The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a land-mobile FM UHF radio service used for two-way communication over short distances. If you live in the United States you need a license to operate GMRS equipment, in Canada this same equipment can be used without a license.

The GMRS uses channels around 462 MHz and 467 MHz. There are other services that are similar to the GMRS including Family Radio Service, Multi-Use Radio Service, and Citizens Band Radio Service.

GMRS communication is available to individuals needing a way to communicate across short distances. One licensed individual is in charge of the radio use but any family members are legally allowed to operate the radio under the direction of the licensed individual. Businesses are not typically granted access to use GMRS because the goal is to keep the lines open for personal users. In the past businesses were given licenses to operate GMRS equipment and some are still given approval today.

The History Of GMRS

GMRS was second to its predecessor known as Class A Citizens Radio Service, which was introduced in the 1960s. By the 1970s larger metropolitan statistical areas were getting jams in lines of communication. As a result, businesses were moved to Business Radio Service channels to provide relief and allow easier access to communication for personal radio use. This caused some commotion at the time but proved beneficial. It was at this time that the GMRS was given its modern day name. (Reference)

What Is The GMRS? 

GMRS radios are typically portable hand-held devices similar to Family Radio Service (FRS) radios. There are both mobile and land-based stations available for GMRS systems.

It is legal for public service and commercial land mobile bands to operate GMRS systems, as long they are GMRS type-approved. These commercial UHF radios are considered much higher quality than the walkie-talkies you can purchase at your local store, and offer advanced capabilities and communication reliability.

GMRS Licensing

In 2010, the FCC made a proposal to open up GMRS for use without an individual license but as of now this is still just a proposal. You currently need a license granted through the FCC to operate GMRS systems. A license to operate is valid for a five-year period. You may apply to renew your license within 90 days of the current license expiration date, you may also apply up to the very last date your current license is still good. Once your license officially expires it is mandatory by law that you apply for a new license or stop use of GMRS systems.

If your business was given a license to operate GMRS prior to July 31, 1987 you are eligible for renewal, even though most GMRS users are regulated to individuals. It is illegal for a GMRS station to include any modifications that increase power output.

You are eligible to apply for a GMRS system license as long as you are 18-years or older and you do not represent a foreign government. If you are licensed any of your family members (regardless of age) are legally allowed to operate the GMRS stations and units.

The fee for a license application is currently $85; this fee is subject to change annually.

You can learn more about the FCC service rules regarding the GMRS here: https://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/rules-regulations-title-47

GMRS Range

The range associated with GMRS is similar to other UHF radio services and generally only extends to line-of-sight distance. The height of the radio antenna determines the distance of range, as does location, terrain and weather. On average the range between two GMRS hand-held radios is between one or two miles. Mobile units with higher antennas could foreseeably communicate across 5 miles. If the GMRS repeater includes a tall antenna this will extend communication from the station considerably, reaching as far as 20-miles. The presence of hills, buildings and other obstructions may greatly reduce this range.

GMRS Channels

There are 8 channels considered exclusive to the GMRS as well as 7 “interstitial” channels that are shared with Family Radio Service. With a license you may transmit up to 50 watts on GMRS frequencies based upon the type of station you have. More commonly 1 to 5 watts is projected. Units may have detachable or external antennas.

FRS channels 8 through 14 are not for GMRS use. In order to access these channels you will need an FRS transceiver or a hybrid transceiver, which may only be operated under FRS guidelines.(Reference)

Highland Wireless is Florida’s go-to provider for the latest two-way radios and service. Contact us today to learn how you can set up a two-way radio system for one low monthly cost.

Motorola is a long-standing brand with a great reputation and a large variety of two-way radios to choose from. All of Motorola’s radios offer superior quality but depending on what you need the right two-way radio for you will vary.

Motorola offers the world’s largest third party application developer program in the industry. As a result, they offer unmatched capacity, state of the art voice quality, and integrated data communication. MOTOTRBO, Motorola’s communication system, is built to globally recognized ETSI DMR Tier 2 standard and can be used on both UHF and VHF frequencies. Motorola is the go-to brand for so many different industries including large government organizations as well as small family-run tow truck companies.

Highland Wireless offers the latest Motorola two-way radios on the market, including basic and high-tech models. Here is a Motorola two-way radio comparison to help you find the best radio for your business or personal needs.

How To Choose The Right Radio

Your decision comes down to a few important questions:

• How far do you need radio range to extend?
• Where will you be using radios? Location and terrain greatly impact overall radio range.
• Do you need GPS, Bluetooth, or other upgraded features?
• Is a screen important, or are screen-less models just fine?
• Do your radios need to be water and dust resistant?

