October 2018 Channel Update (APRS, Baofengs, and Buying Used) - Ham Radio Q&A

[@jamesedwards1588]

If the government stops recording all my phone calls and internet use/traffic, I'll stop using my Baofeng.

[@KNIGHTJUMPS]

Sir that is a bad attitude.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@childfree83]

I will stop using mine the day people stop using linears on11 meters haha

[@childfree83]

Those guys are all over the band man

[@henryjon45able]

Come on folks we have to ban these fully semi-automatic assault handhelds, they are just hurting too many people

[@steveinkentucky]

That's good... :)

[@TimMayville]

😂🤣👍 I've stayed in the dark because of the Government approach I've been able to see in history... head scratcher ...lol

[@1L6E6VHF]

Don't ban the handhelds, just ban the high capacity (>600mAh) clips ☺

[@user-wk5vh2wc1r]

Do it for the children,

[@Son_Of_Q]

Yaaaa great idea.... it sure worked for Germany.... they should ban thinking like this, that’s what’s scary

[@johnkeeler6235]

Michael I am a newly licensed Ham and just can't afford the higher end gear. I already get the stink eye from older Hams regarding Chinese radios I don't need my government backing up this point of view. FCC back off and let me be an adult. I can avoid the bands that are illegal and still use the allowed frequencies that I have a license. If we want the hobby to grow the FCC and older snobby Hams need to back off and stop demonizing people who uses their equipment within legal means.

[@johnkeeler6235]

One last comment when I go to a Hamfest or convention I already feel like an outsider I don't need people to look at the Baofeng hanging off my belt to further make me feel even more self-conscious and anxious.

[@RobPainless]

Ignore the stink-eye. There's snobs in every hobby. Just smile at them and look for the guys who enjoy helping folks have fun with what they're doing.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yeah, you are going to find a certain level of snobbishness- people using radios as status objects. I know from experience that those hams most likely have no idea how to operate their radio. I'd ignore them and go forward with confidence.

[@longrider42]

I am also a licensed ham and I started the hobby with a Baofeng radio, because I could not afford any thing "better" the radio works fine for what I need. And even though it can function on frequencies I wont do that. As for getting the stink eye. Yep been there done that, but in the club I belong too I've been helping the new members get Baofeng's set up. So there you go.

[@philip8753]

john i hear u brother i 100 percent agree i am in the same boat i am going for my tech soon

[@lycosa2000]

Thank you for this series! I'm a few videos in at this point and you are providing the only series I've seen so far that really explains what APRS is and what it does. The last video on APRS paths was especially helpful and really filled in some gaps that I hoping to figure out. Keep up the great work!

[@HardcoreFourSix]

The GOV should NOT be trying to control what someone might do with a piece of equipment. They should only get involved (maybe) when someone uses that piece of gear to harm another person or infringe on their rights

[@JosephHHHo]

Should the government standardize what side of the road everyone will drive on?

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I agree completely..

[@RobPainless]

Yes, Joseph, that would be an ok thing for them to do. There does need to be some regulation for safety. However, what they 'shouldn't' do is tell me I can't own a vehicle that is capable of driving on the wrong side of the road. Also, it is prudent for them to set reasonable speed limits in certain places. But again, it would be wrong for them to ban any of my vehicles which are able to accelerate beyond the posted speed limit. Ultimately, you can't stop wrong-doers from doing wrong by trying to ban all things with which wrong can be done. It is the responsibility of the users of anything to use their things correctly and within the law.

[@aaronm9478]

People who like firearms liberty have been saying this for nearly a century.

[@syntaxerrorsix3137]

The whole point is to ensure everyone has the liberty to use the bands without interfering with each other. Like you stated, we don't want people interfering with aircraft bands or public safety. That's quite literally the entire point of licensing.

[@MrFittyTucker]

Here's the bottom line, it's all about the GREEN! Pressure was put on the FCC by the big three Icom, Kenwood and Yaesu to take a stance on this issue because of the money they are losing to the sales of these Chicom radios! It doesn't have a damn thing to do with their being able to be used out of the Amateur bands. Radios have been able to be used across the commercial, public service and amateur bands for decades without the need for modification starting way back when Icom started selling the IC-U16, IC-V16, IC-U400 and IC-V100 radios! This was over 30 years ago and now it is an issue!?! Yaesu followed suite with it's Vertex line of radios. These radios were marketed to the commercial market and while easily programmed to be used on Amateur bands and/or any public service frequencies no one had a concern about their usage because the big 3 were still making their money from the sales of this equipment! While these radios weren't cheap they were still cheaper than the Motorola, RCA and Kenwood commercial equipment sold back in the day! So even then if someone with wrongful and/or criminal intent wanted to they could have easily picked up some Icom radios and used them for whatever purpose they wanted them for! As sales grew for the cheaper equipment more and more of the commercial equipment started showing up at hamfests and the like where as it became a cheaper alternative to buying new ham rigs and were widely being used on the ham bands without anyone crying fowl. Amateur radio operators were trusted in their usage of this type of equipment and the fact that we were allowed to build and use our own gear this wasn't thought to be a problem by anyone! Lets look at this from one of the complaints stated from the use of these radios being interference with public service. In this day and age where as pretty much every public service agency in the country has already switched to trunking and/or digital formats they have never been more secure and less susceptible to interference and/or willful wrongful intent as they have in the past! Let me reiterate this has been going on for more than 30 years! What is the real reason this has now come to pass and Amateur Radio Operators are now considered untrustworthy with their usage of equipment that been widely available to them for decades! It's all about the GREEN! Icom, Kenwood and Yaesu are fed up with the competition by the sales of these Chicom radios and because money talks the FCC is listening but not to the people they should be! They are selling out to the big 3 and we are being blamed for the changes because we as Hams are no longer trustworthy and our rights are for sale to the highest bidder! This is just another example of the Greed and Political BS that encompasses of government today! Not to get off topic but this is the same exact thing that is going on with the FAA now over the RC model aircraft (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) hobby where as the rights of the people flying legally at below 400 feet not to create problem for manned aircraft are being sold off to Amazon, Dominos, UPS and/or any other commercial market that willing to pay top dollar to punish the legal law abiding citizens that pay their taxes to the people that are constantly taking our rights away from us! Notice the acronym (F) in both of these situations as in Federal! When did the tax dollars that we pay not become enough for these agencies that are supposed to protect our rights as a people fall short to the point of this acceptable corruption by the masses that we don't stand up for ourselves anymore!?! The fact is that the government is no longer for the people that appointed them, they have in fact become a business themselves and our rights are for sale to the highest bidder! This in itself is a criminal act and the highest form of corruption and as morality continues to be lost this is considered acceptable and will never change until the people are fed up enough to overthrow the government that sold them out! Think about my words long and hard then decide if you feel you are being represented as you should be and your rights are being protected!

