Insights

Fee Licensed  -  General Mobile Radio System  -  GMRS
No License  -  Family Radio System  -  FRS

01)  No license and fee license compatible short range radio systems are for family and general purposes.

02)  FRS are simplex only radios and not able to transmit to, yet can receive from GMRS repeaters.

03)  GMRS repeaters and GMRS base-mobile radios can extend the useable communication range.

04)  Low cost radio systems like FRS/GMRS may require involved programming depending on some applications.

05)  User operating procedures are not always followed and can be at times a challenge.

06)  Short range communication systems can offer an advantage and should be used when possible.

07)  Two-way communication systems are not broadcast systems however can provide meaningful information.

08)  FRS and GMRS are in no way a method to replace other radio system services yet do appear similar.

09)  Like most other radio communication systems, consider taking advantage of having a tech support group.

10)  FRS and GMRS technologies could also take advantage of training classes through a tech support group.

11)  FRS-GMRS, ARES. and CERT are special focus interest groups but can work together well with planning.

12)  FRS  low cost, no license, short range systems  main advantage is the ability to receive GMRS signals.

13)  GMRS main advantage is the ability of local residents to communicate on a public radio system during major outages.

14)  FRS-GMRS clubs, tech support groups, and public awareness and training classes provide a means for recruiting.

15)  FRS and GMRS should be considered  a volunteer public citizen radio communication system that could be used in an emergency when all other available communication systems are not available.