Tiny House Investing: Issue #3: A Two-Way Radio

Although we've been full-timing it since we got the RV a couple weeks ago, this weekend is the first official "camping" trip we've taken the Millennium Falcon on. We're 'chillin in Ramona over the 4-20 weekend, and, being the good Eagle Scout I am, I'm always prepared. :)

But the list of things we need is getting bigger, and I thought I'd tackle some of them today.

I'm shopping for a good 2-way radio (to help my wife park the rig? lol... ), and thought I'd include my findings here for everyone to enjoy and/or comment.

Aggregated tips for purchasing a two-way radio/ things to look for:

• Know what configuration you need the radio to have. Depending on what you will be using the radio for, you may need FRS (family radio service) or GMRS (general mobile radio service) for your particular needs. Typically, GMRS or a combination is what you will want. FRS works well on flat land and travels close to the ground, but it might not be the best choice if your hike is going to include rough terrain or a lot of trees. Out of the two, GMRS is the more powerful choice.
• Do not take range into account when you are picking a radio. You want to use reviews of the particular model as a guide to which one to buy if you are concerned with range.
• Having a belt clip will be very important. 
• You definitely want a unit that takes loose batteries (in addition to the charging pack that comes with it).
• Hands-free use is convenient and might be the best option for people who are hiking.
• Not all antennas on handheld radios are the same. Handheld radios have 2 common types of antennas: stubby and whip. Many FRS/GMRS radios on the market today have a stubby antenna because it's easier to put your radio in a backpack or pocket. However, stubby antennas can reduce your range by up to 30% over a whip antenna. So if range is important to you, look for a radio with a whip antenna, or at the very least, one where you can remove the stubby antenna and replace it with a whip antenna.
• Another important factor in determining the distance a radio can communicate is it's signal strength. The stronger the signal strength, the more it can withstand weakening when it passes through obstacles. Signal strength is mainly a result of a radios' power output, measured in watts. Commercial radio stations typically broadcast at 50,000 or 100,000 watts. Compare that to a handheld two-way radio which uses between 1/2 - 5 watts. You can see there is a big difference. Unlicensed radios such as: FRS radios are limited to 1/2 watt, MURS 2 watts, CB radios 4 watts, SSB radios can have 12 watts. Other handheld radios such as marine, aviation, and licensed land-based radios such as: LMR, Ham, & GRMS are limited to 5 watts. The maximum wattage for each radio type is set by the FCC. Moreover, handheld radios run off a small battery, so a higher wattage would mean your batteries will not last very long.
• The key factors affecting communication range are: antenna, obstructions, signal strength (wattage), and signal type. The distance to the horizon is the maximum communication range for most two-way radios. The higher your antenna, the farther your signal can reach before hitting the horizon, therefore the longer your communication range. For mounted antennas, mount your antenna standing straight-up on the highest point possible. Radio waves generally won't pass through metal or hills at all. Each successive object a radio signal passes through reduces it's range. A stronger signal is capable of withstanding successive passes through obstacles, allowing it to travel farther.
• Either VHF or UHF radio technology can work for you if you don’t really have a long range to cover. If you are using the radio primarily outdoors with clear line-of-sight, then VHF is a better choice because it's signal will travel farther. If you are using the radio in or around buildings, in urban areas, or heavily wooded areas, then UHF is a better choice because it's signal will navigate around obstacles better.
• If you must have a longer range than most radios can provide, then consider either buying a repeater, or contact a repeater service.
• Privacy/Interference-Eliminator Codes: In busy areas, such as a ski resort, 22 channels can quickly get occupied. As a result, many radios provide a Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) or CDCSS (Continuous Digital Coded Squelch System) that allows you to subdivide main channels with the use of privacy codes. Rather than trying to communicate with a friend simply by using Channel 5, privacy codes let you connect with a combination of channel and code—for example, Channel 5 and Code 3. The use of CTCSS or CDCSS "codes" can minimize (but not eliminate) the amount of unwanted chatter on the main channel the user would otherwise hear. Important: A "privacy code" does not make your communication private. This is why some manufacturers alternately call this feature an "interference-elimination" code.
• Calling and Paging Features: Pre-set "calling" tones can let you grab the attention of other members of your party before you start talking. You can also set some models to vibrate instead of making an audible tone.
• Scanning: This allows you to cruise through channels in order to find the one that your group is using. You can also use this feature to quickly locate an "empty" channel for your group to use.
• Weather Radio: Tap into the NOAA weather band stations for local forecast and conditions. This is a very handy feature for anyone, but can be essential for backcountry adventurers.
• Radio/GPS Combo Units: Though more pricey, some units offer all-in-one nav/comm capability. A key advantage is peer-to-peer positioning, which allows you to broadcast your location coordinates so they appear on your fellow users' screens.
• Digital Compass: Many people who purchase 2-way long range radios are doing so for use in the wilderness while they are on backpacking, camping or hunting expeditions. If you plan to use your radios in this way, one helpful feature is a digital compass. This will show you which direction you are facing. Not only can this help you to stay oriented in your environment, but it may also help you to figure out where you are located in reference to the other person who you are speaking with.
• Frequency - The ham radio frequencies you are permitted to use depend on which of the licenses above you have under your belt. Not all radios work with all frequencies, so make sure that you buy one which will offer you the frequencies you want to access.
• Power - Most handheld ham radios are limited to around five watts of power; you may find higher-powered options if you choose a base model. If you purchase a handheld, make sure it has high- and low-power settings you can manually adjust as per your needs.
• Bands - For emergency communications, you will generally be using the two-meter ham band. The 440 MHz band is another that you will likely make plenty of use of. There are a couple of band-related features you may want to consider. One is dual band, which allows you to monitor two frequencies at the same time. Another is general coverage. This feature allows you not only to use ham radio bands, but also pick up AM, FM, and TV frequencies. Advanced features for bands include SSB and CW (Morse code).
• Memory Slots - If you are going to be communicating locally and/or for emergencies, you may get away with a few dozen memory slots, as you would typically find in older and smaller ham radios. If however you will be using your ham radio for national or international communication, weather, or other applications, it is smart to purchase a model with 100-200 memory slots.
• Backlit Display - If you will be using your ham radio at nighttime or in dim environments, you may want to purchase a model that includes a backlit display. Remember, emergencies sometimes happen in the dead of night. If the power goes out, you may be stuck operating in the dark. You should have the option to toggle the display light on and off so that you can conserve power when you do not need it.
• Programming - This is the ability to manually program the CB radio. Most models allow you to do this using a keypad and the CB radio display. Some newer high-tech models include a cable you can hook up to a computer. This gives you access to programming software which makes it a lot easier to input what you want.
• User’s Manual - Usually when you purchase a new product, the quality of the user’s manual isn’t the top thing on your mind. But with ham radio, it is actually very important. Ham radio does have a learning curve, and if you are a beginner, you will need as much guidance as you can get. Even if you are a ham radio veteran, you may still sometimes hit a button by mistake and find yourself in a mode you do not want to be in. Rather than having to experiment to get the radio back into the mode you want, it is helpful to be able to flip to a user manual which will tell you quickly and easily how to get back to regular operation. Unfortunately a lot of these manuals are written overseas and may be in poor English—not something you want to be struggling with to understand a technical device. A good idea before purchasing any ham radio is to download the manual online and check it out. If you like the radio but not the manual, run a search to see if there are user groups that can help you online or in your area.