[@damonschaefer1773]

You win!!! As I stated before: "An attorney (also known as a lobbyist here in DC) filed a complaint on behalf of JVC-Kenwood corporation against Baofeng resellers. They cited KZbin videos of people complaining about RF interference and stating that "it must be from somebody using a Baofeng." Which by the way, is usually a false excuse anyway. So yeah, the guy who said the other radio corporations sabotaged Baofeng... he wins the prize."

[@TrailBlazer5280]

Thanks for the great and detailed info. Thinking about buying one of these mostly to listen, but possibly to transmit one day. The attraction (like you mention) is the diverse capability of these radios and I hope that can be preserved.

[@extra330sc]

Michael, thanks for taking time to update us. The fact that ARRL is now talking to the FCC on behalf of the amateur community is a good start. Hopefully they will get the FCC to come around on this. Yes, a huge amount of equipment falls into this category, not just the Baofeng brand, which apparently go the whole things started, albeit years ago. This is how slowly the FCC moves. Thanks.

[@rkt88edmo32]

When baofengs are outlawed, only outlaws will have baofengs! lol. Love the discussion, great vlog!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Good stuff, I like this video series. Keep it up!

[@edwardcaron5315]

The Baofeng radios make a great radio for disaster operations with the capabilities of operating on multiple bands, I am a licensed ham and licensed GMRS operator and I also used it for our local Emergency Management Agency. Too bad Baofeng is a good little radio for the price, maybe that was the problem all along and some company put in a complaint to the FCC.

[@pupdaddymail]

It wasn't a company, it was an association of emergency communications services, essentially from fire and police departments making spurious claims that rogue operators were out there intentionally interfering with emergency services. While that does happen it typically isn't done with a 5 watt HT. It took a few years for them to find a couple of kids that did that to a "volunteer ambulance company" with a Baofeng. So then they had their example to parade before the FCC.

[@edwardcaron5315]

Thank you for that, always someone to spoil a good thing.

[@khadijagwen]

I bought my cheap Baofeng radio well in advance of the class so I could learn all the jargon, and right now it feels hopeless. I was well into Ham Radio back in the 70s and now I feel ancient. Guess I need to get to work.

[@W4TRI]

If the FCC wants to provide me a code or key sequence to lock my radio to the Amateur bands I'll put it in to all 3. Until then I'll continue to do the right thing and NOT transmit on frequencies I'm not licensed to use. I answer this problem the same way I do a hater of No Code licencees. "I did not create this situation I am simply following the rules and regs that were set out. If you feel so strongly about it why did you not fight against them before?"

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I think that's reasonable and your thoughts are on the same side as the ARRL.

[@UpnorthHere]

I think part of the problem is that some of the certifications were falsified, the FCC accepted them anyway, someone will be going to federal prison, and the importers will be bankrupt from legal fees and restitution to millions of radio owners.

[@graywoulf]

Thank you for your support and continued source of information on the FCC/Baofeng issue. I have subscribed to keep up with the latest information on this subject. Signed: A Baofeng owner and future user.

[@TheOkie13]

you can still buy the baofeng uv-5r radios on Amazon

[@no_peace]

I just got one

[@tom-dr1ym]

just bought one

[@ntekniklaus3710]

i just got two of them

[@roboticunclephil]

Just bought a couple hundred to hand out to BLM protestors

[@moderateextremist7344]

Every radio i own is illegal, including my Icom that functions great on 11 meters lsb. I wonder if the FCC would like my expert ticket back with a funny wipe mark on it. They could consider it a QSL card from Uranus.

[@risingawareness13]

Gotta get some Baofengs; I love a good controversy, especially when it involves government overreach.

[@thefozzmancometh]

The analog clock on the wall in this video needs a new battery.

[@Mocha69A]

On the the other wall his time is from a baofeng radio

[@Fir3Chi3f]

I really appreciate you including all the links. Thanks for the video!

[@CAphotos]

COOL! You quoted my comment!

[@rod1cooper]

Hi Michael, thanks for another great video. Your type approval issue sounds a right mess with stable doors being locked well after the horse has bolted. It is slightly different here in the UK, although we do have a similar issue that the majority of people buying low cost radios either don't realise, or don't care, that licensing of them is required. Electrical equipment may be sold on the open market as long as it has a CE mark showing compliance testing has been undertaken against relevant standards; if the manufacturers have done this then Amazon etc. may legally sell Baofeng etc. to anyone. It is the buyers' responsibility to ensure the radio is licensed and suitably programmed for its legal operation, and this must be stated in the advert. We have a readily accessible licensing system through OFCOM, our regulatory body, for different types of "business" licences (although anyone can apply). £75 for a 5 year licence allows use on specific frequencies in various modes and maximum power levels. Ideal for these handhelds. No problem. Again, no problem with use on amateur bands. Amateurs are trusted to program, adjust or modify units to operate within the terms of their amateur licence. We also have a licence exempt PMR band of 446 - 446.2 MHz. Equipment needs to be type approved, 0.5W with a fixed antenna, no repeaters, no basestations. I estimate there is very little compliant equipment being used on this band. People tend to buy a Baofeng, program and use it on PMR either because they think it is legal to do so, or they recognise (correctly) that it is incredibly unlikely that they will be caught using the kit. I imagine that the situation will be the same with you. Our regulatory body has very limited resources and will only investigate if there is a complaint. They also state that the band should be self regulating in as far as if there is interference being caused then you should move to a different channel. Either way, they fully accept that the genie is out of the bottle and it's down to the users to sort themselves out. Rod G4TEW

[@RonKris]

So if I'm understanding this correctly, you can have two or more radios that do different things, but you are not allowed to have only one radio to do it all..?

