JCase

Shannon = That’s very kind of you, thank you for the offer, I’ll definitely keep you in mind if I run into a problem.
Still waiting on two additional parts before I can start the build attempt.

Hey guys,
 
WRXE944 = Since this is a portable intercom system I plan on using it with my Kenwood mounted in a noisy fire truck - hence the reason I purchased the intercom. I seriously doubt the FAA will have any issues with that.
BoxCar = I purchased this entire used (looks & performs like new) system with two practically new headsets for under $150. I refuse to pay the outrages prices of the equipment from pretty much ANY U.S. based company. I'm all for making a profit but the mark-up that they place on their equipment is shameful.
Sshannon = I am not very good at building anything related to communications equipment and I lost my good friend (in the amature radio world he would be referred to as an ELMER) last year. He was the only person (other than the awesome folks on this website) that I could go to for help/guidance and to be honest, I don't really enjoy building this sort of project BUT.......That's exactly what I am going to attempt. I've already purchased the PJ-055 & PJ-068 female panel mount connectors for the double plug lead of the intercom to plug into (instead of modifying the intercoms connections), a DB25 connector to plug into the radio's accessory port and just in case I need to use the front mic port, a RJ45 connector. Now it's just waiting for my orders to arrive and me, not having much of a clue as to what I am doing, trying to figure out what wire to connect to where and hope I don't short, burn up, blow up the radio and that my contraption will work properly. Only one way to find out.
I'll post an update either way in a few weeks. Thanks for the suggestions everyone. 

Greetings all,
My apologies for not replying sooner. My schedule has been a bit crazy and I just now had the time to check for any replies.That's not really the answer I was hoping for but I can't say that I'm surprised.
Thank you "gortex2" and "TheSidewinder" for replying with all the info, it's greatly appreciated. 

Although I myself don’t use and am not a fan of roger beeps, if you have the option on your radios to turn off “squelch tale” and you have family members or friends that are new to radio, the roger beep actually serves a valid purpose of signifying that the transmission has ended. We shouldn’t belittle or berate anyone that chooses to use them. If it bothers you that much simply listen to a different frequency. The roger beep can be a very useful and helpful tool at times but regardless of that, each and every operator is able to decide for themselves whether to enable or disable the feature on their radios. 
Stay healthy, well, safe and in spite of the roger beeps, happy !
JC

Thanks to everyone that replied and offered suggestions.
 
considering this thread closed

If you find the need for a repeater, and you choose the Retevis RT97, you could use (if the farm has this) the grain bin tower which most likely has electrical service at the top platform for fans and augurs. Place your weatherproof RT97 repeater and antenna at the top of the structure (with minimal feed line) and you should easily realize significant results. Just a thought.
 
Good luck with your quest.
 
JC
 
woops ! Just realized I already posted a reply prior to today.........my bad

Hey Radioguy7268 & kb2ztx,
 
Thanks for replying and enlightening me. I was hoping for better news but it’s all good. I’ll continue to keep my eyes open for a good, used MTR2000 at a decent price. It would seem that the majority of owners know just how good they are and the prices for used units stays up there. I already own three of the R1225, one RKR1225 and a Hytera RD982 but it’s not advisable to run any of the 1225’s at full power so running all of them at 25-27 watts after the duplexers and the Hytera at 43 after duplexer. Wanting a reliable 100% duty cycle @ 50 watts and the only make & model that I’m aware of that has a great track record, is the MTR2000 but I’ll never know for sure unless I ask those folks like yourselves, who have the knowledge.
 
Thanks again for your replies and information. Stay safe
 
JC

The XPR is built like an old school radio. Its basically got 2 mobile radios inside with special firmware. Alot of times they burn up the TX radio so guys swap them around. All the ones we had went thru an external PA to keep the radios from. I'd probably grab the R1225 before an  XPR for GMRS. The only + the XPR will allow is DMR on Ham and Commercial channels.
 

The XPR8400 is decent, but it is nothing more than two XPR mobiles in a box. The transmit brick has an extra set of fins attached to aid in cooling, but I wouldn't call it 100% duty cycle at high power.  I wouldn't even call it 100% duty cycle at 25 watts, but I wouldn't be scared to run one for GMRS at 25 watts for 2 or 3 hours of transmit time per day.
If you're looking for something smaller that will truly run 100% duty cycle at high power with  digital capabilities, check out the SLR5700. I have yet to replace one of those because it burned up. 
If you want something for GMRS that's similar in price to the XPR8400 and is truly 100% duty cycle - check out the analog MTR2000. 