High-Tech, Yes Please: The Motorola XPR-5550

If you’re looking for a high-tech two-way radio system the latest Motorola XPR-5550 offers a world of new features and is one of the very best commercial radios in the industry. The full backlit display changes for night and day mode so that the screen is always clear at any time and from any angle. This sort of attention to detail decreases distractions and improves workflow efficiency.

The XPR-5550 also has Bluetooth for hands-free communication, a hugely valuable tool in many industries. This increases employee safety as well as the ability to communicate, even when dealing with overwhelming situations. Data applications are limitless, offering so many things never before possible via two-way radio. GPS tracking and work ticket management adds more icing on the cake.

Small, Sweet & Sleek: The Motorola SL-7550

If a small and sleek Motorola two-way radio is more on speed with what you need the Motorola SL-7550 UHF MOTOTRBO radio may be right on par with your demands. This radio is specially designed for the hospitality industry as well as security and airport industries. This stylish radio offers a professional form of communication via a lightweight, good looking hand-held radio.

This radio is the size of a modern day smartphone but comes packed with all of the power associated with a full-sized radio. Plus, it comes fully loaded with Bluetooth and GPS.

For The Business That Wants It All: Motorola XPR-7550

Motorola’s XPR-7550 offers everything and more, including a full color LCD display screen and the latest digital radio systems. It is considered a perfect combination of data application and fully optimized digital radio. The beautiful screen makes this two-way radio feel like a smartphone, plus the GPS and Bluetooth capabilities seal the deal. Despite all of the fancy bells and whistles this radio is incredibly durable and can stand up to the challenges presented at many different work environments.

The IMPRES battery technology offers unmatched optimization for nonstop reliability.

The Basics And Nothing More: Motorola CP-200

Many businesses don’t require Bluetooth, GPS or shiny LCD screens; instead they just need a reliable way to communicate back and forth. If this describes your needs the Motorola CP-200 is a reliable option, in fact it is considered one of the most well recognized radios in the industry. This two-way radio has staying power for good reason, such as its flexible communication features like push-to-talk ID and selective call. The hardware is built durable enough to withstand any environment. This radio has been around for a long time and was recently reintroduced as a digital model.

High Performance And High-Tech: Motorola XPR-6550

The Motorola XPR-6550 is easily the most flexible option offered thanks to its compact design and large variety of features. Bluetooth, IMPRES battery technology, GPS, and submersible design make this two-way radio durable, dependable and extremely useful no matter what you need. If your team needs constant connection over long periods of time this is the go-to model.

Need Even More From Your Two-Way Radio System?

Highland Wireless offers the latest Motorola two-way radios in the industry, but that’s not all. We also offer Wide Area network options, which increase your radio range by as much as 300+ miles. You can talk between different Florida counties as if you are right next-door.

No matter what two-way radio is right for your business we offer the most affordable service and plans. Contact Highland Wireless today to learn more!

Personal Radio Services are low-power, short-range communication via two-way radio devices, and include CB, FRS, GMRS, IPRS, and MURS Services. These services may utilize both one and two-way radio transmissions that operate equipment by remote control and data transmission.

For the most part personal radio services do not use transmission towers or other similar equipment to operate. Personal radio services that have very high frequency, and ultra high frequency radio spectrum experience far less static and other disturbances compared with basic walkie-talkies.

There are many different types of personal radio services. The most popular types include Citizens Band Radio Service (CB), General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS), Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS), Low-Power Radio Service (LPRS), and Family Radio Service (FRS).

Here is a closer look at these types of personal radio services.

Family Radio Service (FRS)

The FRS allows for short-distance (usually under one-half mile) two-way communication. FRS units are very comparable to the look and functionality of a walkie-talkie. Unless you have a GMRS license you may only use FRS channels to communicate. Your unit label or operations manual should detail the service it is approved for. FRS-only units have antennas and give off lower power levels.

Citizens Band Radio Service (CB)

CB service offers private two-way radio communication for both business and personal use. You can’t communicate using this system to any stations located over 155.3 miles (or 250 km) in distance. There are maximum power levels authorized for use, these levels fluctuate depending if the transmitting station is operating on a single side band (SSB) or an AM signal. AM transmissions are only approved for up to 4 watts of power while the SSB transmissions are approved for up to 12 watts of Peak Envelope Power (PEP).

In the United States all CBs must be certified with the FCC and the manufacturer must properly label units as such.

No CB channel is assigned to one individual, meaning the 40 lines of communication are shared on a “take-turns” basis. In order to keep the system flowing no user can talk for 5 or more consecutive minutes at one time. Users must also wait one minute after ending a conversation before initiating another conversation.

