GMRS Repeater Range

[WRYH764]

What is the rule of thumb for the effective range of a repeater? Is it related to the power output like a radio and line of sight?  The higher the repeater antenna, the better? 

[WRQC527]

I wouldn't say there's a "rule of thumb". Too many variables. Most definitely the height of the antenna is a major factor. My 2-meter amateur radio repeater is at 6,000 feet in Southern California and covers from Mexico to Santa Barbara on 80 watts. If it were lower altitude, it would reduce the range because of terrain. Line of sight and antenna height are critical.

[OffRoaderX]

My GMRS repeater is at about 1,800 feet in Southern California and covers around 40-50 miles in 3 directions on about 25 watts, but only about 1 mile in one direction because of mountains.

My group had another repeater at about 5,500 feet in Southern California and it covered LAX to San Diego and Scirocco Summit on 50 watts.

Line of sight and antenna height are critical.

[BoxCar]

A poor 'rule' is you cover about 15% further than the horizon from the antenna.

[K7lon]

All of the above statements should answer the question. 

 

I hope these examples are helpful. A local tech guru built a 3 watt portable repeater setup. We set it up at 8,000 feet against a mountain side, effective range 30 miles for 120 degrees. Relocated it to 6,000 feet lookout, effective range 50-60 miles. I have a 4 watt Gmrs setup at my house with the antenna 14 feet up, effective range 5 spotty miles. Moved it one mile south 100 feet higher, effective range 15 plus miles. But I do not hold guru status.

 

Good luck with the hobby 

WRJA397 

[WRXB215]

8 hours ago, K7lon said:

But I do not hold guru status.

I'm no guru either but I recognize the value of real-world examples. 

[WRQI583]

Height is might!