I am in complete support of the GMRS community. With that said, THIS IS NOT AMATEUR RADIO (HAM) !.
Just to be perfectly clear, again, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio and was/is not designed/created as such.
Nowhere that I have read, is it my responsibility to promote, encourage or even support GMRS use whether it be for family, business, personal or at the hobby level of use. That would be better served in the Amateur (HAM) radio classification and it's something they do quite well. I support and commend the HAM's for the time, expense and dedication they have and continue to perform at. I whole heartedly support their mission. I also can't thank them enough for their OUTSTANDING work and support of the citizens, emergency services agencies, infrastructure, beit power, water, red cross and the list goes on,  during major incidents such as hurricanes, wildland fires and other manmade and natural disasters. The amount of money, time, training and dedication these folks invest is unbelievable and GREATLY APPRECIATED !.   My hat is off to each and every operator . 
 
However, again I say, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio, was not created by the FCC as such and the rules governing its use do not reflect such, so why is it always compared to and "expected to be" just like the Amateur service.
If you prefer the way repeaters are operated in the Amateur field, then by all means choose and use that spectrum. If GMRS is a better fit for your needs and expectations, please feel free to utilize GMRS. The same goes for the Business classification and the rest. Understand (which requires you to take the time to read) the intended purpose and acceptable use and practices of this spectrum and you'll save yourself and the rest of us the possible aggravation and possible heart ache, associated with potentially choosing the wrong classification. Your failure to do so should not result in me being expected to and receive ridicule if I don't, conform to "your vision or expectation" of GMRS.
I placed my repeater in service to serve the needs of myself, my family, my friends and my team, all of whom are current GMRS license holders. As a courtesy, let me say that again, as a "courtesy", I decided to offer access to, with my prior permission, other local, licensed users, that felt they could benefit from the use of this repeater. Why limit access to permission only and local only ? This checks several boxes on my list. First, I want to verify that the person or persons using my repeater are in fact currently licensed, local, and have a specific need to support their request. Second, it's another tool in the quest to keep control over the type of use my repeater will be utilized for and as a responsible and liable repeater owner, this is one of many ways I attempt to accomplish this. Another reason is notifications, if I need to take the repeater off the air for any reason or there's a problem that all users should be aware of, I am able to make notification to ALL operators that I have granted permission to by a group email. Yes, I keep a current list of everyone permission has been granted to as well as all of those who have requested access but were denied along with the reason for denial. 
I have spent and continue to spend a substantial amount of money to place this system on and keep it on the air and while it is still not able to deliver an optimum coverage area, continue to explore the possibilities for improvement almost daily. As most are already aware, every time that repeater is keyed up, it's causing additional wear and shortening the life of the equipment. So, unless someone has an unlimited amount of disposable income available to them it would only make sense that a GMRS repeater owner could & would take steps to limit the amount of unnecessary wear to their system in an attempt to lesson the maintenance and inevitable replacement cost, attempt to limit the amount of down time and most of all ensure the system is operational when they need it.  This is one of the reasons that I clearly state in my listing that THIS system is not a "social networking" system. I not only discourage but will revoke permission to someone who decides they're going to start a lengthy transmission on what they had for dinner last night or what they watched on television etc. as this not the intended use I want for my equipment and causes the repeater to be tied up unnecessarily while causing  the most damage (over time) to any system. Both are issues I am attempting to avoid by clearly conveying my rules in advance and if you don't like my rules, there's nothing written anywhere that says you "MUST" use my repeater. There are other repeater frequencies you can choose (or if you wanted to be a less than neighborly user (a jerk) you could choose the same frequency) and if there are no other repeaters available in your area and you don't like my rules, you are more than welcome to purchase, install and maintain your very own system where you too can make up the rules for accessing and utilizing your repeater. Yet another reason why I state once again, know and understand the different types of licensing/spectrum available and choose accordingly.
 
I hope everyone that does signs up for and use GMRS has a positive experience and if GMRS is right for you, would encourage you to pursue obtaining your license. Just make sure you are choosing the correct category/spectrum for your likes & needs first.  Good luck to all, stay healthy, well, safe and happy.
 