It is illegal to modify CB units internally through the attachment of a power amplifier or any other way of increasing power output.

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)

GMRS is a land-mobile radio service used for two-way communications over shorter distances. You need a license from the FCC to operate a GMRS system. The system includes station operators and a mobile station with one or more mobile units. One or more land stations may also be included; land stations may operate as repeaters that extend range capabilities. GMRS units often include detachable antennas and transmit at higher powers.

New GMRS licenses are only granted to individuals. If your business was granted a license for use prior to July 31, 1987 you are eligible for renewal so long as you meet certain conditions. Filing fees are set annually and currently total $85. A filling guide is available here: (Reference)

Low Power Radio Service (LPRS)

LPRS offers a one-way, private form of communication that operates across short distances. It allows stations to transmit voice data or signals for auditory assistance serving people with certain disabilities. It is very common for law enforcement and health-care professionals to use LPRS to communicate. LPRS is also used for network control communications in the Automated Marine Telecommunications System (AMTS).

Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)

MURS is a two-way short-distance private form of radio communication capable of transmitting voice or data. It is used for both personal and business operations. This service includes 5 channels; all of which are Very High Frequency (VHF).

There are rules and regulations regarding the use of these 5 channels in order to reduce interference when using the lines. All users are given the same rules and priorities when using MURS. It is illegal to operate a MURS station as a repeater station; this includes store-and-forward packet radio operation as well as a signal booster.

The maximum output power you can legally use for a MURS unit is 2 watts. The unit’s antenna size, as well as local terrain and weather will impact transmission range for two-way radios.

Operating Radios Without A License

The licensing laws regarding Personal Radio Services are instituted for a reason and must be followed. If you use a radio for unauthorized purposes or do not secure the correct licensing you are subject to fines and possibly even imprisonment. All of your equipment may also be confiscated. 

How To Contact The FCC

If you need to contact the FCC regarding licensing or any other related matters you may contact them by phone at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322); TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322).

You may also contact them by mail at the following address:

Federal Communications Commission

Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau

Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division

445 12th Street, S.W.

Washington, DC 20554

For the best deals on two-way radios and related services contact Highland Wireless today! 

Two-way radios are key to communication and survival during an emergency, but are your radios ready for use when the time comes? There are 7 questions you can ask yourself to find out if your emergency radios are ready to perform.

Even when phones let you down a two-way radio will continue to operate with efficiency. The number one time cell phones tend to go out of service is during an emergency because so many people are trying to access the same line at the same time. Also, certain types of emergencies such as a storm or other natural disaster may cause phone lines to go down all together. Even if an entire town is in shambles a two-way radio will continue to operate for effective communication.

If you use two-way radios on a regular basis you are more likely familiar with how to ensure radios are ready when needed. On the other hand, if you only plan to use radios during an emergency there are things you need to be aware of so that your radios actually work when the time comes to use them. 

Here are 7 questions to ask yourself to know if your emergency two-way radios are prepared for use.

1. Do You Know How To Use The Radio?

This might seem self-explanatory and a no-brainer but you might be surprised how many people have two-way radios for emergencies but don’t take the time to really learn how to use them. Keeping your radios stored away with the non-perishable food you plan to eat during an emergency is not recommended. Not only do radios need to be charged, but they also need a knowledgeable operator. It’s not hard to use a two-way radio, but a little practice to test out your skills will help ensure you know just what to do.

2. Have You Tested Your Radios In The Location You Plan To Use?

Always test out radios for emergencies in your immediate location to ensure nothing interferes with signal. If you wait until the last moment to check reception you may end up with a non-responsive device, which could have been identified and solved prior to an emergency.

3. Do You Have The Appropriate License?

There are certain walkie-talkies you can buy just about anywhere that operate over shared lines of communication and do not require a license. In an emergency these lines could be harder to access, as many amateur radio users will be using them. This is still beneficial because you can tune in and see what is going on, but it might not grant you the chance to communicate outward. General Mobile Radio Service will cost you $85 every five-years and provides access to communication lines with less possibility of interference.

4. Do You Test Emergency Two-Way Radios Frequently?

It is recommended that you test two-way radios at least once a month to ensure they are properly working. If a problem arises with a particular device you don’t want to wait until an emergency arrives to find out.

5. Do You Also Have An AM/FM Radio? 

Having a basic AM/FM radio is a great tool in any emergency. Local news is the most important news during an emergency. Knowing what is going on in your local area offers peace of mind, direction and helps formulate a game plan of action. Make sure to store plenty of spare batteries so that your AM/FM radio is guaranteed to work.

