Should I MARS/CAP mod my radio?

A discussion of the MARS/CAP out of band transmit modification and why it can be a useful tool for radio operators.

[@darrellcollins877]

I do this mod to all of my radios for the very purpose you describe, EMERGENCY situation. Ham radio is both a Hobby and Prepping tool for me, so as with all my gear/preps, I want them to be as fully functionable as possible if/when the need arises then I have that capability. Everyone I teach about the baofengs, I explain the fcc rules and more importantly explain how to be a good radio operator so as to NOT interfere with other folks or business or govt using any said freqs. Its EASY to stay clear of being a problem to others, then you can go about your business un-noticed, as it should be. Good video as always.

[@hipal2271]

I got my tech license in January 2017. My very first radio was a FT-60. I am now a general and own a few HT’s and mobiles plus an HF radio. Still my go to radio is the FT-60. I am a police officer and my police unit has my FT-60 in it every shift.

[@kwm380]

Well said. I've been a ham for 35 yrs and had modified every radio I had. I live in a hurricane area and there are frequency emergencies where I might need the capability.

[@trainliker100]

I always favor the "better to have and not need than need and not have" logic. Another consideration I have is that if I have a radio with broad capability, I could give it to somebody who does use those frequencies should their equipment have a failure. It's just another capability I bring to any party where my presence is subordinate to professional first responders. But I also understand the FCC position (most of the time) as they are trying to herd cats. Not so much the hams who are mostly domesticated, but the slobs. Just like the difference between responsible hunters and slob hunters.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

I agree

[@ralphebrandt]

One place too many EMCOMM hams fall down on this concept, "better to have and not need than need and not have" is training. I teach with this concept which is analogous to yours. "You will not know what training you need until you need it and then if you do not have it, it is too late and it is wing it."

[@wdsracer]

I had my yaesu ft60r modified by GIGAPARTS when I bought it new. They said no issues with voiding the warranty. If I have a problem just send it back. I use mine for everything. Ham, GMRS and Murs and marine when I am on my boat. I have both licenses. So far no one has kicked my door down.

[@BrianNC81]

Nobody in the history of FCC databas has even received even so much as a letter for using a non type approved radio. As long as your in licensed and spec for the radio service your transmitting on, nobody will know and nobody would care (except for sad hams).

[@anthonyrosa5006]

You get a sub for making the correct connection between these radios and firearm laws. Very true. It was after having the doorstop ( a baofeng) for over a year I decided to use the lockdowns as an opportunity to get my General, working on mu Extra. I bet these radios are responsible for bringing more new hams into the hobby than anything else. Lord knows the old timers and the ARRL do nothing to get fresh blood into what would be a dying hobby that has been replaced with cheap satellite communications and high tech for most people.

[@richardgardnerwh6lu15]

HF bands are more than enough to keep me busy ! More fun than HTs....

[@cobrajack-official]

That comparison in the 2 arguments was really clever. As someone living in both worlds, I totally get what you're saying. If you follow comment sections, there is a distinct consortium of HRO's who pride themselves on yelling at others about the rules. There isn't much of a debate that transmitting on FRS bands using HR is illegal. Really, there's no debate. Yet it's happening ALL THE TIME. Just gonna have to get on with our lives lol.

[@9999plato]

@@cobrajack-official While it may be illegal it seems to me that the only reason for this rule is because radio manufacturers have lobbied to the FCC and congress to create these laws for the sole purpose of selling more radios. It simply wont work for me to need to install another radio, pay a few hundred dollars to get GMRS capabilities install another antenna on the roof, and have to find even more space for another radio body and face to fit in the vehicle. It's not as if an ICOM 5100 will radiate in an unsafe or vexing manner in the gmrs bands. It will work just as well as a new Chinese radio specifically made for gmrs and only gmrs. I already have the dual band and HF mobile rigs but the 4 runner is out of under seat space for radios and my little hand held gmrs that have become sub optimal these days, especially since gmrs repeaters are becoming ore common. I can also see where crossing the lines could occur , lets say if my wife was on the gmrs band on an HT and that went out on a ham band because the trucks radio was on cross band repeat. Then again we are self policing...

[@cobrajack-official]

@@9999plato I like all your points here 👍

[@gregmacklin9758]

I'm glad I saw this . I just paid the FCC for my GMRS privileges. I'd csll it a license if I felt it was something I had to study for. Therefore, I have decided to study and work towards earning my amateur tech and extra class LICENSE so that I can have a full understanding of exactly how these radios function, so I can make sense of FCC guidelines. It makes absolutely no sense to have earned the privilege of an amateur radio technician, extra ,or general only to be told your privileges stop at 462-467 MHz. And then to top it all off , expand the 11 meter citizens band into the FM spectrum. Now, I'm not saying I disagree with the changes for the unlicensed folks. In fact, I'm all for it. What I don't appreciate is the government imposing restrictions on responsible folks by turning what should be a God-given right into a privilege. And then turn around around and expand the citizens' band for the irresponsible as if to say they have the right to operate. I personally think we should all have the right to all bands that were set aside for public use. I figure a lot of people aren't going to appreciate what I just wrote, and that's ok. I'm going to earn all of my radio licenses for my own piece of mind so I can operate with competence and confidence. And I sure as hell don't want to be spending two times the money just to communicate with any GMRS friends. Therefore, I will earn my ham licenses first, then see what radio to get that covers everything I want. I'm sure I will have no trouble opening GMRS on a VHF/UHF cross band and transmitting within the guidelines of the FCC.

