...One of the problems with skipping the type acceptance and having the FRS -only channels programmed is that those frequencies are the interstitials on the 467 side of things- so, adjacent to repeater input frequencies...
@Dahwg, Exactly. That is why I specified non-programmable from the radio itself. The idea is to program each channel for a power level appropriate for the service (GMRS or FRS).
...bubble pack radios that your volunteers carry become your minimum functional design point, and those will all have 95a (GMRS) and 95b(FRS) type acceptance to have been sold in the US in the first place.... Plus if you don't care about GMRS type acceptance (not sure how you can skirt this legally in the US),...
...Curious also what repeaters you're looking into.
@mdomsch, In our area (San Francisco Bay area)most CERT planning is for only one type of emergency, an earthquake. As such, CERT teams tend to be very localized (1 to 4 blocks). FRS radios work in this scenario, as bourne out by many exercises. Individual Fire, Rescue and Medical teams are able to effectively remain in contact with a local neighborhood command post. The problem occurs when neighborhoods try to contact each other, for example to offer or ask for spare resources. As to the legality of non-compliant radios on Part 95(a) frequencies. The radios I am looking for would only be used for monthly exercises and in the event of a real emergency. So, while there is certainly legal liability, I feel that as long as we comply with all other Part 95(a) requirements, the benefits exceed the risk.
And, regarding the repeater. We have a Motorola GR1225 we are in the process of deploying.
@SteveC7010, Great suggestion. I had found the Poxun PX-2R and the TYT-th-2R (which appear to be the same radio). But, the CP200XLS looks like it meets our needs exactly. In particular, because of the requirement for Motorola software, there would pretty much be no user access to the programming. I think I will pick one up.