Articles

DCS is an acronym for Digital Coded Squelch. It is a set of digital codes that act as filters to eliminate interference from unwanted transmissions originated by other individuals or groups who are operating on the same channel or frequency. DCS codes are also commonly known as Interference Eliminator codes, Digital Private Line (DPL) codes or Digital Quiet Talk (DQT) codes.

Some consumer and business radios that support DCS codes may assign a number to each code within the radio menu for selection and programming options. Other radios simply list the codes themselves and allow you to choose them directly.

DCS codes ending in N are positive. Negative DCS codes end in I.

As it is with CTCSS tones, there is no universal standard for DCS tones or their number assignments in a radio. Each radio manufacturer decides what codes their radios will support and how those codes will be implemented in their products. Also, some radios may only support certain codes and may not support others.

Listed below is a chart of DCS codes often used for two way radios, along with common code number assignments for radios that use them. Again, these code number assignments are only a general guide and may vary between different radios. Consult the user manual for your radio for the specific codes supported.

Common DCS Codes

Some manufacturers support an expanded list of DCS codes. Wouxun radios typically feature a set of 105 codes, and some models support both positive and negative codes for maximum flexibility.

The List below is a chart of DCS codes that Wouxun typically supports in its line of radios, along with their commonly used number assignments. Note that all the codes in the chart end with N. This designates a positive code. Some radios also support the option to use negative codes. If using a negative code, you would simply replace the N with an I.
Wouxun DCS Codes

CTCSS is an acronym for Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System. It is a set of sub-audible tones that act as filters to eliminate interference from unwanted transmissions originated by other individuals or groups who are operating on the same channel or frequency. CTCSS tones are also commonly known as Interference Eliminator codes, PL or Private Line codes, QT codes, channel guard, or subchannels.

Some consumer and business radios that support CTCSS tones may assign a number to each tone within the radio menu for selection and programming options. Other radios simply list the tones themselves and allow you to choose them directly.

It is important to understand that there is no universal or industry-wide standard for CTCSS tones or their number assignments in a radio. Also, some radios may only support certain tones and may not support others.

This article covers CTCSS tones only. For DCS codes, please refer to the Chart of Standard DCS codes.

Listed below is a chart of CTCSS tones often used for two way radios, along with common tone number assignments for radios that use them. Again, these tone number assignments are a general guide only and may vary between makes and models of two way radios. Consult the user manual for your radio for the specific tones supported.

Common CTCSS Tones

Some higher end radios support an expanded list of CTCSS tones. Wouxun in particular Includes a set of 50 tones, and a few models support both standard and non-standard tones for even greater flexibility.

The List below is a chart of CTCSS tones that Wouxun typically supports in its line of radios, along with their number assignments.

Wouxun CTCSS Tones

We often get questions related to VOX, and how it can be used with two way radios for specific purposes. There are a few misconceptions about this feature and why it may or may not be the solution for some applications. To answer these questions and dispel the myths, we'd like to explain what VOX is, what it does, and what it doesn't do in regards to two way radios. Here are the facts about VOX.

An introduction to VOX
But what is VOX?

In modern use, VOX is an acronym of sorts for Voice Activate Transmit. It is a technology that activates the radio to transmit at the sound of your voice to enable hands-free operation, without having to press the PTT or transmit button on the radio. At least, that's the general concept. In reality it activates on the detection of a sound, period. VOX is a feature found in many two way radios, and while not often used by the average operator, there are those who want or need it for specialized projects or applications.

The Limitations of VOX
VOX is a tricky thing, and it isn't simply a matter of turning it on to get the feature to work properly on any radio.

Before experimenting with VOX on a radio, there are a few things that are important to consider. For starters, it isn't for loud noise environments, as it doesn't discriminate between voice and extraneous noise. Any ambient sound can activate it, any sound at all. The sensitivity levels need to be configured for your specific situation and some experimentation will be required to find the level where it will work best, or at least be marginally operational.

Second, VOX isn't optimal for use with the microphone that is built into the radio itself, but is intended for use with a VOX capable headset or earpiece with an in-line mic that supports the feature. Note that the operative term here is VOX Capable. A regular audio accessory with a PTT switch will not work, simply because the PTT has to activate the microphone. An accessory that is VOX capable will usually have a switch to bypass the PTT button and keep the mic 'hot", or always activated, so that the VOX circuitry can "listen" for and detect the audio.