[@billyburton5566]

With ya on this. Subscribed. I’m getting a little tired of being told what I can or can’t do.

[@lomgshorts3]

I have opened up ALL my transceivers to be able to use any frequency necessary in an emergency. Yes, I have been a MARS member for over 25 years, and have been involved in civil defense in my county for longer. I have had occasion to use my radios out of band (VHF, HF) on several occasions, and glad to do it. Being a ham for over 40 years hasn't spoiled me as to who uses what frequency for what purpose, sometimes I hear Fort Rucker in Alabama use the higher part of 6 meters on occasion and never complained. Someday you might be called upon to be able and ready to operate out of band as Hams have been called upon to do during an emergency. The FCC has defined an emergency as: when life or property is in danger and you are called on to communicate any way you can to save lives or their property (but only for the duration of the emergency and only if there is no other way to communicate). So, if I were you, I would open one each of my HF, VHF, UHF radios for full coverage that the radios were capable of. Amateur Radio has always served in emergencies, so being capable of communicating with local, state, and Federal agencies almost a given. No emergency, no out of band operation. But, be fully capable of communicating to anyone if an emergency calls you out and you can make a difference.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

I have done mars cap mods on a few radios I think its a good option if used responsibly especially for emergencies i also have a few shft radios thst are mars cap moded. Great video KS6DAY

[@DonzLockz]

It's best to be prepared. My EDC HT has a few antennas and 3 batteries plus various charging methods. Well explained and sensible thought on why.👍🤠

[@themotofixery]

This is my exact argument! Totally agree! The more options the better. Just be responsible. Thank you.

[@wildlifegrocery2965]

Excellent video, subject material, and genuine comparisons..!!

[@hbarwickjr]

Excellent information. We think much along the same lines. First view- subscribed! Look forward to more.

[@randomstuff3672]

Yes, in some cases absolutely. I am licensed for both HAM and GMRS and most/all if my close wheeling buddies are also licensed HAM operators and we of course use HAM while off road. However, there is a HUGE segment of the off road community that are not licensed HAM operators and use only GMRS. I think it would be dumb on my part to NOT have a GMRS capable radio in the event we have a problem and are unable to reach help on our normal HAM frequencies when it is entirely possible help could be only a couple of miles away on GMRS.

[@ag1382]

Good you are licensed in both services. Shame your mod radio is no longer type approved by FCC to use on those bands. This should have been clearly understood while studying for your Ham license. Just because you can, does not allow you to rob a bank.

[@randomstuff3672]

@@ag1382 pretty sure FCC as well as ALL law enforcement do not care that I carry a radio capable of TX out of class in case of emergency. Nor would they care if I actually TX out of class/certification in an emergency. Thank you for clarifying the rules for all readers and viewers. 👍🏻

[@ag1382]

@@randomstuff3672 no the illegal radio police will not track you down, but your video is a great target. GMRS radios are cheep.

[@randomstuff3672]

@@ag1382 Yes they are. That’s why I have two. I can give one to a family member so they can transmit via my license. I also have non modified HAM radio (I should have made that clear.) I still think it is a good idea to have a modified radio, just in case. It is cheap insurance and hope I never need it.

[@anthonyrosa5006]

@@ag1382 Removing a few chips from my own radio is far from robbing a bank. Aside from not wanting to blow another $400 on another radio when your current radio can do the same job on GMRS most people don't have the space to fit any more radios in the vehicle in a good location without taking up passenger space. I think these regulations are created simply to sell more radios, probably created by lobbyists with large campaign contributions who influence the FCC. Rules that joe blow cannot fight since we lack their deep pockets. Corruption begins from within and quiet resignation avails you nothing. The ARRL should be fighting these regulations but they are feckless.

[@daveg2199]

Excellent explanation! Your wisdom and ability to communicate common sense got me to subscribe immediately. Did the mod on my FT 65R

[@Boebus666]

Could you kindly describe the steps on how to mod the FT65R? Thanks!

[@daveg2199]

@@Boebus666 sure heres the shorts video that worked for me. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYnbYqmaoJ56fdU

[@Boebus666]

@@daveg2199 Oh brilliant, Thanks a ton! :)

[@LastNameTom]

I have a HAM mobile thats mounted in my RV as well as a handheld. I modded both of them to work with my walkie talkies as we have 5 kids and the older 4 go running off when we go camping and they all have their own walkie talkies. This lets us talk to all the kids with one radio, as well as my dad through the repeaters who has his own license. The mounted on in the van is key because its a metal box, so the walkie talkies dont work well inside the van while we have the mag mount antenna for the mobile.