Respectfully submitted,
John 

I am in complete support of the GMRS community. With that said, THIS IS NOT AMATEUR RADIO (HAM) !.
Just to be perfectly clear, again, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio and was/is not designed/created as such.
Nowhere that I have read, is it my responsibility to promote, encourage or even support GMRS use whether it be for family, business, personal or at the hobby level of use. That would be better served in the Amateur (HAM) radio classification and it's something they do quite well. I support and commend the HAM's for the time, expense and dedication they have and continue to perform at. I whole heartedly support their mission. I also can't thank them enough for their OUTSTANDING work and support of the citizens, emergency services agencies, infrastructure, beit power, water, red cross and the list goes on,  during major incidents such as hurricanes, wildland fires and other manmade and natural disasters. The amount of money, time, training and dedication these folks invest is unbelievable and GREATLY APPRECIATED !.   My hat is off to each and every operator . 
 
However, again I say, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio, was not created by the FCC as such and the rules governing its use do not reflect such, so why is it always compared to and "expected to be" just like the Amateur service.
If you prefer the way repeaters are operated in the Amateur field, then by all means choose and use that spectrum. If GMRS is a better fit for your needs and expectations, please feel free to utilize GMRS. The same goes for the Business classification and the rest. Understand (which requires you to take the time to read) the intended purpose and acceptable use and practices of this spectrum and you'll save yourself and the rest of us the possible aggravation and possible heart ache, associated with potentially choosing the wrong classification. Your failure to do so should not result in me being expected to and receive ridicule if I don't, conform to "your vision or expectation" of GMRS.
I placed my repeater in service to serve the needs of myself, my family, my friends and my team, all of whom are current GMRS license holders. As a courtesy, let me say that again, as a "courtesy", I decided to offer access to, with my prior permission, other local, licensed users, that felt they could benefit from the use of this repeater. Why limit access to permission only and local only ? This checks several boxes on my list. First, I want to verify that the person or persons using my repeater are in fact currently licensed, local, and have a specific need to support their request. Second, it's another tool in the quest to keep control over the type of use my repeater will be utilized for and as a responsible and liable repeater owner, this is one of many ways I attempt to accomplish this. Another reason is notifications, if I need to take the repeater off the air for any reason or there's a problem that all users should be aware of, I am able to make notification to ALL operators that I have granted permission to by a group email. Yes, I keep a current list of everyone permission has been granted to as well as all of those who have requested access but were denied along with the reason for denial. 
I have spent and continue to spend a substantial amount of money to place this system on and keep it on the air and while it is still not able to deliver an optimum coverage area, continue to explore the possibilities for improvement almost daily. As most are already aware, every time that repeater is keyed up, it's causing additional wear and shortening the life of the equipment. So, unless someone has an unlimited amount of disposable income available to them it would only make sense that a GMRS repeater owner could & would take steps to limit the amount of unnecessary wear to their system in an attempt to lesson the maintenance and inevitable replacement cost, attempt to limit the amount of down time and most of all ensure the system is operational when they need it.  This is one of the reasons that I clearly state in my listing that THIS system is not a "social networking" system. I not only discourage but will revoke permission to someone who decides they're going to start a lengthy transmission on what they had for dinner last night or what they watched on television etc. as this not the intended use I want for my equipment and causes the repeater to be tied up unnecessarily while causing  the most damage (over time) to any system. Both are issues I am attempting to avoid by clearly conveying my rules in advance and if you don't like my rules, there's nothing written anywhere that says you "MUST" use my repeater. There are other repeater frequencies you can choose (or if you wanted to be a less than neighborly user (a jerk) you could choose the same frequency) and if there are no other repeaters available in your area and you don't like my rules, you are more than welcome to purchase, install and maintain your very own system where you too can make up the rules for accessing and utilizing your repeater. Yet another reason why I state once again, know and understand the different types of licensing/spectrum available and choose accordingly.
 
I hope everyone that does signs up for and use GMRS has a positive experience and if GMRS is right for you, would encourage you to pursue obtaining your license. Just make sure you are choosing the correct category/spectrum for your likes & needs first.  Good luck to all, stay healthy, well, safe and happy.
 
