Portable FM Radio/Scanner/FRS-GMRS and Emergency Comms Radio (SHTF)

[PAVALKER]

While looking for inexpensive potential Bike-to-Bike comms, portable CB etc... I came across a little programmable VF/UHF transceiver that I found to be quite interesting, durable and quite inexpensive. It's the size of/or smaller than a pack of cigs, with a 4 or 5 inch antenna, with a rechargeable battery, charger base, headset/mic and belt clip... comparable to an FRS radio, but better.  I ordered one off of Amazon (and have since ordered another as well). 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007H4VT7A/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also ordered the USB interface cable and downloaded the free CHIRP programming software available online.   I programmed it with the FRS/GMRS frequencies, VHF Marine CH16 and a few other Distress or calling freqs and also.... my local Police/Fire/EMS frequencies.  You can/should choose to block transmit on various channels you program so as not to interfere with public safety channels or violate FCC regulations as you see fit.  IT will tune to local FM radio stations and can serve as a portable music/news radio in a pinch.   I have it programmed with the local police/fire/EMS channels and can select to scan those.    Sound is much better than my older portable handheld scanner, which I still have but will now use just to scan other bands for other things.  Sound/Clarity is very good.  Battery life appears to be quite good and larger batteries are also available... it has a charging stand as well. 

It has a high/low power (4 or 1 watt) capability, and even tho it exceeds the FRS power limits, in an actual emergency... you just might want that extra punch.  IMO this would make a most excellent SHTF Emergency Comms device.  This little radio just might get me motivated to get my Technician Class HAM license.  But, even if it doesn't.... for the $30.00 price tag, it makes a great little scanner (for non trunk or hopping comms) and a back up emergency comms device.  It does communicate well with my FRS radios.  A few of my neighbors got these as well....

I also picked up a portable/handheld Midland CB radio (75-822), but the HF/CB radio band is noisy and doesn't seem as clear/crisp as the UHF/VHF band.... but I have not mounted an external antenna either.  The Midland CB can be used for Bike to Bike with the portable antenna, and by removing the battery pack and using the 12V power plug and/or external antenna could reach out further and use the 12v bike power.  The Midland radio, without the battery pack, is about the size of a CB microphone alone (and does clip on to my cup holder LOL).  Another option for comms while on a long trip or when riding in a group.  I can plug the audio output in line with my GPS into the Aux port on the Interstate and adjust volume and squelch so that they work together..... without the great expense and cost of the Hondaline CB system.... and it's portable when needed.   

Just thought I would share for those that might be interested. 

[dreamaker]

I guess they got bought up, because it said they were not available.

[PAVALKER]

I guess they got bought up, because it said they were not available.

No... I clicked the link and it still shows in stock. ??   And if that link don't work, just search for the radio on Amazon as there are other suppliers for it on Amazon as well.   

[dreamaker]

Doesn't Amazon do PayPal anymore???

[PAVALKER]

Not sure, thought they did....   I have my account set up to take direct to one my CC's that I use for online purchases, but it's the same CC that I have set up for my PayPal acct as well.   

[JimmyG]

So, you have a HAM license to operate this radio?

[saab9k]

Just ordered one, I do have a Ham license.

[PAVALKER]

So, you have a HAM license to operate this radio?

As I am sure you are aware.... a HAM license is not required to listen     

[JimmyG]

So, you have a HAM license to operate this radio?

As I am sure you are aware.... a HAM license is not required to listen     

yep. Study for your tech license, it's easy,(even I passed it),  and then you can really use that radio to it's full extent. 

[ricoman]

OK, I grabbed one. (& usb cable)
How do you get local LEO frequencies to put into the unit?

[PAVALKER]

Get the CHIRP software (download it free).
http://chirp.danplanet.com/projects/chirp/wiki/Home

chirp program for the baofeng uv5r


They say not to use the software that came with the cable.  I pluged in the cable (without the radio) and it was looking for drivers for it.  You may need to go out and find/load up drivers for the comm port for that depending on your computer/operating system etc.  I installed the CHIRP software first, played with that while waiting for the radio/cable.  Installed cable and downloaded the drivers and then plugged in the frequencies I wanted on my radio.

