My new 2 way frs radios have a high and low power band. Channel 12 is only on the low power band with 2 mile max range. Channels like 15 can be boosted in power to give 7 mile range.
If all radios are this way, should BFT move to a channel like 15 so we can have better communication?
What are your thoughts and reasons to change or stay on 12?
I would like to have the better range myself.
[signature]
i noticed the same thing a long time ago but it is so ingrained that channel 12 is the BFT channel i just let it fly
personly i would like to see a a higher power channel used
[signature]
I also think it would be a good idea, however, the FRS channels, like 12 are free to use by anyone. If you go up to the higher powered channels (can't remember where they start) you technically and legally need a permit from the FCC to use them. I went ahead and signed up just in case I was ever asked, but I doubt you would ever get caught. The permit costs you $75, which is no small sum just to talk on a walkie talkie. Once again, it is highly unlikely that you would ever get asked, but if there was a group out on the water, and the FCC just happened to be triangulating positions, and then checking your permits, I'm sure the fine wouldn't be a fun one to pay.
[signature]
My FRS has high power on channels 1 to 7 and then again on channels 15 to 22. We could use one of the lower channels like 7-0 and then older radios that may only go to channel 12 would still work.
Perhaps our Mods could talk about the change and give some guidance on the idea.
I would just like to be able to use the higher power that is now available. The communications will only improve and so will the safety factor when someone needs help.
[signature]
[size 2][font "Comic Sans MS"][black]I am definately for the wider range option. But if we all change, let's get it agreed on before the Wiper Tournie. [/black][/font]
[font "Comic Sans MS"][black][/black][/font]
[font "Comic Sans MS"][black]Here is a thought ... Maybe one of the moderators could post a sticky about this and then interested members could vote there on that sticky thread.[/black][/font][/size]
[signature]
if channel 7 is indeed a high powered channel i would put in a vote for LUCKY 7
[signature]
Thanks TD. I will try channel 7-0 for a while and see if it improves the range of communication. Good luck on the wiper get together. It sounds like fun, Dale.
[signature]
Dumb question here - I can't find anywhere on my radio where it indicates the "0" part of the channel 12-0 that you are reffering to. I have seen someone else post about this and mention 12-0 and a 12-1 - Do all radios have this capability ? Mine is a Midland, do they have 12-0 on them ?
[signature]
Some of my radios have side channels and some only have the main channels. Using a side channel would be 12-9, 7-7 etc. If your unit doesn't offer the side channels, then 12-0 will be all you have. That is why we have used 12-0 and not 12-1, so that radios without side channels will still work.
If we move to 7 or 7-0 the same will apply.
[signature]