[@Iskremfrpupy]

Where could I read about how to do that modification? I'm new to this, thanks

[@sire24657]

Good info; looking forward to more great stuff!!!

[@tomvalentine4152]

Finally a logical reason for expanded transmit I have been in some sort of communication for 50 yrs and have always felt this way I my never need to xmit out of band but it's better to be able to and have the equipment at the ready than need to and have to try and modify on the fly good video de kd5dnk

[@northmanproject4007]

Hell yeah. I agree. Just use it for exactly what you described in case of emergency .

[@SM-ob5zw]

Excellent explanation for why radios should be modified. My son and his friends use GMRS while riding ATV’s. I want to be able to communicate if they should need help.

[@edb007th]

Laws > Rules The FCC makes RULES not LAWS.

[@Prepologyblog]

I believe one big reason the FCC is now going after Baofeng is because the big three are now losing market share and they do not like it.

[@funnyfarmdad9997]

Always follow the money!

[@PARTner91]

Why would an American government agency care about a Japanese company losing market share in the relatively small portion of the spectrum allocated to Amateur Radio?

[@ml.2770]

What a dumb thought.

[@Rusted_Link]

Your EmComm bag video said it best. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

[@richardgardnerwh6lu15]

Problems with some getting into Emcomm is, many skills take years to aquire including good NCS skills, callsign recognition, HF is the best training ground for any Emcomm operator, contesting is my best example

[@w3eqb755]

I work SAR and I'm a Wilderness First Responder. All of my radios have MARS/CAP mod for the very reason to assist those on non ham bands in the event of emergency. Those that are "sticklers for the rules", as you say, didn't fully read the rules. Particularly the FCC rule pertaining to emergency communication. In that they've truly failed their community.

[@KS6DAY]

Well said. I agree 100%.

[@anthonyrosa5006]

@@shockadellick The people who will key up anytime obviously don't care about the rules and this is self evident. This is the same logic used by gun control advocates when the want to ban XXX. The criminals who use XXX as their tools of the trade don't care about the laws that restrict everyone else because they are criminals and the gun charge is the least of their concern when they are looking at a triple homicide and other charges. The same logic applies with the radio. Most who are in the hobby wont use those bands but want the emergency capabilities should an emergency arise. Same with guns. I'm going to have my wife's and my dual band radios modded, just in case. The rules/ laws are there to keep the honest people honest. Essentially pointless and sometimes counter productive to a safe society before the emergencies begin.

[@larryk1978]

in an emergency situation... You may use any Freq to get help... My view is that,,, Just like my pistol that i carry everywhere with me... id rather have it and not need it... Than to need it and not have it.... 73, W5LWK

[@Littrell1966]

I mars mod all radios I own. I have my tech and gmrs pic and will use the radio if needed. My car will go way over any speed limit and its up to me to use it in a legal fashion.

[@fordloyalist2791]

Well spoken, agree 100% and that’s the reason I’ll never buy a radio that won’t transmit on any freq, or one that can’t be modified to do so ! A reasonable ham shouldn’t get upset about this , yes I am licensed

[@JasonFerguson1283]

Thanks for helping me decide.

[@MarvinParnell]

Absolutely agree. I modify all mine as well. Does not mean I’m abusing it. If anyone knows how to be responsible with radios in my mind it’s amateur radio operators.

[@moozoowizard]

Licence Ham radio operators can make their own transceivers from scratch. And with that licence comes the responsibility to ensure they only transmit within their bands amongst other things. It's not the responsibility of the equipment (which they made have built). So my understanding is that the FCC wasn't banning hams from buying and using baofangs, unlockable transceivers or even modifying them. It was banned for everyone else . Ie the person buying it for grms, marine radio etc. They didn't do the technical training to gain the responsibility to make and modify radios. There is as far as I know no issue with a ham having an unlocked transceiver. They just can not use it outside of the ham band without it being a real emergency. I'm happy to be corrected on this. I'm not in the US

[@pache2112]

Perfect explanation brother! You nailed it! 73

[@donaldsmith3048]

I ordered my IC7300 with the mod! I then went in and programmed it to only transmit on the General part of the band! If I do a reset then it is wide open until I tell it to load the band settings. I would need to set up the band settings because it comes for all the bands not just the General part.I have spent a lot of time around the military! I may be crazy but not stupid enough to mess around military frequencies. When I was with the CAP we had someone that one of the CAP frequencies was good to use for his business! It didn't end well!

[@Soladaddy]

This is a more realistic reason for the mod than the "end of the world" scenario. Personally I have not modified a ham radio more out of concern of damaging the radio than anything else. Being a GMRS user I like having separate radios for each service, but see the benefit of carrying just one radio.