Respectfully submitted,
John 

Those are good questions:
The least expensive, usually from China, hand-held radios ("HT"), use what is known as SOC technology: System on a Chip - The whole radio is virtually built into one chip.
Most of the more expensive radios (usually 3X the cost and more), have additional circuitry known as a superheterodyne circuit.  This gives the receiver both more selectivity (the ability to differentiate between two powerful signals on two close frequencies) and sensitivity (the ability to pull in more distant and/or weaker signals).
In simplex mode: one HT is transmitting on a frequency and the other HT is receiving on the same frequency. There is no second transmission to overwhelm the receiver of the second HT; only the one signal.
In repeater mode, the first HT is transmitting on 467.abcd up to the repeater; and the second HT is receiving the retransmitted reception signal from the repeater on 462.abcd.
The second HT must differentiate between two received signals: the signal you want to receive on 462.abcd from the repeater many miles away, and the HTs more powerful signal on 467.abcd.  Hence the HTs signal washes out the reception of the repeater's signal on the second HT.*
Superhetrodynes have that ability; SOC's do not.
How much is far enough away?  Differing factors are at play here: The power of the HT transmitter; the distance between the HTs and the distance and power from the repeater.
Experimentation will help you determine the answer.
*NOTE: this is why when two inexpensive HTs are bundled together with the appropriate cabling and settings to act like an inexpensive semi-portable repeater, they must be on the two separate Ham bands: 2 meters (144 MHz) and 70 cm (440 MHz) to avoid this washout effect.

This is a list of speaker mics that I have personally purchased and tested along with any pros or cons. I hope this helps.
 
https://www.amazon.com/Compact-Reinforced-Arcshell-Shoulder-Microphone/dp/B01N5LJ0YR/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=commountain&qid=1628179895&sr=8-3   
Pros: Small but very loud. Treble seems elevated but this is (IMO) the part that increases the volume and performs well in high noise areas when it comes to hearing received transmissions. Reinforced cord with Kevlar fiber for increased life. Offers 3.5mm ear bud jack.
Cons: Not water or even rain proof 
I have several of these and are used by Fire/EMS team 
 
https://www.amazon.com/Speaker-Reinforced-Arcshell-Shoulder-Microphone/dp/B07MX4J3W8/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=commountain&qid=1628180226&sr=8-4
Pros: Heavy Duty waterproof with reinforced Kevlar cord and reinforced strain relief on both ends. Offers 3.5mm ear bud jack
These are the speaker mics I own in the greatest of numbers and my number one pick. 
Cons: Currently have none IMO.
 
https://www.amazon.com/Platinum-Rainproof-Shoulder-Speaker-Kenwood/dp/B073ZZ3DDD/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=xfox+solutions&qid=1628181068&sr=8-1
Pros: Equal to the Commountain in ALL features at a much lower price. You get 2 for the price of one basically.
Cons: Currently have none IMO.
 
https://www.amazon.com/BTECH-QHM22-Platinum-Rainproof-Shoulder/dp/B00Z4X3MM6/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=BTECH+speaker+mic&qid=1628181246&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExVUNSUFdGVDZGN0U3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjgyMTQyVThVWENVRlFYOU1GJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA1MzI0MzZOMENOQkQ1SDBHM0Mmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
Pros: IP54 Rainproof, High impact casing and High Grade re-enforced cabling but see cons. All in all a decent option
Cons: both the casing and cable seems a bit lighter than the Commountain but performs well
 
https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-Shoulder-Speaker-Compatible-Baofeng/dp/B01MTW1AQN/ref=sr_1_15?dchild=1&keywords=Retevis+speaker+mic&qid=1628181532&sr=8-15
Pros: Equal to the Commountain in all features
Cons: Currently have none - AVOID ALL OTHER RETEVIS MICS EXCEPT THE POWERED MIC IN THE NEXT LISTING.
 
https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-Shoulder-Adjustable-Handheld-Arcshell/dp/B085LZRZNL/ref=sr_1_18?dchild=1&keywords=Retevis+speaker+mic&qid=1628181656&sr=8-18
Pros: Equal in construction to Commountain. A little larger head unit than most other speaker mics but nothing outrageous. IF YOU USE YOUR RADIO IN HIGH NOISE CONDITIONS AND STRUGGLE TO HEAR TRANSMISSIONS, THIS SHOULD WORK FOR YOU.
Cons: Unit amplifies received audio requiring a power source which is provided with the "built in" rechargeable battery. Current models do not allow for replacement of the battery so there's no way to swap it out for extra low use or replacement when the battery reaches end of life but, at this price you can just buy two and rotate them as needed. I have a nephew that is an engineer on a railroad and has struggled to hear his HT in the cab of the locomotive. I gifted him one of these and he swears by it.
 
