My neighbor growing up was a Ham operator and he had a big tower in the back yard with an aluminum can line (he called a signal trap). He would talk to people in Russia, Japan, Australia/New Zeland, and all over the world.
@@Morcego538 I drove trucks for four decades and some truckers had ham units in their trucks with a couple thousand watts of power coming out of some kind of booster they built and they could talk what is called Skip and it was done with a regular CB radio for a vehicle tuned to match the booster or a ham radio tuned to a booster you need the proper coax cable and antenna and the 3 foot rule and tuning the antenna is another absolute for talking around the world and no they definitely did not have a license or registered call numbers these are the radios you have probably heard through your antenna tv or FM radio in your car
@@Dirtydigger Not to mention that using a linear amplifier in that power range for CB is illegal and carries a hefty fine and confiscation of the equipment and jail time if caught. Amateur radio operators can legally use them on amateur radio spectrum frequencies only.
@@Dirtydigger Not to mention that using a linear amplifier in that power range for CB is illegal and carries a hefty fine and confiscation of the equipment and jail time if caught. Amateur radio operators can legally use them on amateur radio spectrum frequencies only.
I have watched a lot of communication overland vehicles. You are the first to reference FRS as walkie talkies. Thanks for referring to them as such. Makes it easier to understand
Greetings! I look forward to all your videos as I always learn something. The real benefit of studying for a HAM license is the knowledge you gain that applies to ALL radio transmission! Even if you don't pass the test (almost everybody does) you are a winner from the knowledge you have gained. It is time well spent.
Note that "ham radio" as a nickname for "amateur radio" is not an acronym, so the letters are not capitalized. I have no idea when people started doing this, but it's not correct, so I try to set things straight whenever I see it. That all said, it's nice to see rekindled interest in the hobby.
Great vid, MC Brad! Back in the 1970's I had a Radio Shack 40 channel CB walkie-talkie (about the size of a brick!) I would take while venturing out with others or on solo multi-day hikes into the Colorado wilderness. Took some ribbing from friends about it and had to carry the extra weight (About 3-4 Lbs with batteries!). But the assurance of having the chance of contacting help sooner in case of emergency totally offset those inconveniences. And I don't mean just help for myself but, more importantantly, in case I came across anyone else who needed help. Now, approaching 50 years later, I am in the process of outfitting my 2012 WK2 to cover all of the communication options you mentioned in this video. Being able to reach anywhere with satellite texts now instead of 'maybe 5 miles' like back in the '70's sure shows how far we've come. While I've never had to use a radio in a life-or-death situation in the back country, It sure helps me sleep better in the tent knowing it's there if I need it. Thanks for your service and always look forward to your next vids.
GMRS with the right antenna on a mounted unit can transmit like 25 miles...sometimes. The handheld won't go that far, but they're better than most CB's and almost as good as most handheld ham radios. GMRS is the best radio for longer distances without studying up and taking a ham test. GMRS is as simple as a CB with much better range on a normal day.
I have a GMRS radio and a GMRS license and in my rural area I haven't yet heard anybody on any of the FRS or GMRS channels or even on any of the GMRS Repeater channels. So I use it along with my normal scanner radio base station to just listen in upon the State Highway Patrol calls. Oh well, so much for a useless GMRS brick because in my rural area that's all it has become. I haven't hooked up any of my CB radios in years ( not since I retired and got off the road as an owner/operator OTR Truck Driver 12 years ago), but if I did, I'd probably get more use and hear more out of them than I do my useless GMRS radio.
One mention, which you didn't stress enough, w/Amateur Radio, you can use it w/o a license, "BUT" only in an "EMERGENCY BASIS, PERIOD". You cannot use it otherwise for general conversations, unless you have a license, which I encourage people to get. The radios have gotten quite cheap, cost wise, over the years. There is a language etiquette where swearing and bad manners isn't tolerated. It's nothing like what CB has become. Finally, no matter where you mount your antenna, they will be a pain in deeply woodened or brush in areas. In which case, the little stubble ones will be your best option, but they will limit your range. Once again, another great video. Gordon - N7QEI
CB radio is by far the very best. It delivers clear voice over mountains, in valleys, through wooded areas, buildings, etc. and range is at least 30 miles. I know this to be factual because when I was a kid, I watched The Duke's of Hazzard.
A thing about Privacy mode: It is not private. Privacy mode is more of a filter. It allows you to hear others in your group on the same privacy channel. Anyone else on the same channel, and not in a privacy mode, can here everything you say. But if they talk, you wont hear them, because your radio on a privacy mode is filtering them out.
@@rlynotabot It is tone squelch. Squelch is the radio feature to reject unwanted signals. Carrier squelch is based on the received signal strength, and is what CB uses. As you increase it, it increases the signal threshold to allow through. GMRS "Privacy" uses CTCSS or Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System. When you turn it on, the radio transmits an inaudible tone alongside your voice, and it ignores transmissions which do not include the same tone. If you turn it off, you can still hear everyone, but if it's on, you can only hear people with the same tone.
Privacy is a tone activated squelch (technically called CTCSS Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System). It limits who YOU can hear. Legally when you use it, you're supposed to monitor the channel BEFORE you transmit so as not to interfere with others on that channel.
Good job explaining the differences. I'm a HAM guy, and I chose it because I wanted something I could use everyday in my Jeep, not just on a trail with friends. Besides reaching a repeater for local communication, some repeater systems are linked together to cover longer distances (I'm in Phoenix and can talk to you in San Diego through multiple linked repeaters, for instance). But, for simplex work within a group on a trail or spotting, a hand-held HAM radio would work great with the mobile radios, too. Nice to see you include the Garmin inReach mini. I use mine for communication outside of cell service, and like you said, family/friends can check progress and location along the way. Cheers! Pete - KI7LIL
Peter: In your post you mentioned multiple linked repeaters that allow long-distance HAM radio communication (you used Phx and SD as an example). I use a linked system in So AZ (EAARS), but I’m not up to speed re the one you mentioned. I would appreciate your input. Cheers. //Brent KG7UYD
@@brentbrown51 Good morning, Brent. Here is the info you requested. The linked system between Phx and SD is called the CalZona Link, and the East County Repeater Association (ecra-sd.com) website has the participating repeater names/locations/frequencies/pl tones under the CalZona Link tab. For Arizona linked systems, search W7ARA - Arizona Repeater Association, and click on the PDF selection. You'll get two pages of all the ARA repeaters, plus info on: Rimlink (links most of AZ), Metrolink (links Phoenix/Prescott/Payson) and Northlink (links Phoenix with Scottsdale), and how to use the Autopatch system. If you're interested in a larger linked system, check out the Win System (winsystem.org) with over 100 linked repeaters which covers a lot of the U.S., and digitally to many countries around the world. When I go fishing at Roper Lake I have listened to the EAARS system on Heliograph Peak. Lots of good systems, and still lots more out there to explore and communicate. Hope this helps. 73 Pete - KI7LIL
Hey bro, because of this video (Sept 5) I got my GMRS license and fell deep into the rabbit hole a month later lol. Thanks again, I got me a Radioddity GM-30 Plus with a whip it antenna. I understand so much more then when I saw this video. Thanks !!
Good overview: Just a few helpful additions. You can put an exterior antenna on your GMRS radio. A magnetic base antenna can be put on your vehicle and taken off, along with your radio, when not used (protection against theft.) Also, repeaters, while not as available as HAM, are part of GMRS. And they are growing. GMRS is booming and becoming more universal.
Note that "ham radio" as a nickname for "amateur radio" is not an acronym, so the letters are not capitalized. I have no idea when people started doing this, but it's not correct, so I try to set things straight whenever I see it. That all said, it's nice to see rekindled interest in the hobby.