[@davidschreier496]

If you took the concept re baofengs and ability to broadcast on freqs not part of the ARS, would that mean that anytime the FCC reduced the amateur spectrum that all radios that could broadcast on the now prohibited portion would become illegal? Also, take the concept and apply it to other areas; so, for example, if you had a car that could exceed the legal speed limit would it have to be "governed" to eliminate that possible violation?

[@UpnorthHere]

I certainly wouldn't have a problem with safety regulations that restrict the ability of some cars or drivers to exceed the maximum speed limit. In Italy, for instance, some cars are restricted to 60 kph and required to have a big sticker saying so. If you see one putting along at 100, you're advised to stay away from them and contact the police. Some commercial or rental truck companies install a speed governor to make sure their drivers aren't tempted to speed.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Oof, I agree on that used market question. Come to a ham swap and see some wild prices on some really old equipment. As a general opened ended question, why would I want to proverbially shoot myself in the foot by limiting my radio? I am a licensed ham that studied and tested to prove my ability to know now to transmit on bands I don't belong. However, in an emergency, isn't this why we have radio? Isn't a neutered radio not as effective in this area?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You bring up some great points here. First with the used equipment: some sellers are really proud of their gear and it often seems they want to show it off at a hamfest than to actually sell it. I've been to many sales where the gear is hauled out and displayed on table, only to be packed back into the tubs at the end of the day for the next show. Goodness, if you want to sell, put a reasonable price on your stuff and be ready to take a reasonable offer. To your second point: My feeling is that the reason we study and take the exam is so we know and understand the rules and regulations of the amateur radio service. As hams, we need the ability to use a wide array of equipment AND have the discipline to use it properly within our frequency allocations. Am I going to use a Baofeng radio out of band? Most likely not.

[@MarcPipistrello]

I also saw your video on this topic @hoshnasi. It's the first I've heard of this problem. Last time I purchased one of these was over a year ago. Back them, Baofeng and Wouxun dual band radios were priced $35 - $50. Not so much now.

[@pupdaddymail]

Yes, but in an emergency you can use any radio that you have to use, even one that you have no license for if no otherwise legal method is available. with current regs you can use the Baofengs in an emergency.

[@brucecamparmament3728]

So what we need is someone to make FCC Labels, that we can add to the Baofeng's and viola, GTG.

[@fly-high-me]

My UV-5R have FCC label on it, i don't know exactly is it correct or not but anyway. I'm from Russia and doesn't know about the details. R6FDY

[@gamersunite7968]

So now in 2020 and all this unrest, I was looking for a radio. I bought a Baofeng UV-5R Pro on amazon on Monday in case I needed to listen for police updates in my area. It's in the range of 65-108MHz (FM receive only), 136-174MHz and 400-520MHz (TX/RX). Is this still a legal radio? I plan on getting a HAM license but only listen for now and research purposes. Am I in danger of getting in trouble?

[@bardstables8909]

I just purchased a pair of the UV-5R radios from Amazon. I can't believe they'd be allowed to sell something that's illegal to use. Now I'm concerned to use them. Am I justified in the feeling? Or am I thinking this is a bigger issue than it really is?

[@roberpic]

FCC gonna reimburse me for my Baofengs? I didn't think so. Use the radio within the bands your allowed by the license you hold and don't cause any trouble or bleed through or any other kind of interference then there so be no reason for the FCC to care what kind of radio I'm using wether it's Chinese or made from a tuna can.

[@UpnorthHere]

True, for ham bands and Part 90 bands. Cannot legally transmit with UV-5R in any Part 95 bands. The problem is that these are mass-marketed to people who have no concept of licenses. It's like selling fast motorcycles to 10-year-olds without mentioning that it can only be used in your own back yard.

[@bluesmattersband1160]

New here. Looking for advice. What do you think of the BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio? Is it better than the Baofeng UV-5R model?

[@johnnyc1227]

The term "there aut'a be a law" shouldn't be an excepted term. The gov has incrementally reduced our freedoms to about 10% of what we used to have with "good intentions" which the road to a police state is paved.

[@DollySvengali]

There is nothing in Part 97 that states that any transmitter used otherwise lawfully on an amateur band requires any sort of certification. This advisory is poorly worded and over-reaching. But so far there is no issued clarification, and the ARRL is mum on comment when I email them about the issue. Personally as an amateur operator, I would disregard the advisory and adhere to Part 97 rules instead. The rules do not dictate what you gear may operate on amateur bands. This advisory contradicts that and will hopefully be retracted very soon of the ARRL does what it is supposed to do.

[@pupdaddymail]

Actually, in the US the FCC can and does dictate what equipment you are allowed to use, and if you refuse to follow their rules while transmitting they do have the legal authority to issue pretty stiff fines. That authority comes directly from Congress, and is not disputed. You do not need part 97 certification as long as the radio in question cannot operate outside part 97 freq allotments. That technically makes all the Baofengs, TYT, Radiooddity, Motorolas, etc. illegal to use in Ham radio. A ridiculous position that could never be enforced, but that is what it currently says.

[@deaustin4018]

25 or so years ago I bought an ADI AT 600, a radio shack HT. With the secret code (freely available anywhere on the internet) you could open up both the transmit and receive from 108 all the way to 700 or so, including AM. At 13.8 volts it would do 7 or 8 watts. So I suppose I would do 5 to 10 in ADX Florence if I still had that radio today.

