshuster6366]

Without repeaters there's no sense in GMRD licenses. As a listener I got the ch"s in my scanner no one has a repeater here east PGH PA . And the output freqs are used in stores for employees they don't care if they use output freqs to talk on without licenses .

[@GadgetTalk4U]

GMRS use is best when you have a group and a purpose such as keeping in contact with the kids while camping or as part of an off road group. If you want to chat with others just for the fun of it, consider getting a technician ham license. You can probably pass the test with just a couple of day's study using online resources. The ARRL license guide is a good resource too. With digital modes such as DMR, C4FM and DSTAR, you can chat with folks around the world. I've got some videos on that here on the channel.

[@duaneshuster6366]

@@GadgetTalk4U Got ya on ameature I got general op privlages but local communications is dying only hf radio can you get hold someone Talk to. But a few low-power repeaters 35 mi away but nothing in area . Ya getting a group together is like breaking someone's arm . It was like that with CB then all local communications faded out. But does relativity greater in other states. . What I said before is Gmrs being used for store employee communications is really sad . Yes correct need 4-5 people to go in on radios so the best talk can be made daily.

[@concernedpatriot9314]

I have found that GMRS signals will bend ( Go around ) 5 degrees and yes I know they don’t but in the real world 🌎 they do ! Well mine do 🤣

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Whether you've read about it or tested yourself, you're right. I think I used the term theoretical to signal this was a basic video. Too much info can be distracting to beginners on any topic. Thanks for adding to the conversation.

[@erikjeffreys2144]

My eyes just glaze over ...

[@theateranddrama123]

Chip software program

[@EvolvingNaturally]

Why do you think Canada is behind with gmrs? No repeaters, no licence, stick with 2 watts .

[@chris2crazzy]

I just got kicked off of a GMRS repeater for calling someone a dip sh on a video gate that I posted on my own Facebook page while doing a check in video recording, I did not do this over the GMRS repeater only on my video gate check In video, now my question is will the FCC back them and the repeater owner or me lol, I repeat I was not keyed down on the repeater when this was said

[@GadgetTalk4U]

The FCC isn't making the complaint. They have nothing to do with it. The repeater owner ( I assume) did it. Unfortuantely its kinda like you asking someone to leave your house. Your house, your rules. Sorry that happened to you. Perhaps a Mea Culpa?

[@terryparker1694]

The repeater owner doesn't have to let you use their privately owned equipment.

[@chris2crazzy]

@terryparker1694 😭 so basically it's Joe Biden liberal rules, 6 year old gets upset 6 year old cries 6 year old gets his way 🤡

[@billryland6199]

GNRS radios cannot be user programmed for frequency by the user. Only preset channels can be changes. See FCC Part 95.1761(c). Radios like the Baofengs are illegal to use on FRS and GMRS in the US.

[@kdrhoades4605]

its not law...

[@concernedpatriot9314]

Sad Ham ? 🙀

[@donnysalleesr2074]

How much does the FCC pay ya?

[@oneonta310]

Baofeng makes fcc approved grms radios

[@terrarecon]

@@donnysalleesr2074 I don't think it's even the FCC we're dealing with. I have no idea what he's on about.

[@lisasievers6999]

Frustrating because this doesn't follow chirp!?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Chirp has pretty low GMRS coverage. The various CPS's all work pretty much the same. Cheers.

[@Wooferman]

This was great but what isn’t clear is the reason to do various things and what the benefits are by doing them. The biggest problem I have found with my BTech manual is just that. All features are listed but the benefits and reasons to use them are not explained. It’s as if they think that everyone knows this information and they are wrong. Being vague is almost condescending and that makes me angry so that may do so with other people as well. Not everyone is a radio geek. So let’s stop these assumptions and be more specific. In sales and marketing of any product it is imperative to list features and benefits or your products will not sell. So what I detect is engineering snobbery that only angers end users and potential customers. Spoken by a successful sales and marketing person. People who assume are making “what” out of themselves?

[@GadgetTalk4U]

The manuals are notoriously limited. I feel your pain. Since many of these radios are also used for other license classes and in other countries, some of the items in the menus are not applicable to a casual user. If basic reviewers haven't mentioned a menu item, its likely not important. DTMF and call codes are advanced features most of us don't need or want.

[@barryinn1778]

Wow, you were putting me asleep. You need to change your method.

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Sorry, I just can't be all things to all people. Bring on the dancing bears! Merry Christmas.

[@trava4156]

This needs graphics my guy. Your talking gibberish

[@GadgetTalk4U]

Sorry you found this video frustrating. As with all presentations, one has to make a decision about the level of understanding much of your audience will have. Some won't understand and others will be bored. Thanks for commenting. I'll be sure to keep audience understanding in mind when planning a video.

[@terrarecon]

@@GadgetTalk4U thank you for making this video. It's not gibberish for everyone. I appreciate the time and effort you took on your own time to put this together to make more sense to people. The message you were trying to convey about GMRS repeaters came in loud and clear for me. Thanks again!

[@reddon1969]

I understood fine, it may just be you!