Also, the responsiveness of VOX will vary depending on the make and model of the radio. VOX circuitry in business or commercial grade radios are typically better than that of radios manufactured for the consumer market. And there's more. While it is true that VOX circuitry, sensitivity and overall performance will be different for each radio, simply swapping one radio for another won’t necessarily get you the results you want.

VOX is not a precise or perfect technology, therefore its suitability for a specific purpose cannot be guaranteed. For example, some consumers attempt to use handheld bubble pack FRS radios equipped with VOX as baby monitors to save money on more expensive products manufactured for that purpose, and depending on the equipment and the environment, it can work. However, these radios are not specifically designed for this use, so don’t be disappointed if the results are not what you expect.

For instance, a recent test of VOX on a TYT TH-UV88 in comparison with similar VOX settings on two other popular handhelds returned a wide range of results. This test was performed using the microphones built into the radios and a digital caliper to measure the distance between the mic and the operator's mouth. At level 1 it activated at a maximum of 3 inches from the mouth. In contrast, a Wouxun model activated at 5 inches, and a Midland radio activated at 6 inches.

When tested using an earpiece with an in-line microphone, the results were largely the same on all three radios.

Using VOX
So if VOX is that complicated, it it even worth using? It depends on the application and the situation.

As mentioned already, VOX works best with headsets and earpieces equipped with mics that are positioned fairly close to the mouth, such as one on a headset with a boom microphone. The sensitivity levels for the VOX circuitry in the radios are usually preset and calibrated based on that scenario. This is to help mitigate accidental transmission from ambient or extraneous noise. However, activating VOX on a radio clipped to the hip can be quite problematic, because any noise caused by something in the surrounding environment or in contact with the radio itself could cause the transceiver to transmit unexpectedly on an open channel. This is very important to consider, because such accidental transmission can potentially create interference with legitimate voice communications and possibly even violate the FCC rules regarding the types of transmissions allowed.

For this reason, amateur operators must be very careful about activating VOX on ham frequencies, and amateur radios with this feature must be able to limit the risks of transmitting unwanted noise on an open mic.

How to Activate VOX
So, with all this considered, how do you actually access and use VOX on a radio that has it?

First, the VOX feature needs to be enabled on the radio. On most CB, MURS and FRS consumer radios, this can usually be done directly from the menu in the radio itself. Most ham and GMRS handhelds on the market today allow you to do it either from the menu of the radio or through programming software. Many business radios must have VOX enabled through the programming software.

Once VOX is enabled, you must also set the sensitivity level in the menu. It varies from radio to radio, but most will have a number that corresponds to a predetermined sensitivity level. Some testing will be required to get the level where VOX will work best, or at least be marginally operational. You will need to consult the owner's manual for your make and model of radio for specific level settings.

Some radios have an additional feature called VOX Delay. This feature sets the number of seconds to delay when turning off transmit after the VOX function no longer detects audio from the microphone. This is to ensure the transmission is not cut off too soon after the sound is transmitted.

Since there is a slight delay between the moment a voice or other sound is detected and the moment the microphone is activated to transmit, there is a tendency to cut off the first word or two of any speech that gets through. It's a common practice to repeat the first couple of words when speaking on a VOX activated microphone to ensure the entire communication is transmitted.

With the right equipment and configuration in an optimal setting, VOX can be a viable solution for hands-free communications. However, it's not a panacea for every application or situation. Understanding both the advantages and limitations of VOX make all the difference between solid, reliable on-air conversations and endless, noise-filled frustration.

Wouxun is on quite a roll these days, particularly with its popular line of professional quality FRS, GMRS and MURS radios. So, it comes as no surprise they would create something for the US business radio market as well. And sure enough, they have, with not one, but two models. Introducing the Wouxun KG-S84B and KG-S86B Business Two Way Radios!

The KG-S84B and KG-S86B are part of a new Wouxun line known as the KG-S Series. One notable model in this series is the KG-S88G GMRS radio. Although BRS and GMRS are different services, all of the S-Series radios have many of the same general features and share all of the same accessories. Of course, there are some differences between these models, however the cross-compatibility between all the radios in the S-Series is definitely a plus for all who use them, businesses and GMRS users alike.