Fun fact... when I was trying out CB and switching out Attenas, I was able to hear someone from 9.5 miles away (which is pretty far for a CB) , but I also had a giant 5 foot fiberglass antenna, and that was a monster right there!
Ham APRS is a good alternative to the Garmin InReach without the monthly service fee. Family and friends can see your location via a web page. Most APRS radios offer a QSY frequency message which changes whenever the radio frequency changes. That way, any ham operator can talk to you. And APRS is able to send/receive text messages and email. I'm willing to wager I can get emergency help faster with a ham radio than the InReach. Great video!
Thanks again Brad. I;ve probably thanked you a few times before for publishing this vid. I refer back to it often. Got my HAM license last year. Loved the information I studied. I felt like an Electrical Engineer by the time I was done
I love the size of GMRS antennas, the Midland 15 Watt radio plugs into your "cigarette lighter" ports. I gave my son one, and I run the Midland 40W, he and I have talked well over 10 miles with those 2 radios. - I am also a Ham. I have CB radios, but the antennas are really a hurdle on vehicles. GMRS is the tech that works when your friends are not licensed.
Brad, I used CB for many years, and now use GMRS, but also carry a NOAA 406 MHz Beacon as a safety net in the event we are truly stuck or injured and need help. My wife and I had an 'aha moment" on one of our simple day trips, and now we have one in our JK at all times. They require a registration every two years, but our ability to get a message out is virtually assured.
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!! 1. For GMRS a single license can be shared by a whole family. Your cousin Leroy who you haven't seen in 20 years can work via your license. The FCC is really generous here. 2. Also, I suggest you mention that GMRS Includes provisions for repeaters. They're not as common as Ham repeaters but you may get lucky or the Jeep club may want to sponsor a portable battery unit for special events.
In my area we have a GMRS repeater that is likely more active than the 2m repeaters in the area. Its a good thing for chatting and sometimes just listening to.
with a general HAM license you can get HF as well as VHF and UFH. I have talked to Estonia direct on 20m with 200w from a vertical antenna from my garage!
I regularly get into Asia, Australia, South America, Europe, and Russia with my compromised 20 meter ham antena. The greatest limiting factor is how much money you want to spend. Ham radio is by far the way to go.
Bravo! So very sorry that you had to shell out $400 bucks, sir! You just saved me $600! I recently started hearing these ads, was curious. Very comprehensive review. Thank you!
Thanks, great discussion on communications Brad. I too have quite a go-bag of radios so that I can pick from, as well as a mobile Ham radio in my rig. It's always nice to be able to communicate with the group no matter what they are running... I also recently picked up one of the Garmin InReach Mini's and I look forward to that extra level of communication & protection on future adventures...
Thank you for your Ham recommendation. I first got my Ham Tech 30 years, and did not renew. Scheduled a new test last week and after $35 fee I am license as Technician again. Mounted a 5/8 wave 2M/.70 antenna on my Tacoma SR5 and a permanent dual band. You got me to get back into Ham, driving to Great Basin Lehman caves area in a couple of weeks
Brad, I just got my Jeep Rubicon Gladiator, and have learned soooo much from your channel in all aspects of off-roading. (just bought a GMRS radio...) Wish I could say "thanks" in person on some epic adventure..... I'm in New England. Keep doing what you're doing!!
for someone that's not a communication expert you did one of the best vids about the subject I've see n in a while. GMRS is what people are going to in my area and like HAM it has repeaters. Having JEEP make the switch helped GMRS a lot. CB is even getting some new life with them talking adding FM frequencies not sure if they have done it yet.
Why choose? I have CB, GMRS, and HAM in my Chevy Silverado. As discussed in the video, GMRS covers the FRS frequencies. I like to use CB for long distance highway trips, GMRS for offroading, and HAM for emergency preparedness.
I just bought the Midland MXT275 GMRS. I like it so far. I plan on getting their whip antenna and A pillar mount. Right now I am just using the magnetic one the kit came with.
Ham operator here. I have a short dual-band mobile mount on a fender mount attached to the front driver side fender. 2m/70cm FM signal doesn’t transmit far enough in most conditions where a super long high-gain antenna will make much of a difference. A fender mount will do a good enough job, especially if you’re only trying to hit local repeaters or other vehicles in your group.
IMHO the best mobile mounts are hard mount roof mounts. Not wanting to drill holes in my car, I settled for a mag mount on the roof. Be careful the mag is strong enough. I have them come off at highway speeds. A good ground plane is essential for longer ranges. Just saying. 73 De N4BUA
On GMRS, they’re called “privacy codes” but in reality it’s actually a travel tone for GMRS repeaters. There are a a lot out there but not nearly as many HAM repeaters. But a lot of GMRS repeaters are privately owned either by an individual or a radio club. You usually have to ask for permission to get the frequency and travel tone required to access said repeaters. I was just given access recently to a couple as I joined a GMRS group “Empire State GMRS Repeater” so much fun -WRNE342
Ghostbusters Effect: Who ya gonna call? I use ham with a friend, have those same GMRS radios for around town/camp/spotting, and an Inreach for emergencies (the latest add). I tore out my CB after awhile. Even with all that, hiking up a hill for cell signal was how I self recovered this year.
Good video, good information. A couple of comments: Always be aware that someone could be listening to your conversations. Nothing is private. And second, a good antenna with good ground will make or break your comms. Jeep Wranglers are notorious for not being RF friendly, so if you are installing a mobile (not HT), be sure to get good grounds to the antennas. Ham Radio Crash Course has a good video that details grounding (bonding) a mobile setup. Smash ahead, Trail Recon!
Try an antenna that doesn't need a ground plane: like a j-pole. I have used a roll-up jpole on a flag with pretty good success in similar situations. The hardest thing is keeping the antenna together when it whips around so much. I was using electrical tape to secure them together: not a good idea. The antenna gets stretched and compressed to death pretty quickly. I'm trying a loose-fitting "guide" setup with a long piece of large shrink wrap next. You could do the inside-some-PVC trick, too, for a more rigid solution.
@@ntc490 Thanks. I've tried the roll up too with limited success. I've pretty much taken the attitude that the Wrangler RF situation is what it is. I get out OK with my Diamond antennas for Ham and GMRS. HF I gave up on, I'll just operate portable on HF. GL, stay safe. 73
Brad, Good presentation. I am a Ham also. One point I would make is having a hand held in a cup holder and off road. It becomes a flying object in rough terrain and if it ends up on the floor when you need it your out of touch. Thanks. I enjoy the video's I have been on most of all your trails. Ron K.
Ham radio is great but not many local people in the group when I’m off-roading. Mobiles are great but take a portable with you when you’re out of the vehicle. Good info. Thanks for sharing
Very interesting Brad, it's quite different here in Australia. Max output is 5w, almost all radios are UHF 427mhz, 80 channels. 4 or 6.6dbi antenna are the most common. The og CB 27mhz is not really used anymore. Never even heard of the GMRS! 50W! Sheesh that's something! For long range outback travel HF radio is also more common. Anyway, thanks for the video, interesting to see what other countries use.
@@Doonit_hard_way_since_65 so basically walkie talkies are a little useless? I bought one that has 13km range but it only worked at 2km distance. False advertising
@@theobserver450 Those range ratings are just bogus. Even under ideal conditions no one ever sees the advertised numbers. There needs to be a real standard for the consumer to compare. Typically off-road, in woods/rural conditions radios running in the VHF bands are superior (MURS band, as example) UHF (GMRS) will works a bit better un urban conditions, tall buildings, getting into buildings through openings. Because of their line-of-sight propagation both are limited by curvature of the earth. I completely understand your frustration with the advertised range.
