pctechfl

This reminds me the good old days of the cb radio era, rough but functional. Experimenting with everything

Maybe is time for me to get my HamRadio certification....?

Maybe is time for me to get my HamRadio certification....?

two CDM750, a 29 dollar programming cable, a 10 dollar repeater link cable, a used UHF duplexer, a few feet of RG213 cable, two 10 feet metal pipe sections, and a Laird FG4500 UHF unity antenna atop those 20 feet.
 
That will give you one of the best FM GMRS repeater options, for a fairly modest price tag.
 
G.
 
EDIT: Forgot the 20 Amp 12VDC power supply.

Something else you might consider is asking why there are no repeaters in your area? It’s quite possible that there are not enough, or even any, GMRS users other than yourself. So, I would suggest that unless you have your own needs for a repeater you might want to reconsider your project. On the other hand, if you do have a need, and then would also welcome other local users, should there be any, then that well seem to be a reasonable validation of the plan.

To add onto Berkinet's post, you should also consider what you may wish to do in the future, plus how you plan to mount the system, as well as the region where the repeater will be used. Will the repeater be strictly in one spot, or will you need portability for camping and such? Do you plan to link your repeater to the internet?

No-matter what, do your research. Plan out everything and then reevaluate that plan a couple times so your ready when you finally make purchases.

 

 

Define inexpensive.  In all honesty, you should expect to pay a minimum of $500 to get things up and running.  It is not just the radio. You need all of the following:
Repeater (receiver + transmitter and power supply) duplexer duplexer tuning antenna, mast or support, and coax location The Retevis RT97 sells for $400 (plus tax if applicable). But, you'd still need an antenna, coax, etc.  They have a package deal: repeater, coax and antenna, for $475 (plus tax).