GMRS/FRS radio question

[FPD45]

This might sound like a dumb question but I was hoping someone could verify.

I have been looking to buy a pair of these radios ($40-$50). I found a pair of Motorola T6500R that I like. My friend has a pair made by another manufacturer. My understanding is that all these radios operate on the same frequencies and ctcss codes. So will my Motorolas be able to talk to his Uniden or Cobras? He says he doesn't think so.

Also if anyone has any suggestions or comments about a particular brand or model I'm open.

Thanks!

[R. Emmelman]

If they are true CTCSS tones then they should. CTCSS, also known as subaudiable and PL (trade marked as Private Line by Motorola)is a very low frequency tone transmitted to activate the receiver on the other end.

Check out http://www.ham-shack.com/ctcss.html

One word of caution: If you use the GMRS feature you must have a license to do so. If you are caught without a license the FCC can fine you for unlicensed operation.

best wishes,

Rich
WI9NDY
AFA1CY

[FPD45]

Thanks!

[Kerrville Dan]

The following source might be informative if you plan to use FRS/GMRS units.
http://www.popularwireless.com/gmrsfaqa.html

[lomfs24]

Oddly enough this is what I have found. The frequencies are all the same. However, the makers of the radios don't label them as CTSS they label them as private codes and they are numbered. Seems that Motorola uses all of the CTSS codes whereas some of the others like Cobra don't use them all. So the numbers don't always line up. You might have to play around to get two that work together.