Great video. I have 2 stories where 2 meter ham radio via repeater worked very well for us. As a test with my buddy in Indio, we agreed to use the Catalina repeater for a few minutes. My buddy in Indio has a mid size tower at his house and has a pretty clear shot through the Banning Pass. He can hit the island repeater when things are perfect. I on the other hand was half way up San Marco's Pass road overlooking Santa Barbara. I can hit the Catalina repeater from a certain spot up there. So we set up and tried it out. It's nearly 100 miles for each of us that repeater. And sure enough we were talking without and issues. That was right around 200 miles overall. Second one was pretty cool as well. I was driving from Santa Barbara to Big Bear in my Jeep. My buddy in Indio was driving up to Big Bear and we both used one of the Big Bear repeaters. Granted I couldn't hit the repeater till got to Rancho Cucamonga. Then to top it off one of our other Jeep buddies was at a campground near Huntington Beach, so all 3 of us had a brief conversation while traveling in southern California. Some pre-planning was necessary, but it worked out very well.
i use lithium AA batteries in my gmrs radios when moose hunting, they last longer than stock rechargeable batteries that come with it and lithium batteries give your signal a boost even in the bush and the signal really cuts thru. its a noticeable difference
Rechargeable batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) are 1.2v. Alkaline and Lithium batteries (AA, AAA) are 1.5v. So ya the higher voltage batteries will work better
Agreed. Lithium ion AA cells are absolutely worth the extra money. They last a lot longer than alkaline and carbon cells. The fact they last so long came as a pleasant surprise to me.
Good information. Years ago my young daughter(Adult now) wanted, we’ll call it “My Little Pony” I can’t remember. Just looking at them I put them back and found some Cobra micro talks US Army version, GMRS good for 5-30 miles. I just got them for a better quality option that would last longer than a week. They have lasted quite awhile but are rarely used. All along I didn’t know that you had to be registered.
This is a GREAT Video for us Beginners. Make sure in the future that you explain that if an Enemy detonates a EMP Nuke above the U.S. It will kill some or most of the Grid, plus your electronics, and disable modern (ECU-Controlled) Vehicles. That means most cars, trucks, and perhaps ATV/UTX vehicles, and cell phones UNLESS you should have a Faraday Cage/Box grounded to prevent disabling of your electronics. Not practical for large objects. IF you choose SATELLITE, keep Garmin InReach in a Faraday Cage as it will work after an EMP if caged.
Great info here Brad, forwarding to some friends. For anyone considering the lime green Motorola T600s, they are IP67 rated so also great for wet climates.
Onew potential trouble with a satellite phone is that if you intend to go overseas, and you expect you'll need a reliable means of communication, satellite looks like a good idea. But, some countries, India for instance, can get quite difficult if you attempt to bring a satellite enabled device such as a phone or some GPS units that also double as a communications unit and scream for help device without first consulting the right government agency. They may simply arrest you.
Good brief. I have been a HAM for 18 years now (damn that went by quick...) and that's what's in the truck. I do carry GMRS handhelds as well and they're great for mixed groups. The InReach is a very nice tool. I recently picked one up and have to say it's a really nice thing to have both for the camping/fishing trips in the Jeep and the cross country flights in small planes. Much better option than an ELT or EPIRB, or even than a PLB for emergency use.
I used to run a CB with 165 watt amplifier years ago. I could dim other people's lights when i keyed up. Now i have my ham license and GMRS license. I like the chinese radios that allow one radio to use both. You can also program FRS in so that one mobile or handheld radio could do everything except CB.
I think that actually changed with newer radios. They used to sell FRS/GMRS combo radios, but around 2020, the FCC made manufacturers split the channels up. My midland MXT410 only has GMRS channels.
I am an advocate of mobile ham radios if you travel in very remote areas. I like being able to hit repeaters in an emergency and to send text messages and automatic position reports home using APRS. My setup does not require mounting the mobile radio. I have a dual band radio with a removable control head. When I choose to use it for a trip, I stash the radio body under the rear seat and power it using a ‘cigarette lighter’ plug. I mount the control head to the windshield with a suction cup mount. I add a Cat-5 cable extension to the microphone so that it easily reaches the front seat. I stick a magnetic mount antenna on top of the truck. It takes 5 minutes to set up.
Excellent coverage to get new folks thinking. We have always groups and to be able to chat along the route is vital. Bio breaks, issues or general chat bands the group together. We migrated to Ham and along the trail use our handheld units also one of us always has a Spot running as well to post our location
My humble opinion is GMRS as it's the most accessible, and flexible. You can use a mobile mounted in your vehicle with a rooftop antenna with higher power, or handheld HT.
Great information Brad. I'm a com's nut (at least my wife and son think so). I am old enough to remember back in the 70's when you needed a license for CB radio (KDK5794). So when I got into off roading when we bought our 2016 JKU I bought one of the Midland CB's with a cigarette lighter power connection and exteral antenna option (I mentioned I'm old) and a mag mount antenna for use on the trails. Easter Jeep Safari in 2019 was a prime example of where we needed the CB. Last year I thought it would be good to get my Ham license as in addition to off roading, I'm an emergency responder here in PA. So now I've got portable, mobile and base ham radios. Then this year we attended our first Jeep Jamboree and GMRS is mandatory, so I got my $70 GMRS license and a handheld (you mentioned the license being $35, while the FCC made the announcement at the beginning of the year, I don't think it has changed yet, last I checked it was still $70). Only thing I'm missing is the Sat device. You hit all the main points very effectively and I agree, the more options you have the less change you'll be stuck unable to communicate in an emergency or just to stay in touch with the others in your group. If anyone wants to learn more about coms, especially GMRS, check out "Notarubicon" on youtube (you probably know Randy as he also lives in the SoCal area). Safe Travels and God Bless!
Hey perfect timing! I'm putting a gmrs in my truck within the next couple weeks, and i already have a cb setup from an older rig that I no longer own so I might as well throw that in too! Need to get my ham license as well.
A ham license is easy to get, even General Class. The tests are multiple choice. None of the other forms of radio listed even come close to ham radio. The only disadvantage with ham radio is that you can only communicate with other hams. That's why I help people get their ham license, so I can talk to them.
Excellent tutorial. The Garmin inreach also has a satellite-aided SOS system for life threatening situations in the wild. I think the Garmin is distinct from the 406 MHz EPIRB transmitter systems you can carry for emergencies where you need rescue to survive.
One point that should be added: find out what your friends or groups you plan on wheeling with are using or plan on using. If you have a group of newbies… then make sure everyone is OK with the type of radio choice your making….
You and Marco missed an opportunity to educate those two drivers! ;-) The lessons for them: 1) "You never know who's listening;" 2) "Never judge a book by its cover." But, of course, talking to them would identify yourselves, which may not be your preference. I was driving on a road with my giant HF antenna mounted. I was listening to a repeater conversation between call signs that I recognized, but had never met. Suddenly, one of the guys started laughing and said, "You should see the little VW that just passed me with a huge antenna. I doubt he's monitoring, though." I keyed and said, "He is" and then shared my call sign. We've had a few pleasant conversations since then and may meet in person someday. Take Care!
My setup is that I use my Ham radio in the Jeep but it's limited to me since I'm the one with the license. I have a pair of GMRS radios in the Jeep for spotting. I have the license for the GMRS so I can hand the second radio to anyone who wants to spot. For communications far off the beaten path with no cell signal and possibly no one else to listen on radio, I go to satellite communication with a spotX device. I think I've covered all of the bases. I love Ham and what can be done with Ham but it's limited to me and honestly in a tough situation it might be difficult to impossible to use for someone else in the vehicle who has no ham experience.
