GMRS radio #2, starting out

So you bought some equipment and you're ready to hit the PTT button? good! here are a few basics to help you get started:
A) GET THE MOST from your handheld.
- That's easy IF you KEEP IT WITH YOU, and if you go out of your way to USE IT.
- FIND FRIENDS who will pursue the interest with you. its easy to lose interest if there's no one to talk to, so find people. scan the channels, or talk to amateur radio friends, encourage radio communication.
- make use of local GMRS repeaters. Join their "nets", talk to other operators.
- start an EAV chapter!
www.EAVolunteers.org
B) learn the LIMITS of your handheld.
- line of sight communication is the best you can hope for.
- create line of sight by elevating yourself, on a hill, an upper story of home of building.
- avoid valleys, keep obstructions out of your path, buildings, trees, hills, etc.
- STAY WITHIN YOUR LICENCED band. the GMRS band is separated from ham, military, and aviation frequencies for a reason. Yes, you can use other bands for "emergencies", but an emergency in your area is no excuse to interrupt communication on ham bands! a REAL emergency is "needing" medical, fire, or police, if you can't reach them, THEN maybe ask the Amateur Radio group for help. You can ALWAYS LISTEN to ham radio during emergencies and relay info back to friends on GMRS.
C) PUSH THE LIMITS of your handheld.
- install improved antennas. maybe even put an antenna on a mast or tower to get better elevation (line of sight!), and connect it to your HT via "quality" coax (LMR400 minimum).
D) PUSH THE LIMITS of your mobile/base.
- the greater power of a mobile unit will already improve your range. add to that the fact it is likely already attached to a higher antenna and you've pushed that limit a good bit!
E) make use of REPEATERS.
- a repeater does what it says. If you transmit to a repeater it instantly re-transmits that message from its location. Typically repeaters are located in places where their range is an improvement over what others can expect when working "simplex" (radio to radio directly).
- not all radios are "repeater capable", they must automatically transmit on a different frequency than they receive on. example, to use our channel 22 GMRS repeater i must transmit on 467.725, even though the repeater transmits on 462.725. My cheap Baofeng does that automatically for me when i hit the PTT button, assuming i programmed it correctly.
add your questions and comments below!
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[@mikeservillo3327]

I truly appreciate that you're keeping your segments to 15 minutes or less. This is perfect for me as I am a very busy old guy. I often work on many different projects in one day, and I have time to listen to your short, straightforward segments. Thank you very much.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Thanks for that feedback Mike! That is ny goal, to just spread simple info in short segments. I'll leave the drawn-out explantions to the experts. 🤠

[@ranjanbonin7558]

I have an amateur license, a GMRS license, and a Restricted Radio Telephone license (for aviation). Many years ago, I was a Ground Radio Communications Equipment Repairman in the U.S. Air Force. I find that your videos are excellent. Basic and perfect for new radio enthusiasts. Good job sir. 👍🏻

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Thanks RanJan 🤠

[@reaper98765]

This guy makes it so easy to understand for us noobs

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Thanks Reaper!

[@747fa]

Sorry, but no he doesn't, ie; "So, you've just bought 2 new Baofeng "walkie talkies" and what are the steps to actually start USING the 2 new sets.....". Yes, the distances, antenna info, Ham radio, etc., are good info but how about HOW TO USE THEM (TALK TO EACH OTHER) STEPS 1 THROUGH 20?

[@theoriginaldashriprock]

Don't cheap out on radios either. Baofeng are okay, but they are low end, beginner radios. Currently Wouxon is the clear leader in gmrs handhelds. The Wouxon KG-935G and 916 are probably the absolute best gmrs handheld available.

[@cedaroakfarm8596]

Good general information series.

[@BakerBaker1-9]

Another good bit of info ... Thanks

[@davidhanson4204]

Thanks for the info

[@mjcaw5790]

you're awesome

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Haha, well thanks, that's a refreshing comment

[@ronammologist16]

Hi there! Just passed the HAM exam for Technician today so Im excited.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Way to go!! Enjoy!

[@ronammologist16]

@@kobblekraftka0kao29 Your part of my planning strategy!

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

@@ronammologist16 excellent! Shout if there's some way we can help. 🤠

[@1990westfalia]

You what would be a real good follow-up video, is to have a conversation on how to properly use the radio. What are the buttons for? What channels are most used. If I came to you with a Handheld in my hand, please show me how to use it. Skillet

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Excellent, thanks!!

