[Morse Code]

On 5/6/2021 at 7:56 PM, mitzvah said:

How can I give my call sign using Morse code? 

I have been using Voice Memos (IPhone), but as I'm hearing impaired i can't hear it 90% of the time.

Is there away to add it to a Btech 50X-1 automatically? 

Thank you for your help. 

Mitzvah,

 

I am interested in learning Morse Code. Any links to reading materials, tutorials that you can provide would be beneficial. Thanks. 

[My mobile radio and antenna install]

That is a great install! I wonder... would that be a great topic to start? Titled: "Show me your install?" A place where people can show off how they have tackled installations. Of course, only if it has not already been done.

[Need help with new setup - MXT400]

I too have the Midland MXT 400 using the 6db gain antenna that you have. I purchased it with the intent to stay in communications with family as we live relatively close by 4 to 10 mile range. I knew I wouldn’t get close to the 10 miles with the terrain and interference in the area. 
 

I usually get a solid 5 miles when talking to Midland MXT 275 using the short stubby 3db gain antenna. I’m fairly impressed. 
 

I get mixed results 1 to 2 miles when transmitting to the Midland GXT1000VP4 from either radio while in the city. Out on the road, when transmitting to these handhelds from the MXT400, I have gotten close to 3 miles on a flat open stretch!

I plan on buying the data cable that can allow me to do some more things, but I know (from having read so much here) that this unit is limited to what it can do. As I am a beginner, I find it fascinating! 
 

I hope you establish your needs to work your radio as needed. Since I too am “newby”, feel free to reach out to me so we can chat. 

[To Split or not to Split… Tones? That is the question.]

Hi all! I’m on a mission to fully understand what split tones are. I know there are many here with the knowledge that I am seeking. 
 

1. What are Split Tones?

2. Are split tones only used while working with a repeater?

3. Is “Split Toning” for everyone?

4. What are the benefits of split tones?

 

[Is There A Road Channel For GMRS?]

On 5/3/2021 at 7:04 AM, railfandanny said:

On several recent road trips, I scanned all GMRS channels looking for other drivers. My radio mostly hit what sounded like couples traveling in two vehicles and they were predominately on channels 1 or 2 discussing routes, other drivers or where they were getting off for gas. I reached out to them. some would come back, most wouldn't. Unless we were traveling in the same direction the talk window was always a minute or two at most as they were on handhelds and I was on my Kenwood TK mobile.

This has been asked before on this forum, but after searching the responses I've not found an answer to the road channel question. I know it's cultural thing and not an official one, but I still wonder if there is any group, online or elsewhere that is advocating for GMRS use on the road. I believe this is one of the best potentials for GMRS. A lot of folks are in it for the hobby aspects, like Hams, but the traveling aspect seems to be overlooked right now. I know that off-roaders and Jeep people have made the switch to GMRS. I recently used it with several friends on a railfanning trip. We chase and photograph trains. We're kinda like birders but our hobby is much noisier.

As I said earlier, I run a Kenwood TK8180 mobile and my friends all have Midland or Motorola blister pack handhelds. While we all have VHF scanners for listening to railroads, MURS is not an option for non-radio folks unless they use Bao-Fengs, Wouxuns or that ilk.

Thanks,

Danny Harmon

Tampa

 

After reading all of the posts, in reply to your question, it would seem (for now) that there is not clear cut answer. I too have scanned while on road trips only to hear sporadic chatter. I tend to stay on the higher power channels to allow for further simplex communications. Perhaps, with the proper discussion, motivation, and educating people. When a channel is recommended (if ever) for use while on the road, then it can be a mission of the mygmrs community to share the knowledge.

[National Net on the Last Sunday of Every Month]

On 5/3/2021 at 1:14 PM, rdunajewski said:

Recently we have begun holding the National GMRS Net once per month on the last Sunday of each month. This is due to reduced interest in holding a weekly net, and due to quickly running out of fresh topics to discuss.

We will still link each regional hub together nationally each week during the same time period, but won't hold the net on the other weeks. Feel free to chat on Sunday evenings and make distant contacts during this time, but also please be mindful to not hog the repeater system so others can jump in there and participate as well.

Hello. I would like to join the National GMRS Net conversation. However, I am fairly sure (checked map) that there is no repeater available. My only option, from what I understand is to utilize Zello. I am in the South West region. Can anyone help me out?