KG-S84B
The Wouxun KG-S84B is the basic model in this series. There is no display and no keypad. What it does have is an on/off/volume knob, channel knob, two programmable side keys, one programmable top key, and a PTT button. Designed for ease of use, it has simple controls, making it optimal for businesses that need their staff to avoid the complications and frustrations of navigating buttons and menus on a radio so they can concentrate on doing the job.

The S84B is also quite compact, allowing it to be carried easily in the palm of your hand across the job site. But it's certainly no toy. While fairly simplistic in design, it is also quite powerful. It supports 99 UHF business frequencies at up to 2 watts of power and can be programmed with up to 16 channel groups consisting of 16 channels in each group, for a total of 256 custom channels. It also supports both standard and non-standard CTCSS tones and DCS codes.

If you are concerned about narrowband compliance, don't be. The S-Series is FCC type accepted for the BRS and operates on narrowband only. The S-84B is also equipped with a superheterodyne receiver, just in case you were wondering about that. It also features channel scan, priority channel scanning, companding, Call ID, DTMF support and VOX. It also has adjustable high and low power settings.

This radio is also rugged and durable for the daily rigors of the workplace. It is rated IP65 for dust and water protection. To keep it powered through long workdays (or nights, as the case may be), the S84B has a built-in USB-C port on the side, so you can keep it charged where ever a free USB port is available.

The S84B comes with a 2000mAh lithium-ion battery pack, antenna, belt clip, desktop charger, AC adapter, wrist strap, and owner's manual written in plain, easy to understand English. Price- $109.99.

KG-S86B
The Wouxun KG-S86B is essentially the same radio as the KG-S84B, but with two important upgrades, both of which are immediately discernable. While the KG-S84B does not have a keypad on the front of the radio, the S86B does. It's not a full DTMF keypad like the KG-S88G, but a 4-key ensemble. The keys may be few, but don't let that fool you. You can do a lot with 4 front panel keys. Added to the 2 programmable side key and the programmable top key, This limited keypad is nonetheless a powerful addition to the radio.

The second upgrade is the display. Simply put, it has one. It can display the channel name, number, or frequency. It can also display Caller ID and icons important to the operation of the radio, as well as a signal strength indicator.

Since it has a display, the S86B also has access to a menu, so you can customize many features and functions of the radio out in the field and on the fly.

But there is one other upgrade that puts the S86B at a level above the base model. The S84B has 256 custom programmable channels. The KG-S86B has up to 400!

These upgrades are in addition to all the standard features of the KG-S84B, which gives the S86B a value add, especially for the price. The Wouxun KG-S86B comes with all of the same accessories included with the S84B. Price- $129.99.

The Wouxun S-Series business radios offer a powerful, yet economical way to save hundreds or more on your radio fleet. They are also compatible with many other business class radios from other manufacturers. The chart below provides a comparison between the two models to help you decide which radio is right for you.

KG-S84B/KG-S86B Comparison Chart

The Wouxun KG-S72C is a portable handheld CB radio with FM capability and other advanced features that ushers in a whole a new era of CB communications. The S72C is small, lighter and more powerful than the typical classic CB walkie talkie. It is rated IP65 dust and water resistant, making is also more rugged and durable.

The S72C is a bona fide 40 channel CB radio with added functions that, up until now, didn't even exist on most CB portables or mobiles. Check out the list of features below and compare them for yourself.

KG-S72C Primary Features

• 40 CB Channels
• 400 Total Custom Memory Channels
• AM and FM Modes
• Superheterodyne Receiver
• Up to 2 Watts Output Power (AM)
• Up to 4 Watts Output Power (FM)
• 50 CTCSS Tones / 105 DCS Codes (FM Mode)
• Standard and Non-Std CTCSS/DCS (FM Mode)
• IP65 Dust and Water Resistant
• USB-C Charging Port
• High/Low Transmit Power Levels
• Backlit LCD Display
• Channel Name, Number or Frequency Display
• Custom Power-On Message
• Channel Scan
• Priority Channel Scanning
• Favorite Channels
• Monitor Function
• Timeout Timer
• Stopwatch Timer
• English Voice Prompts
• Roger Beep Enable/Disable
• Audible Button Beep
• Transmit Overtime Alarm
• 2 Programmable Function Keys
• Programmable Top Key
• Channel Knob
• Volume Knob
• VOX
• Key Lock
• Auto Lock
• Built-in Flashlight
• Kenwood 2-Pin (K1) Audio Accessory Connector
• Reset

Programming the KG-S72C
As with other Wouxun radios, the KG-S72C is customizable directly from the keypad of the radio itself. Optional programming software allows you to assign CTCSS tones and DCS codes to the 40 CB channels when using the radio in FM mode. You can also configure other functions and features in the radio.

