WSGZ436

That is a lot of good information, thank you!!

Thanks for the tip on the Anytone cable. I am actually using a KPG cable.

I think not getting the programming cable to communicate is my problem. If i could connect i think all would be fine.

Trying to program 2 Kenwood TK-880s. Both radios read TEST on the display when i power them on. None of the buttons do anything other than beep. What exactly does this mean and how do i get out of test mode?

§ 95.1731 Permissible GMRS uses. The operator of a GMRS station may use that station for two-way plain language voice communications with other GMRS stations and with FRS units concerning personal or business activities. (a) Emergency communications. Any GMRS channel may be used for emergency communications or for traveler assistance. Operators of GMRS stations must, at all times and on all channels, give priority to emergency communications. (b) One-way communications. The operator of a GMRS station may use that station to transmit one-way communications: Enhanced Content - Paragraph Tools URL https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/part-95/subpart-E#p-95.1731(b) Citation 47 CFR 95.1731(b) (1) To call for help or transmit other emergency communications; (2) To provide warnings of hazardous road conditions to travelers; or, (3) To make brief test transmissions. (c) Travelers assistance. The operator of a GMRS station may transmit communications necessary to assist a traveler to reach a destination or to receive necessary services. (d) Digital data. GMRS hand-held portable units may transmit digital data containing location information, or requesting location information from one or more other GMRS or FRS units, or containing a brief text message to another specific GMRS or FRS unit. § 95.1733 Prohibited GMRS uses. (a) In addition to the prohibited uses outlined in § 95.333 of this chapter, GMRS stations must not communicate: (1) Messages in connection with any activity which is against Federal, State, or local law; (2) False or deceptive messages; (3) Coded messages or messages with hidden meanings (“10 codes” are permissible); (4) Music, whistling, sound effects or material to amuse or entertain; (5) Advertisements or offers for the sale of goods or services; (6) Advertisements for a political candidate or political campaign (messages about the campaign business may be communicated); (7) International distress signals, such as the word “Mayday” (except when on a ship, aircraft or other vehicle in immediate danger to ask for help); (8) Messages which are both conveyed by a wireline control link and transmitted by a GMRS station; (9) Messages (except emergency messages) to any station in the Amateur Radio Service, to any unauthorized station, or to any foreign station; (10) Continuous or uninterrupted transmissions, except for communications involving the immediate safety of life or property; and (11) Messages for public address systems. (12) The provision of § 95.333 apply, however, if the licensee is a corporation and the license so indicates, it may use its GMRS system to furnish non-profit radio communication service to its parent corporation, to another subsidiary of the same parent, or to its own subsidiary. (b) GMRS stations must not be used for one-way communications other than those listed in § 95.1731(b). Initial transmissions to establish two-way communications and data transmissions listed in § 95.1731(d) are not considered to be one-way communications for the purposes of this section.

GMRS is General Mobile Radio Service. Its not just for family. It over laps on the FRS but that is just incidental. I hear schools, hospitals, and businesses when I scan the band. I don't believe "rag chewing" is misuse. Get on the air and meet people!