If you're looking for headsets, these are the ones I use and would recommend.
 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017KQCYGO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pros: Absolutely the best quality and most comfortable of all (over eight different brands & models) the lightweight over the head brands/models tested and used. Part of the reason is the flat/smooth ear piece, the double band and amount of flax vs rigidity. I can't praise these enough, we are more then pleased (myself and my team members that choose to wear them) how great these are, especially for the price. They're not always available but you can't go wrong with this headset.  
 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084Z76GY3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pros: So far, great medium duty headset. Seems to be well made and all testing has been positive. Decent comfort for this style of headset but we have only tested these headsets and have not had the opportunity to use them in real world or field settings.
Cons: Currently have none IMO
 
I am not affiliated with any manufacturers or selling agents for any of the products I have listed. I purchased all equipment with my own money and personally tested over 26 speaker mics and 10 headsets. Above are the results regarding my personal testing and experience along with my team's input. There are other brands and models that have performed decent but only the ones listed would I feel comfortable recommending. I hope this will help and wish you good luck with correcting the USPS mess.
 
JC
 
 

I see this is a bit old but in case the OP checks back:

I would second the RT97. I have one running on a mountain side here in Alaska and get 25-30 miles of coverage to HT. An RT97 setup at your centrally located house with an antenna put up above roof level would work wonders for you. If simplex is working from one side to the other at ground level, having the repeater in the middle sounds like it would give you exactly what you are looking. There doesn't appear to be a need to place a repeater antenna 6 million miles in the air. A few feet above the roof of your home sounds like it would be more than enough to accomplish the goal you're trying to accomplish. I would be willing to bet that the RT97 set on low power and some HTs set on low power would set you up nice. Advantage to low power use is much extended battery life on the HTs and having the option to push to high power if you find an area with spotty coverage.
 
The RT97 is weather sealed and small so you can place it very close to the antenna and not worry about loss from long coax runs. 
Something as simple as the RT97 feeding a mobile antenna with a ground plane kit via some RG400 would work just fine. Are their better setups out there...for sure...but this works well for what it is. There is no need to over complicate the system for some cases.
RT97
https://www.retevis.com/rt97-portable-repeater-power-amplifier-uhf/#A9150A
Ground Plane Kit
https://www.amazon.com/TRAM-1465-Mobile-Ground-Plane/dp/B004PGMFGM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tram+ground+plane+kit&qid=1627330792&sr=8-1
Simple Antenna (I have one and works well, the cutting guide that comes with is accurate)
https://www.amazon.com/Browning-450MHz-470MHz-3dBd-Mobile-Antenna/dp/B00IDTJ2EA/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=browning+uhf&qid=1627330865&sr=8-2
RG400 Cable in various lengths
https://www.ebay.com/itm/132890965676?hash=item1ef0eb36ac:g:QWgAAOSwaPNcFyCP
 
 

I’ll add my two cents just in case it could help. Depending on the type of farming the OP operates, if you have grain silos the repeater antenna (along with any other necessary equipment) could be mounted on top of the highest point. This would eliminate the need for the added expense of a tower or extension pole mast. The repeater itself (enclosed in the appropriate weather proof housing) could possibly be mounted close by which would shorten your feed line requirements. 
I’m sure the OP was hoping for a simple reply with a simple solution (since no experience and little knowledge of communication equipment), unfortunately it’s a little more complicated (isn’t that the truth for life in general ?).
 
All suggestions made have their merit. Hopefully the OP and anyone else that reads this post will be able to take away enough information to allow them to choose the option that best works for their needs. 
 
JC

Greetings Gentlemen,
 
 I misunderstood my interpretation of the FCC rules regarding station identification, thank you for clearing that up.  
Now that I understand correctly, it makes perfect sense lol. As always, thanks for taking the time to reply as it is greatly appreciated.
 
JC

There is no requirement for ID from the repeater. It is the user who is supposed to ID. Therefore no reason the RT97 should have it to get Part 95.

If the repeater is to be used ONLY by members of your family, who are covered by your GMRS license, then the repeater does not have to identify itself, as long as the users follow the normal GMRS RULES.
The RULES say a GMRS user must identify using their (your) callsign every 15 minutes, and/or when concluding a conversation. 
THEREFORE, the repeater is sufficiently identified by your callsign.
If you can wait, rumor has it that a new version of the RT97 will accommodate a third party controller.

I purchased my Kenwood USB cables from bluemax49ers on eBay. If you send him a request immediately after purchasing, he’ll email you the link for the free software download and all for approximately $20. You can’t go wrong.
 