11:30 Huh, didn't know that Midland made ham radios; was about to comment that you keep pointing to a GMRS mobile. Good thing I checked their website first!
As kids we used my friends dad's radio and could talk in cone to Germany on a good night. Old tube set black front and lots of dials and switches and 2 light up meters.
My take after years on the trail: very, very few people on GMRS on the trails. Just got back from an Idaho trip in the backcountry and didn't hear or make a single contact on GMRS. It needs many more years of growth to be viable. CB is still more prominent at this time. For genuine safety comms, the Garmin InReach is untouchable. For in-city use, GMRS does beat out CB, for several reasons. 1, the user base is better behaved. 2, there is better convo. 3, repeaters make whole-city coverage easy and fairly common.
Thank you Brad for the topic I know I asked atleast once for discussion on it ☺️ I am a ham operator base only atm but plan to go mobile once I can afford a proper antenna for low band ☺️
6:50 A US to JA contact would very likely be via HF and not VHF or UHF as the radios pictured in this showcase are VHF/UHF only. Glad you explained the ham radio regulations correclty and didn't bush over it as I've seen other overland youtubers do. 73.
Unless he connected to a repeater which is connected to the internet, to a repeater in Japan, which was also connected to the internet. (Using Echolink, IRLP, or D-Star.)
I have talked to Australia from FT Carson, CO on channel 16 CB radio. twin whistler antennas on a Ford F150 Cobra 19, clear as a bell for about 10 minutes. The skip was just right.
Another consideration for handheld vs moble.. theft. I have a YJ soft top and live in apartment complex so having a hardwired radio is tempting to thieves walking by..
As a Ham for over 40 years, you did well for a general Comm overview. You mentioned about Ham repeaters, but GMRS also have repeaters that work the same way. I would suggest trying to avoid those channels for simplex operation like you should on Ham.
Thanks this is great information! Just getting into the off-road trail lifestyle and you answered a lot of questions I had and also taught me a few things I did not know! Thanks!
HF is still my primary emergency communications. In my opinion a 4 ft to 6 ft diameter manetic loop is probably the best portable antenna to work HF from 80 meters through 10 meters; for off grid, no internet whether voice, digital messaging, winlink, VARA HF, JS8, and even CW.
I like having t by e CB in Oregon with lots of log trucks and equipment running around out in the woods. Especially during the weekdays. Log trucks win every time on the backroads and knowing where they are can be a safety issue. Not as big of a deal on weekends but I like having it.
Great timing Brad! Looking at GRMS system for my setup. Saw SD Jeep club switched as well! Bring a retired Marine it’s funny to run across “hot mic” situations on the trail!
Best equipped mall crawler that can handle the trails... from VA3MED great info Brad. I am re installing my yeasu ft 7600 back in my Jeep Grand Cherokee after having work done. Yes mine is a mall crawler but it does see some feild action. When I'm working my EMS duties when covering a horse jumping event.
Use the 980 bearcat it has ssb this will get out far legally up to 12 watts it also has 40 channels CB.. I always put them in my jeeps pair it with a 5 ' fire stick tuneable tip. Lov ur videos
The antenna and wavelength are key. Effective antennas really require something around ¼ wavelength long and tuned to the frequency. On CB (27 MHz frequency), the wavelength is 11 meters (36 feet). So, a ¼ wave antenna is about 8 ½ feet. If you have an 8 ½ ft whip on a vehicle, it may work OK. If it’s a shorter antenna it has been compromised and some tuning device inserted. A handheld CB with a 12-inch antenna cannot possibly work well at radiating a signal very far with an 11-meter wavelength. Imagine a 36-foot radio wave trying to get out of a car from a handheld CB. At UHF FM GMRS or FRS frequencies (about 462 MHz), the wavelength is about 61cm or 24 inches. So, a handheld radio with a 6-inch antenna is ¼ wavelength and should work well and will easily find its way out of car window. External antennas, correctly tuned, are always the best choice. But, CB frequencies deal best with terrain yet is subject to noise and interference on AM (this may be better on the newly authorized CB FM); while UHF is more easily blocked by terrain. So, the overall best option, in my opinion, for off-road is the 2-meter ham band (VHF FM 144-148 MHz); the ¼ wavelength (19in) antenna is quite effective and antennas such a 5/8 wavelength are even better. The 2-meter mobile radios have better transmitters with much higher power (~40watts) and generally more sensitive receivers and the antennas are well designed and effective.
Great video. I don't have any of these as I really don't need them, but to me the field of telecommunications is very interesting. I remember as a kid buying a cheap pair of walkie talkies at a dept store, with my Dad. I remember the salesman saying something like, "...these can occasionally pick up communications from overseas!" haha Uh, no, buddy, no they can't. They were simple line-of-sight radios with not a very big range. They weren't HF receivers... With the way things are going in the world, however, it might be a good idea to have some means of emergency communication.
Okay, so I went to the ARRL website and found some online options. I made the mistake of looking on FCC instead of Amateur Radio site. lol thanks, Brad!
Good stuff brad I have a couple cast iron pots climb up the highest ridge bang them together an yell help 😂😂 ,,,,,seriously I have gmrs works very good thought about ham but solo 99 percent of the time,the mobile cb an 600 watt linear has been in a box in the garage for years hope all is well as always be safe 👍👍👍👍
Thank you so much for this! Up to this point we have just been using some very basic midland walky talkies but eventually we will want to add something a little more.
My neighbor growing up was a Ham operator and he had a big tower in the back yard with an aluminum can line (he called a signal trap). He would talk to people in Russia, Japan, Australia/New Zeland, and all over the world.
@@godzilla6490 Google.
What radio was he using?
@@Morcego538 I drove trucks for four decades and some truckers had ham units in their trucks with a couple thousand watts of power coming out of some kind of booster they built and they could talk what is called Skip and it was done with a regular CB radio for a vehicle tuned to match the booster or a ham radio tuned to a booster you need the proper coax cable and antenna and the 3 foot rule and tuning the antenna is another absolute for talking around the world and no they definitely did not have a license or registered call numbers these are the radios you have probably heard through your antenna tv or FM radio in your car
@@Dirtydigger Not to mention that using a linear amplifier in that power range for CB is illegal and carries a hefty fine and confiscation of the equipment and jail time if caught. Amateur radio operators can legally use them on amateur radio spectrum frequencies only.
@@Dirtydigger Not to mention that using a linear amplifier in that power range for CB is illegal and carries a hefty fine and confiscation of the equipment and jail time if caught. Amateur radio operators can legally use them on amateur radio spectrum frequencies only.
I have had my HAM for a while now. That was the best presentation on communication I have seen. Real easy to understand. Great job.
You left off:
- Pigeon with note tied to its leg
- Telepathy
- Ethereal plane
- Coconut radio as used in Gilligan’s Island
😆😆
My grandfather was a pigeon handler during WW1 off a roof in Paris
Coconut radios rock!
And 2 cups with a string
Maryann was hot!
Lol. You were the guys in the Nissan.
I have watched a lot of communication overland vehicles. You are the first to reference FRS as walkie talkies. Thanks for referring to them as such. Makes it easier to understand
Greetings! I look forward to all your videos as I always learn something. The real benefit of studying for a HAM license is the knowledge you gain that applies to ALL radio transmission! Even if you don't pass the test (almost everybody does) you are a winner from the knowledge you have gained. It is time well spent.
And, then, the FCC knows who you are and where you live.
@@qanononabong8491 the government already knows
@@qanononabong8491lol dude if the FCC really needed to know they would've just called the FBI.
@@qanononabong8491 So what. FCC does not care trust me. If anything they are on the side of the Ham radio operator.