In my case, I dividided the channels into memory banks to make it easier for me to remember whats what.  I programmed FRS/GMRS frequencies in channels 1-22 (which coincide with the FRS/GMRS assignments).  I selected low power for the FRS channels and high for the GMRS (but I don't transmit yet can in an emergency).  Channel 26 I programmed VHF Marine Chnl 16 in.... and a few other locals in chnls up to 30.   Channel 30 - 40 I programmed my local Police/Fire/EMS freqs (and selected to block transmit on those).  Channel 40 - 50 I programmed Weather freqs in (but I think each area has only one in use).    There are many other local frequencies you can program for your area.... even if you want to listen to fast food drive thru if you get bored.

If you want to scan frequencies to see if there is any activity you can put the radio in frequency mode vice channel mode and hit the scan button..... if it hits an active frequency it will pause and you can note the frequency to come back to.    To put the radio in the FM radio mode, the orange call button on the left side and then tune up or down to the radio station you want.


Freqs here...    http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?inputs=1&ctid=373#cats

http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?action=fccLicenses&ctid=373

http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?sid=272


Don't forget to block or disable transmit on the Police/Fire/EMS - Public Safety frequencies.

Google got me the above info for you area, and there is much more out there.....

[ricoman]

Thanks John
now I've got something to do till it gets here.

[PAVALKER]

Welcome....

Also, the CHIRP software comes loaded with frequencies for various configurations already loaded in.  (File - Open Stock Config..... and you will see them) I pulled up the  FRS/GMRS configuration and saved it under a different name, then pulled the saved version up and added the local and other freqs I wanted in there.  

Once you name your set up, you can save and edit it as many times as you like, and upload it to the radio when you want to load the changes.  Save it and re-edit as often as you like (even copy and save as a new configuration and edit for multiple areas depending on where you might be headed).  The radio is limited to like 128 channels or something like that, but I didn't reach that limit yet. 

[fudgie]

Alot of police/fire/ems are doing away with VHF and going 800-900 mghtz

[PAVALKER]

Alot of police/fire/ems are doing away with VHF and going 800-900 mghtz

That is true ...  our State Police have done that, and gone to trunked systems or something, but have the old freqs listed and you can occasionally hear stuff on it they say.  The locals in my county still use VHF/UHF.     But for the price of that little radio, you can still use it for various stuff..... 

[fudgie]

Alot of police/fire/ems are doing away with VHF and going 800-900 mghtz

That is true ...  our State Police have done that, and gone to trunked systems or something, but have the old freqs listed and you can occasionally hear stuff on it they say.  The locals in my county still use VHF/UHF.     But for the price of that little radio, you can still use it for various stuff..... 

Yea we went 800 in the late 90's then back again to vhf in mid 00's and back to 800's in 08'ish. We still have vhf for when the 800's 'site trunk'. The range of the 800's are nice but I like the vhf.

[dreamaker]

How long did you wait for your unit. I ordered one about a week ago and they sent notice it will be here on the 26th. Only thing I didn't notice was the month its not Jan26, its Feb26, this is why I don't like to deal with Amazon, they nearly break their arm getting the money, but when it comes to shipping they drag their a$$!!! Usually when I buy something I check their location, but Amazon don't give that info., specially when Chinese companies use English sounding names.

[ricoman]

How long did you wait for your unit. I ordered one about a week ago and they sent notice it will be here on the 26th. Only thing I didn't notice was the month its not Jan26, its Feb26, this is why I don't like to deal with Amazon, they nearly break their arm getting the money, but when it comes to shipping they drag their a$$!!! Usually when I buy something I check their location, but Amazon don't give that info., specially when Chinese companies use English sounding names.

ordered mine Jan.13, shipping notice says I'll get it Jan. 17. I chose normal shipping-not anything special-we'll see on Fri.
Purchase details show "Ships from and sold by Amazon.com."
Have gotten quite a bit of stuff from Amazon, never had an issue or a product shipped from outside the US. and shipping has always been fast.
I don't think Amazon has ever taken Paypal, if so a long time ago-not now.

