What is a GMRS Repeater

Wendy
Jan 11,2024
- 0
what is a gmrs repeater, Retevis RT97S, GMRS Repeater

One of the major benefits of General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) radios is their ability to use repeaters to extend their signal range. A repeater enables two-way radios to achieve better coverage, better penetration, and longer range than is possible without a repeater. By using a GMRS repeater, you can essentially communicate around or over obstacles.

What is a GMRS Repeater?

GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) is a licensed radio service in the United States that allows for short-distance communication between individuals or groups using handheld or mobile radios. While GMRS radios have a limited range, a GMRS repeater can extend the range and improve the quality of communication.

In simple terms, a GMRS repeater is a device that receives signals from one radio and retransmits them at a higher power to another radio. This process is known as “repeating” and allows for communication over a larger distance. By placing repeaters at sites with high elevations and antennas atop large towers, workable coverage is greatly increased.

What are the Benefits of a GMRS Repeater?

One of the main benefits of using a GMRS repeater is that it can significantly increase the range of communication. While the range of a handheld GMRS radio is typically around 1-2 miles, a GMRS repeater can extend it up to 5 miles-20 miles or more. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals or groups who need to communicate over a larger area, such as hikers or emergency responders.

In addition to extending the range, a GMRS repeater also helps to improve the quality of communication. As the signal is retransmitted at a higher power, it is less likely to be affected by obstacles such as buildings, trees, or hills. This results in clearer and more reliable communication, especially in areas with poor reception.

Another advantage of using a GMRS repeater is that it allows for simultaneous communication between multiple users. Without a repeater, GMRS radios can only communicate with one another on a one-to-one basis. With a repeater, multiple users can communicate with each other at the same time, making it a valuable tool for group activities or emergencies.

How to Use a GMRS Repeater?

If you already have a GMRS, you look for a setting or option in your radio’s menu that enables repeater use. Most GMRS radios that are repeater capable will already have channels set up for this feature. The setup process may vary from model to model, but once you have the basic principles down, using a GMRS radio repeater is not difficult. Also, check if the radio is both CTCSS and DCS capable.

Typically, a GMRS radio that’s repeater capable will have channels already set up for this feature, which the user can modify either through the radio’s front panel or by using a programming cable and computer. The repeater channels correspond to the 8 high power GMRS channels (15-22) on the reception side. When you send a signal to the repeater, it’s an output signal (TX) for you but an input (RX) for the repeater. Likewise, when the repeater transmits a message, it’s an output for the repeater (TX) but an input for the receiving radios (RX).

How Do I Set Up My Own Repeater?

Any licensed user is allowed to set up a GMRS repeater as long as the antenna height complies with FAA rules and the setup uses FCC accepted equipment. For under $340, you can purchase a ready-to-go mini GMRS repeater setup using a Retevis RT97S GMRS Portable Repeater that plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. It can also be powered by solar batteries. Its built-in sound card can be connected to Raspberry Pi by a data cable (Retevis don't provide the cable).

If you have enough budget, I highly recommend you purchase the bestseller: the RT97S Portable GMRS Repeater Kit With FRP Antenna. This GMRS repeater kit includes a high-gain FRP antenna with an extended cable to strengthen signals, a speaker mic for clearer communication, a programming cable for easy setting, and a car charger for convenient charging.