Note that "ham radio" as a nickname for "amateur radio" is not an acronym, so the letters are not capitalized. I have no idea when people started doing this, but it's not correct, so I try to set things straight whenever I see it. That all said, it's nice to see rekindled interest in the hobby.
Great vid, MC Brad! Back in the 1970's I had a Radio Shack 40 channel CB walkie-talkie (about the size of a brick!) I would take while venturing out with others or on solo multi-day hikes into the Colorado wilderness. Took some ribbing from friends about it and had to carry the extra weight (About 3-4 Lbs with batteries!). But the assurance of having the chance of contacting help sooner in case of emergency totally offset those inconveniences. And I don't mean just help for myself but, more importantantly, in case I came across anyone else who needed help. Now, approaching 50 years later, I am in the process of outfitting my 2012 WK2 to cover all of the communication options you mentioned in this video. Being able to reach anywhere with satellite texts now instead of 'maybe 5 miles' like back in the '70's sure shows how far we've come. While I've never had to use a radio in a life-or-death situation in the back country, It sure helps me sleep better in the tent knowing it's there if I need it. Thanks for your service and always look forward to your next vids.
GMRS with the right antenna on a mounted unit can transmit like 25 miles...sometimes. The handheld won't go that far, but they're better than most CB's and almost as good as most handheld ham radios. GMRS is the best radio for longer distances without studying up and taking a ham test. GMRS is as simple as a CB with much better range on a normal day.
I have a GMRS radio and a GMRS license and in my rural area I haven't yet heard anybody on any of the FRS or GMRS channels or even on any of the GMRS Repeater channels. So I use it along with my normal scanner radio base station to just listen in upon the State Highway Patrol calls. Oh well, so much for a useless GMRS brick because in my rural area that's all it has become. I haven't hooked up any of my CB radios in years ( not since I retired and got off the road as an owner/operator OTR Truck Driver 12 years ago), but if I did, I'd probably get more use and hear more out of them than I do my useless GMRS radio.
One mention, which you didn't stress enough, w/Amateur Radio, you can use it w/o a license, "BUT" only in an "EMERGENCY BASIS, PERIOD".
You cannot use it otherwise for general conversations, unless you have a license, which I encourage people to get. The radios have gotten quite cheap, cost wise, over the years.
There is a language etiquette where swearing and bad manners isn't tolerated. It's nothing like what CB has become.
Finally, no matter where you mount your antenna, they will be a pain in deeply woodened or brush in areas. In which case, the little stubble ones will be your best option, but they will limit your range.
Once again, another great video. Gordon - N7QEI
CB radio is by far the very best. It delivers clear voice over mountains, in valleys, through wooded areas, buildings, etc. and range is at least 30 miles. I know this to be factual because when I was a kid, I watched The Duke's of Hazzard.
A thing about Privacy mode: It is not private. Privacy mode is more of a filter. It allows you to hear others in your group on the same privacy channel. Anyone else on the same channel, and not in a privacy mode, can here everything you say. But if they talk, you wont hear them, because your radio on a privacy mode is filtering them out.
@@rlynotabot yes
@@rlynotabot It is tone squelch. Squelch is the radio feature to reject unwanted signals. Carrier squelch is based on the received signal strength, and is what CB uses. As you increase it, it increases the signal threshold to allow through.
GMRS "Privacy" uses CTCSS or Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System. When you turn it on, the radio transmits an inaudible tone alongside your voice, and it ignores transmissions which do not include the same tone. If you turn it off, you can still hear everyone, but if it's on, you can only hear people with the same tone.
Privacy is a tone activated squelch (technically called CTCSS Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System). It limits who YOU can hear. Legally when you use it, you're supposed to monitor the channel BEFORE you transmit so as not to interfere with others on that channel.
Good job explaining the differences. I'm a HAM guy, and I chose it because I wanted something I could use everyday in my Jeep, not just on a trail with friends. Besides reaching a repeater for local communication, some repeater systems are linked together to cover longer distances (I'm in Phoenix and can talk to you in San Diego through multiple linked repeaters, for instance). But, for simplex work within a group on a trail or spotting, a hand-held HAM radio would work great with the mobile radios, too. Nice to see you include the Garmin inReach mini. I use mine for communication outside of cell service, and like you said, family/friends can check progress and location along the way. Cheers! Pete - KI7LIL
Peter: In your post you mentioned multiple linked repeaters that allow long-distance HAM radio communication (you used Phx and SD as an example). I use a linked system in So AZ (EAARS), but I’m not up to speed re the one you mentioned. I would appreciate your input. Cheers. //Brent KG7UYD
@@brentbrown51 Good morning, Brent. Here is the info you requested. The linked system between Phx and SD is called the CalZona Link, and the East County Repeater Association (ecra-sd.com) website has the participating repeater names/locations/frequencies/pl tones under the CalZona Link tab. For Arizona linked systems, search W7ARA - Arizona Repeater Association, and click on the PDF selection. You'll get two pages of all the ARA repeaters, plus info on: Rimlink (links most of AZ), Metrolink (links Phoenix/Prescott/Payson) and Northlink (links Phoenix with Scottsdale), and how to use the Autopatch system. If you're interested in a larger linked system, check out the Win System (winsystem.org) with over 100 linked repeaters which covers a lot of the U.S., and digitally to many countries around the world. When I go fishing at Roper Lake I have listened to the EAARS system on Heliograph Peak. Lots of good systems, and still lots more out there to explore and communicate. Hope this helps. 73 Pete - KI7LIL
@@peterkunka2694 Hi Peter. Thank you so much for the info. Really valuable! //Brent
Hey bro, because of this video (Sept 5) I got my GMRS license and fell deep into the rabbit hole a month later lol. Thanks again, I got me a Radioddity GM-30 Plus with a whip it antenna. I understand so much more then when I saw this video. Thanks !!
Best video on comms I’ve seen so far. Ima beginner and really appreciate you breakdown on this.
Good overview: Just a few helpful additions. You can put an exterior antenna on your GMRS radio. A magnetic base antenna can be put on your vehicle and taken off, along with your radio, when not used (protection against theft.) Also, repeaters, while not as available as HAM, are part of GMRS. And they are growing. GMRS is booming and becoming more universal.
@@tivowillieb He didn't claim otherwise.
@@tivowillieb That's what he said.
@@tivowilliebyou should work on your reading comprehension
Touché
Note that "ham radio" as a nickname for "amateur radio" is not an acronym, so the letters are not capitalized. I have no idea when people started doing this, but it's not correct, so I try to set things straight whenever I see it. That all said, it's nice to see rekindled interest in the hobby.
Fun fact... when I was trying out CB and switching out Attenas, I was able to hear someone from 9.5 miles away (which is pretty far for a CB) , but I also had a giant 5 foot fiberglass antenna, and that was a monster right there!
More fun facts...
I have no problem getting 10 mile range from my mobile CB setup... Just a standard half breed antenna and 4 watts.
@@sahhull well yeah.... all CBs are at 4 watts. unless its SSB, then you can use 12 watts
@@artrucking4142 permitted output depends on the country.
Not every country is 4watts.
Ham APRS is a good alternative to the Garmin InReach without the monthly service fee. Family and friends can see your location via a web page. Most APRS radios offer a QSY frequency message which changes whenever the radio frequency changes. That way, any ham operator can talk to you. And APRS is able to send/receive text messages and email. I'm willing to wager I can get emergency help faster with a ham radio than the InReach. Great video!
The Inreach runs off of cell towers. If the cell towers go down you won't be able to use it.