Direct from the radio
If you already know how to program features into another Wouxun radio, programming the KG-S72C directly from the radio itself is pretty much rote. The only real differences are the menu options themselves.

If you are new to Wouxun handheld radios or configuring a two way radio in general, the KG-S72C owners manual will get you up to speed fast. Unlike many other import radios, this manual is carefully written in plain, simple English with clear instructions that are easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.

The KG-S72C menu consists of 43 items. Default settings are bold.

Note: *The menu items in green are available in FM mode only.

Programming with software
The KG-S72C uses the Wouxun PCO-001 USB programming cable that works with the KG-S88G. Refer to the cable driver installation instructions for more information.

Of course, the Wouxun KG-S72G programming software is specific to this radio and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located under the Downloads tab on the Wouxun KG-S72C product page at Buy Two Way Radios.

KG-S72C Operation
The KG-S88G is quite similar in features and function to most of the other Wouxun handheld radios, with the exception of the 4-key keypad. Although it seems to be limiting on the surface, 4 key operation allows access to premium features while it simultaneously simplifies control. If you already have another Wouxun radio that is field configurable such as the KG-905G , working the S72C will be a similar experience. Even if you are not familiar with the operation of a 4-key Wouxun radio, it's not difficult to master, once you know how to navigate the menu.

The keys on the keypad and their primary functions are listed below:

The Wouxun KG-S72C is a compact, powerful and rugged CB radio that offers a lot of flexibility and ease of use at a very competitive price. Why settle for those older, behemoth handheld CB radios when you can have something more stylish and with the latest tech available? The answer is simple. Choosing the KG-S72C is a no-brainer.

There are a lot of advantages to buying Wouxun walkie talkies. Aside from the high level functionality, build quality and overall value for the price, a key advantage is in their cross compatibility with other models in the Wouxun line. It isn't often you'll find one manufacturer that offers FRS, GMRS, MURS and Business radios with core accessories that are cross compatibles between models. Yet, here they are.

This reference chart provides information on power options available for Wouxun two way radios and their cross compatibility with different models. Buy Two Way Radios is an authorized Wouxun dealer.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We welcome your feedback! You can also leave a comment below.

More compact. More rugged. More GMRS. You get all that and more with the Wouxun KG-S88G. This is no cheap, throw away talkie from a retail bubble pack. The KG-S88G is a real GMRS transceiver, designed and built for the most serious GMRS operator!

The KG-S88G gives you more GMRS right out of the box. You get 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, 8 low powered simplex channels, and 8 full power GMRS repeater channels, all ready to TX to the world as soon as you power it up. Want more channels? The S88G has 256 of them, custom programmable with standard and non-standard CTCSS tones and DCS codes to eliminate unwanted interference. It also supports split tones and CTCSS/DCS tone scan! Simply scan an incoming signal for a CTCSS tone or DCS code and update the current channel’s tone settings once the tone is identified. The KG-S88G makes it easy to find and configure tones and codes to match existing radios in your group.

Sure, you've got the standard features you've come to expect from a Wouxun GMRS handheld, such as channel scan, timeout timer, button beeps and VOX. You also get channel and frequency work modes, busy channel lockout, selectable wide and narrow bandwidth, group call, all call, selective calling, English voice prompts, programmable function keys, and a built-in stopwatch. And yes, it has that important, but oft elusive roger beep. It's not an anomaly. It's just part of the package.

But you get more.

The KG-S88G allows you to access specific channels marked as favorite channels. A new feature for the Wouxun GMRS line, you can choose the channels you like as favorites and access them at the press of a programmable key. Channel 19 (travel channel) is a favorite channel by default.

The KG-S88G also has a Repeater option that allows you to transmit to a repeater while in Frequency Mode. If you are tuned to a GMRS receive frequency that is valid for repeater use and turn the Repeater feature on, the KG-S88G will transmit to the repeater input frequency when the PTT is pressed.

And there's more.

The KG-S88G features a full DTMF keypad, with full support for dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) encoding. This enables the radio to perform a number of useful signaling operations, such as sending a radio ID. The keypad includes 6 function keys and 9 hotkeys to perform specific operations on the radio, from accessing and navigating the menu to the control of various functions. Don't underestimate the power of this keypad. It's more functional than you think.