6. Do You Have A Plan Of Action That Everyone Knows?

A home or business emergency plan of action needs to be clear and very well known between everyone involved. Post your emergency plan on a wall somewhere convenient for people to locate and see on a regular basis. Every so often go over the plan with everyone to keep people in the loop about what to do in an emergency. It’s always helpful to have some back up plans too. Oh, and make sure everyone knows how to operate a two-way radio.

7. Have You Joined Your Local Radio Community?

Uncover your local radio community and join for greater access to other locals during an emergency. (Reference)

Benefits Of Two Way Radio In Emergency

There are so many benefits to a two-way radio during an emergency. Many instances throughout recent history have caused cell phone communication to dwindle or disappear all together. For instance, snowstorms in 2007 that ravaged all the way from Kansas to Georgia caused power grids to go out for days. As a result both cell phones and even computers become unusable for communication. Two-way radios are often the only form of communication available during an emergency.

No one wants to be isolated or in the dark during an emergency. Communication can be the difference between life and death.

For the latest emergency two-way radios contact Highland Wireless today!

Are you planning a big party or event of some kind? If so, two-way radio rentals will make your event go as planned by preventing a number of common instances from getting out of hand. Weddings, kid parties, a charity night or sporting event can all be greatly benefited by two-way radios. Businesses and professional event planners always make sure to have two-way radios on hand when hosting an event, but even if party planning isn’t your day job affordable two-way radios are still accessible. You don’t have to buy 2-way radios; instead you can rent as many radios as you need for even just one single event.

Two-way radio rentals are extremely popular because it offers anyone the opportunity to utilize this professional tool and run a smoother event. When you take storage, maintenance and initial cost into consideration it doesn’t make financial sense to buy a bunch of radios for one or two events. Renting radios is an affordable way to use the reliable technology without having to make a large purchase.

The following 5 benefits of two-way radio rentals for an event will have you saying ‘I do’ to radios for your next event!

Prevent Security Concerns

The number one goal when putting on a public or private event is to keep everyone in attendance safe. In order to keep everyone safe coordination is a must, which can get challenging when you have a lot of people and things going on all at once. Coordination all comes down to communication. Making sure the right people are notified of pressing information as it comes in will help reduce security concerns. Plus, since two-way radios operate on a closed network it keeps privacy secure and prevents others from hogging up a line right when you need to use it.

Always Reliable

Cell phones are obviously popular devices for communication but they aren’t always reliable when running an event. For one, it’s more work to place a call on a mobile device as opposed to talking directly over a radio line. Also, cell phones commonly malfunction due to dead spots, location, interference, or too many people trying to use phone lines all at once. Two-way radios offer far more reliability you can count on during an event, guaranteeing the right people receive the right messages at the speed of light, no matter what.

Cost Savings

Constant communication translates to more money in your pocket. According to Sorin Smalley two-way radios helped the University of Tennessee save money on a recent event held for 12,000 high school students.  Thanks to two-way radios, “We were able to reduce the number of drivers and vehicles we used by 31 percent, while serving the same number of participants.” (Read More)

Knowing how much you need of something at an event can be tricky, but not so much if you have constant communication between all involved parties.  Discussing what’s going on in real-time always prevents miscalculations that could otherwise break the bank.

Run A Smoother Event

At an event everything needs to take place at just the right time to be considered perfect. For instance, you don’t want the bride to start walking down the aisle at her wedding before the Groomsmen have already lined up. Two-way radios allow event coordinators on opposite sides of a party to coordinate, ensuring the most precious moments occur at the spot-on perfect time. Food needs to come out at the right time and the DJ needs to know when to announce a particular event on the dance floor, the needs for communication throughout any event are far spread. Two-way radios prevent a well-planned event from looking like a poorly planned chaotic mess.

Keep Guests Moving In The Right Direction

If your event is held outside two-way radios will allow coordinators to communicate about any bad weather that suddenly arises. As a result, people can be efficiently guided in the right direction no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Also, a packed event can lead to overcrowded areas that need to be dispersed. Using two-way radios to discuss options and plans can change an unenjoyable event into a comfortable and fun event for all guests. 

Renting Two-Way Radios

Two-way radio rentals will offer countless benefits for very little cost. You can pick the type of radio you rent based upon your needs, plus all rental radios come with chargers and you can add on any accessories you require. This is a safer option than say for instance buying used radios from someone on Craigslist. When you rent radios from us you know they are going to work and serve their intended purpose.

Highland Wireless offers two-way radio rentals at unbelievable prices. Contact us today and put on the event of a lifetime!