[ricoman]

got mine yesterday (Fri.) as indicated in shipping memo

In trying to download the Chirp stuff, two things happen.
1. the green download box on the right of the screen links to an ad which my Norton firewall blocks as a virus sender-don't click there.
2. when I click the Chirp windows installer, I get a message that says "this type of file could harm your computer"
I am holding off any download until I find out what that is all about.
The unit itself seems like a decent piece of work.

[PAVALKER]

got mine yesterday (Fri.) as indicated in shipping memo

In trying to download the Chirp stuff, two things happen.
1. the green download box on the right of the screen links to an ad which my Norton firewall blocks as a virus sender-don't click there.
2. when I click the Chirp windows installer, I get a message that says "this type of file could harm your computer"
I am holding off any download until I find out what that is all about.
The unit itself seems like a decent piece of work.

When you downloaded it, your Norton should have scanned it and gave it an ok safe or not.  And the "this type of file could harm your computer" happens when you install any program.     

What link did you download Chirp from?

[ricoman]

got mine yesterday (Fri.) as indicated in shipping memo

In trying to download the Chirp stuff, two things happen.
1. the green download box on the right of the screen links to an ad which my Norton firewall blocks as a virus sender-don't click there.
2. when I click the Chirp windows installer, I get a message that says "this type of file could harm your computer"
I am holding off any download until I find out what that is all about.
The unit itself seems like a decent piece of work.

When you downloaded it, your Norton should have scanned it and gave it an ok safe or not.  And the "this type of file could harm your computer" happens when you install any program.     

What link did you download Chirp from?

Haven't yet, it was the link in your earlier post

[PAVALKER]

My Norton scanned it and said it was ok.  However, I think I downloaded the cable drivers and the Chirp software from this link instead....    http://www.miklor.com/COM/UV_CHIRP.php

[ricoman]

thanks PAV
I'm not a techno geek and this is starting to be more of a challenge than I expected.
There may soon be a radio for sale cheap!

[dreamaker]

Ok finally got here and played with it little, this is all new to me. What is the reason for loading the software, vs. what is in it already? This is going to be a learning experience to me. Also I assume this can be used as a walkie talkie.

[PAVALKER]

Ok finally got here and played with it little, this is all new to me. What is the reason for loading the software, vs. what is in it already? This is going to be a learning experience to me. Also I assume this can be used as a walkie talkie.

In "Channel Mode" it has random frequencies that are programmed in for testing at the factory and serve no other purpose and could be inappropriate or illegal to transmit on.  They don't correspond to anything useful to listen to or transmit on.  You should clear those and program in what you want.

In "Frequency Mode" it is just the frequency band/range that you can scroll up/down, or scan, for activity.  

Ideally you want to program the frequencies you intend to use or listen to, and for your local area.  For example, I have the FRS/GMRS frequencies loaded in channels 1 - 22 which correspond to the FRS/GMRS channels.  In channels 25 - 29 I have some local emergency frequencies, Marine VHF16 on 26.  On Channels 30 - 39 I have local Police/Fire/EMS frequencies programmed in and set for no transmitting on those at any time.  I have WX broadcast frequencies programmed in 40 -49, MURS frequencies programmed in channels 50 - 59 and have up to 128 channel total to program frequencies in.

You should check your local scanner frequencies (Google "Scanner YOURCITY") and you will see what is available to listen to.   And technically, you can only transmit on frequencies you are authorized to, unless in an actual emergency.  Yes, it can transmit on FRS/GMRS/MURS Frequencies, but there are some that require license and some that do not, but do have power limitations....  the radio is limited to "line of sight" communications based on the frequency ranges VHF and UHF.   I basically use it as a portable scanner (and you should check your local state laws regarding that if you take it in a car - Google it).... but have it programmed with other emergency frequencies/channels in the event I may have a need.

I enjoy listening to my local law enforcement... and when I hear the fire whistle, I may focus on those channels.

While down in the garage putzing around, I can press the top button on the left I can listen to my local FM radio stations (Portable FM Radio), and when a police/fire call comes in it will shift to that, and go back to the radio afterwards.



The "CHIRP" software makes it so much easier to program the radio and set up.

