One of the recent advances that has led to the improved functionality of walkie talkies is the evolution of the frequency ranges used to support the devices. For commercial grade (non-military) radios there are two distinct frequencies that we need to discuss…Family Radio Service (FRS) and Ground Mobile Radio Service (GMRS). Both of the these frequencies operate in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) spectrum (300 MHz to 3000 MHz) range. They are offset (or interleaved) between each other but have enough signal separation to prevent bleed over between the frequency sets.

FRS is a free range of frequencies that is primarily used by radio manufacturers to support the handheld units you would typically pick up at a Wal-Mart or Target type store. Brands such as Cobra, Motorola, and Uniden all sell radios that operate in this spectrum range. These types of small, hand-held walkie talkies are ideal for family use. They are inexpensive, and can provide communications capability up to 18 miles depending on the terrain, weather conditions and radio brand. A word of caution regarding the range of the different units…do your homework prior to purchasing your radio handsets. I have spent some time researching actual range capabilities of the handsets and it can vary wildly from what is advertised. I will be writing an article on this in the future, but for today…just make sure you do your homework prior to making a purchase.

GMRS Radio Handset

FRS is also the spectrum allocation that is used to power smaller walkie talkie applications such as walkie talkie headsets and walkie talkie watches. This free frequency makes the use of these smaller walkie talkie application especially useful for those folks that use the technology to support their hobbies. For instance, I know many folks that play paintball and airsoft on the weekends. To facilitate the tactical movements of their teams they use items like the walkie talkie headsets to communicate with other team members or squads. Let me tell, having the ability to communicate in those types of situations makes all of the difference in the world.

Additionally, the smaller form factor of the new civilian radios makes them perfect for family hiking and camping trips. Because these units are smaller and more manageable than their predecessors, it is much easier to give one of these little handsets to your children while they are running around in the mountains or at the lake. This provides us parents with a little piece of mind because we can reach out and touch our young ones to ensure they are ok. If you have kids, you know that this is priceless.

The GMRS range of frequencies is set aside more for commercial applications. Any individual that is over the age of eighteen and a US citizen can apply for a license to use this spectrum range (you can find more information here GRMS License Info). There is not an exam, but there is a fee associated with the application. Of interest also, is the fact that all family members attached to the licensee are authorized to use the same license as well. The GMRS radios typically have a better range, and if you by a hybrid radio you can gain access to the FRS and the GMRS channels. This hybrid capability provides you increased options for you communications needs.

If you are looking at purchasing any type of walkie talkie equipment be it hand-held units, walkie talkie headsets or walkie talkie watches, I highly encourage you to take the time and do your research. Identify your personal radio needs and determine which frequency range will best meet your needs. Then evaluate the cost of the equipment (and license if you are looking at GMRS), and then make an informed decision.

Walkie Talkie Headsets

Tags: FRS radios, GMRS license, GMRS radios, Walkie Talkie Headset, Walkie Talkie Headsets, Walkie Talkie watch, Walkie Talkie Watches