(888) 569-9499CONTACT US
0Item(s)

You have no items in your shopping cart.

Product was successfully added to your shopping cart.

Articles

  • The difference between FRS and GMRS radios

    Difference Between Wouxun FRS and GMRS RadiosA frequent question asked by our customers who use the personal radio services is also a deceptively simple one. What's the difference between an FRS radio and a GMRS radio?

    It's a logical question, since FRS and GMRS radios have many similarities. So many, In fact, that at one time FRS and GMRS transceivers were commonly sold in the US marketplace as combo radios. This changed in the summer of 2017, when the FCC reformed the Part 95 Rules to further define the two services and end the manufacture, sale and use of these combo units. Ironically, this move created a bit of confusion for some users, both old and new, thus prompting the titular question.

    Although they are two separate radio services, the FRS and GMRS co-exist within 462-467MHz frequency range of the UHF band. Both services share the same 22 simplex channels and frequencies. These channel and frequency assignments are standard across the industry. This means that channel 1 on a Midland FRS or GMRS radio is the same as channel 1 on a Motorola Talkabout, or a Cobra MicroTALK, or a DeWALT, Uniden, or Wouxun KG-805F and 805G. Channel 2 is the same, channel 3 is the same, and so on. For this reason, someone with an FRS radio can converse directly with someone who has a GMRS radio and vice-versa.

    There is one caveat. A license is required to operate a GMRS radio. It's not difficult to obtain, and the terms are rather generous, but it isn't free. In contrast, an FRS radio is licensed by rule, commonly referred to as license-free, which means that the simple act of buying an FRS radio gives you the license to legally use it.

    So, considering the licensing schemes, the interoperability between the FRS and GMRS services provides a unique advantage to both, as licensed and license-free operators can freely communicate with one another on the radios approved for their particular service. And best of all, it's legal!

    Which brings us to the obvious question. If FRS and GMRS share the same band, channel assignments and frequencies, and each can communicate between the other, aren't they basically the same? what's the difference between FRS and GMRS radios?

    There are 5 primary differences, and they are all important to consider, as any one of them can determine whether you need a GMRS license to operate your radio, or if it can be used as an FRS radio by anyone for personal or business activities, license-free.

    Radio Type
    FRS radios are limited to portable handheld models only. In addition, mobile and base station GMRS units are not allowed to transmit on channels 8-14 period, and can only receive on those channels. For this reason, some GMRS radio manufacturers omit those channels on their mobile/base units altogether.

    Wattage
    The maximum allowable wattage of an FRS radio on channels 1-7 and 15-22 is 2 watts, while the GMRS is allowed up to 5 watts on channels 1-7 and up to 50 watts on channels 15-22. Although the power difference is usually the first thing that comes to mind by the average radio operator, it's not necessarily as important as one may think in terms of performance and range, particularly on portable handheld units.

    Detachable Antenna
    FRS radios must have a permanently affixed antenna, which means you must not be able to remove it, at least not without permanently damaging or destroying any part of the radio. And yeah, we've seen this. Our advice: don't try to remove a permanently fixed antenna from an FRS radio. It violates the rules, it will void the warranty of your radio, and it doesn't look pretty.

    In contrast, GMRS radios are not only allowed to have removable antennas, but they can be attached to aerials mounted remotely on a vehicle, building or tower, as long as it is within a certain height limit.

    Now, a non-removable antenna does not necessarily mean the walkie-talkie is an FRS radio. On the contrary, there are many older GMRS handheld radios with permanently fixed antennas, particularly those in existence before the Part 95 Reform of 2017. However, if the antenna is removable, that alone does classify it as a GMRS radio by default, since such a feature is not allowed on the Family Radio Service.

    The non-removable antenna requirement of the FRS service is another reason why there are no FRS mobile or base station radios, as those types of devices typically require the use of a remote antenna that is connected using a feed line by default.

    Repeater Capability
    Although both services do share the same 22 channel and frequency assignments, the GMRS also has 8 additional repeater channels available to it, for a total of 30 channels. FRS does not have these repeater channels and is not allowed to transmit on repeater systems.

    FCC Certification
    In order to be considered an FRS or GMRS radio, it must be Part 95 type accepted by the FCC for that particular service. If it is type accepted for Part 95B, it is an FRS radio. If it is type accepted for Part 95E, it is a GMRS radio. The FCC makes the final determination on this, so if you have doubts about which service your model is made for, locate the FCC ID on the radio and look it up on the FCC website to be sure. Ultimately, the FCC makes the call.