[@C5RC]

very helpful sir thank you

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Thanks, I'm glad it helped 🤠

[@747fa]

​@kobblekraftka0kao29 Sorry, but, no you haven't. Example. A novice/newby/greenhorn buys 2 new Baofeng UV-5R MAX'S. Obviously and even with the "Operation Manual" the newby hasn't a clue, right, on how to start talking to his friend on the other one, right? So, given this obvious scenario, I'm confused as to why there is no progressive guide/steps (1-20?) offered by yourself and others starring with, "You switch it on here, then the next step is......" ???. Am I the only person watching your videos that requires a step by step guide to actually USING the "walkie talkies"?

[@brianbuchert1521]

Thanks for this info, I’m new to this and have just purchased a retcvis RB27 and am unsure what I need to do to to any channel if anything in order to talk to somebody els on a gmrs radio?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Sorry, but im not familiar withat model. Maybe someone who sees your comment can reply with an answer. Otherwise, keep youtubing it, i bet you find some answers.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

I should add, get on a gmrs channel and talk, ask for other users to respond if they hear you. Find out if there are local repeaters or radio clubs.

[@scottjackson5422]

I am new at this GMRS radio. Learning to hit reapter.

[@747fa]

​​@kobblekraftka0kao29 How can he "get on the other channel" when he's already mentioned he's not sure what to do?🤦‍♂. Again, I ask, please try and REALLY help novices with steps, ie; 1- 20 to using two way/walkie talkie/GMRS units, okay? ️

[@r.b.3457]

Does any of these repeaters for the GHRN have a network for talking nationwide or are they strictly local only?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Check out MyGMRS.com, they have a solid listing of repeaters. When tropospheric ducting is just right i hear folks from all aroundcthe great lakes area on a string of linked repeaters.

[@OnAirVoice]

Some of the repeaters here in S FL are linked to repeaters in other states one is linked to a repeater in Louisiana and I think another state.

[@ADONAIsays-so]

If you need to program a radio, does it require the use of a Windows based computer?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

You can program them using the keypad also, but its a bit tedious. If you only need a few frequencies programmed then no big deal, but if a bunch it's much easier by using a computer program called "chirp". Theres a blue tooth version on Amazon that lets you use a smart phone supposedly, i have not tested that.

[@moejr14]

This video help understand gmrs but I still don’t know how to use one. Their is so many buttons and I didn’t my know what’s what and where to start.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Very good point, I'll see if maybe soon i can create a basic videa for that. Thanks for the input!! 🤠

[@theoriginaldashriprock]

What radio do you have? Most gmrs specific radios are very simple. There are mini videos available for the different models of radios, so check them out on KZbin. That will help you walk through and learn your radio.

[@moejr14]

@@theoriginaldashriprock I have the baefong

[@theoriginaldashriprock]

@@moejr14 Which model? Baofeng makes quite a few different models.

[@moejr14]

@@theoriginaldashriprock uv5x

[@timjones3423]

Love the lessons but what’s the name of that hat?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

BC Hats, made in Australia. But its 20+ years old, quality might vary some today.

[@timjones3423]

@@kobblekraftka0kao29 thanks, I’m sure.

[@anthonymcreynolds7871]

Is the UV9G the only affordable HT that has an IP67 rating?

[@henrycruz45cal]

No

[@josemanuel2244]

What do you think about CB?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

I'm pro-CB. i think its a great band, especially in a strong solar cycle like present! I have a bit to say about it in my "to ham or not to ham" video, would love to hear your feedback. I hope to setup a quality CB station this summer btw.

[@usernamemykel]

Take your hat in for a way overdue oil change.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

🤣

[@tabortollefson]

Your EA volunteers link is misspelled.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Thanks Tabor!!

[@unk8371]

what HT is that?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

The one with the orange buttons is a GT5 Baofeng. U can find them cheap on ebay etc. I paid $30 when some friends went together on 10 units. Nice radio cuz its based on the UV-82, BUT... id recommend paying the extra $$ to get a UV-82 since the battery and antennas for the GT5 don't swap with the other Baofeng models. I modified mine to allow the fit, but its a pain and the 82 is a very hood HT (for anyone wondering, "HT" = Handy-Talkie, or Handheld-Tranceiver)

[@Thatsmisteroldguytou]

+1

[@skyriderfl2435]

Hello I live in SWFL. I live in an HOA. I just built my house. I have a tile roof. I am not allowed to put an antenna on my roof. Do you think I would do ok with one in the attic on a cookie sheet for a ground plane. I can't hit my local repeater here from home. I currently have a HT not a base station. I would get a base station if I thought it would work with a attic antenna? What are your thoughts.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Can you climb into the attic with your handheld and test? That would be a good place to start. I've not worked with tile roofing before, but ive heard folks with asphald shigles having some success in similar situations. How much added height does it gain you? I've alsi heard of people camouflaging antennas is typical stink pipes or alongside chimneys.

