haneysa

If we are being picky on Part 95 rules...then no part 90 radios are type-certified for GMRS (unless they are certified for 90 AND 95). Nothing in the CFR authorizes 90 on 95, even though it seems to be a "generally accepted practice". If you have gone into that area of a generally accepted practice, then user-programming and FPP would certainly fall under the same line of reasoning. Personally, I believe that the most important thing, and the main purpose of the regulation is to ensure that your emissions match the limits for the band you are operating on. What if you built your own radio from a kit or from scratch (as Hams have done)? Programming your radio to operate in the same manner as a part 95 one would be complying with the spirit of the law, if not the letter.

Can you run coax out of the basement?Getting an antenna out of the building (and as high as possible) is going to make a great improvement.an Ed Fong ladder line J-Pole could be attached to the side of a building (making it very deaf for 180 degrees).

I have the BTECH GMRS-V1. It is FCC Part 95 compliant. Mine do not put out the 5 watt limit for handheld radios. The put out around 3 watts on high (on my MFJ cross-needle SWR meter). They can be "programmed" from the front panel or with a special USB interface cord (same one as for the Baofeng UV-5R and BF-888S). Motorola, Kenwood,Vertex, ICOM ( and a few others) make radios that can be programmed to operate on GMRS,and that are also Part 95 certified, however, programming can be tricky, and might be best left to a radio shop. I am sure some others on the forum will let you know if they have done this. I know that these "name brand"radios are going to be more rugged than the GMRS-V1, and they will probably put out 4-5 watts. I am very satisfied with the GMRS-V1,especially with the price.

I recently contacted Midland to describe the need for a "plug-n-play" GMRS repeater. I listed all of the features that I desired, and added that making it "portable" and operable on 12VDC would be a big plus. I even suggested that they might spec-out an existing model being produced in the PRC. I even have a name for the dream machine....the Midland MXT-R50. Front-panel programmable, 50W, integral duplexer, RF circulator,etc (if necessary). If you would like to see such produced, contact Midland!Also feel free to add to the features that you would like to see. While you are at it, ask Midland to produce a GMRS/repeater-capable HT that is type-accepted!

I bought the programming software for my GMRS-V1 from RT Systems. I already had the cable (same as UV-5r). I have been very satisfied with all of the products that I purchased from RT Systems. Try it,you'll like it.

This is not so much a reply, but a request for assistance with TK-880s. I recently bought 5 of these from ebay (supposedly trusted seller). When I power these radios up, the only thing on the disply is "TA" and "TEST". Nothing changes when I press any buttons. I do hear tones when I press buttons, but that is all. Are this radios damaged or would a kenwood tech be able to fix them? I was hoping to self-program them for GMRS. Thanks for any pointers.