[pct-l] walkie-talkies

[msaenz at mve-architects.com (Mike Saenz)]

The Garmin Rino GPS (the one I have) has FRS and GMRS radio
capabilities.
FRS (Family Radio Service), channels 1-14 (with sub channels) have an
advertised 2 mile range.
GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service, channels 14-22 (with sub channels)
have an advertised range of 5 miles.

However (and there's always an However...),

Environmental conditions and topography greatly affect performance of
these radio services.
Also- battery charge levels will affect these as well.

Both FRS and GMRS won't "bend" over or around ridgelines to
transmit/receive signal.
A straight, line of sight, clear condition is necessary for extended
range communication.

Assume a 1 mile range, say, on a ski slope. If heavy trees or earth
formation is between you and the other radio, you'll have trouble with
transmission/reception.

I have received signal from radios out in the Anza Borrego Desert from
the PCT (keeping this on-topic) from Mt Laguna down to Cuyamaca, where
direct line of sight is possible. And from Fobes Saddle/Desert View out
to Palm Springs too.

AsABat is more of an authority on this stuff, but I know that FRS is
legally limited to something like a 1/2 watt of output and GMRS is
limited to 5 watts (though hand helds vary from 1-5 watts). More wattage
= greater transmission strength.

BUT- Unless the need to communicate to another person on the trail with
you, and is within a mile or so from you, is very great - don't bother
with a radio/GPS. My Garmin Rino weighs over 8 ounces (that's half a
pound!)

Michael Saenz, Associate Partner
McLarand    Vasquez    Emsiek   &   Partners,   Inc.
A r c h i t e c t u r e  |  P l a n n i n g  |  I n t e r i o r s
MVE       MVE    Institutional       MVP    International
w  w  w   .   m  v  e   -   a  r  c  h  i  t  e  c  t  s   .   c  o m

-----Original Message-----
From: pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net
[mailto:pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net] On Behalf Of JoAnn M.
Sent: Monday, September 19, 2005 11:51 AM
To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net
Subject: [pct-l] walkie-talkies

Who knows what about the newer, longer distance, hand held,
walkie-talkies? We have heard there is a brand on the market that also
has a GPS unit in both receivers.

If this is thought of as a non-PCT subject, please contact me off line.
Thanks much,

JoAnn
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