Thanks again Brad. I;ve probably thanked you a few times before for publishing this vid. I refer back to it often. Got my HAM license last year. Loved the information I studied. I felt like an Electrical Engineer by the time I was done
I love the size of GMRS antennas, the Midland 15 Watt radio plugs into your "cigarette lighter" ports. I gave my son one, and I run the Midland 40W, he and I have talked well over 10 miles with those 2 radios. - I am also a Ham. I have CB radios, but the antennas are really a hurdle on vehicles. GMRS is the tech that works when your friends are not licensed.
Brad, I used CB for many years, and now use GMRS, but also carry a NOAA 406 MHz Beacon as a safety net in the event we are truly stuck or injured and need help. My wife and I had an 'aha moment" on one of our simple day trips, and now we have one in our JK at all times. They require a registration every two years, but our ability to get a message out is virtually assured.
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!!
1. For GMRS a single license can be shared by a whole family. Your cousin Leroy who you haven't seen in 20 years can work via your license. The FCC is really generous here.
2. Also, I suggest you mention that GMRS Includes provisions for repeaters. They're not as common as Ham repeaters but you may get lucky or the Jeep club may want to sponsor a portable battery unit for special events.
In my area we have a GMRS repeater that is likely more active than the 2m repeaters in the area. Its a good thing for chatting and sometimes just listening to.
with a general HAM license you can get HF as well as VHF and UFH. I have talked to Estonia direct on 20m with 200w from a vertical antenna from my garage!
I regularly get into Asia, Australia, South America, Europe, and Russia with my compromised 20 meter ham antena. The greatest limiting factor is how much money you want to spend. Ham radio is by far the way to go.
Bravo! So very sorry that you had to shell out $400 bucks, sir! You just saved me $600! I recently started hearing these ads, was curious. Very comprehensive review. Thank you!
I have been a ham operator since 1990 this is a great video keep up the great work 73 from KB7PPW
Thanks, great discussion on communications Brad. I too have quite a go-bag of radios so that I can pick from, as well as a mobile Ham radio in my rig. It's always nice to be able to communicate with the group no matter what they are running... I also recently picked up one of the Garmin InReach Mini's and I look forward to that extra level of communication & protection on future adventures...
Thanks for a handy synopsis about 2-way radio communications for off-roading.
Thank you for your Ham recommendation. I first got my Ham Tech 30 years, and did not renew. Scheduled a new test last week and after $35 fee I am license as Technician again. Mounted a 5/8 wave 2M/.70 antenna on my Tacoma SR5 and a permanent dual band. You got me to get back into Ham, driving to Great Basin Lehman caves area in a couple of weeks
Brad, I just got my Jeep Rubicon Gladiator, and have learned soooo much from your channel in all aspects of off-roading. (just bought a GMRS radio...) Wish I could say "thanks" in person on some epic adventure..... I'm in New England. Keep doing what you're doing!!
for someone that's not a communication expert you did one of the best vids about the subject I've see n in a while. GMRS is what people are going to in my area and like HAM it has repeaters. Having JEEP make the switch helped GMRS a lot. CB is even getting some new life with them talking adding FM frequencies not sure if they have done it yet.
Thank you! I agree, Jeep has played a bit of a role in the GMRS movement.
Wow finally a concise video on radios
Always the best timing! Was in the market for one!
Why choose? I have CB, GMRS, and HAM in my Chevy Silverado. As discussed in the video, GMRS covers the FRS frequencies.
I like to use CB for long distance highway trips, GMRS for offroading, and HAM for emergency preparedness.
Thank you , knowledge for people with no knowledge
I just bought the Midland MXT275 GMRS. I like it so far. I plan on getting their whip antenna and A pillar mount. Right now I am just using the magnetic one the kit came with.
Ham operator here. I have a short dual-band mobile mount on a fender mount attached to the front driver side fender. 2m/70cm FM signal doesn’t transmit far enough in most conditions where a super long high-gain antenna will make much of a difference. A fender mount will do a good enough job, especially if you’re only trying to hit local repeaters or other vehicles in your group.
IMHO the best mobile mounts are hard mount roof mounts. Not wanting to drill holes in my car, I settled for a mag mount on the roof. Be careful the mag is strong enough. I have them come off at highway speeds. A good ground plane is essential for longer ranges. Just saying. 73 De N4BUA
On GMRS, they’re called “privacy codes” but in reality it’s actually a travel tone for GMRS repeaters. There are a a lot out there but not nearly as many HAM repeaters. But a lot of GMRS repeaters are privately owned either by an individual or a radio club. You usually have to ask for permission to get the frequency and travel tone required to access said repeaters. I was just given access recently to a couple as I joined a GMRS group “Empire State GMRS Repeater” so much fun
-WRNE342
Ghostbusters Effect: Who ya gonna call? I use ham with a friend, have those same GMRS radios for around town/camp/spotting, and an Inreach for emergencies (the latest add). I tore out my CB after awhile. Even with all that, hiking up a hill for cell signal was how I self recovered this year.
Good video, good information. A couple of comments: Always be aware that someone could be listening to your conversations. Nothing is private. And second, a good antenna with good ground will make or break your comms. Jeep Wranglers are notorious for not being RF friendly, so if you are installing a mobile (not HT), be sure to get good grounds to the antennas. Ham Radio Crash Course has a good video that details grounding (bonding) a mobile setup. Smash ahead, Trail Recon!
Try an antenna that doesn't need a ground plane: like a j-pole. I have used a roll-up jpole on a flag with pretty good success in similar situations. The hardest thing is keeping the antenna together when it whips around so much. I was using electrical tape to secure them together: not a good idea. The antenna gets stretched and compressed to death pretty quickly. I'm trying a loose-fitting "guide" setup with a long piece of large shrink wrap next. You could do the inside-some-PVC trick, too, for a more rigid solution.
@@ntc490 Thanks. I've tried the roll up too with limited success. I've pretty much taken the attitude that the Wrangler RF situation is what it is. I get out OK with my Diamond antennas for Ham and GMRS. HF I gave up on, I'll just operate portable on HF. GL, stay safe. 73
Brad, Good presentation. I am a Ham also. One point I would make is having a hand held in a cup holder and off road. It becomes a flying object in rough terrain and if it ends up on the floor when you need it your out of touch.
Thanks. I enjoy the video's I have been on most of all your trails.
Ron K.
Dash mount holder works well to keep things from flying around.
really?
Ham radio is great but not many local people in the group when I’m off-roading. Mobiles are great but take a portable with you when you’re out of the vehicle. Good info. Thanks for sharing
Very interesting Brad, it's quite different here in Australia. Max output is 5w, almost all radios are UHF 427mhz, 80 channels. 4 or 6.6dbi antenna are the most common. The og CB 27mhz is not really used anymore. Never even heard of the GMRS! 50W! Sheesh that's something! For long range outback travel HF radio is also more common. Anyway, thanks for the video, interesting to see what other countries use.
Which is the best you've come across? I'm looking to buy an unlimited range transmitter
@@theobserver450 They call that a cell phone
@@Doonit_hard_way_since_65 so basically walkie talkies are a little useless? I bought one that has 13km range but it only worked at 2km distance. False advertising
@@theobserver450 Those range ratings are just bogus. Even under ideal conditions no one ever sees the advertised numbers. There needs to be a real standard for the consumer to compare. Typically off-road, in woods/rural conditions radios running in the VHF bands are superior (MURS band, as example) UHF (GMRS) will works a bit better un urban conditions, tall buildings, getting into buildings through openings. Because of their line-of-sight propagation both are limited by curvature of the earth. I completely understand your frustration with the advertised range.
Maybe vote in people that will give you more than 5w.
Great video.
I have 2 stories where 2 meter ham radio via repeater worked very well for us.
As a test with my buddy in Indio, we agreed to use the Catalina repeater for a few minutes.
My buddy in Indio has a mid size tower at his house and has a pretty clear shot through the Banning Pass. He can hit the island repeater when things are perfect.