[@shockadellick]

@Soladaddy Prepares don't understand this fact, IF America becomes dysfunctional were the central government has failed, their preparation will be countless. Why is this a fact? It's a fact because another government and its man power will be stronger, faster, and more organized than any small militia army. America must remain more advanced than all other nations, at all times to avoid this scenario. The ham radio boy scout mentality is cute, but its worthless if it must be used for the end of the world.

[@cwilliams6884]

how would putting it into maintenance mode damage it? it's literally just putting it into the setting they use for testing the radio

[@dangerous8333]

@@shockadellick Lmfao 😂 Yeah, the government will destroy the little guy, cause the government has tanks and nukes right? 😂 Go ask Russia and Americans how that worked out for them in Afghanistan, go ask the Vietnamese how that worked out for America. You're also assuming that enlisted military men will take up arms against their own people. My friend, when the S hits the actual fan, it's every man for himself.

[@JohnDoe-zg6fn]

I like to transmit on FRS on 5W with my Icom ID-52

[@kx8z446]

I basically stopped listening at 7:30 because i knew I already fully agree with your argument.

[@kx8z446]

Crappy video, but this is my other channel and the video when I did the mod on my 3DR. This was my first Ham radio. I just bought the 400XDR and I again wanted to confirm my desire and need to do the mars mod on it so I was consulting with KZbinrs. Thanks for the vid. FYI: When I called Yaesu back then, they confirmed for me that it didn’t matter if I or an authorized dealer performed the work and that the modification in no way affects my warranty unless I were to cause unrelated damage while doing so. This was something I personally wanted to confirm because of rumors. Here’s the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eobTlpyaraxorNk

[@HaskaTice]

100% agreed Excellent points

[@shawndobson5713]

Subscription earned!

[@RichTinker]

It took 5 minutes to do the mod on my FT3D. I used a cigar torch and heated a fine pointed tip tool. once hot I simply moved the resister node to the side of where it was originally mounted/soldered. (anything small with fine metal point will work) Then I used a wire pull magnet (the one you use to pull low volt wire out of sheetrock, when you're looking for the chain in the wall) The yellow flexible magnet is smaller than the hole where the resister is located. It fit perfectly. It picked up the node without issue, plus there was far less risk to dropping the extremely small node/resister. The device works as expected post mod. Scale of 1-10 difficulty 2/10 - It's probably a 1 but I did have to be careful not to damage the circuit board or put too much pressure on the resister while moving it aside. The risk of flipping the node/resister into the device, turning it into a rattle box. If you're on the fence: David Caster has some good thoughts on this as well as several other Ham Experts. My thoughts are: "Why not? Why shouldn't I be able to broadcast with my kids or anyone else for that matter while they chat on 20 dollar radios? There is no reason why a $300 transceiver cannot speak with the Peasants. Haha"

[@schemp001]

Good point

[@marioprzepiora]

Thanks for a great video. Have you though about doing this to a mobile unit, and if so, which one? I would like to purchase a single, mobile unit that I can move between my 3 vehicles when doing off-road, off-grid, recoveries and rescues. I would primarily use the GMRS as that's what most people use, but occasionally there is a HAM that I might have to communicate with. Thanks in advance.

[@willkelly86]

Another aspect is that the number one reason that people modify their radios is to use them on licensed business bands. Lots of businesses use uv5r radios. They just unlock them and program them to their licensed frequency. This is a completely legitimate practice, and is largely the reason why radio manufacturers add that functionality in the first place. Hams that want to see unlocking features removed are only thinking about their service, and forgetting that radios are also marketed to businesses who need the ability to unlock them in order to legally use them

[@spldrong]

love the gun comparison. radios are communication, 1st amendment. The FCC has regulated Radios too tightly. The FRS restrictions are ridiculous, the wattage and antenna regulations especially and we can't have 1 radio to talk on every band?!?

[@damiengirvan5020]

Hey.... I have a few baofeng's and they are all unlocked but they still lock up when I try and key the mic between around 178.17375 and 188.86375..... is this normal?? Do they all do that?? Some of my radios are UV-5Rx3 tri band and some are just regular UV-5R..... Although I changed the max frequency on the UV-5R in CHIRP to from 174 I think to 260..... So I guess they are all kind of tri band radios now..... Btw I'm in the UK if that matters.....

[@chrisberentson3736]

I just did the mars mod on my VX6R, and now I can’t hear out the speaker or adjust volume… any thoughts

[@wdsracer]

How do you do the Mars cap mod on the alinco dj-vx50?

[@hardtruth2039]

I love my Beofeng GT-3WP’s for this reason.

[@damiengirvan5020]

Oh..... Do any of your experience hand helds that are Mars modable have digital modes?? Is there such a thing as an all mode all band handy with digital modes??