I am in complete support of the GMRS community. With that said, THIS IS NOT AMATEUR RADIO (HAM) !.
Just to be perfectly clear, again, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio and was/is not designed/created as such.
Nowhere that I have read, is it my responsibility to promote, encourage or even support GMRS use whether it be for family, business, personal or at the hobby level of use. That would be better served in the Amateur (HAM) radio classification and it's something they do quite well. I support and commend the HAM's for the time, expense and dedication they have and continue to perform at. I whole heartedly support their mission. I also can't thank them enough for their OUTSTANDING work and support of the citizens, emergency services agencies, infrastructure, beit power, water, red cross and the list goes on,  during major incidents such as hurricanes, wildland fires and other manmade and natural disasters. The amount of money, time, training and dedication these folks invest is unbelievable and GREATLY APPRECIATED !.   My hat is off to each and every operator . 
 
However, again I say, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio, was not created by the FCC as such and the rules governing its use do not reflect such, so why is it always compared to and "expected to be" just like the Amateur service.
If you prefer the way repeaters are operated in the Amateur field, then by all means choose and use that spectrum. If GMRS is a better fit for your needs and expectations, please feel free to utilize GMRS. The same goes for the Business classification and the rest. Understand (which requires you to take the time to read) the intended purpose and acceptable use and practices of this spectrum and you'll save yourself and the rest of us the possible aggravation and possible heart ache, associated with potentially choosing the wrong classification. Your failure to do so should not result in me being expected to and receive ridicule if I don't, conform to "your vision or expectation" of GMRS.
I placed my repeater in service to serve the needs of myself, my family, my friends and my team, all of whom are current GMRS license holders. As a courtesy, let me say that again, as a "courtesy", I decided to offer access to, with my prior permission, other local, licensed users, that felt they could benefit from the use of this repeater. Why limit access to permission only and local only ? This checks several boxes on my list. First, I want to verify that the person or persons using my repeater are in fact currently licensed, local, and have a specific need to support their request. Second, it's another tool in the quest to keep control over the type of use my repeater will be utilized for and as a responsible and liable repeater owner, this is one of many ways I attempt to accomplish this. Another reason is notifications, if I need to take the repeater off the air for any reason or there's a problem that all users should be aware of, I am able to make notification to ALL operators that I have granted permission to by a group email. Yes, I keep a current list of everyone permission has been granted to as well as all of those who have requested access but were denied along with the reason for denial. 
I have spent and continue to spend a substantial amount of money to place this system on and keep it on the air and while it is still not able to deliver an optimum coverage area, continue to explore the possibilities for improvement almost daily. As most are already aware, every time that repeater is keyed up, it's causing additional wear and shortening the life of the equipment. So, unless someone has an unlimited amount of disposable income available to them it would only make sense that a GMRS repeater owner could & would take steps to limit the amount of unnecessary wear to their system in an attempt to lesson the maintenance and inevitable replacement cost, attempt to limit the amount of down time and most of all ensure the system is operational when they need it.  This is one of the reasons that I clearly state in my listing that THIS system is not a "social networking" system. I not only discourage but will revoke permission to someone who decides they're going to start a lengthy transmission on what they had for dinner last night or what they watched on television etc. as this not the intended use I want for my equipment and causes the repeater to be tied up unnecessarily while causing  the most damage (over time) to any system. Both are issues I am attempting to avoid by clearly conveying my rules in advance and if you don't like my rules, there's nothing written anywhere that says you "MUST" use my repeater. There are other repeater frequencies you can choose (or if you wanted to be a less than neighborly user (a jerk) you could choose the same frequency) and if there are no other repeaters available in your area and you don't like my rules, you are more than welcome to purchase, install and maintain your very own system where you too can make up the rules for accessing and utilizing your repeater. Yet another reason why I state once again, know and understand the different types of licensing/spectrum available and choose accordingly.
 
I hope everyone that does signs up for and use GMRS has a positive experience and if GMRS is right for you, would encourage you to pursue obtaining your license. Just make sure you are choosing the correct category/spectrum for your likes & needs first.  Good luck to all, stay healthy, well, safe and happy.
 