I on the other hand was half way up San Marco's Pass road overlooking Santa Barbara.
I can hit the Catalina repeater from a certain spot up there.
So we set up and tried it out.
It's nearly 100 miles for each of us that repeater. And sure enough we were talking without and issues. That was right around 200 miles overall.
Second one was pretty cool as well.
I was driving from Santa Barbara to Big Bear in my Jeep.
My buddy in Indio was driving up to Big Bear and we both used one of the Big Bear repeaters. Granted I couldn't hit the repeater till got to Rancho Cucamonga. Then to top it off one of our other Jeep buddies was at a campground near Huntington Beach, so all 3 of us had a brief conversation while traveling in southern California.
Some pre-planning was necessary, but it worked out very well.
i use lithium AA batteries in my gmrs radios when moose hunting, they last longer than stock rechargeable batteries that come with it and lithium batteries give your signal a boost even in the bush and the signal really cuts thru. its a noticeable difference
Rechargeable batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) are 1.2v.
Alkaline and Lithium batteries (AA, AAA) are 1.5v.
So ya the higher voltage batteries will work better
Agreed. Lithium ion AA cells are absolutely worth the extra money. They last a lot longer than alkaline and carbon cells. The fact they last so long came as a pleasant surprise to me.
Good information. Years ago my young daughter(Adult now) wanted, we’ll call it “My Little Pony” I can’t remember. Just looking at them I put them back and found some Cobra micro talks US Army version, GMRS good for 5-30 miles. I just got them for a better quality option that would last longer than a week. They have lasted quite awhile but are rarely used. All along I didn’t know that you had to be registered.
Good video, nice job. I'm a ham. I do emcomm and I have 2 GMRS repeaters.
Yes my vehicle looks like a porcupine LOL
This is a GREAT Video for us Beginners. Make sure in the future that you explain that if an Enemy detonates a EMP Nuke above the U.S. It will kill some or most of the Grid, plus your electronics, and disable modern (ECU-Controlled) Vehicles. That means most cars, trucks, and perhaps ATV/UTX vehicles, and cell phones UNLESS you should have a Faraday Cage/Box grounded to prevent disabling of your electronics. Not practical for large objects. IF you choose SATELLITE, keep Garmin InReach in a Faraday Cage as it will work after an EMP if caged.
Great info here Brad, forwarding to some friends. For anyone considering the lime green Motorola T600s, they are IP67 rated so also great for wet climates.
Onew potential trouble with a satellite phone is that if you intend to go overseas, and you expect you'll need a reliable means of communication, satellite looks like a good idea. But, some countries, India for instance, can get quite difficult if you attempt to bring a satellite enabled device such as a phone or some GPS units that also double as a communications unit and scream for help device without first consulting the right government agency. They may simply arrest you.
Good brief. I have been a HAM for 18 years now (damn that went by quick...) and that's what's in the truck. I do carry GMRS handhelds as well and they're great for mixed groups.
The InReach is a very nice tool. I recently picked one up and have to say it's a really nice thing to have both for the camping/fishing trips in the Jeep and the cross country flights in small planes. Much better option than an ELT or EPIRB, or even than a PLB for emergency use.
I used to run a CB with 165 watt amplifier years ago. I could dim other people's lights when i keyed up. Now i have my ham license and GMRS license. I like the chinese radios that allow one radio to use both. You can also program FRS in so that one mobile or handheld radio could do everything except CB.
Thank you for highlighting that GMRS and FRS are compatible.
I think that actually changed with newer radios. They used to sell FRS/GMRS combo radios, but around 2020, the FCC made manufacturers split the channels up. My midland MXT410 only has GMRS channels.
I am an advocate of mobile ham radios if you travel in very remote areas. I like being able to hit repeaters in an emergency and to send text messages and automatic position reports home using APRS. My setup does not require mounting the mobile radio. I have a dual band radio with a removable control head. When I choose to use it for a trip, I stash the radio body under the rear seat and power it using a ‘cigarette lighter’ plug. I mount the control head to the windshield with a suction cup mount. I add a Cat-5 cable extension to the microphone so that it easily reaches the front seat. I stick a magnetic mount antenna on top of the truck. It takes 5 minutes to set up.
Brad, you got me all excited. Great video with one exception: GMRS is still $70 as of 9/27/21.
Got mine 11/20/21 and it's still $70.
Still $70 as of 2/11/22
35 dollars on May 31, 2022 for gmrs license on FCC website.
Excellent coverage to get new folks thinking. We have always groups and to be able to chat along the route is vital. Bio breaks, issues or general chat bands the group together. We migrated to Ham and along the trail use our handheld units also one of us always has a Spot running as well to post our location
There are lots of radio videos out there with some not so great advise, but you did an awesome job.
My humble opinion is GMRS as it's the most accessible, and flexible. You can use a mobile mounted in your vehicle with a rooftop antenna with higher power, or handheld HT.
Great information Brad. I'm a com's nut (at least my wife and son think so). I am old enough to remember back in the 70's when you needed a license for CB radio (KDK5794). So when I got into off roading when we bought our 2016 JKU I bought one of the Midland CB's with a cigarette lighter power connection and exteral antenna option (I mentioned I'm old) and a mag mount antenna for use on the trails. Easter Jeep Safari in 2019 was a prime example of where we needed the CB. Last year I thought it would be good to get my Ham license as in addition to off roading, I'm an emergency responder here in PA. So now I've got portable, mobile and base ham radios. Then this year we attended our first Jeep Jamboree and GMRS is mandatory, so I got my $70 GMRS license and a handheld (you mentioned the license being $35, while the FCC made the announcement at the beginning of the year, I don't think it has changed yet, last I checked it was still $70). Only thing I'm missing is the Sat device. You hit all the main points very effectively and I agree, the more options you have the less change you'll be stuck unable to communicate in an emergency or just to stay in touch with the others in your group. If anyone wants to learn more about coms, especially GMRS, check out "Notarubicon" on youtube (you probably know Randy as he also lives in the SoCal area). Safe Travels and God Bless!
Hey perfect timing! I'm putting a gmrs in my truck within the next couple weeks, and i already have a cb setup from an older rig that I no longer own so I might as well throw that in too! Need to get my ham license as well.
Gmrs radios also have repeaters in some areas. Not as prevalent as ham repeaters in my area but from what I've heard, they're getting more common. 73!
I am literally less than a month away from a trip to Moab. And I'm in the market for some sort of radio so hopefully this video helps me out LOL
Same boat. What great timing
Awesome, have fun in Moab!
This is a great video. Thank you for explaining the differences in all of these devices. Great work.
Glad it was helpful!
👍. Good info. Been a “ham” operator since 1975. 73s, KI4G
A ham license is easy to get, even General Class. The tests are multiple choice. None of the other forms of radio listed even come close to ham radio. The only disadvantage with ham radio is that you can only communicate with other hams. That's why I help people get their ham license, so I can talk to them.
Excellent tutorial. The Garmin inreach also has a satellite-aided SOS system for life threatening situations in the wild. I think the Garmin is distinct from the 406 MHz EPIRB transmitter systems you can carry for emergencies where you need rescue to survive.
One point that should be added: find out what your friends or groups you plan on wheeling with are using or plan on using. If you have a group of newbies… then make sure everyone is OK with the type of radio choice your making….
You and Marco missed an opportunity to educate those two drivers! ;-) The lessons for them: 1) "You never know who's listening;" 2) "Never judge a book by its cover." But, of course, talking to them would identify yourselves, which may not be your preference. I was driving on a road with my giant HF antenna mounted. I was listening to a repeater conversation between call signs that I recognized, but had never met. Suddenly, one of the guys started laughing and said, "You should see the little VW that just passed me with a huge antenna. I doubt he's monitoring, though." I keyed and said, "He is" and then shared my call sign. We've had a few pleasant conversations since then and may meet in person someday. Take Care!