And yet there's more.

The KG-S88G has not one, not two, but three programmable keys, two on the side and one on top of the radio. Each key can perform two different functions, one activated with a short press and one with a long press. More buttons gives the KG-S88G more functionality, which gives you more flexibility and power to operate on the air.

But wait. There's more.

The KG-S88G may be compact, but it's no wimp. This radio was built for rugged durability. It's IP67 dust and waterproof, rated to withstand any ingress of solid objects, and can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.

And there's still more.

The KG-S88G features two charging options for the battery pack. It can be charged using the included desktop charger or the built-in USB-C port on the side of the radio using an optional USB-C cable (not included).

The Wouxun KG-S88G comes with a 2000mAh rechargeable Li-Ion battery pack, belt clip, removable antenna, wrist strap, desktop charger, AC cord, owner's manual and a one year manufacturer warranty from Wouxun.

With the Wouxun KG-S88G, you don't just get a top tier, professional grade GMRS Portable Handheld Two Way Radio. You get more.

The Wouxun KG-S88G is a portable handheld GMRS radio designed for the those who need the most rugged and durable portable handheld possible with maximum functionality. Although significantly smaller and lighter than the Wouxun KG-935G, it is rated IP67 submersible, with a feature package far beyond the original KG-805G.

Although channels 8-14 are only authorized for very low output power, the S88G is configured to transmit on the 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, as well as the 8 repeater channels, at up to 5 watts. This is about as far away as you can get from the maximum power output of the typical consumer grade, "bubble pack" GMRS walkie talkies.

KG-S88G Key Features

• 22 Simplex GMRS Channels
• 8 GMRS Repeater Channels
• 400-479.995 (70cm) MHz (Receive Only)
• Superheterodyne Receiver
• 5W Maximum Transmit Power
• IP67 Waterproof (Submersible)
• USB-C Charging Port
• High/Low Transmit Power Levels
• 400 Total Custom Memory Channels
• Backlit LCD Display
• Channel Name, Number or Frequency Display
• Standard and Non-Standard CTCSS/DCS
• Split CTCSS/DCS Tone Support
• Tune Specific Frequencies Directly (Frequency Mode)
• CTCSS/DCS Tone Scan
• Channel Scan
• Priority Channel Scanning
• Tone Save
• Favorite Channels
• Descrambler
• Full Backlit DTMF Keypad
• Incoming Caller ID Display
• Reverse Frequency
• DTMF Encoding and Decoding
• Group Calls, All Call and Selective Call
• Talk Around
• Monitor Function
• Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable
• Busy Channel Lockout
• Timeout Timer
• Stopwatch Timer
• English Voice Prompts
• Roger Beep Enable/Disable
• Transmit Overtime Alarm
• Audible Button Beep
• Single Tone Pulse Frequency
• 2 Programmable Function Keys
• Programmable Top Key
• Keypad Hotkeys
• Channel Knob
• Volume Knob
• VOX
• Alarm
• SOS
• Keypad Lock
• Auto Lock
• Custom Power-On Message
• Built-in Flashlight
• Audio Accessory Connector
• PC Programmable
• Reset

Programming the KG-S88G
As with all the other Wouxun GMRS radios, the KG-S88G is fully programmable, either from a PC using the Wouxun KG-S88G programming software or directly from the keypad of the radio itself. In fact, customizing the S88G from the keypad is surprisingly simple and straightforward, even for the novice.

Direct from the radio
If you already know how to program frequencies into the Wouxun KG-935G or other Wouxun radio, programming the KG-S88G directly from the radio itself is pretty much standard procedure. The only real differences are the channels, frequencies and menu options themselves.

If you are new to Wouxun handheld radios or programming a two way radio in general, the KG-S88G owners manual will get you up to speed fast. Unlike many other import GMRS radios, this manual is carefully written in plain, simple English with clear instructions that are easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.

The KG-S88G menu consists of 54 items. Default settings are bold.

Note: *The menu items in yellow are available in Frequency mode only.
**The menu item in green is available in Channel mode only.

Programming with software
The KG-S88G uses the Wouxun PCO-001 USB programming cable that works with the KG-805G, KG-905G and KG-935G. Refer to the cable driver installation instructions for more information.