Respectfully submitted,
John 

I am in complete support of the GMRS community. With that said, THIS IS NOT AMATEUR RADIO (HAM) !.
Just to be perfectly clear, again, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio and was/is not designed/created as such.
Nowhere that I have read, is it my responsibility to promote, encourage or even support GMRS use whether it be for family, business, personal or at the hobby level of use. That would be better served in the Amateur (HAM) radio classification and it's something they do quite well. I support and commend the HAM's for the time, expense and dedication they have and continue to perform at. I whole heartedly support their mission. I also can't thank them enough for their OUTSTANDING work and support of the citizens, emergency services agencies, infrastructure, beit power, water, red cross and the list goes on,  during major incidents such as hurricanes, wildland fires and other manmade and natural disasters. The amount of money, time, training and dedication these folks invest is unbelievable and GREATLY APPRECIATED !.   My hat is off to each and every operator . 
 
However, again I say, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio, was not created by the FCC as such and the rules governing its use do not reflect such, so why is it always compared to and "expected to be" just like the Amateur service.
If you prefer the way repeaters are operated in the Amateur field, then by all means choose and use that spectrum. If GMRS is a better fit for your needs and expectations, please feel free to utilize GMRS. The same goes for the Business classification and the rest. Understand (which requires you to take the time to read) the intended purpose and acceptable use and practices of this spectrum and you'll save yourself and the rest of us the possible aggravation and possible heart ache, associated with potentially choosing the wrong classification. Your failure to do so should not result in me being expected to and receive ridicule if I don't, conform to "your vision or expectation" of GMRS.
I placed my repeater in service to serve the needs of myself, my family, my friends and my team, all of whom are current GMRS license holders. As a courtesy, let me say that again, as a "courtesy", I decided to offer access to, with my prior permission, other local, licensed users, that felt they could benefit from the use of this repeater. Why limit access to permission only and local only ? This checks several boxes on my list. First, I want to verify that the person or persons using my repeater are in fact currently licensed, local, and have a specific need to support their request. Second, it's another tool in the quest to keep control over the type of use my repeater will be utilized for and as a responsible and liable repeater owner, this is one of many ways I attempt to accomplish this. Another reason is notifications, if I need to take the repeater off the air for any reason or there's a problem that all users should be aware of, I am able to make notification to ALL operators that I have granted permission to by a group email. Yes, I keep a current list of everyone permission has been granted to as well as all of those who have requested access but were denied along with the reason for denial. 
I have spent and continue to spend a substantial amount of money to place this system on and keep it on the air and while it is still not able to deliver an optimum coverage area, continue to explore the possibilities for improvement almost daily. As most are already aware, every time that repeater is keyed up, it's causing additional wear and shortening the life of the equipment. So, unless someone has an unlimited amount of disposable income available to them it would only make sense that a GMRS repeater owner could & would take steps to limit the amount of unnecessary wear to their system in an attempt to lesson the maintenance and inevitable replacement cost, attempt to limit the amount of down time and most of all ensure the system is operational when they need it.  This is one of the reasons that I clearly state in my listing that THIS system is not a "social networking" system. I not only discourage but will revoke permission to someone who decides they're going to start a lengthy transmission on what they had for dinner last night or what they watched on television etc. as this not the intended use I want for my equipment and causes the repeater to be tied up unnecessarily while causing  the most damage (over time) to any system. Both are issues I am attempting to avoid by clearly conveying my rules in advance and if you don't like my rules, there's nothing written anywhere that says you "MUST" use my repeater. There are other repeater frequencies you can choose (or if you wanted to be a less than neighborly user (a jerk) you could choose the same frequency) and if there are no other repeaters available in your area and you don't like my rules, you are more than welcome to purchase, install and maintain your very own system where you too can make up the rules for accessing and utilizing your repeater. Yet another reason why I state once again, know and understand the different types of licensing/spectrum available and choose accordingly.
 
I hope everyone that does signs up for and use GMRS has a positive experience and if GMRS is right for you, would encourage you to pursue obtaining your license. Just make sure you are choosing the correct category/spectrum for your likes & needs first.  Good luck to all, stay healthy, well, safe and happy.
 
Respectfully submitted,
John 

I am in complete support of the GMRS community. With that said, THIS IS NOT AMATEUR RADIO (HAM) !.
Just to be perfectly clear, again, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio and was/is not designed/created as such.
Nowhere that I have read, is it my responsibility to promote, encourage or even support GMRS use whether it be for family, business, personal or at the hobby level of use. That would be better served in the Amateur (HAM) radio classification and it's something they do quite well. I support and commend the HAM's for the time, expense and dedication they have and continue to perform at. I whole heartedly support their mission. I also can't thank them enough for their OUTSTANDING work and support of the citizens, emergency services agencies, infrastructure, beit power, water, red cross and the list goes on,  during major incidents such as hurricanes, wildland fires and other manmade and natural disasters. The amount of money, time, training and dedication these folks invest is unbelievable and GREATLY APPRECIATED !.   My hat is off to each and every operator . 
 