    Of course, if your radio does not have an FCC ID, it may not be legal for use on either radio service. All radios capable of operating on any of the personal radio services in the United States must be FCC type accepted for use on that service, and must have a valid FCC ID assigned to that model. We're not the radio police, but is something to keep in mind.

    The items listed above describe the differences between an FRS and a GMRS radio. Any one or more of them can determine the service the radio falls under, and whether it requires a license or not.

  • Wouxun GMRS Radio Comparison

    Wouxun GMRS Two Way RadiosThere was a time, not so long ago, when the number of radios manufactured for the GMRS were scant, and the number of brand name manufacturers producing them could be counted on one hand. Today, however, GMRS radios seem to be everywhere, and more manufacturers are jumping into the fray. The most notable of these companies is Wouxun.

    Two years ago they introduced their first model, the KG-805G, and it was an instant hit. Since then, Wouxun has introduced other models, each an advancment on the last. Now the ever widening array of options from this one single manufacturer has created an interesting dilemma. It's no longer a question of whether or not to choose a Wouxun GMRS radio, its a question of which Wouxun radio to choose. Fortunately, we're here to help.

    The following chart lists the Wouxun GMRS radios at Buy Two Way Radios with a comparison of their key features.

    Wouxun GMRS Radio Feature Comparison Chart

    Wouxun GMRS Radio Feature Comparison Chart
    Item KG-805G KG-905G KG-935G KG-S88G KG-1000G KG-XS20G
    Radio Service GMRS GMRS GMRS GMRS GMRS GMRS
    Type Handheld Handheld Handheld Handheld Mobile/Base Mobile/Base
    Receiver Type Superhet Superhet Direct Conversion Superhet Superhet Direct Conversion
    Max Transmit Power 5W 5W 5.5W 5W 50W 20W
    GMRS TX Channels 30 30 30 30 22 22
    GMRS RX Channels 30 30 30 30 30 30
    GMRS Repeater Channels 8 8 8 8 8 8
    Custom Channels 128 256 999 400 999 999
    Channel Groups
    Weather Channels
    Weather Scan
    Weather Alert
    400-470 MHz UHF Receive
    136-174 MHz VHF Receive
    50-53.995 MHz Receive
    Air Band Receive
    320-349.995 MHz Receive
    700-985 MHz Receive
    AM Receive
    Simultaneous Dual Receive
    FM Radio
    Repeater Capable
    Repeater Mode*
    Frequency Mode
    Privacy Codes 50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    107 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    Split CTCSS Tones/DCS Codes
    Standard and Non-Standard CTCSS/DCS
    Monochrome Display
    Color LCD Display
    Dual Display Mode
    Incoming Caller ID Display
    Display Channel Name, Number or Frequency
    Adjustable Squelch
    Channel Scan
    Priority Channel Scan
    Scan Groups
    Scan Add/Delete
    CTCSS/DCS Scan
    Monitor Mode
    Key/Button Beep
    Voice Compander
    Descrambler
    Keypad/Button Lock
    Group/All/Selective Call
    VOX
    Timeout Timer (TOT)
    Power Save
    Selectable Power Levels H/L H/L H/M/L H/L H/M1/M2/L H/L
    Volume Control Knob
    Channel Knob
    Alarm Button
    Low Power Alert
    English Voice Prompts
    Signal Strength Meter
    Hand Microphone
    Integrated Controls
    on Hand Mic
    Programmable Function Keys
    PC Programmable
    Stopwatch Timer
    Reset Function
    Flashlight
    Power Li-Ion Li-Ion Li-Ion Li-Ion 12V DC 12V DC
    Battery Pack 1700mAh 2600mAh 3200mAh 2000mAh
    Removeable Faceplate
    Audio Connector K1 K1 K1 K1 3.5mm(x2) 3.5mm
    Antenna Connector SMA M SMA M SMA M SMA M SO-239 SO-239
    Dust/Water Protection IP55 IP66 IP66 IP67 NO NO
    Warranty 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year
    Price $99.99 $119.99 $149.99 $139.99 $369.99 $219.99

