[GMRS newb - need some guidance]

i just ask for a radio check. when i reply to someone saying testing they usually say they are just testing equipment and dont want me to give them a signal report. like i do when im programing a radio. I use another radio to verify. i just have the courtesy not to use the repeater for that. 

thank you

[GMRS newb - need some guidance]

If I am just testing my link, I usually key up and say "This is <call_sign > testing.  No response needed."  Sometimes people will give me a signal report anyway.

 

As far as the shift... if you are only trying to talk to someone without the repeater in the process, you need to disable the shift/offset so the other station will be able to hear you.

thank you

[GMRS newb - need some guidance]

You should key up the repeater, state your call sign, then say something along the lines of "testing...testing". Some people instead of saying "testing" ask for a radio check.

 

Whatever you do the FCC requires you to identify with your call sign.

 

Just keying up the repeater to hear the squelch tail and not ID is called "ker-chucking" the repeater and is bad practice, yet you hear people doing it. Some repeaters have anti ker-chucking protection where the transmitter doesn't key up right away, there is a slight time delay. Others need to detect some real audio before going into transmit mode.

Thank you.

When I transmit my call sign and say "testing...testing" what should I expect the return to be if I've successfully hit the repeater?

[GMRS newb - need some guidance]

Hello Everyone,

I recently acquired my grms license with the intent of it being a gateway into amateur radio( let the radio addiction begin). I'm attempting to hit my first repeater.

 

1. When attempting to contact the repeater as a test, what is the appropriate way to do so. Is it just a matter of keying the mike to get a response or should I broadcast my call sign?

 

2. Radio setup. As I understand it, I should use a offset of +5.000mhrz and then any ctcss or dpl value specific to the repeater. Should the  the offset be used when not attempting to use the repeater and just making contact locally.

 

Any additional guidance would be appreciated.

 

Thank you for your time and patience as I claw my way up the learning curve.

 

Regards,

John

 

[Largest GMRS Base Station Antenna Avalible?]

No recommendations, but I'm in your neck of the woods if you want any testers:)

 

Thanks

John