However, again I say, this is NOT amateur (HAM) radio, was not created by the FCC as such and the rules governing its use do not reflect such, so why is it always compared to and "expected to be" just like the Amateur service.
If you prefer the way repeaters are operated in the Amateur field, then by all means choose and use that spectrum. If GMRS is a better fit for your needs and expectations, please feel free to utilize GMRS. The same goes for the Business classification and the rest. Understand (which requires you to take the time to read) the intended purpose and acceptable use and practices of this spectrum and you'll save yourself and the rest of us the possible aggravation and possible heart ache, associated with potentially choosing the wrong classification. Your failure to do so should not result in me being expected to and receive ridicule if I don't, conform to "your vision or expectation" of GMRS.
I placed my repeater in service to serve the needs of myself, my family, my friends and my team, all of whom are current GMRS license holders. As a courtesy, let me say that again, as a "courtesy", I decided to offer access to, with my prior permission, other local, licensed users, that felt they could benefit from the use of this repeater. Why limit access to permission only and local only ? This checks several boxes on my list. First, I want to verify that the person or persons using my repeater are in fact currently licensed, local, and have a specific need to support their request. Second, it's another tool in the quest to keep control over the type of use my repeater will be utilized for and as a responsible and liable repeater owner, this is one of many ways I attempt to accomplish this. Another reason is notifications, if I need to take the repeater off the air for any reason or there's a problem that all users should be aware of, I am able to make notification to ALL operators that I have granted permission to by a group email. Yes, I keep a current list of everyone permission has been granted to as well as all of those who have requested access but were denied along with the reason for denial. 
I have spent and continue to spend a substantial amount of money to place this system on and keep it on the air and while it is still not able to deliver an optimum coverage area, continue to explore the possibilities for improvement almost daily. As most are already aware, every time that repeater is keyed up, it's causing additional wear and shortening the life of the equipment. So, unless someone has an unlimited amount of disposable income available to them it would only make sense that a GMRS repeater owner could & would take steps to limit the amount of unnecessary wear to their system in an attempt to lesson the maintenance and inevitable replacement cost, attempt to limit the amount of down time and most of all ensure the system is operational when they need it.  This is one of the reasons that I clearly state in my listing that THIS system is not a "social networking" system. I not only discourage but will revoke permission to someone who decides they're going to start a lengthy transmission on what they had for dinner last night or what they watched on television etc. as this not the intended use I want for my equipment and causes the repeater to be tied up unnecessarily while causing  the most damage (over time) to any system. Both are issues I am attempting to avoid by clearly conveying my rules in advance and if you don't like my rules, there's nothing written anywhere that says you "MUST" use my repeater. There are other repeater frequencies you can choose (or if you wanted to be a less than neighborly user (a jerk) you could choose the same frequency) and if there are no other repeaters available in your area and you don't like my rules, you are more than welcome to purchase, install and maintain your very own system where you too can make up the rules for accessing and utilizing your repeater. Yet another reason why I state once again, know and understand the different types of licensing/spectrum available and choose accordingly.
 
I hope everyone that does signs up for and use GMRS has a positive experience and if GMRS is right for you, would encourage you to pursue obtaining your license. Just make sure you are choosing the correct category/spectrum for your likes & needs first.  Good luck to all, stay healthy, well, safe and happy.
 
Respectfully submitted,
John 

LOL to Sbsyncro’s “state your call sign first”. Made me literally LOL so I thank you for that. ??

I'm happy GMRS overlaps with FRS. It opens things up to a lot of people that would otherwise never consider it, myself included. If I want to sit by a radio and anxiously await for somebody to talk to using only correct phraseology and not hear any kids, I'll get in to ham.
 
I think some of you might be trying to think GMRS is something it isn't. It's test free, cheap, and overlaps with FRS for a reason.

Follow up:   So the HT/mobile desense issue....was not the issue.   The problem was no one was on the radio last night when I tried.   Both are able to make the 17 plus mile trip to the repeater.   The static sounding "tail" is exactly what I was hearing from both the HT/mobile units.   From the testing I did, I learned several additional things.   I am shocked and impressed with the range this Wouxon 805 has!  Repeaters are game changers.  And lastly this forum is an invaluable info source.   Thanks for all the input!