    *Repeater Mode allows the radio to operate as a repeater. Requires two radios. Watch this tutorial video for more information.
    Additional resources:
    Video Introduction to the Wouxun KG-935G GMRS Radio
    TWRS-45 - The Truth About GMRS Radio Range
    GMRS Radio Range Chart
    How to Program a Repeater Channel into your KG-905G

  • Wouxun KG-XS20G programming and menu options

    Wouxun KG-XS20G Mobile GMRS Two Way RadioThe Wouxun KG-XS20G is a compact mobile radio designed specifically for GMRS radio power user. Although significantly smaller, lighter and with lower wattage than the Wouxun KG-1000G, it boasts a feature set that sets it far apart from the typical GMRS mobile. This radio is configured to transmit on the 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, as well as the 8 repeater channels right out of the box. Although channels 8-14 are only authorized for very low output power on portable handheld radios and are not authorized for transmit on mobile radios by the FCC, they are available on the XS20G, but as receive only channels.

    The KG-XS20G can also function as a small, full featured base station. When connected to the Wouxun DWC30WIN or Samlex SEC-1235M and a Tram 1486 UHF Fiberglass Base Antenna tuned to GMRS frequencies, the KG-XS20G operates quite well without taking up a lot of space on the top of your desk.

    KG-XS20G Key Features

    • 22 Simplex GMRS Channels
    • 8 GMRS Repeater Channels
    • Built-in NOAA Weather Channels
    • 136-174.995 MHz VHF (Receive Only)
    • 400-479.995 (70cm) MHz (Receive Only)
    • 87.5-108MHz FM Radio (Receive Only)
    • 20W Maximum Transmit Power
    • High/Low Transmit Power Levels
    • 999 Total Custom Memory Channels
    • Color Dual Channel/Frequency Display
    • Channel Name, Number or Frequency Display
    • Simultaneous Dual Channel Receive
    • Repeater Capability
    • 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
    • Supports 10 Scan Groups
    • Companding
    • Backlit DTMF Speaker Microphone
    • Incoming Caller ID Display
    • Voltage Display
    • Channel Name Edit and Display
    • Group Calls, All Call and Selective Call
    • 8 Group Descramble
    • Companding
    • Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable
    • Busy Channel Lockout
    • Timeout Timer
    • Stopwatch Timer
    • English Voice Prompts
    • Roger Beep Enable/Disable
    • Minimum Operating Voltage Settings
    • Audible Button Beep
    • Single Tone Pulse Frequency
    • 2 Programmable Keys
    • Keypad Lock
    • DTMF Encoding and Decoding
    • Built-in Speaker
    • 3.5mm External Speaker Port
    • PC Programmable
    • Reset

    Programming the KG-XS20G
    The Wouxun KG-XS20G looks and feels quite different from the Wouxun KG-1000G, so one would expect it to be a little bit different when it comes to programming the radio as well. In fact, it's easier. You can do it directly from the DTMF keypad on the speaker microphone or through a PC using the Wouxun KG-XS20G programming software.

    Direct from the radio
    If you already know how to program frequencies into the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A or other Wouxun mobile radios, programming the KG-XS20G directly from the radio itself is basically the same. The only real differences are the channels, frequencies and menu options themselves. If you haven't programmed a Wouxun mobile before or you are new to programming any two way radio, we've figured a lot of it out for you with the KGXS20G owners manual. This manual is carefully written in plain English and is easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.

    The KG-XS20G menu consists of 56 items. Default settings are bold.