Top 6 two-way radios for hiking:

1. Midland GXT1000VP4 – This model is fairly popular. It has great voice clarity and has many features that you would expect to find in a consumer grade radio. This includes NOAA weather channels and alerts, group mode, and the ability to use it in a hands-free capacity. It also has vibrate alert, for times when you are out in the wilderness or in an area which is sensitive to sound. The unit also comes with headsets. A car adapter also comes with the unit so you can use the charging base when you are out on the road. That is a feature not found on many similar units. The price point is $69.99.
2. Motorola MS350R – This is one of the best Motorola Radios on the market. It is definitely the best model that Motorola has on the market. It is a high powered radio that is waterproof. It even floats when it is dropped into a body of water. It has repeater functionality as well, provided you have the proper registration with the FCC to use that function. Another thing that bears mentioning is that this radio comes with a built in flashlight. Aftermarket accessories are available for the MS350R as well, making it one of the best choices overall.
3. Midland LXT500VP3 – With a 22 channel interface and a 24 mile range, this compact radio is tough to beat as well. Big things, they say, can sometimes come in small packages. This is a relatively simple example of a two way radio, but that does not stop it from packing a punch. With dual power options and call alerts for incoming calls, this has all the basics. The price is variable and could be anywhere from between $30 and $50 for a set of radios. Great for hiking and an affordable price.Midland makes one of the best sleek two way radios for recreational use.
4. Motorola MG160A – A more inexpensive offering from Motorola, this unit is perfect for people looking for a radio on the cheap. It is both easy to use and easy to understand. The range is around 16 miles (2 in actual use) and there are multiple volume levels. The batteries last for an estimated 20 hours and take alkaline batteries. If there was a downside to this unit, then it would likely be the color of the unit itself. The radio comes in light blue and a light pink color.
5.  Cobra CXT235 – Another 22 channel radio. This one is made by Cobra, one of the best companies in the business. The radio works utilizing UHF and FM frequencies and the range is around 20 miles. When actually using the radio, the practical range is more like 5 miles, but again, for hiking that is not a big issue. With a low price tag of $30, this is not a bad choice. It is one of the cheapest and best you can get from a good company.
6. Cobra CXT1035 – A higher end two way radio. These have a high price point of around $100. With that being said, they have a very sturdy build and they more than make up for the steep price in their usage. The radio include NOAA weather alerts and channels. It also floats if you drop it in water. The orange case helps to make the radio be more easily spotted if it is dropped on the trail. It also features voice activated transmission, which allows you to use the radios without actually having to touch them. This is extremely useful. The sturdy build and the quality craftsmanship make this a good choice, but the price is a bit of a turnoff.