[@UnderTheBigOak]

Talking 1000 miles on CB is supposed to be illegal too but the freebands are filled with DX talkers. Baofengs are amazing and durable and cheap, they won't be going away for sure.

[@johnnycanosoda]

You provide a great service sir, please keep it up. thank you

[@tada8636]

You’ll have to forgive me because I don’t quite understand about the rule on your last subject. I don’t have a HAM license, but I do hold a GMRS license and own two BaoFeng UV5R radios. However, I only listen and do not transmit with it. On the back of my radios, when I remove the battery, there is a sticker that says “This device complies with part 90 of the FCC rules.” Does this no longer apply or am I understanding that even though it states this, it no longer meets. I’m just trying to understand. Please teach me. Thank you in advance.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Here's the deal: The amateur radio is regulated via Part 97 of the rules. Since the amateur radio service is an experimental radio service and amateurs can build and modify their own equipment, there is no requirement in part 97 to use type accepted or compliant radios. GMRS is a licensed personal radio service and is regulated by Part 95 of the rules. Part 95 does require that radio equipment used on the GMRS frequencies be type accepted for that service. Part 90 is the land mobile radio service, also licensed. According to the rules, Part 90 accepted radios can't be used on Part 95 radio services unless they have also been type accepted on Part 95. So according to the FCC a radio that bears the Part 90 designation can't be used on GMRS. It needs to jump through that extra hoop. But since you are listening only and not transmitting, does this matter to you? Probably not. There is no prohibition to using the radio as just a receiver.

[@MarkyShaw]

So that means I won't be able to use the UV-5R for MURS which is Part 95?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

On a legal standpoint, you are correct. The radio needs to be Part 95J certified to be used on the Multi Use Radio Service. One such radio would be the Btech MURS-V1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJK7qJ2ZZb2qo8U

[@UpnorthHere]

True. You can use it for MURS or FRS, but (legally) only to listen, not to transmit.

[@Bob-be2pj]

What if I live north of Line A so I'm excluded from operating between 420 to 430 MHz. Should I only be allowed to buy radios that aren't capable of that range?

[@hstrinzel]

Am I correct in assuming that the UV-5R can NOT use Digipeaters at all, right?

[@andreasgauckler3152]

Reading through the FCC advisory, it would basically apply to any radio, cheap or expensive. I guess that any of the big brand names can also operate outside the amateur band.

[@irishbastard2815]

Here is my 2 cents and if you have 73 cents more you can buy a can of coke so it does not mean much i have a GRMS license and my ham license what i think should be done is change the laws on GMRS and FRS to allow the use of radios like baofeng i like the idea of one raido i can carry that covers it all i am not always where i can reach a ham but can get someone on gmrs or not somewhere i cant get someone on gmrs but can on ham living in a isolated area in a emergency cell phones are not always a viable option and having one radio to cover all is better then having to carry 2 3 different radios

[@pressreset]

Agreed. I'm a young guy, but I went ham at age 11 because of my father. These days though, I use MURS a lot for work stuff. It has always felt to me like they are protecting the interests of Mot/Yaesu/Icom/Cobra/Midland lobby within the FRS/GMRS. It feels like it's there to push the purchase of new equipment. Where everyone had radio years ago, corp customers and small business alike have switched to cell and lots of business are now on the Network Radio bandwagon as it allows even people with phones to communicate to the radio pool. Profits are down in the radio sector, and it's met a heavy hand from BF radios. The last revamp to part95 was ridiculous. IMHO, they already have all those users with BF radios out there /w most on average that can't exceed 4w, let alone 2w plus all the old mid 90's UHF second hand. Why not just dump them all onto the largely dead spectrum of FRS/GMRS combined? Call it 4w max and be done with it? They won't because it drives new consumer bubble pack radio sales. When they upped the limit to 2w and kept the same antenna restriction, I was like yep... yep... all that did was make it easier to walk on GMRS, but they don't actually care about GMRS. It's not even available for business use, and companies have on purpose kept from releasing MURS radios just so they can limit that end of the market. They just keep that there to pretend they are doing something. Those things said, dunno where you are getting cans of Coke for $0.75. I can't remember when it's ever been less than $1.

[@jroysdon]

Yup. When we go camping or backpacking, every in the family has their ham ticket and carry ham radios. All the friends or extended family are given loaner FRS bubblepack radios (or at least one "leader" of each group/car). The ham radios are programmed to be able to talk to the FRS radios on the lowest power, and have all the local repeaters. 90% of the time we are where there is no cell phone coverage. We're not going to carry two radios on all the hams. We have a local homeless camp of 400+ who asked for radios to help coordination (when there is food, clothing or other donations or services being offered at one end of the camp, or someone is looking for another person, etc.) - a number of volunteers picked up a bunch of those $11 Arcshell AR-5 things (junk construction, but good throw-aways), which I program and lock to FRS and low-power (otherwise they'd be using the defaults and transmitting all over the place, including on top of local public safety frequencies), and a half-dozen of the homeless leads and a dozen volunteers use these radios to communicate every day, and the handful of us with ham tickets just use our ham radios.

[@RobPainless]

Thanks, Michael!

[@TimFinnemore]

I believe that you can restrict the frequency range via software. If you restrict your radio to ONLY the HAM bands, then you can NOT program outside the bands from the keypad. While it can be changed back, it can not be done "in the field" or on the radio without external equipment. I would hope the FCC would allow the use on the bands, perhaps with the condition that you have restricted the range. This is certainly just my opinion, but it would certainly make logical sense. Perhaps there has already been a ruling that I am not aware of.

[@charliehill4592]

I’m brand new into ham. Me and a few buddies all have these radios. We wanted to use them for hunting. My question is, are you able to use them as basic “walkie-talkies” without any licensing? Could you do multiple radios at once to signify like a group of us that want to stay in touch. And If so, how do you program this in the radio?