[@dennishenderson6988]

I say give it a try and see if you can hit the repeater. A tip to know is that there are typically hot spots with best receiver signal level (and presumably best signal to the repeater) over a 2 to 20 foot radius. You can find the hot spot with your HT in the attic where you hear the repeater the loudest…you can do this with your HT. Put your cookie sheet antenna in that hot spot.

[@anthonymcreynolds7871]

In one of their rare accidental stokes of usefulness, the FCC implemented a rule that specifically says that HOAs cannot ban antennae of any sort. "Under the OTARD rule, an owner or a tenant has the right to install an antenna on property that they own or over which they have exclusive use or control. This includes single family homes, condominiums, cooperatives, townhomes and manufactured homes."

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

@@anthonymcreynolds7871 has the HOA thing been finalized yet? If so I'd loveca link

[@donwatkins9769]

What HT is 8 watts? I want one.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Several of the Baofeng models are available in 8w, my fav is the UV82. Always check the specs to make sure they'll do the GMRS band (462-468 will do) or you may need to "cheat" the firmware.

[@TomRolfson]

There is one brand HYS that makes a 25W HT, however bear in mind the quality of your antenna and your elevation will make a much greater distance than the power in HTs. You CAN use one as a base in your house. A very small mobile unit built by AnyTone is 25W (12v - fits in the palm of your hand) and well-suited for home units, mobile or as I've seen several build 12v Marine Battery in a .50 Cal Ammo Can as a handheld emergency unit with an antenna on something as simple as a baking pan for a ground plane. Seeing as you wrote this 4months ago, what system did you find or decide to go with. *Some will say that the money spent for 3W more is better spent on an antenna as a 6dB gain will get you further with less power and that 3 Watt difference will just drain your battery faster. Hope this helps!

[@code3responsevideos872]

Not all baofangs can hit digital repeaters just fyi

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

True. Not all of them can hit analog repeaters either.

[@code3responsevideos872]

@@kobblekraftka0kao29 didn’t know that good to know. What’s a good portable that can hit both digital and analog repeaters?

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

@@code3responsevideos872 dunno that i could answer that, I've never bought any digital radios (well, i do have a G90 which is digital capable with the right equipment i think, but its not on my to do list)

[@berlinjackson1847]

I enjoy your videos. But because you are using a mirror the radio keyboard is reading backwards

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

I have more recently figured out how to fix that on newer videos. Thanks for watching.

[@TomRolfson]

Just discovered your channel and watched a couple videos (this and Version 1 of GMRS). First, kudos on doing some things VERY right! One of the most important that so many KZbinrs/vloggers starting-out don't realize- the importance of the duration of the video. That checkmark next to my name is not from having a massive # of followers for a channel but working with Google on developing KZbin Live. All the stats show 15-20 mins is the max duration of viewer attention span, yet too many exceed this and go an hour or more. Next your encouraging GMRS (WRVL515) to get into HAM (W4MMO), however realize that many people, particularly Preppers are simply not going to go there. As I work with a few prepper groups big and small, time and time again very serious preppers are focusing on so many aspects that only 5% will get a HAM license to reach more than GMRS will do, however with the proliferation of GMRS repeaters and particularly large stations with very high antennas and high powered radios reaching 45-50 mile radius for many GMRS is really good enough. There's one TINY suggestion that I'll make regarding the nomenclature. In the first video when referencing frequencies and having GMRS stay within those they're allowed. I'd try to digress and talk to them about channels as the vast majority of GMRS radios are going to come setup with channels and they're going to reference talking on Channel #___ and once they understand the concept of repeater channels that will keep things more simple. A suggestion for another video would be teaching how to program repeaters manually or with Chirp on Baofeng UV-9 (GMRS) series radios. And then next a video on mounting an antenna on your roof with a good emphasis on proper ground and lightning protection. I'm fortunate to live at a very high elevation with a great (HAAT) - Height Above Average Terrain - giving me tremendous reach, but also requiring more lightning protection. I hope this helps, wishing you the best of luck on adding subscribers. And know that I'll send many new GMRS people here from prepping groups.

[@theroguetomato5362]

Baofeng is actually pronounced bow (as in "take a bow") fuhng. Yeah, weird, but that's how it's pronounced in China. Even "chen" is pronounced "chuhn". And "fang" in China is pronounced "fahng". Go figure. Don't change how you pronounce it, since that would probably confuse people. Just a trivia FYI.

[@kobblekraftka0kao29]

Hey thanks, thats good to know. I find some identical radios marketed under the nam Pofung, similar pronunciation? I spent more than a decade of mybengineering career going back and forth to China, i made a lot of friends there.