[@4000marcdman]

I just want to use one radio. I have my licenses for Ham and GMRS other than that i dont care what the FCC has to say. They dont provide a service and dont maintain or provide any products.

[@ralphebrandt]

I have not mars/cap any of my home and mobiles but this has me thinking about that. I have a scanner up at home quite a bit of the time, it is an old one, scan FRS/GMRS, local repeaters, and a couple services I have interest in, rail and air. It would be good if my home and mobile had the ability to respond. I also am semi active in SAR, same thing, my home station is my go kit

[@sincerelyyours7538]

This came up in my feed today. I've been considering the MARS/CAP mod for my new IC-7300. I live in Japan, which, as most people know, is a very earthquake prone country. It seems to me that a reversible MARS/CAP mod could be useful for me if an earthquake were to strike my area. I need to research what local hams are doing, of course, but I think if its not too objectionable, I will add a switch so I can go from unmodded to modded and back again with just a flip of the switch and a reboot once the emergency is over. Has this been the normal procedure for US hams or do people just leave their radios modded once they perform the procedure and take whatever risks that may involve?

[@ironmatic1]

What ethical considerations?

[@ExtremeSquared]

Really the one thing that should have been brought up is changing the channel width on the unlocked channels. A few murs channels are narrow, and some of the GMRS channels are also. If you properly program your channel widths, nobody will know you're on a ham radio. If you don't, it's absolutely obvious what you are doing.

[@Mojave511]

Yup!

[@ralphebrandt]

I am a VE, Instructor, active in public service and EMCOMM, an ARES DEC, AN ex-AA and an active ARES and SKYWARN and a long term techie who models antennas. In that I am also a legal purist. If it is the law, I chose to abide as much as possible. All of my HT's are either wide band or open/ MARS/CAP for reasons that are the same as yours. The actual wording of the FCC rule for using a non-approved frequency is IMMEDIATE THREAT TO LIFEOR PROPERTY AND NO OTHER WAY. Your description although not the legalese states it pretty well. I have handed two of my HTs to people heading into a communications hole with that admonition, only it the above. Neither violated it but I was able to recall one of them when things changed because the could hear me, 100% legal. One of the blow hards on KZbin says if SHTF it is an emergency. NO. If you are checking where the family is, NO. Now, the risk of FCC action is low but if we were to hit that situation I would want to be 100% legal so I do not get some army guy with an M-16 enforcing the law on the fly. The people who are working SHTF situations need to watch this movie. It is fiction but well written by people who did some serious study, not the usual Hollywood and nut jobs. It is about a nuclear attack and a family who just left town on a camping trip before the bomb hit. It is worth the time watching it because it covers human nature in a situation well. It is set in 1950's but the situation is the same today. www.imdb.com/title/tt0056331/

[@markr.1984]

If someone breaks into your house with a AR-15 with a full 30 shot mag, I feel like if I match his firepower, at least I have a chance. If all I have a double-barreled shotgun, or I'm a person that doesn't believe in guns at all, I'd probably be F'd. So I agree with KS6DAY on the gun thing!!

[@spldrong]

yes

[@bovineexcrement8635]

YES

[@Nightfire_Gaming81]

Can you MARS/CAP a retevis rt85 for GMRS and FRS? I’ve heard both yes and no. Asking since you’ve reviewed that radio.

[@RKingis]

FRS & GMRS share all 22 channels.

[@swarovskivtx]

Hi KS6DAY! I just modded my FT5D. Is it ok to use the stock antenna to TX on other frequencies like 140’s and 440’s or do you recommend to buy a different one?

[@KS6DAY]

Since most of the radios that will be MARS modded will already receive, but not transmit, in that range, the antennas are resonant and will work for transmit as well as receive in that range. So, you should not have worry about changing out your antenna.

[@swarovskivtx]

@@KS6DAY Thank you!

[@TwoFeatherChannel]

I'm a licensed amateur radio operator and I look at these mods from this point of view What is a government called when it dictates to it's citizens Do as I say, Not as I Do? and they add, No One owns a Frequency. Well that No One means you to government man. I will not transmit maliciously on gmrs/frs/mars or commercial but I see nothing wrong with using them for a few seconds while communicating back and forth during trail rides through wilderness areas, where no one else is around for miles. and to those Sour Hams that think they are better than thou with their frequency police attitude, What does the fcc say about keying up over another station that is talking? because you can see that in the ham world nearly every day during contesting. Just watch the many videos of them contesting and you will see and hear them keying up the mic while another station has already started transmitting.

[@ChatGPT1111]

Yep totally agree. I see no problem with going the wrong way on a one way street, if it is just for a few seconds. Likewise, the guy down the street who keys up on Air Traffic Control frequencies is perfectly ok too. After all, he only does it for a few seconds at a time. I mean, just look at the guys in the newspapers who commit far worse crimes than that and don't get caught.

[@ChatGPT1111]

PS--You really should consider retaking the FCC amateur license coursework.