[@USAFJUNKIE]

No, that is not allowed. That's the entire point of this new notice; using them on FRS or GMRS (aka walkie talkie) frequencies is illegal. Hope that helps clarify things for you!😊 (Get a decent set of GMRS radios from Cobra and pay for a GMRS license (no test, just a licencing fee)...I have some that are really nice and waterproof!! Perfect for hunting.)

[@jakewastaken]

Charlie Hill just to be clear, that’s illegal to do, but you can absolutely do it with these radios, lol. That’s the whole kerfuffle.

[@ChrisParrishOutdoors]

November 1 2019, and they are still for sale on Baofeng's Amazon store.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Despite what you may have heard on other youtube channels‚ those Baofeng handheld radios were never banned and will continue to be sold.

[@BryanTorok]

Regarding used equipment prices: I think many people tend to over-value their equipment based on what they paid and not what the current market value is. I first observed this back during the CB radio craze. A person would say, "I bought this radio 6 months ago for $120, so I want $100 for it now." I would point out that the same or similar radios, sometimes with more features, were selling for $60 new. As time progresses, the price for most electronics comes down and/or the features increase or improve. There are so many great new HF radios for under $1,000, some down in the $600 range, that unless a used radio is less than 5 years old and less than 50% of new it hardly makes sense to buy used. Keep in mind, the new radio comes with a warranty and customer/tech support. One does not get that with a used radio. Lastly, consider the specs on a SDR radio. A bottom end SDR receiver will far outdo a $3,500 analog radio of 5 or 10 years ago.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You are correct. I've been doing a bit of price research and gear made within the last 15 years has tended to hold its value pretty well. I think a couple of the contributing factors are the relatively low inflation rate of our economy and the flattening of the technology curve. The biggest price differential between new/used pricing is between DSP and non DSP equipped transceivers. But with the better SDR transceivers hitting the market, I believe we are on the cusp of seeing the price of used prior generation of DSP radios fall fast.

[@rodrickdubose659]

Harley davidson did same to Honda Suzuki and Yamaha on the 70s, made tariffs high and had them cut power.

[@Tanglangfa]

I am very new to HAM. If Baofengs are illegal for now, can you recommend a good, low cost alternative? Even the cheapest Yaesus seem to be 5x the price of Baofeng (on Amazon anyway). Or at least what is the best lowest cost alternative?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Amazon is not necessarily the best price source if you are searching for amateur radio gear from the major manufacturers (Kenwood, Icom, Yaesu). It appears that Gigaparts.com has the Yaesu FT-4XR for $99.95 with free shipping. Or you can get a FT70-DR for $159 with built in Yaesu Fusion digital. These are bulletproof radios that will give you years of use. While they are a bit more expensive than a comparable Baofeng, you often get what you pay for, and I think they are a good investment.

[@bulldogbrower6732]

Don't believe the hype, buy the Baofeng Uv5R, it's a great radio, with millions sold. $ 19.00- 25.00 on Amazon. If this ever got to the courts the FCC would look like shit. All of the major brands, Kenwood, Yeasu, Icom all transmit out of band, what about them.

[@jeremiahjohnson9908]

Out of curiosity...what happens if there is a national emergency/catastrophe and 1 million baofeng radios start transmitting on emergency channels at power levels they aren't supposed to have?

[@SamSalhi]

73s Thank you so much for this KI7YHV

[@BradSnyder1]

Great video as always Michael! 73

[@erfelgamazig]

I need an amateur radio for dummies. Do you have a beginner's channel?

[@betsysingh-anand3228]

I see it as unenforceable. How could they possibly enforce this? The FCC can't tell what hardware you are using. They can only know if you are transmitting out of your class limitations. The frequency is the same RF signal regardless of the hardware, right?

[@АлексейЛесуков-ч3ь]

What about the new Baofeng UV-5R that have the FCC approved sticker on the back of the radio?

[@steveinkentucky]

I just saw a BF-F8HP (3rd gen.) by Baofeng Tech. I thought I would share some information. It lists the company's address as Arlington, SD. Baofeng Tech has the following on their website: " Versatile Radio for Amateur USE The BF-F8HP is legal for use on amateur frequencies. The BF-F8HP is able to Transmit on Narrowband (12.5kHz) and Wideband (25kHz)" . The FCC seems to disagree with them! What I specifically noticed that the radio has an FCC certification sticker. However, when checked on the FCC website, it is Part 15 compliant. I found nothing in regard to Part 90. The announcement voice was in English. I know prior models were Chinese and you had to change it. Many hams have asked the question if you alter the radio to only operate on ham bands, would it then be considered legal by the FCC? It isn't in the class of my Yaesus or Kenwood, but it is a cute little radio, that offers a lot of bang for the (inexpensive) buck. At least it meets emission standards. As far as narrowing the transmit ranges post production, what are your thoughts?

[@UpnorthHere]

The FCC is saying (at the very least) that it is a violation of US law to import a transmitter that claims to be certified for one use when it is "capable" of use on another band. They even go so far as to claim it is illegal to operate such a radio in the USA, even for hams. Given the requirements of Part 97 on hams for being responsible for their own transmissions, it seems unclear whether the existing "Chinese" radios will be deemed illegal for use, after having been illegally imported under falsified certifications. There could be a massive recall. There could be new versions of microcode to restrict unauthorized programming by users. There has only been one case of a UV-5R user being caught interfering on public safety channels, and it was clearly intentional. If the FCC were "serious" about this, they would have taken action to have inventories of the US sellers seized, for starters. It hasn't happened.

[@weijingburr2392]

OOOOOhhhhh I like that map you got there.

[@SteveWrightNZ]

What people ignore about digipeaters is, more than 3-4 people using it and the channel collapses due to congestion. The FCC has a problem with any person being able to buy a $37 transceiver and wreck havoc with it - and I agree with them.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You are correct, the goal should be to make it to an igate, so I recommend two hops for a home station and three for a mobile.