Top 5 two-way radios for skiing:

1. Midland GXT1000VP4 36 Mile Two Way Radio - This radio connects users up to 36 miles away in ideal conditions and has 50 channels. At its price point this walkie-talkie puts utility before functionality. Ski groups will appreciate the 142 privacy codes: even during ski season conversations remain private. The SOS feature is a must for anyone spending time on a mountain, and with 10 NOAA weather channels skiers can monitor the weather from atop the mountain. The GXT100VP4 is a basic two-way radio with no frills. Average Price : $56.59
2. Motorola TALKABOUT 35 Mile Range T460 - The TALKABOUT T460 has a 35-mile range in ideal conditions. The 10-hour NiMH battery life keeps skiers on the mountain rather than at basecamp waiting for a charge, and if in a pinch 3 AA alkaline batteries can be used. For skiers who stay on the mountain all day the IP54 waterproofing withstands the wettest conditions. The TALKABOUT T460 two-way radio also has a selective Push-to-talk power boost button that boosts the output signal for when you need to contact your fellow skier who would otherwise be out of range. This radio has 22 channels and 121 privacy codes. Average Price: $79.00
3. Uniden GMR5088-2CKHS Camo Submersible Two Way Radio with Charger and Headset - The Uniden GMR5095-2CKHS has a whopping 50-mile mountain-to-valley range. Skiers need not worry about getting this two-way radio wet: it can be complete submerged in three feet of water for 30 minutes without any damage to the radio. Snowflakes and snow banks have nothing on this workhorse of a walk-talkie. And if you’re at the chalet’s hot tub and accidentally drop your radio it will float to the top for easy retrieval. This two-way also has a direct-call feature that allows two individuals to connect even in a group. It has an emergency strobe light built into the body and has 22 radio channels with 284 privacy channels. The GMR5088-2CKHS also has RealTree Xtra Camoflage pattern, a unique aesthetic to set your radio apart from others at the lodge. Average Price : $128.43
4. Uniden GMR5095-2CKHS Submersible Two Way Radio with Charger and Headset - The GMR5095 and the GMR5088 are nearly identical. Both have a 50-mile range in ideal conditions and provide skiers with a waterproof way to communicate. Whether you drop it in a snow bank or plop it in a hot tub, these Uniden two-way radios will continue to talk. The direct-call feature is attractive for large ski groups: individuals can call one another without disturbing the rest of the group. What is lacking is the RealTree camouflage. What is not lacking is all the versatility, utility, and functionality of a Uniden. Average Price : $112.95
5. MotorolaTALKABOUT MS355R Water Proof Two Way Radio - Another workhorse, the TALKABOUT MS355R is for serious skiers. This two-way radio is waterproof up to three feet for 30 minutes without any damage to the device. The body of this two-way has an hourglass shape. You can stay a little warmer on cold days by keeping your gloves on while operating this radio. The easy-to-hold design is perfect for skiers bundled against the elements. For skiers in your group who have a knack for wandering out of range this two-way radio also has the option of acting as a repeater station which helps to carry your signal further. But don’t forget, you’ll need a GMRS station license to access this feature. Average Price: $80.50

I'm going through lots of websites and lists, and two radios keep popping up as top choices: Midland GXT1000VP4 and Motorola MS350R. But considering the lack of signal strength in the above choices, I think I must look into hand-held Ham Radio choices and getting my Ham License. I'll be in the mountains much of the time, and I'm concerned that the range of the traditional retail choices will be REALLY bad.

