FRS/GMRS Radios in the parks alternative

[dr_zero]

I know alot of folks use these to keep track of one another but alot dont know you need a license to use the GRMS frequencies and get better range.

I had been reading about some new radios that are more private and have a better range but they got pushed on the back burner till a buddy got his and loves them.
They frequency hop so people cant listen into your conversations and you can text message (the kids love that part) and have a good range are not too expensive.

For photography work you can use the ear pieces and talk to your partner during a wedding or call back to camp when you are out shooting and you dont have or cant use a cell phone.

Oh! and you don't need any type of license!

Here is a link to them and some more info

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...U7DR&colid=38B0X0ZE6KP0G#moreAboutThisProduct

* 10 Billion Channels
* 2-Way Text Messaging (SMS)
* Call Waiting/Caller ID
* NOAA Weather Receiver
* Includes dual charger with adapter, 2 VOX/PTT headsets and 2 rechargeable battery packs

TriSquare has revolutionized 2-way radio communication with eXtreme Radio ServiceTM (eXRSTM). eXtreme Radio Service (eXRS) two-way radios use proprietary Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) in the ISM band (900 MHz frequencies). This FHSS system combines the power of digital technology with narrow band FM modulation technique. Merging the two technologies facilitates a radio communications system that maintains a narrow band base signal to ensure for maximum usable range within a given dB power budget, comparable to traditional fixed frequency narrow band FM radios, but with the added benefit of wide band digital security and privacy provided by the frequency hopping spread spectrum algorithm. Maintaining the information signal as narrow band FM modulation centered on discrete frequencies allows for a large pool of non-overlapping hopping frequencies to draw upon within a given section of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum. The pseudo-random drawing of the hopping frequencies spreads the total signal power equally over the entire bandwidth of the RF spectrum used, which ensures minimal interference between many simultaneous, independent users. Interference Free is a major advantage that eXRS has over existing FRS and GMRS radios. Based on a contracted study from the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department of a major university, more than 100,000 eXRS users within talk range can enjoy uninterrupted communications. Whereas, FRS/GMRS quickly becomes unusable with just a few tens of users within range of each other. Bottom-line is that the eXRS two-way radios provide private communications in areas where FRS/GMRS conversations can be congested or impossible. Depending on which model you choose, your eXRS radio will have 1,000, 10,000, or all 10 Billion eXRS channels available for your use. Each radio offers Voice-operated transmission (VOX) for hands-free operation with headset compatibility.

 

[rtphokie]

I find the cellphones my family already have to be the best communication tools in the park.

These radios do look promissing if you dont have sufficient cellphones to go around. The problem with the family radios is there are too many of them and they are far to busy as a result. It's like my grandparents old party line.

 

[Anewman]

For those case where kids do not have cells...
At&t website has pay as you GOphones starting at $10, usually come with $5 airtime, enough to get through a weekend(considering FREE NIGHTS AND WEEKENDS).

 

[dr_zero]

I find the cellphones my family already have to be the best communication tools in the park.

These radios do look promissing if you dont have sufficient cellphones to go around. The problem with the family radios is there are too many of them and they are far to busy as a result. It's like my grandparents old party line.

You are right on the money!

What I liked is since where I live the cell coverage is spotty we used the FRS radios during the hurricanes, I was able to call back to the house from a couple of streets over. We also handed out FRS radios to the neighbors so we could check on one another.

I got spare radios by accident when I ordered some from office max for $5 and they turned out to be 2 packs for $5 so I have about 10 of the darn things LOL

 

[dr_zero]

For those case where kids do not have cells...
At&t website has pay as you GOphones starting at $10, usually come with $5 airtime, enough to get through a weekend(considering FREE NIGHTS AND WEEKENDS).

Just a heads up I have a Go phone for my daughter and they have changed the plans now you have to get the 69.99 a month plan to get free nights and weekends.

However if you have AT&T you can still talk to them for free they just pay the $1 a day fee.

 

[bwvBound]

A plus for the Trisquare unit (2 way radio) -- you may use it while driving in some states that disallow using cell phones while driving. CA would allow the radio ... but not the cell phone.