Understanding GMRS

Understanding GMRS Frequencies and Channels: A Guide for Beginners

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a licensed radio service that provides two-way communication over short to medium distances. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, part of a community safety group, or just someone interested in reliable communication, understanding GMRS frequencies and channels is crucial. This blog post aims to demystify the basics of GMRS, helping you get started with confidence.

What is GMRS?

GMRS stands for General Mobile Radio Service. It is a land-mobile FM UHF radio service designed for short-distance two-way communication. GMRS requires an FCC license in the United States, but no exam is needed. This license is valid for ten years and covers your immediate family.

GMRS Frequencies and Channels

GMRS operates on 22 channels around 462 MHz and 467 MHz frequencies. These channels are divided into two categories: simplex and repeater channels.

Simplex Channels

Simplex channels allow for direct radio-to-radio communication. Here are the 16 simplex channels used in GMRS:

1. Channel 1: 462.5500 MHz
2. Channel 2: 462.5750 MHz
3. Channel 3: 462.6000 MHz
4. Channel 4: 462.6250 MHz
5. Channel 5: 462.6500 MHz
6. Channel 6: 462.6750 MHz
7. Channel 7: 462.7000 MHz
8. Channel 8: 462.7250 MHz
9. Channel 15: 462.5500 MHz
10. Channel 16: 462.5750 MHz
11. Channel 17: 462.6000 MHz
12. Channel 18: 462.6250 MHz
13. Channel 19: 462.6500 MHz
14. Channel 20: 462.6750 MHz
15. Channel 21: 462.7000 MHz
16. Channel 22: 462.7250 MHz

Channels 15 to 22 are also used for high-power transmissions, offering greater range.

Repeater Channels

Repeater channels use repeaters to extend the range of communication. GMRS repeaters receive a signal on one frequency and retransmit it on another, allowing communication over longer distances and difficult terrains.

1. Channel 23: 467.5500 MHz (input) / 462.5500 MHz (output)
2. Channel 24: 467.5750 MHz (input) / 462.5750 MHz (output)
3. Channel 25: 467.6000 MHz (input) / 462.6000 MHz (output)
4. Channel 26: 467.6250 MHz (input) / 462.6250 MHz (output)
5. Channel 27: 467.6500 MHz (input) / 462.6500 MHz (output)
6. Channel 28: 467.6750 MHz (input) / 462.6750 MHz (output)
7. Channel 29: 467.7000 MHz (input) / 462.7000 MHz (output)
8. Channel 30: 467.7250 MHz (input) / 462.7250 MHz (output)

Using repeaters requires permission from the repeater owner, so it’s essential to obtain the necessary permissions and understand local repeater policies.