Heard WQEJ577 and WRKW454 ( this morning in Royal Palm Bch 33411)

[JerryWROB834]

I recieved your signals this morning on a 5watt WT . First conversation I have heard since getting my lic. I am  "Guest Jerry " From the "Range " topic , but now since I recieved my lic . WROB834. I tried to respond But i am sure my Gm-30 could not transmit that far . I have been anxious from buying all this equipment to reach my Mom in Ft Peirce. . because I understand its a hit or miss thing . But now I am much more confident ,  the GMRS system will work for me . 

Now for me to be able to respond , I need a repeater close to me , or should I get a High power radio , or considering building a repeater ? I do really appreciate everones advice and hope to chat some time !Thanks Jerry 

[BoxCar]

Building a repeater that will work reliably is an expensive proposition. Repeaters sell for between $1,000 and $1,500 for good, solid units. Adding an adequate power supply, coax, wiring and an antenna is several more $100s. Purchasing a couple mobile units with the needed accessories will also set you back a couple hundred but you will get a better feel for how the system meets your need. The key point to remember is that height means distance more than raw power. Having a higher antenna with 15 watts of power often means better range than 50W at ground level.

[pcradio]

As BoxCar stated, height is the secret to great range and clarity. Before you go down the repeater route, try experimenting with an antenna. To simulate an antenna, climb onto the roof of your house, and try using your 5W HT from there. If you have marked improvement, you can feel confident to put up something more permanent.

Absolutly, without question, see if there is a repeater between you and your transmitting party. If so, you may still want a small antenna on your roof or attic, but you may not even need that.