[dreamaker]

I was playing with it and I push something and then the voice was in Chinese, I thought I was screwed, but took a deep breath and found how to change it.  So back to English. Should be interesting!!

[dreamaker]

Update,
Let me start off by saying I don't know Jack about Ham and this sort of radio.  Way back when in the CB craze I played a little with, the one thing that always stuck in my head is never key a transmitter without an antenna. This unit has been a learning process and a lot of fun. Having this unit I can see the potential for uses on the road in emergencies or just having fun. But I have some bottle necks in my progress, one is the letters relating to, I assume to the  types of frequencies. For example  MPSCS TRS or FRS/GMRS or what a trunk is or even the ones in the units menus. Unfortunately the internet search systems are beginning to suck like the ones called ABOUT and ASK, you use a search term let say, "Frequency" they send you on a goose chase mainly trying to sell you a  product or services that uses the word frequency. But kind of ignoring what you initially were looking for. May be if someone could point me in a direction of a glossary of  letters or a list of meanings. 
But I would like to ask one thing, I am assuming the best way to load frequencies in the unit is to start the CHIRP program and load the frequencies then when done upload into the unit. Also when putting certain frequencies at specific channels and when I do a scan, can I scan in isolated channels groups or will it only scan all together. Don't have to explain how, I just have to know if it is possible, I will figure out how.

Thanks

[PAVALKER]

Update,
Let me start off by saying I don't know Jack about Ham and this sort of radio.  Way back when in the CB craze I played a little with, the one thing that always stuck in my head is never key a transmitter without an antenna. This unit has been a learning process and a lot of fun. Having this unit I can see the potential for uses on the road in emergencies or just having fun. But I have some bottle necks in my progress, one is the letters relating to, I assume to the  types of frequencies. For example  MPSCS TRS or FRS/GMRS or what a trunk is or even the ones in the units menus. Unfortunately the internet search systems are beginning to suck like the ones called ABOUT and ASK, you use a search term let say, "Frequency" they send you on a goose chase mainly trying to sell you a  product or services that uses the word frequency. But kind of ignoring what you initially were looking for. May be if someone could point me in a direction of a glossary of  letters or a list of meanings.  
But I would like to ask one thing, I am assuming the best way to load frequencies in the unit is to start the CHIRP program and load the frequencies then when done upload into the unit. Also when putting certain frequencies at specific channels and when I do a scan, can I scan in isolated channels groups or will it only scan all together. Don't have to explain how, I just have to know if it is possible, I will figure out how.

Thanks

Yes, best (easiest) way to load the frequencies you want is via the CHIRP software.  It will let you save the profile you program and you can edit it as often as you like to add or remove frequencies as you see fit then upload to the radio.   There are already pre-programmed profiles as I call them loaded in the CHIRP software with frequencies listed for FRS/GMRS, MURS, Ham Freqs, Marine freqs etc.   You can combine say FRS/GMRS and MURS, but you have to just open both profiles and copy and paste.... then save the profile you created with a new name.  I can email you my profile of frequencies without my local Police/Fire/Ems and you can just add yours if you like.  I have the FRS/GMRS/MURS and Weather frequencies loaded, and none of those are selected to be scanned.   I can select any channel to be scanned, and they don't have to be colocated, I can select channel 1 and 100 to be scanned and no others.  I can select the power for each channel (high or low) and I can select which channels can be transmitted on or not.  

When you enter the frequencies into the channel you want, you can select to scan or skip scan via the software.  Believe me, the software is the easiest way to program this radio.... and if you have two you want to be the same... without chance of manual error this is the way.

When searching for your local emergency scanner frequencies, I use Google.  

In one of the links above I believe I had the manual for this radio, which is easier to read than the one provided.

The headset that was included with my radio is a single ear piece with a microphone built in at the transmit key button/clip..... so I can see the potential for bike to bike comms on this, but have yet to test that out.

It appears from a brief search that MPSCS has migrated to the trunked or digital systems (700 - 800mhz) which is out of that radio/scanners range.  