[@TwoFeatherChannel]

@@ChatGPT1111 what is the f.c.c. rule on talking on top of someone who is already keyed up and carrying on a conversation on a frequency? f.c.c. says it is Not allowed. So why is a Pile Up in Contesting allowed? You can hear ham operators Every Day on the radio and see the videos of them doing it here on youtube, Talking over someone that is already making a contact. Why are the rules for some and not enforced on others who break the rules just so they can place a trophy on their wall.

[@HardcoreFourSix]

What is the purpose of the Rules set forth by the FCC? The only legitimate purpose it to deter/prevent harmful interference, especially with regard to emergency services. Unless someone actually causes a problem, the existence of radios that can xmit out of band causes no problems.

[@malanalan1]

same way guns cause no problem, right?

[@timrobinson9828]

Well said sir, and I absolutely agree.

[@criscross6591]

👍👍

[@user-yb5iw9op9r]

HAM Radio Outlet has the MARS mod available for an extra $35 for anyone interested.

[@1BattleRattle]

Does the MARS mod effect output power of the radio? Saw a video of VX-6 owner on a SWR/Watt meter after MARS mod, and it was putting out 3.72 watts max, and on a number of bands less than 2 watts. That sucks for a radio that is "supposed to" put out 5 watts. Or am I completely out of the ball park with this one?

[@RKingis]

VHF is typically 5watts, and 4watts for UHF.

[@ronsisk3181]

@@RKingis thank you

[@Subgunman]

Ham radios are optimized to work in the ham bands where you will see maximum power output and even receive sensitivity will increase in the bands the radio was designed for. Now if you have a serious interest in maximum power in a hand held, high tier Motorola radios if in the proper bandsplit will show optimum performance. Some incorporate a dynamic tuning algorithm that will permit the radio to operate on opposite sides of the band.

[@evanfinch4987]

I mars/cap every radio I buy before even turning it on. That includes a brand new VX-5R I bought six months after it came out.

[@JohnDoe-zg6fn]

I did the same with my new ID-52. Giga Parts did it for me.

[@dvscotlandphoenixnetwork]

How to Configure your MMDVM Pi-Star HotSpot for DV Scotland DMR Network IPSC2-DVScotland. This will allow users either in Scotland or other parts of the World to link in to our system to join in the IRN NETWORK NETS and to also take part in our Monday Night Net Configure your radio with HotSpot Frequency and Time Slot 2. List of DV Scotland DMR Network Talk Groups: www.dvscotland.net/talkgroups.xhtml How to configure static Talk Groups. DMR Configuration DMR Master: DMR+_IPSC2-DVScotland DMR+ Options: Options= TS2_1=23555;TS2_2=23556; kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnOvenZvqLKjbsU

[@EddieVfgi]

People don't understand that when you're defending your house watch capacity magazines give you the edge. I believe the same way you do with the Mars CAP I've even modified my mobile radio that I put it will go box This antenna Comet CA-2X4SR Mobile VHF/UHF Vertical Antenna when used in conjunction with my UHF VHF radio In an ammo can has flat SWR on UHF VHF and GMRS, I even did a KZbin video on it. PS I'm sorry live in California, their gun laws suck Eddie kj4fgi GMRS WRAT366

[@plproductions8887]

Did you do the mod to the VX-6?

[@MrKeys57]

i will do this mod to my FT60, so i can, transmit on PMR 446mhz, in case of an emergency, 446 is totally free for everyone here in sweden, BUT the max power is restricted to 500mw, but in case of an emergency nobody will ask about your radio.... many restrictions regarding freqs, and power are changed here in sweden, so it will be easier for people to communicate, and even the amateurlicens is going to be made much easier soon, (spring -25), - there are only going to be a couple of questions, and safety points, that will have to be fullfilled for 145mhz-and the HF bands, 443 is going to be invoked a liitle bit later, due to some inconsistencys between the SSA and the govenrment - - 73, Levi in sweden

[@michaelruther9175]

I have a modified Kenwood. It will transmit any frequency you can tune to. I wish it wasn’t modified because I could transmit any frequency that I can tune to. I used it for MARS years ago. Now I have a new Yaesu that won’t transmit out of legal frequency.

[@matthewcawley2571]

I saw a post on Reddit where a guy tested the output of the VX-6R on GMRS after the MARS mod and it was only putting out 2 watts. Have you tested the output of yours? Also, do you think that’s a concern if it is only putting out 2 watts on GMRS? I was set on the VX-6R after watching your other videos, but now I’m uncertain.

[@keanudeleon7933]

What antenna do you use for the yaesu vx6r?

[@KS6DAY]

Diamond SRH-320A

[@Mr1MOA]

Yes.............scary tools.............why why why................cause FREEDOM!!!

[@ml.2770]

I have a sticker under the battery of my ft65r with the special keystokes and method to open it up. I wouldn't carry it unlocked all the time. Same way I store my guns locked up.