Of course, the Wouxun KG-S88G programming software is specific to this radio and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located under the Downloads tab on the Wouxun KG-S88G product page at Buy Two Way Radios.

KG-S88G Operation
The KG-S88G is quite similar in function to most of the other Wouxun GMRS handheld radios with full keypads, displays and access to radio menus. If you already have a KG-935G or other Wouxun radio that is field configurable, working the S88G is essentially the same. Even if you are not familiar with the operation of a Wouxun radio, it's not difficult to master, once you know how to navigate the keypad.

The keys on the keypad and their primary functions are listed below:

The Wouxun KG-S88G is a compact, powerful and rugged GMRS radio that offers a lot of flexibility, programmability and ease of use at a reasonable price. In short, it's a surprisingly great value.

We get comments and questions from customers who are interested in GMRS repeaters and want to set up their own. Such is the case in regards to our Wouxun KG-1000G repeater video tutorial. Some of this feedback comes from hams who are familiar with the rules of using repeaters on the amateur radio service, with the natural assumption that the FCC rules for GMRS repeater stations are the same as those for amateur radio. While this is mostly true, there are some exceptions that make owning and operating a GMRS repeater a little different, and perhaps easier, especially if it is for private use.

To clear up the confusion and separate fact from fantasy, here is the truth about GMRS repeaters.

According to the FCC rules under § 95.1751 GMRS station identification, "Each GMRS station must be identified by transmission of its FCC-assigned call sign at the end of transmissions and at periodic intervals during transmissions except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. A unit number may be included after the call sign in the identification."

A GMRS station refers to any Part 95E type accepted device that transmits and receives signals on the GMRS radio service. This includes portable handheld walkie talkies, mobile radios and base station units. It also includes GMRS repeaters.

The rules also specifically state how the call sign (ID) must be transmitted, as outlined below:

(a) The GMRS station call sign must be transmitted:
(1) Following a single transmission or a series of transmissions; and,
(2) After 15 minutes and at least once every 15 minutes thereafter during a series of transmissions lasting more than 15 minutes.
(b) The call sign must be transmitted using voice in the English language or international Morse code telegraphy using an audible tone.

So, yes, just as with a ham radio repeater, a GMRS repeater is required to transmit a call sign. However, as simple as it sounds, it is this specific point that seems to cause some confusion.

Most publicly accessible repeaters operate unassisted, without a station operator present 24/7. This means that in order to comply with the rules, there must be a system in place to automatically transmit the call sign or station ID at the required intervals. In fact, such a system has long been used by amateur repeaters everywhere, and is generally the accepted norm among members of the ham community. Therefore, it stands to reason that some sort of auto ID controller would be required to operate a GMRS repeater as well. And for the most part, this is correct.

However, there are scenarios in which an auto ID isn't necessary at all. According to subpart (c) under the same section:

(c) Any GMRS repeater station is not required to transmit station identification if:
(1) It retransmits only communications from GMRS stations operating under authority of the individual license under which it operates; and,
(2) The GMRS stations whose communications are retransmitted are properly identified in accordance with this section.

In simple terms, the repeater does not need to auto ID if it's intended for use as a private or closed repeater system.

Consider, for instance, a family farm or ranch. Since a GMRS license covers the entire family, the repeater does not have its own callsign. The repeater is also identified by that family license. each family member using the repeater provides the call sign and their station ID over the repeater every fifteen minutes, which suffices for the repeater ID.

To repeat, pun intended, if it is a private repeater operating solely between operators of the same GMRS license such as a single family, and each operator is properly identifying their individual stations as required by their license, the repeater itself does not need to transmit an ID. This is simply because the station ID is automatically being transmitted by each individual operator relaying the call sign.

An automatic repeater ID function is only necessary if people other than those covered by your license are also using the repeater. And that's the truth.

Frequency counters, field strength meters and other test equipment have long been standard issue among amateur radio operators. With the recent availability of advanced, professional grade GMRS radios with higher power and functionality than the typical bubble pack models, the demand for such test equipment has all but exploded. Considering this, Buy Two Way Radios is now an authorized Surecom dealer!

Surecom test equipment is used by radio professionals, hobbyists and bench techs around the world. They manufacture a line of antenna analyzers, field strength meters, frequency counters and other products used for testing and tweaking radio equipment.

It is important to note that some of the products on the list below are designed to be used with analog two way radios only. They are not recommended for use with DMR digital radios.

