Two Way Radio Range

I'm looking at buying a set of Two-Way radios for my small consulting business. I would like as long of range as possible since I know you get less distance due to building obstructions & weather conditions. Both radios should have a recharging base they plug into. I've seen up to 18 mile GMRS radios but would like to see if I can find longer range. I can also apply for a FCC license if needed.

I'm looking into this as an alternative to wireless phones since I would only be speaking with one other person 95% of the time (my dispatch). Using these type of radios would cut down on the need for a larger calling plan with phones since most of my clients are within the same 5-10 mile range. I don't need private/encrypted channels but the FRS channels around here are too busy with other users.

Use of GMRS requires a license. In a business, *each person* using the radios would require their own license. Businesses cannot get a GMRS license as they are non-individuals. "Consumer grade" GMRS radios with those false 18 mile range claims will not work for the application you need. Range is typically 2 miles or less.

With a base station, and a mobile radio, you could swing this range with GMRS. *Maybe* a base and a handheld would work. You need that antenna height.

OR, you could go with something in the Business Radio service. A repeater would be needed. You probably need to consult with a reputable communications company and have them set you up. Equipment costs, licensing, and repeater lease fees could get costly.

2007-05-13 22:03:30 by rlucas7298

2-way-radios-range.blogspot.co m When was the last time you tried out a decent set of 2 way radios range? It Save Time, Save Money, and Stay In ...

I'm 24 and have dealt with two-way since I was 9, but need help researching and finding what would be the best handheld radio with the most wattage output.

Commercial handheld radios are pretty much limited to 4 watts of power for UHF and 5 watts for VHF. The unlicensed radios are typically limited to 1/4 watt. You can't get any serious range going handheld to handheld. The lower power and small antenna limits the reach. Depending on terrain (buildings, trees, water, hills, etc) you might get 5 miles or so. The unlicensed radios claim 1 mile but seldom get this far. You would need to use a repeater to boost the signal strength and range. You can pay for repeater access from a 2-way radio shop. You can also become a ham and use a ham repeater. Kenwood radios are a good value. Motorola is good but tends to be pricey. Icom is also a good brand. There are many other brands available.

2008-03-21 09:31:36 by dltrink

Price: $79.99

Pair of two-way radios with up to 35 mile range
22 channels each with 121 privacy codes for superior interference protection
11 weather channels (7 NOAA) with alert features
VibraCall vibration alert or 20 different call tones
iVOX hands-free communication without the need for an audio accessory

I have been told you can "mess" with the two way radio, and make have its power output higher, thus giving a better range? Does anyone out there know how to do this?! x

http://www.swssec.com/ant.html

2008-02-11 09:07:56 by Alex H

Price: $59.99 $42.61

10-hour alkaline or 8-hour rechargeable battery life
22 channels each with 121 privacy codes for superior interference protection
11 weather channels (7 NOAA) with alert features
iVOX hands-free communication without the need for an audio accessory
Pair of two-way radios with up to 23 mile range

what is maximum range of this Handheld two-way radio? i buy a 40 Channel Handheld radio with 4 watts of output power

Generally, assuming you mean CB frequencies, UHF is mostly line- of- sight. Occasional unusual atmospheric changes might enhance that to quite large distances. I think you have UHF transceivers.
The HF 27mHz CB frequencies can allow contact locally maybe up to 20 miles or so, depending, but in periods of high sunspot activity can potentially reach all around the world. We are currently at a sunspot minima. Nothing much doing.

2008-10-24 11:12:04 by yousef67765

I have been giving my supervisors cell phones for work. This is not working and I am looking for a way to keep our office, 3 supervisors and myself connected via 2 way radios (or similar). This would mean buying out of the sprint contract for two phones. I need up to a 30 mile range.

Nooo... ham radio is not authorized to conduct business. Each operator requires an individual license, plus amateur radio only allows for personal communications. Not an option.

Same goes for GMRS.

Strictly an issue for the Business communication service.

You need to contact a two way radio company. You will need to operate through a repeater system, as direct communication will not be possible at these distances.

You will need to see if there is a specialized mobile radio system in your area. If so, you can buy access to the system.

Equipment costs are rather high, although many two way radio compaines offer a lease option.

You could pay over $500 per unit for access to an 800 Mhz trunked system... plus access costs. Costs for UHF and VHS equipment may run about $250 per unit... plus repeater access, if available in your area.

See link in my source line.

You may wish to consider Nextel.

2006-02-09 02:31:28 by GoodNaturedGardening