Over2U

I think the Colorado Group improved on Wyoming’s “Be 307 Aware” scheme (Channel 3, PL #7) by leaving CTCSS/DPL OFF. Especially in an emergency situation, simpler is better.

“Colorado Search and Rescue Association FRS Radio Use for Backcountry SAR Position Paper : 04/10/23 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY If someone becomes lost or injured in the Colorado backcountry and is using family radio services or general mobile radio service radios (both types referred to herein as “FRS” radios), Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) designates FRS radio Channel 3.0 [462.61250 MHz] as the default during backcountry search and rescue (Backcountry SAR) emergencies. If other methods of communication are not being used, Backcountry SAR responders, if equipped, may default to Channel 3.0 to communicate with those involved. If possible, others are encouraged to monitor Channel 3.0 but not to use it for routine communications, so that in the event someone calls for assistance they can help get word to the local 911 dispatch center or assist directly. Backcountry SAR teams in Colorado do not actively monitor FRS/GMRS channels but most will be able to utilize FRS radios once they have been alerted by a 911 dispatch center and have arrived in the area of the incident.”

Don’t ‘overload’ that Jeep!

Another advantage of GMRS is that any member of your group that does not have a GMRS radio or license can likely at least ‘listen in’ on a readily available license-free FRS ‘bubble pack’ radio.

A classic source of radio frequency interference (RFI) used to be from the engine ignition system (spark plugs and their wires, etc.).

I had one of these ‘back in the day’, and they were very effective, including a most sensitive receiver. The radio itself survived years living on top of my Land Rover in the desert sun, but all the exposed wiring finally broke down in the heat and that was the end.

Another advantage of a 15 watt mobile is ease of installation: such a radio can often be powered directly from a “Power Point” (cigarette lighter outlet).

GMRS Rental Price Increase (From Merus Adventure FAQ Page ‘What to Bring’ :What do I need to bring to off-road at MERUS? A 4 wheel drive vehicle A working Fire extinguisher (We Sell these at the office for $30) GMRS radio. (We rent these at the office for $15)

Well Marc, if you do go to Merus you are already radio equipped and can save the $7.00/day?

I expect that the ‘Rental Radios’ are, in fact, just FRS.

From the website of the Merus Adventures Off-Road Park in Texas: GMRS Radio We require every vehicle to have a GMRS radio. We do rent them for $7/day if needed.

If Colorado and other U.S. States begin to copy Wyoming’s plan, perhaps the widespread use of Channel 3 (only 5 watts, I know) will catch on, while the addition of the little needed and error prone PL code will quietly go away…

Below is a description of the “Be 307 Aware” Program currently in use in Wyoming and, apparently, under consideration for use in Colorado.

In fairness to this Wyoming program, the full size poster does specify FRS/GMRS “Channel 3”.

If your tablet is being used inside a metal vehicle I see where an external antenna might enable reception of signals from more (navigation) satellites. I’m not sure if a Bluetooth connection between antenna and tablet would work in this case.

28 March 2023 1420 hrs This morning Be 307 Aware received a call from Colorado SAR Assoc. They are working on a GMRS/FRS Radio Frequency to use in Colorado, similar to what we have here. This is the culmination of months of conversations and explanations of how #Be307Aware came to be!!! A simple phone call from another SAR member, Pat Waliser in Saratoga WY in January of 2021 to present, where neighboring states are working on a similar program.... Be 307 Aware is working closely with the CSAR, and we support this project whole heartedly!!! I'm sure there will be more to follow on this!!! Outstanding people doing outstanding things!!! #Be307Aware #CSAR

The Laird BB4503R has a “new elastomer spring” which is said to reduce electrical noise as compare to a steel spring. They are also sold by the antenna farm.com

There are ‘no ground plane (required)’ antennas which come with a spring base and are already tuned for GMRS use.

What is the theory of a ‘no ground plane’ (required) antenna for transmitting on GMRS frequencies (i.e. ‘how does it work’)? Also, does such an antenna require a special type of cable?

Following…

‘Honorable Mention’ for emergency use goes to Wyoming’s well-intentioned “Be 307 Aware” GMRS/FRS Campaign (which advocates use of Channel 3 and PL Tone 07). This has been discussed before on this forum.

You make it sound confusing?

True, it may not have been Citizens Band Radio , but those two jerks certainly emulated the offensive language that can be heard all too often on CB. This does not bode well for the future of GMRS…

When listening to my GMRS H/T inside the house I will sometimes pick up only ‘fragments’ of conversations. Is it likely that I am just receiving random signal bounces, owing to the propagation characteristics of this 70 cm band?