Here is a link for your local frequencies....   http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?ctid=1276  

[dreamaker]

Update,
Let me start off by saying I don't know Jack about Ham and this sort of radio.  Way back when in the CB craze I played a little with, the one thing that always stuck in my head is never key a transmitter without an antenna. This unit has been a learning process and a lot of fun. Having this unit I can see the potential for uses on the road in emergencies or just having fun. But I have some bottle necks in my progress, one is the letters relating to, I assume to the  types of frequencies. For example  MPSCS TRS or FRS/GMRS or what a trunk is or even the ones in the units menus. Unfortunately the internet search systems are beginning to suck like the ones called ABOUT and ASK, you use a search term let say, "Frequency" they send you on a goose chase mainly trying to sell you a  product or services that uses the word frequency. But kind of ignoring what you initially were looking for. May be if someone could point me in a direction of a glossary of  letters or a list of meanings.  
But I would like to ask one thing, I am assuming the best way to load frequencies in the unit is to start the CHIRP program and load the frequencies then when done upload into the unit. Also when putting certain frequencies at specific channels and when I do a scan, can I scan in isolated channels groups or will it only scan all together. Don't have to explain how, I just have to know if it is possible, I will figure out how.

Thanks

Yes, best (easiest) way to load the frequencies you want is via the CHIRP software.  It will let you save the profile you program and you can edit it as often as you like to add or remove frequencies as you see fit then upload to the radio.   There are already pre-programmed profiles as I call them loaded in the CHIRP software with frequencies listed for FRS/GMRS, MURS, Ham Freqs, Marine freqs etc.   You can combine say FRS/GMRS and MURS, but you have to just open both profiles and copy and paste.... then save the profile you created with a new name.  I can email you my profile of frequencies without my local Police/Fire/Ems and you can just add yours if you like.  I have the FRS/GMRS/MURS and Weather frequencies loaded, and none of those are selected to be scanned.   I can select any channel to be scanned, and they don't have to be colocated, I can select channel 1 and 100 to be scanned and no others.  I can select the power for each channel (high or low) and I can select which channels can be transmitted on or not.  

When you enter the frequencies into the channel you want, you can select to scan or skip scan via the software.  Believe me, the software is the easiest way to program this radio.... and if you have two you want to be the same... without chance of manual error this is the way.

When searching for your local emergency scanner frequencies, I use Google.  

In one of the links above I believe I had the manual for this radio, which is easier to read than the one provided.

The headset that was included with my radio is a single ear piece with a microphone built in at the transmit key button/clip..... so I can see the potential for bike to bike comms on this, but have yet to test that out.

It appears from a brief search that MPSCS has migrated to the trunked or digital systems (700 - 800mhz) which is out of that radio/scanners range.   

Thank You, that is very helpful and I guess I am on the right track.

[dreamaker]

Just need conformation! When I try to upload from CHIRP software, I get an error message saying "radio is not responding", but when I go into the units menu and go into ( reset all )then I can upload the data. Is this correct or am I doing something wrong?

[PAVALKER]

Just need conformation! When I try to upload from CHIRP software, I get an error message saying "radio is not responding", but when I go into the units menu and go into ( reset all )then I can upload the data. Is this correct or am I doing something wrong?

I did not clear or reset the radio manually, I just entered/programmed the frequencies I wanted in the channels I wanted via the software and the others were blank (or zero) and when I loaded it all up, it cleared or reset all that I did not program.

You must first make sure you have the  drivers for the programming cable and it is recognized.  I don't believe "windows" loads the correct drivers and you have to use the link I provided above, and it depends on your version of window I believe.   Occasionally I get an error message, but then I pause a few seconds and try again.  You will see the lights flicker on the radio and a progress bar as it loads....


BTW -  Here is a link where you can listen to some of your locals online (not in real time I don't think tho).    http://www.broadcastify.com/listen/ctid/1276/?rl=rr

[Fritz The Cat]

OK, just took the bait. I have no idea how useful this think will turn out to but I suppose it's much like a gun, it's better to have one and not need it than to...........

[dreamaker]

I think it was the driver, it would be intermittent, I have it on my Windows7 laptop. I reinstalled UBS driver for Win7 and it works better.
Thanks!!

[saab9k]

Bought 2, suppose to arrive Saturday.

Have Ham license.