GreggInFL

I hate it when that happens.

^ Thanks, Steve. That's what I expected.

Many appear to be what looks like RJ45 connectors. Is there an industry standard for the wiring, making them interchangeable, or is each mic matched to its corresponding radio? TIA.

The first response people have to the idea of using a radio is, "Why bother, I have a cell phone?" I noticed this with marine radios decades ago, long before GMRS became a thing. New boaters would rely on their phones, solely, often running multiple applications such as maps, music, weather radar, marine specific nav (it's a thing), etc. Then they discover that communicating with other boaters isn't so easy. Calling or texting means those other apps have to get parked. Calling the group requires setting up a conference call, and anyone who thinks it's simple to text in the bright sunlight while bounding over the waves has not tried it. They soon learn that using the radio for comms is not only much easier, it leaves the cell phone for other things. I won't mention all the drama associated with dropping one overboard. Same for road trips.

The joke is that the FCC web site is tougher than the H.A.M. exams. Just getting through it should be enough for a license.

Reminds me of a friend who ended up with a rusty, 500' radio tower as part of an estate. His question was, how do we knock it down? He threw the question out on a forum and much hilarity ensued.

Impressive. What antenna are you using?

Rather than a base station put up a repeater. Just tell your wife it's a base station.

And that's why I keep it off when on my favorite repeater, which is populated with some skilled H.A.M.s, some of whom may be easily triggered.

I have found that new users like the beep because it is a positive indication that the other party has stopped transmitting. The radios I hand out for family simplex all have the beep turned on. Radios I use for repeaters have the beep off. Either way, it's just not a big deal. Edit: Added "simplex" for clarification.

You could always try Craigslist of course. After all, it's free. Since this is a commercial effort you might invest in some ads. I've noticed there are many regional GMRS Facebook groups, like this: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1126970474062888

I asked my buddy why he bought his third Beretta Silver Pigeon. He said, "Well, I was going quail hunting and my 12 and 20 gauge Berettas were too much, so I bought the 28 gauge." Those run ~$2,500 each -- and the Silver Pigeon is considered an entry level Beretta shotgun. I have a $250 Winchester pump I bought on sale. I like radios.

Excellent point, Steve. Thanks! <- Always learning.

^ They multiply like rabbits!

You first decision is whether you want a permanent mobile installation or something you can also use as a base station. If the latter you'll want a radio with a cigarette lighter power source and a mag mount antenna, both of which can be used inside as a base station -- though you'll eventually want a better antenna.

Oh, we can fix that. Buckle up. I got into this about a year ago with a $20 POS CCR. "I'll just buy one and try it," I said to myself. I'm up to six and have no idea how this happened.

I agree with the agreement. In a heavily-wooded area I figure 1/2 mile, 2 miles if I'm lucky. Are you in your vehicle while your son is in the house? If so, that's a worse-case combination; try going outside and facing each other.

That's only if you have the best radio. And welcome!

Just curious: Did the repeaters stay up and running?

Send them a hurricane. That will change their mind.

I recall my drafting professor saying, "If a drawing can be interpreted more than one way, it's wrong."

You're probably 99% there. 20 miles on a handheld is a long way; I'm lucky to get five miles here in the swamp. As others have said, your answer is a slightly better antenna.

Triple the price?

The only license that has value to me is the General (given that I can't get to HF with a Tech license) but I'm not going to take two tests to get there. One yes, two no. I'm a registered PE with a masters degree so testing isn't something I find intimidating. I'll jump through one hoop, but not two. There is a better way to do this. For example, I hold an advanced certification in a specialized field. To get that one does not pass a beginners exam, then an intermediate exam and finally the advanced exam. One enters the program by taking an assessment exam which establishes a level of certification -- beginner, intermediate or advanced. I first tested in at the intermediate level, studied more and then passed the same exam at the advanced level. One exam. The FCC should give all applicants the Extra exam and issue appropriate licenses based on performance. If the applicant wants a higher-level license they can study and take the exam again. One exam.

^Thanks for that. Great story. Congratulations on your achievements. I'll comment more later, timeline and all...