[@lifeisamatrix5960]

I've seen first hand criminals using self bought xts, xpr radios programmed for public safety by means from radio reference, or third party who read a unlocked unit radio in a body shop or auto shop and got the data that way. 37 dollars may be a slight factor but I've seen everything from high dollar to user mid range cost and low. It doesn't matter. In end those licensed or responsible won't break law but those who could care less of law or results of poor choice don't care what is legal or illegal. Same concept in firearms. I've found legal biding citizens following law while your criminal type could care less. It just makes it more fun for them. This will also boost the black market fun for them types to sell cheap stuff behind scenes. They'll be here regardless of law and until customs starts actually checking shipments for illegal items coming into north America over every x amount pallet looked at.

[@barrymayson2492]

What if they buy a $300 radio and wreck havoc with it, is that any better? It's the person not the radio you need to control.

[@SteveWrightNZ]

@@barrymayson2492 Its much more accessible when its a tenth of the cost..

[@barrymayson2492]

@@SteveWrightNZ that maybe but it's still the person not radio that is the problem or do you not think so? I have built many radios none are certified and could cause havoc any where but they don't why because they are used by a licensed person and in this day and age with internet access to almost limitless ideas almost anybody can have the knowledge to do so.

[@darrellbeard2799]

In response to the over priced used ham radios, I have to agree. I was looking for an IC-706, most of what I've found, they were asking more than the orignal new price. I gave up the search! IMO it's sad that most people feel that their used equipment is made of gold. But, what's even worse is that many people will pay those prices. As long as people are willing to pay these kind of prices, most sellers are going to over price. Again, IMO, james Reid said it all in his comment. I could'nt agree more. It's all about the money.

[@hipal2271]

My first radio after I got my Tech was a Baofeng GT3WP. According to this new release from the FCC, can I still operate this radio if I do so within the amateur bands at legal power limits? If not how would the FCC know it is a Baofeng radio I am operating and they would only know if I am actually transmitting.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

If you follow the FCC's notice to the letter, they compel you to not transmit on the amateur bands with a radio capable of transmitting out of band. But you are correct, it is extremely hard for them to enforce this action, so compliance is entirely voluntary. That's one of the reasons why the ARRL is taking up this issue. So hopefully we'll see relief from this preposterous requirement.

[@einyv]

Because of watching you and @hoshnasi I got a baofeng uv-5r and a month later I have my Amateur Extra license. Granted in the future I want to upgrade my gear as I get into it but because of the low expense of my first radio I am licensed!

[@jeep146]

Congratulations, I did the same thing but held off buying better equipment. The baofeng which works, sounds bad when you transmit. I found a older ICOM handheld on ebay for $30. Difference between night and day for sound quality and range. Most hams think I am using a base station. Shop around but beware of some of the Chinese clones. I ordered a $200.00 radio and it died within 2 hours.

[@cmace7703]

Would a Yeasu mobile or handheld radio or even a Kenwood radio be part of this FCC advisory?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No, for two reasons. First Kenwood or Yaesu mobiles have an FCC ID and Part 15 certification and second, out of the box those radios can only transmit on the amateur radio bands.

[@Kreemerz]

I have 2 baofengs (2m/440 and 2m/220) and both can only transmit on the ham bands. So they're not illegal.

[@dorothyvirts2553]

So do I got to have license to here on this

[@Jeff-xy7fv]

Baofeng radios are still being sold on eBay, even from American sellers.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

They are all over Amazon too. Since the importers are using Amazon Fulfillment, would that make Amazon complicit too?

[@UpnorthHere]

You can buy lots of stuff that is completely illegal to use in certain ways. I can buy copper pipes at the hardware store, but would need a license and permit to connect them to my home's water system.

[@kaylaandjimbryant8258]

It's illegal to sell a gun to a nutcase, but then take a look at the NRA: Schizo Central.

[@ytTaz480]

Kayla and Jim Bryant Pffft... Typical ignorant liberal. First, this about radios and FCC. Why do U need to bring guns into it? And just to clarify, the NRA does NOT sell guns. While I dont agree with everything the NRA does or says, their core principals are about firearm safety and gun rights. They are NOT schitzos. The stupidity and ignorance of your comment is only superceded by the fact that you brought it up in a conversation about ham radio. Put your pink pu$$y hat away. Hilllary lost. Get over it and learn to have a little class!

[@pupdaddymail]

They are being sold on Amazon.com too.

[@cppctek]

What’s the most powerful one on eBay or amazon under 60$ that has good clarity.

[@davidaix5771]

Nun

[@stephenwilliams5201]

My rigs. Have been ran through the chirp program. And the radio will deny access to out of band work. In example if I would try to dial in a out of band number. The radio denies the action. And another column has a real trick. In the duplexer column. Is several options. (None),(+), (-) (cross). Or( off) pick (off )on your special frequency. That you want to listen to. But can't transmit on . All you will here is beep. And no power is given to the xmiter. Why can't we have a code to lock this to be only opened by a elmer. ?

[@michaelborron1060]

I think it's up to any radio user to use their radio wisely and legally

[@jasonhowe1697]

I think the issue here is fair use vs something that was drafted over 100+ years ago which reads as part of patents laws rather than physical use of the actual service or services you are using.. and how do you class what is a programmable radio

[@UpnorthHere]

Yes, this has come up with people having smartphones in New York, where "police scanners" are illegal to possess. If you have an app, like Broadcastify, which can monitor police frequencies, does that make your smartphone a police scanner? Yes, it does. How do they know? When you're caught committing some other crime and they examine your phone.