[@NiMi93]

Having trouble finding the video your referenced about Jan6, can someone share the vid title please?

[@frankbowman22]

One thing I can say is going to happen because FR-S is so freely ran across gmrs I can see in the future gmrs and running amok people are not using their license Ford anymore it's just going to be just like CB radio gmrs mfrs will be just like a CB radio

[@RKingis]

FRS & GMRS share all 22 channels. Unless you know what radio they have, one could assume it's a FRS radios.

[@NonyaDamnbusiness]

The answer is always "yes". Best to have it and not need it then need it and not have it.

[@BobBob-il2ku]

gigaparts does the mod for you & you retain the manufacturer warranty that way.

[@pistolpeteskeet]

I like how this video is oriented with people that are smart and aware of what’s going on in the US currently-in other words, patriots-in mind

[@easygroove]

those Selfpolice guys...are called : Blockwart

[@ecleveland1]

On the gun / ammo capacity debate. If I knew that I was only going to need 4-5 bullets to defend myself in the attack against me and my family Friday night at 10:47pm. I would be somewhere else Friday night at 10:47pm and the police would have been staked out at where the attack was supposed to take place! Funny thing though, real life doesn’t really work that way.

[@edwardyanceyjr]

I have a Wouxun KG-UV9P that has been modified. It stays in faraday bags in a ammo can faraday cage for emergency situations. I can't see trying to have 1 HAM, 1 GMRS, 1 MURS, 1 LPD and 1 PMR radio during a tornado, flash flood or other similar emergency. My 1 radio can transmit on all of those frequencies. I am a firm believer that it is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. You brought up another reason for having the mod, by hearing someone in trouble on a FRS radio, they would have to be close due to the low power limits. I have a technician HAM ticket and a GMRS license and i don't understand why i can't have a radio that can do both, other than the FCC says no. I can't use it on GMRS channels 7 thru 14 because of the power restrictions. My radio is a 2, 5 and 10 watt radio and i can only use .5 watts on channels 7 thru 14. It would kill me to hear a young lady or some kids in trouble and i couldn't help simply because my HAM radio will only moniter FRS and GMRS channels. I think the FCC should take another look at that rule and think about what if that was their wife, daughter or son in trouble. I have a Yaesu FT-3D that i would like to have the mod done on, but that is my everyday carry radio and with my luck, the FCC would want to inspect my gear. Great video and great message.

[@davej652]

The problem is the FCC is a joke that needs to have their power severely limited.

[@matthewtaylor3301]

Ed, I have the same radio and I am looking to unlock those frequencies. How did you go about doing it? Thanks!

[@edwardyanceyjr]

@@matthewtaylor3301 i bought a unlocking software program from Ebay made just for the UV9 series radio. I can't remember the name because i passed the software on to someone else. It only cost my $27 for the software. My FT 3D and Kenwood TH-D74A was done by Ham Radio Outlet (HRO).

[@matthewtaylor3301]

@@edwardyanceyjr Thanks Ed, I was able to find the software online and get it unlocked

[@edwardyanceyjr]

@@matthewtaylor3301 Glad i could help.

[@paulsylvester1394]

It seems like the rules need to catch up with technology! I am looking at getting my license but have been using radios for a long time. I volunteer for a Trolley Museum in Maine that uses VHF. We register our personal radios under the museum license. We have strict protocols for our communications and it is easy to follow them. I also volunteer with a trolley group in Iowa that uses UHF. Not so strict on protocols but limited transmissions and no gabbing! I need one radio to do both. For now, I am looking at GMRS and FRS. One quality radio should be fine. Most ham rules are followed by mutual agreement! We know the rules, we follow them! Why is modifying your radio really any different! If you qualify your usage using common sense, that should be good enough!

[@oliverw.douglas285]

I like the concept of always being prepared, & having options. Think of it, as having the full capabilities of the radio at your disposal, should the need arise. Operating a radio properly, is just operating a car. Be smart, & act responsibly. Let the do-gooders rant begin....

[@notsure7874]

I mars mod mine because it's ridiculous that I should have to carry 3-4 HT's around with me to use services that can be used successfully with proper bandwidth / power with one radio without interference. All just because some bureaucrats want to charge more fees for radio certification. I don't operate outside of anything I'm licensed for. Same goes for my mobile rig. I'm not installing 5 radios in my truck to satisfy some bureaucrats weird notions. Why shouldn't I use my ham HT for GMRS and MURS - OTHER than "because regulations" ... As for warranty - get a radio from Gigaparts, they offer mars mods that keep your warranty intact.

[@wilrod140]

FREEDOM: It's not having other people or the government tell you what you NEED.

[@Rifleman1964]

For many years, hams used home built, or retired police and business radios modified for the amateur bands, all of witch would transmit out of band. As far as i can tell, its not illegal to have a radio that will transmit out of band, but it is against the fcc regulations to transmit out of band or sell radios that can. FCC rules and regulations are not laws. They will not show up with a search warrant to check your radios unless you give them a good excuse, and then only after making contact with you multiple times to stop. Its a non issue.