If you’re interested in radio and are looking for a new hobby which can bring you hours of education, socializing and fun, ham radio is well worth getting into. People of all ages talk on ham radio around the globe. Ham radio is portable and you can set it up literally anywhere you can imagine. During times of emergency, it can be incredibly useful and may even save lives. 

I found a list of the "Best Handheld Ham Radio of 2017...

1. Baofeng BF-F8HP - If you’re looking for a budget handheld ham radio, check out the Baofeng BF-F8HP first. Surprisingly, even though it’s inexpensive it’s quite powerful. The speakers and mic are quite good. Plus, it’s compatible with any uv5r ham radio accessory. Good- Lots of power. With this little device, you get 7.4 watts of power on VHF and 6 watts on UHF. Compatible with all wide range of accessories. The BF-F8HP can use any uv5r ham radio accessory. Built in flashlight. This feature allows the BF-F8HP to function as an emergency radio. Inexpensive price. For the amount of features you get, the BF-F8HP is surprisingly cheap. Improved audio quality. BaoFeng listened to customer feedback it received after the debut of the UV-5R. Incoming signals are easy to hear and loud. Improved antenna. The antenna that comes with this ham radio is quite effective. Large, customizable 3 color display. The display is large, bright and easy to read. Bad- No water resistance whatsoever. If the BF-F8HP gets wet at all, it’ll fry. The holes in the plastic case don’t line up with the accessory jacks. You may have to widen the holes with a knife if you want to plug anything in.
2. Yaesu VX-8DR - Looking for a portable ham radio that will help you survive a disaster? If so, check out the Yaesu VX-8DR— it’s the armored tank of handheld ham radios. With its ultra durable polycarbonate resin shell, waterproof engineered construction and optional GPS antenna add-on, the Yaesu VX-8DR will help you find your way to safety in the event of a catastrophe. Good- Extra tough. With its rugged polycarbonate resin shell, the Yaesu VX-8DR is built to survive major disasters. Survives water submersion. This ham radio can last for up to 30 minutes when submerged in 1 meter of water. Optional GPS. If you get the optional GPS antenna addon, you can broadcast your exact location, altitiude and speed. Environmental sensors. This ham radio’s built-in sensors can monitor barometric pressure and temperature. Wide frequency range. In addition to standard short-wave frequencies, this ham radio also picks up FM/AM broadcasts, analog TV stations, audio aircraft and public service channels. Compass display. The integrated compass shows you what direction you’re headed on the LED display. One hand operation. With a few exceptions, one hand is all you need to access most of this portable ham radio’s vast features. Bad- Though the manual that comes with this ham radio is very well written, it’s also quite thick and takes a long time to read.
3. TYT MD-380 - The MD-380 by TYT shines when it comes to audio performance. Voices come in extra clear through its high quality speakers. Its microphones perform well too, and its built-in wind reduction system kicks in when you use this device outside. For even greater clarity, switch you can switch to digital mode. Good- Awesome audio quality. The audio quality that you get with the TYT MD-380 is quite impressive. Color display. Most handheld ham radios have a monochrome screen, but this one boasts a full color LCD display. Choose digital or analog mode. The TYT MD-380 makes it easy to switch between digital and analog operation. Good menu system. This portable radio’s menus are easy to navigate and use. Water resistant. Because it can survive rain, you can take the TYT MD-380 with you when you go camping. Sends text messages. When in digital mode, you can communicate via text. Comes with accessories. In addition to the TYT MD-380 itself, you also get a battery, a belt clip, a desktop charger, a programming cable and two different antennas. Bad- If you want to use TYT’s free software to program this handheld ham radio, you need a Windows compatible PC.
4. Kenwood TH-D72A
5. Icom ID-51A Plus
6. Kenwood TH-D74A

Of the above choices, I'm leaning towards the invulnerable Yaesu VX-8DR. I'm hard on stuff, so I always price that in. Also, the Yaesu is the "cheapest" of the really nice hand-held ham radios, coming in at around $360 each.

Ham Radio Licensing Requirements: There are three types of licenses currently offered:

• The Technician License. This is the entry-level license. To obtain it, you must pass one examination with 35 questions. You get access to all frequencies over 30 megahertz as well as some HF band privileges. For the most part, you can communicate domestically and locally.
• The General License. This license requires you pass another 35-question exam, and allows you to take part in international communication. The Technician License is a prerequisite.
• The Amateur Extra License. You must pass a 50-question exam for this license. It confers all operating privileges on all modes and bands. The General License is a prerequisite.

Next steps: my Ham License!

Best,

Brian