Surecom SW-33 Plus SWR/Power Meter The SW-33 Plus is a popular mini power and SWR meter commonly used to measure the transmit power of portable handheld radios. This compact unit fits in the palm of your hand and fits in a pocket, so you can test your ht radio practically anywhere, anytime.

The SW-33 Plus is easy to install on a handheld and includes both SMA and BNC adapters to work with a wide variety of walkie talkie antennas. It measures frequencies between 125-525MHz, which covers both the 70cm UHF and 2 meter VHF ham bands, as well as frequencies used by the business, GMRS and MURS radio services. It can check antenna SWR within 3 seconds and has a maximum measurable power range up to 100W. It has a built-in battery that can be charged via micro USB and includes a 5-20W dummy load for testing. Price: $39.99

Surecom SW-102 SWR/Power Meter w/ Ground Plane
The SW-102 measures forward and reflected power on a digital readout without any calibration. It can measure frequencies between 125-525MHz with a power measurement range between a half a watt and 120 watts. Although larger than the SW-33, it is also a fairly small and lightweight unit that can be carried and used anywhere. It can also be permanently connected to a mobile radio, if needed.

One caveat to testing SWR on a portable handheld radio is the need for a ground plane for accurate measurement. Normally the ground plane is created by the operator holding the radio. Unfortunately, the measurements are often inaccurate because the individual is not actually holding the radio while testing it, so there is no ground plane. This can skew the results significantly.

The Surecom SW-102 resolves that by including a special metal plate to create a ground plane. This metal ground plane plate allows for more accurate testing of handheld radio antennas to achieve optimal results. Also, this tester is designed with an N-connector to ensure the least amount of loss when testing. Optional adapters are available to connect it to radios and antennas using PL-259 (UHF Male) and SMA connectors. Price: $54.99

Surecom SW-102HF SWR/Power Meter The SW-102HF is nearly identical to the SW-102, except it is specifically designed for use with HF radios.

It measures frequencies between 1.5-70MHz with a power range between a half a watt and 120 watts, plus or minus 5%. The three button panel is simple to use and the backlit LCD displays S.W.R, F.W, R.W, and battery Level. The built-in interface for both input and output is a UHF Female (SO-239) connector. Also, unlike the SW-102, this tester does not include a metal ground plane plate, as it is intended for mobile and base station HF radios.

Although it is quite portable, it's modular design allows it to be connected permanently to the radio if desired. Price: $59.99

Surecom SS11 Field Strength / Power Test Meter
The SS11 reads the relative field strength from your antenna. It has a frequency range of 100KHz-3GHz and maximum RF Sensitivity of -40.97dbmv or decibel-millivolts. It features a large analog power meter and two simple controls. It also has a micro USB port to charge the built-in 400mah li-ion battery.

The SS-11 has an SMA female input and includes an SMA Male UHF telescopic antenna. The package includes an English language instruction manual. Price: $39.99

Surecom SF-103 Frequency Counter
The SF-103 is a portable handheld frequency counter for the easy identification of radio frequencies. It can detect frequencies between 2 MHz and 2.8GHz. It is capable of decoding CTCSS tones and DCS codes. It can also be used for measuring signal strength.

The SF-103 features a color TFT or Thin-Film-Transistor LCD display with an adjustable backlight. It also has a simple four button control panel on the front of the unit. It has a Frequency Response time of 0.2-0.5 seconds and a CTCSS/DCS detection time of >0.5-1 second. It includes an auto power off feature that is adjustable between 1 and 9 minutes. Unlike some of the Surecom products previously mentioned, the SF-103 has a digital mode for DMR radios.

This unit includes an antenna and a belt clip, so you can carry it around at your hip. In all, it's a handy little device. Price: $59.99

Surecom SF-401 PLUS Frequency Counter w/ CTCSS/DCS Decoder The SF-401 Plus is top of the line. It has all the standard features of the SF-103, including easy frequency Identification, CTCSS/DCS detection and decoding, and the ability to measure signal strength. However, it has a wider frequency range of 27Mhz-3000Mhz.

The SF-401 Plus also has the color TFT LCD display with adjustable backlight, four button control panel, and auto power off feature. It also has a digital mode for DMR radios. The SF 401 comes packaged with an antenna, USB charger cable, USB AC adapter and a belt clip. Price: $49.99