[@MyBacktrail]

In my experience as a radio operator who doesn't desire a permission slip from the State, HAMs are the most tribaslist, arrogant, close-minded Karens in society. Perfect example:Years ago I showed my new Baofeng to a ham relative. His reaction? "You can't have that!". He simply could not wrap his head around the fact that although he had done everything he was "told" and been a good little boy, here was someone who just said "F all that" and did it anyway. And your assumption that you must have permission from the State to understand how to operate radios and antennas is an aspect of the above. I could pass the ham tech exam in a heartbeat, without studying. It literally is not rocket science. But I do not wish to give up any and every ounce of privacy that I have by literally plastering my name and address on a government web site and be on yet another govt database.

[@RESISTAGE]

finally. someone understands. I started to think there aren't any people with common sense left. well... that makes a whole lot of 2 of us now.

[@anthonyrosa5006]

I agree that it is a huge invasion of privacy for the government to put our info out for anyone to doxx you with. At the very least the info should be restricted to other licence holders and FCC staff. People with security clearances who are directed to maintain a very low profile per OPSEC regulations are outed by this system Utter foolishness. By putting the info out there anyone could do anything and simply look up a random callsign and use it to create chaos and the original licence holder cant disprove the allegations.

[@MrMikesMondoVideo]

You need not ever have to explain to anyone why you need something that is a protective essential liberty. Where a right exists, a need is not necessary.

[@anthonyrosa5006]

It should not be necessary however in this bizzaro world we live in right is wrong. When riots, arson, battery murder and rape are acceptable as "protest" as it has for the last year or so we are in big trouble. So long as the politicians homes are not burned down it's all good.

[@MrMikesMondoVideo]

@@anthonyrosa5006 What's necessary?

[@MrMikesMondoVideo]

@@anthonyrosa5006 Hiding under your couch, upvoting your own posts. LMAO

[@MrMikesMondoVideo]

@@spacecoyote6646 Finished the third grade and it might make sense.

[@Flagrazi]

Yes you should, I'll get 50 Mhz @ 1 watt and 70 mhz as well.

[@JohnDoe-zg6fn]

Question: "Should I MARS/CAP mod my radio?" Answer: Yes. Question: "Why would one do this?" Answer: So I only have to carry one radio to transmit on frequencies that would otherwise be blocked. Specifically GMRS, FRS, and MURS.

[@michaelruther9175]

Mars mod is for those in MARS only. I found Mars was a waste of time for me. I sent the “free” stuff back and ended my Mars activity. Old call was NNN etc .

[@jpdouglas8004]

Orginally Baofeng radios where FCC Part 95 and therefore not authorised to be used on ham frequencies, when they dropped the price to $25 more and more hams started using them as disposable radios and ignoring or oblivious of the rules. Eventually the FCC basically told Baoefeng, TYT, etc that if they wanted to sell radios for the ham bands they had to change to Part 97 which they did but for the most part these cheap Chinese radios are easily unblocked by pressing a few buttons. I do not use computers to program radios and discourage people from doing so. If you are in the field and your radio decides to reset, you should be able to program manually. Just be aware when you modify a VHF/UHF radio from Part 97 to Part 95 you are breaking the rules! I won't go into right or wrong here, just be aware that the FCC can be a real pain in your behind if they choose to go after you which they probably won't but then again...they are part of the government and will go after you if they do not like you as everyone well knows! Personally, I pretty much stay away from VHF/UHF though I am the trustee of our local repeater... 73 de KB1TCD

[@randywilliams9531]

If you watch the news much you will realize why you need such things

[@paulhastings3109]

If you use it in life and death

[@xjohn1970]

yes always mod

[@dangerous8333]

"They think they're just going to rise to the occasion and make their radio work like a magician". What does being licensed and knowing how to make the radio work have anything to do with each other? Do people not know how to drive because they don't have a driver's license? 🤷

[@KS6DAY]

No. People generally take drivers education training, behind the wheel instruction, then a written and proficiency test. Then they get a drivers license. Then they get to drive.

[@syntaxerrorsix3137]

It's a skill, if you can't practice it and improve on that skill set you won't be bringing any value to the community. It's more than push to talk. It's learning it's capabilities in varying terrain, how much useful battery life you get out of different power settings and so on. Just having a tool and not being able to properly use it and practice with is not a very good plan or prep.

[@ArndroidInc]

You are correct.

[@adambatchelder4121]

No reason why not in my mind .just another tool.

[@ManuelPinner]

I don't Because I like to keep My Radios like New, also FRS Radios are very Cheap to buy,

[@fubarsnafu4994]

Forget ethics… illegal ntm warranty. Why not just do it right. Buy the right rig for the job. Sounds hard but a few of us have a brick or two lying about cause some hack watched a video. But hey your mileage may vary