> It is a common conception or misconception that the more moving parts that something has the more it may unreliable that something could be. This is true (...)
Is not a great start when the second line contradicts the first one...
Best radios to use in an emergency (2021)
101–105 of 105 posts
Re: Best radios to use in an emergency (2021)
#102Earlier quoted context omitted.
It's not illegal to have but it is illegal to misuse. However, this is a post about radios for emergency use and most readings of the HAM and GMRS rules state that emergency use is allowed.
It is illegal to have. Part 95 requires GMRS radios to have pre-programmed frequencies (no keypad) and a non-removable antenna. No ham radio meets those requirements.
Since people are having trouble believing this, here are some relevant regulations:
CFR § 95.1761 GMRS transmitter certification.
(a) Each GMRS transmitter (a transmitter that operates or is intended to operate in the GMRS) must be certified in accordance with this subpart and part 2 of this chapter.
CFR § 95.1761 GMRS transmitter certification.
... No GMRS transmitter will be certified for use in the GMRS if it is equipped with the capabilities to operate in services that do not require equipment certification, such as the Amateur Radio Service....
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D...
Re: Best radios to use in an emergency (2021)
#103Earlier quoted context omitted.
No car with a radio?
Since he walked to the library, I am going to guess "no car at all".
Nah, I just live in a very walkable area of Toronto and use my car maybe once a week at most, and then just to get groceries. Otherwise, I use transit and walk everywhere.
Driving to the library would be more of a hassle than just walking. It's maybe 7 minutes away.
Re: Best radios to use in an emergency (2021)
#104Earlier quoted context omitted.
I wrote a longer comment about this elsewhere in these comments but the short version is: a Baofeng is a terrible scanner and can't be used to transmit on ANYTHING without a license of some kind. If you can't transmit, then you can't practice, and if you can't practice, you aren't prepared for an emergency. If you just want to listen, a handheld scanner would be a far better option than a Baofeng (but of course cost…
> implying anyone actually cares about the "radio laws" besides HAM's.
The FCC cares a lot, to the tune of $25k: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-fines-ca-amateur-radio-oper...
Anyone who makes a habit of transmitting on a frequency they are not authorized on WILL be caught eventually, especially if they are interfering with police, emergency services, business users, and broadcasters. And all of these are very easy to do if you own a Boafeng and don't know how to use it.
Re: Best radios to use in an emergency (2021)
#105Earlier quoted context omitted.
Other than the legit licensed responders who now have to traffic manage a pile of morons with no operating experience.
You’re allowed to use any frequency in an actual emergency.
My point wasn't a legal question, if it's life or death you do what you whatever you can to survive.