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Now that the FCC has allowed GMRS to have the ability for the “transmission of limited data applications such as text messaging and GPS location information”, is anyone using such features? Is there a protocol that has been standardized, similar to APRS, or is it left to each manufacturer to have their own protocol? (Hopefully there is a standardized protocol.) Anyone actually even using these features? Are there any GMRS transceivers on the market yet taking advantage of this? Hmm. Wondering if this could be used over linked GMRS networks as well? Just curious... Thanks.

Hello, This will likely, unintentionally, open a can of worms, but what is the general concencous of using one of BTech’s new UHF amplifiers for use with a Part 95 Type Accepted HT such as the BTech GMRS-V1 (which I’m purchasing next week). I do have their BTech 1.25m (220) amp that I use with my Bridgecom BCH-220 1.25m HT, in addition to a SignaLink USB, and a copper J-Pole. I’m running this as an 1.25m (220) EchoLink node (actually I plan converting it to AllStar eventually). I’m also planning to pick up a BTech Digital UHF amp as well for my DMR radios. I do have a few MMDVM hotspots, but sometimes like to go on the nearest actual DMR repeater, which is going to need this amp. Now. Taking off my “amateur hat” and putting on my “GMRS hat”, I’m left wondering if this BTech UHF would work with the BTech GMRS-V1. Technically, it would as the specifications state that GMRS frequencies will be amplified. Legally, however, is the can of worms. The BTech GMRS-V1 is Part 95 Type Accepted for GMRS, but I don’t believe the amp is. (?). Thoughts?

My family uses unit numbers, but not very often. Names work just as good. In my family; my wife and I, and our oldest son are all hams. Our 2 younger sons are not hams. (yet) What's funny is that our youngest son takes this GMRS identification business more seriously than any of the rest of us. I will call him on GMRS as: "Hey Mike, it's Dad, copy?" He will respond with: "This is WQYM-Five Four One, unit 5 to unit 1, go ahead Dad."