[@jasonhowe1697]

Interesting I would think if you wanted to monitur the freqs the polive/ ambulance and fire uses you would typically need a radio receiver with the capacity to receive within the 850-950MHz As for montioring this ip based technology would have to supported with a radio connected to the web and sadly IN A TRUE EMERGENCY the cell sites typically go into meltdown.. Making monitoring what people listening too pointless because you don't have endless data to be using your phone a monitoring service.. looking at the likes of zello/skype/mirc/yahoo chat and so forth you need some version of a data service online making it pretty pointless The only scanners as far as I know that are illegal to own are the type used for speed traps And unless you have something that can receive into the sub 850-950 MHz arena the chances are bupkis that you'll be able to hear anything anyway because you have nothing within transceiver specification because unless you jump into commercial radio 90% what you can buy over the counter has an operational rangw of 1-50 MHz am and fm where supported and between 108-520 MHz fm on either vhf or uhf carrier wavw

[@UpnorthHere]

@@jasonhowe1697 If NY laws define "police scanner" as "able to receive police broadcasts", then there is a valid argument that your receiving an internet feed from someone else's radio that is actually tuned to the police would be "able to receive police broadcasts" and land you in the soup when you;re caught with one and not exempt. Some states exempt mobile possession of a police scanner if you have a ham license on you. Most don't regulate such possession at all, unless being used in a crime.

[@jasonhowe1697]

@@UpnorthHere here's the point i was getting at the radio's in question that can actually listen typically cost between $1,300-2,500 nothing within the 400-520 MHz spectrum will operate between 750-950MHz spectrum, the only radios that are typically motorola and tytera.. so you are talking a moot point anyway.. and i doubt it would legal for police to disregard federal statutes and use vhf 108-170MHz

[@1683clifton]

I bought one of these radios so I could get into ham. so now I can't use it at all? if I go to my first class with one will I get put in jail or something? is there a price comparable model that will get me through to getting at least general class?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No one is going to put you in jail. My opinion is that the FCC can't enforce their interpretation of the rules as there are too many radios on the market to make enforcement possible. If you use your radio responsibly within the amateur radio bands you will be fine.

[@BryanTorok]

There are legitimate concerns about the Baofeng radios, notably people buying them to use on services that they are not intended or type accepted for and problems with the spectral purity of the transmitters. However, the FCC should rethink their enforcement so as to not unfairly burden the Amateur Radio Service.

[@radioman6489]

What happens if somebody has elements 1,3,8,7, and 9 commercial radio licenses? Can they legally use a baofeng radio?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No, because the radio still may not be type-accepted for the appropriate radio services nor do those elements give you privileges to use it on the amateur radio bands.

[@radioman6489]

@@KB9VBRAntennas , I think Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu have something to do with it. They want $200-$400 for a handheld.

[@Dragon16815]

What about Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus? its legal? could you test it?

[@hillogical]

Doing 56 mph in a 55 mph zone is 100% illegal. I hope people griping about the UV5R never speed or break any other laws.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I drive the speed limit, how about you?

[@cmace7703]

Great video!

[@drpc35653]

So since this video uploaded any final word on this

[@AXIOS.By.Kennedy]

Looking for the same

[@wallyjackieturgeon3070]

Just wanted an inexpensive beginning to ham so I bought one, $29.95. Received it, manual doesn’t match radio, old manual newer radio, down arrow doesn’t work, was going to return it, CS said keep it we will send another radio. 5 days later got new radio, waiting for battery to charge. We will see..

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Those inexpensive Chinese radios can be a crapshoot. Quality control is all over the place. I hope your replacement works well for you.

[@chuckfinley3152]

“Yall got any of dem chinese radios?” Black market radios everywhere ha ha

[@vinnyb113]

What are some reliable trustworthy websites to buy ham radios and equipment any thoughts

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That's a great question. I've bought and sold on ebay and had decent luck, but with that platform you do seem to take a chance with every transaction. I've had a good experience on Facebook Marketplace. I think any sales channel where you can positively verify the identity of the buyer or seller is a good one.

[@skeets6060]

So the one I bought in Canada is an outlaw radio?

[@sasycacace]

This is a big topic. I just bought a Radioddity x Baofeng RD-5R DMR Ham Amateur Two Way Radio that is not arrived yet, and I am asking if I can use it or not....could you please give me your opinion?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

From a legal standpoint, this enforcement advisory states how the FCC will interpret their rules. The ARRL thinks differently and is challenging that interpretation. Personally, I side with the League on this one and unless I see actual enforcement on this issue, I will continue to use radios, like the RD-5R, on the amateur radio frequencies for which I am licensed to use.

[@sasycacace]

thanks a lot

[@nabob14]

Can someone explain to me why this such a big deal? Why do I need a license to operate UHF radio in the USA and other places, but if I go to Australia or New Zealand etc,( that's all they use for "CB" communication is UHF) and they dont require a license?

[@1L6E6VHF]

You can legally buy and use a handheld UHF handheld transceiver in the USA. They're called Family Radio Service (FRS) radios. They will usually outperform a 5 watt CB walkie-talkie (because it is difficult to radiate an 11m wave from a 1m rod and having no ground).

[@aperson1181]

what is the latest development about Baofeng?

[@gfl1957]

The FCC advisory says nothing about Baofeng. It states "any radio" that can transmit 136-174 and or 400-480. The FACT is nearly all Chinese radios, and most YAESU KENWOOD and ICOM radios will transmit on these same frequencies. Handheld, mobile and base radios. So they are ALL illegal under the advisory. I own Baofeng, Stryker, Icom, and Yaesu radios that according to the FCC are now all illegal.

[@Bob-be2pj]

The FCC advisory is silly for many reasons. 1. There are millions of these radios in daily use. The toothpaste is out of the tube. 2. Custom built equipment is popular and can transmit outside of the ham bands 3. Some expensive commercial equipment can also transmit outside the ham bands with little or no modification 4. It is legal for a ham to transmit outside the ham bands in case of emergency. In fact there are cases where someone was rescued by doing this. 5. Does the FCC want to do away with the MARS program?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You bring up some really valid points. The FCC's enforcement advisory is contradictory to how the amateur radio service has functioned for 100 years. Just one minor clarification, though. The MARS program is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense so the FCC can't control who can modify radios for MARS operation.

