What can PMR 446 Radios do?

PMR 446 replaces the SRBS radios (Short Range Business Radio's).

The European PMR 446 specification allows for eight radio channels.

These radios are for talking only - they cannot be used for data applications and must not be used for music, entertainment etc.

They are typically advertised as having a range of 2-3 miles 'under ideal conditions'. This means in open country with no obstructions between radios. A range of half a mile is more likely in town. Half a mile may not sound much, but an average building site or business layout small factory will usually be covered.

The eight channels on these radios i.e.. frequencies are split by a system of thirty eight sub channels created by the use of sub audible tones (ctcss), which by careful selection radios can be set to only specific other ones

Channel and Sub-channel selector -

PTT These radios are 'simplex' - only one person can speak at a time and you press the transmit key when it's your turn.

Call Tone - If you press this button, other radios on the same channel/sub-channel beep - handy if the other users are not paying attention or are at the limit of range.

Channel Busy Indicator - You cannot transmit if the channel you are using is in use by someone else. You will not hear them if they are on a different sub-channel, so check the busy indicator before you transmit - is it easy to see ?

VOX - Voice Activated Control. If your radio comes with a 'hands-free kit' it probably includes VOX - this means that when you speak, using the hands-free kit the radio transmits automatically without you pressing the transmit key - this is not always an advantage.

Channel Monitor (CM) - The radio receiver has a 'squelch' function which is the basis of the CTCSS system- it normally turns off only when it receives a signal that is encoded with your selected tone, However it may miss a very weak signal so CM enables you to fully activate the receiver and so hear very weak signals and all other channel users.

Display Illumination - For night use -usually an LED.

Memory - Stores settings, such as channel/sub-channel. Not all have this.

Remember it is a shared service and others can hear you and may even talk to you.
PMR 446 radios have a very limited range - 2 miles on average
These radios, including their antennas, must not be modified in any way and you must not add amplifiers

What if you find you out grow your PMR 446 radio ?