I suppose we could have, but I think I was laughing too hard!
My setup is that I use my Ham radio in the Jeep but it's limited to me since I'm the one with the license. I have a pair of GMRS radios in the Jeep for spotting. I have the license for the GMRS so I can hand the second radio to anyone who wants to spot. For communications far off the beaten path with no cell signal and possibly no one else to listen on radio, I go to satellite communication with a spotX device. I think I've covered all of the bases. I love Ham and what can be done with Ham but it's limited to me and honestly in a tough situation it might be difficult to impossible to use for someone else in the vehicle who has no ham experience.
11:30 Huh, didn't know that Midland made ham radios; was about to comment that you keep pointing to a GMRS mobile. Good thing I checked their website first!
I have Midland ham radio right here on the desk with me!
As kids we used my friends dad's radio and could talk in cone to Germany on a good night. Old tube set black front and lots of dials and switches and 2 light up meters.
Wow this was great! I'm newcomer into the radio hobby. This was a great place to start. Looking forward to learning more!
Ahh radio nuts. I'm fastly becoming one. My pastor wants me on HAM as well, and I would love to. [Channel Clear]
Ham radio does everything.
GMRS can also connect to repeters as well so long as you get one that you can get into an program to that freq.
like your hints and tips, just starting in Jeeps (have 2)...keep it up! also am Navy vet. myself E-5 ADJ A-6E's CV-59 AW-2 VA-85
Great video! Just bought my first Jeep! Can't wait to start overlanding!
My take after years on the trail: very, very few people on GMRS on the trails. Just got back from an Idaho trip in the backcountry and didn't hear or make a single contact on GMRS. It needs many more years of growth to be viable. CB is still more prominent at this time. For genuine safety comms, the Garmin InReach is untouchable. For in-city use, GMRS does beat out CB, for several reasons. 1, the user base is better behaved. 2, there is better convo. 3, repeaters make whole-city coverage easy and fairly common.
Thank you Brad for the topic I know I asked atleast once for discussion on it ☺️ I am a ham operator base only atm but plan to go mobile once I can afford a proper antenna for low band ☺️
Well done, I've been planning to get my ham license.
Don't forget SSB on CB also. I think you get 12 watts on there and have a much longer range.
6:50 A US to JA contact would very likely be via HF and not VHF or UHF as the radios pictured in this showcase are VHF/UHF only. Glad you explained the ham radio regulations correclty and didn't bush over it as I've seen other overland youtubers do. 73.
Unless he connected to a repeater which is connected to the internet, to a repeater in Japan, which was also connected to the internet. (Using Echolink, IRLP, or D-Star.)
@@geastman or wires x, Allstar, DMR, P-25 I’m sure there are other modes I’m leaving out.
I have talked to Australia from FT Carson, CO on channel 16 CB radio. twin whistler antennas on a Ford F150 Cobra 19, clear as a bell for about 10 minutes. The skip was just right.
Another consideration for handheld vs moble.. theft. I have a YJ soft top and live in apartment complex so having a hardwired radio is tempting to thieves walking by..
As a Ham for over 40 years, you did well for a general Comm overview. You mentioned about Ham repeaters, but GMRS also have repeaters that work the same way. I would suggest trying to avoid those channels for simplex operation like you should on Ham.
Thanks this is great information! Just getting into the off-road trail lifestyle and you answered a lot of questions I had and also taught me a few things I did not know! Thanks!
HF is still my primary emergency communications. In my opinion a 4 ft to 6 ft diameter manetic loop is probably the best portable antenna to work HF from 80 meters through 10 meters; for off grid, no internet whether voice, digital messaging, winlink, VARA HF, JS8, and even CW.
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
I like having t by e CB in Oregon with lots of log trucks and equipment running around out in the woods. Especially during the weekdays. Log trucks win every time on the backroads and knowing where they are can be a safety issue. Not as big of a deal on weekends but I like having it.
Good info. Thanks for the commo update. I'd really like to do the HAM radio lic test.
Great timing Brad! Looking at GRMS system for my setup. Saw SD Jeep club switched as well! Bring a retired Marine it’s funny to run across “hot mic” situations on the trail!
Great video, it gave me alot of insight in helping me make my decision for the communications I'll be going with. Thank you.
Best equipped mall crawler that can handle the trails... from VA3MED great info Brad. I am re installing my yeasu ft 7600 back in my Jeep Grand Cherokee after having work done. Yes mine is a mall crawler but it does see some feild action. When I'm working my EMS duties when covering a horse jumping event.
Brad, you said that the FRS radios do not have interchangeable antennas, correction the Baofeng 888s FRS radio does have interchangeable antennas!
Great video Brad. I ordered some stuff in your website also. Very convenient. Thanks.
Great Info Brad. Appreciated...did you forget tin cans and a string 😂
Use the 980 bearcat it has ssb this will get out far legally up to 12 watts it also has 40 channels CB.. I always put them in my jeeps pair it with a 5 ' fire stick tuneable tip. Lov ur videos
The antenna and wavelength are key. Effective antennas really require something around ¼ wavelength long and tuned to the frequency. On CB (27 MHz frequency), the wavelength is 11 meters (36 feet). So, a ¼ wave antenna is about 8 ½ feet. If you have an 8 ½ ft whip on a vehicle, it may work OK. If it’s a shorter antenna it has been compromised and some tuning device inserted. A handheld CB with a 12-inch antenna cannot possibly work well at radiating a signal very far with an 11-meter wavelength. Imagine a 36-foot radio wave trying to get out of a car from a handheld CB. At UHF FM GMRS or FRS frequencies (about 462 MHz), the wavelength is about 61cm or 24 inches. So, a handheld radio with a 6-inch antenna is ¼ wavelength and should work well and will easily find its way out of car window. External antennas, correctly tuned, are always the best choice. But, CB frequencies deal best with terrain yet is subject to noise and interference on AM (this may be better on the newly authorized CB FM); while UHF is more easily blocked by terrain. So, the overall best option, in my opinion, for off-road is the 2-meter ham band (VHF FM 144-148 MHz); the ¼ wavelength (19in) antenna is quite effective and antennas such a 5/8 wavelength are even better. The 2-meter mobile radios have better transmitters with much higher power (~40watts) and generally more sensitive receivers and the antennas are well designed and effective.
Well said. I agree.
Great video, I think many folks who have been wondering what to do will get something useful out of this.
Great video. I don't have any of these as I really don't need them, but to me the field of telecommunications is very interesting. I remember as a kid buying a cheap pair of walkie talkies at a dept store, with my Dad. I remember the salesman saying something like, "...these can occasionally pick up communications from overseas!" haha Uh, no, buddy, no they can't. They were simple line-of-sight radios with not a very big range. They weren't HF receivers...
With the way things are going in the world, however, it might be a good idea to have some means of emergency communication.
Okay, so I went to the ARRL website and found some online options. I made the mistake of looking on FCC instead of Amateur Radio site. lol thanks, Brad!
Good stuff brad I have a couple cast iron pots climb up the highest ridge bang them together an yell help 😂😂 ,,,,,seriously I have gmrs works very good thought about ham but solo 99 percent of the time,the mobile cb an 600 watt linear has been in a box in the garage for years hope all is well as always be safe 👍👍👍👍
Thank you so much for this! Up to this point we have just been using some very basic midland walky talkies but eventually we will want to add something a little more.
great video! I don't do any of the things you do and I was still able to understand and relate. Thanks for knowledge!!