[@johnonken2]

How about FT8Call and JS8Call as a topic, is it for all Hams? Explain!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Great suggestion. I'll add it to the list.

[@DumbledoreMcCracken]

From the Notice: "Moreover, with only very limited exceptions, after being authorized, the devices may not be modified." *What does that mean???*

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Once a device is authorized by the FCC, the manufacturer may not make design changes that affect the material operation of the radio.

[@DumbledoreMcCracken]

@@KB9VBRAntennas including software/firmware modifications? Including those that change the waveform generation and/or signal processing? Including operating channels within the Part's legal frequency bounds? It would seem any changes made would be material if worth doing; otherwise, they wouldn't be made.

[@johnstephenson165]

UV5Rs are still for sale with 90 cert

[@kg5fac846]

I contacted the company where I bought my Baofeng radios and theirs are FCC compliant. They even sent me the FCC ID numbers. So, the statement of "all Baofeng radios are illegal", is just not true. www.baofengtech.com

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Some but not all Baofeng type radios have an FCC ID. If the radio carries an FCC ID, then it can be reasonably assumed that you can legally use the device on the amateur radio bands.

[@kevinj8258]

Lots of comments. Yes this is an older but good video. But no comment about frequency accuracy and splash outside the FM band the radio is set to transmit on? At every big ham radio event you can get your radio tested. The test claims that many btech radios will not comply. You should mention that in a following third video. Regardless outstanding videos !! N1KTJ.

[@aperson1181]

Baofeng UV-5RTP vs BaoFeng UV-5R MK4 8W High Power 2019 Two Way Amateur (Ham) Radio Walkie Talkie, Mirkit Edition vs BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) ?

[@jakewastaken]

A Person did you ever get any info comparing these? I’ve picked up the Mirkit

[@drcsep]

Is the baofeng BF-F8HP legal to be used? Thanks

[@UpnorthHere]

Sure, as long as you only transmit on (Part 97) ham frequencies with a ham license. It has no certification for Parts 80, 90 or 95 use.

[@drcsep]

Thanks

[@Gollammeister]

Baofengs radios make great ecomms backups when hiking

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I keep a pair of Baofeng handhelds in my camping trailer just for that purpose. The batteries last forever so I don't worry about them not having a charge when I need them

[@albertshere219]

So is it legal?

[@diggerdanielg752]

This rule. in the future would be HF rigs would only be able to receive and transmit on ham bands or here comes Xtal controlled radios.

[@GlenGatin]

But they make cars that go 100 mph.

[@andymullarx6365]

For now.

[@AND838]

Our company got bunch of baofengs (most from 2013) operating what we are licensed to... are they saying that because the piece of baofeng is non compliant me using it for stuff that am licensed to is still illegal? So its like cuz am driving car that is capable going over speed limit is also violation of speed limit? And what about enforcement? Can somebody just go and complain about my company and they can come and "raid" us? Somebody smart help???

[@andrewfogelsanger1215]

I’m getting one for Camp will I go to jail?

[@youtube.youtube.01]

It's usually the competitor that complains the loudest. The FCC can see thru the motivation for most complaints and fully knows that even all modern radios are just as capable of modification as older ones. It's simply a matter of skills. Hack culture has always been here. Protection of competition is impossible when a market is flooded with skilled hackers, and the FCC can't do much about that. "Popular Hacking" always operates at the boundary between Licensed and Unlicense users and the products they use. It's human nature.

[@DumbledoreMcCracken]

Is the Alinco 638 legal?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

The Alinco DR-638 is legal to use on the amateur radio bands. It also has Part 90 certification so it can be use with certain land mobile radio services.

[@genepierson1728]

Someone please which model number(s) is/are now illegal and which one(s) legal.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

This is really tough, as there is no way to know unless the manufacturer or distributor lists the FCC ID in their product description. If the radio carries an FCC ID, then it can be reasonably assumed that you can legally use the device on the amateur radio bands.

[@genepierson1728]

Okay thanks. Is this one still legal? It's still on Amazon for sale. BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two Way Radio (Black) -- I'm wondering if I should buy one as a back up of the one I currently own. NOT that I want to buy something illegal, just wondering if that particular model may never be available again.

[@UpnorthHere]

@@genepierson1728 The UV-5R is specifically named in a federal complaint as having been illegally imported, under FCC rules.

[@Andy2e0ree]

It's not great new about boufune for ham the film independent that are using the radio

[@larryjanson4011]

of late there are a number of transceivers for sale (still over priced) but from japan. what problems arise from importing such into the usa? and how is owning a bofang a crime? using any radio in the commission of a crime has its own set of laws. just because a radio can do something. is not a crime. doing that something is. equipment that can do X is ok. a person doing X is not ok.

[@jroysdon]

So what about all those shops that sell radios with a MARS mod removing any transmit limitations? Seems like selling any radio (or even using) with a MARS mod is illegal per the FCC's order. What equipment then would be legal to own for MARS use? Just about every online ham shop sells these sorts of mods that you purchase as an "add-on" to a radio you're purchasing from them. Here is just one example: www.gigaparts.com/gigaparts-marsmod-level-7.html

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Two things you need to know about MARS: first off, you need a MARS license to receive the mod and most radio shops will require it. Second, MARS, or the Military Auxiliary Radio Service, is administered by the Department of Defense, so the FCC has no control over its operation. So the FCC's recent enforcement advisory and type acceptance process doesn't affect MARS operators or the program.

[@jroysdon]

@@KB9VBRAntennas Got it on FCC vs. DoD jurisdiction. But the link I listed and many others like HRO don't require any proof of MARS participation.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yeah, I don't know how HRO or Gigaparts handles things, but I would guess they have some sort of verification process.

[@jroysdon]

@@KB9VBRAntennas nope, none. I have ordered through both with MARS mods and never any verification.

[@steveo601]

Available for 22 bucks on amazon. The fcc lost this battle