    Menu # Menu Item Description Option
    01 SQUELCH Squelch settings 1 to 9|5
    02 TX-POWER Output power HIGH (20W)|LOW (5W)|Varies
    03 W/N Wide/Narrow bandwidth settings NARR (12.5k)|WIDE (25k)|Varies
    04* REPEATER Repeater OFF|ON
    05 BRT-ACTV Active Backlight settings OFF|1-10|3
    06 BRT-STBY Standby Backlight settings OFF|1-10|3
    07 WX-ALERT Weather Alert ON|OFF
    08 BAT-SAVE Battery Saver ON|OFF
    09 RX-CTCSS Receive CTCSS Tone OFF|1-50
    10 TX-CTCSS Transmit CTCSS Tone OFF|1-50
    11 RX-DCS Receive DCS Code OFF|1-105 +/-
    12 TX-DCS Transmit DCS Code OFF|1-105 +/-
    13 BACK-LT Backlight Timeout OFF|ON|1-20 sec|8
    14 SCANMODE Scan Mode TO|CO|SE
    15 SCANGP-A Scan Group A ALL|1-10
    16 SCANGP-B Scan Group B ALL|1-10
    17 PRI-SCAN Priority Scan ON|OFF
    18 PRI-CH Priority Channel 999 Channels|CH:01
    19** SCAN-ADD Scan Add/Delete ON|OFF
    20 TONESCAN CTCSS/DCS Scanning NONE|CTCSS|DCS
    21 TONESAVE CTCSS/DCS Tone Save Options RX|TX|ALL
    22* STEP Step frequency settings 2.5k to 100.0k|5k
    23 ROGER Roger Beep OFF|BOT|EOT|BOTH
    24 TOT Transmit Overtime Timer 15-900 sec (15 second increments)|60
    25 TOA Transmit Overtime Alarm OFF|1-10 seconds|5
    26 VOX Voice Activated Transmit OFF|1-10 (Level)
    27 VOICE Voice Guide OFF|ON
    28 BEEP Button Beeps ON|OFF
    29 BUSYLOCK Busy Channel Lockout ON|OFF
    30 PF1-SHRT Side Key PF1 Short Press Assignment UNDEF|BRT|DCS-SCAN|CTC-SCAN|REVERSE|TALK-A|WEATHER|MONI|FM-RADIO|SOS|ALARM|SCAN
    31 PF1-LONG Side Key PF1 Long Press Assignment UNDEF|BRT|DCS-SCAN|CTC-SCAN|REVERSE|TALK-A|WEATHER|MONI|FM-RADIO|SOS|ALARM|SCAN|SELEC CALL|FRQ2-PTT
    32 PF2-SHRT Side Key PF2 Short Press Assignment UNDEF|BRT|DCS-SCAN|CTC-SCAN|REVERSE|TALK-A|WEATHER|MONI|FM-RADIO|SOS|ALARM|SCAN
    33 PF2-LONG Side Key PF2 Long Press Assignment UNDEF|BRT|DCS-SCAN|CTC-SCAN|REVERSE|TALK-A|WEATHER|MONI|FM-RADIO|SOS|ALARM|SCAN|SELEC CALL|FRQ2-PTT
    34 SMUTESET Secondary Area Mute Setting OFF|TX|RX|TX+RX
    35 A-MUTE A Area Mute Setting OFF|ON
    36 B-MUTE B Area Mute Setting OFF|ON
    37 WORKMODE Work Mode CH-NAME|FREQ|CH-NUM|CH-FREQ
    38** CH-NAME Edit a channel name Name***
    39 CH-ADD Add Memory Channel 999 channels
    40 DEL-CH Deleting a channel 999 channels
    41 COMPAND Compander ON|OFF
    42 SP-MUTE Speaker Mute QT|QT+DTMF|QT*DTMF
    43 ANI-SW Caller ID TX Settings ON|OFF
    44 ANI-EDIT Sets caller ID 100-999999|101
    45 SIDETONE DTMF sidetone settings OFF|DTMF|ANI|DTMF+ANI
    46 ALERT Tone Alert 1750Hz|2100Hz|1000Hz|1450Hz
    47 PTT-DLY Caller ID Delay 100~3000ms|300ms
    48 PTT-ID Caller ID TX mode BOT|EOT|BOTH
    49 RING Ring Time OFF|1-10 seconds|3
    50 CALLCODE Call Code None|1-20 Groups
    51 RPT-TONE Repeater Tone OFF|ON
    52 TIMER Stopwatch Timer ON|OFF
    53 AUTOLOCK Keypad Auto Lock OFF|ON
    54 SPK-SET Speaker settings SPK1|SPK2|SPK1+2
    55*** RADIOMEM FM Radio Memory MEMORY|RECALL
    56 RESET Reset VFO|ALL

    *Note: *The menu items in yellow is available in Frequency mode only.
    **The menu items in green is available in Channel mode only.
    ***The menu item in orange is available on Area "A" only.

    Programming with software
    The KG-XS20G uses the same Wouxun mobile PCO-003 USB programming cable that works with the KG-1000G, KG-1000M and KG-UV980P. Refer to the cable driver installation instructions for more information.

    Unlike the cable, the Wouxun KG-XS20G programming software is specific to this model and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located under the Downloads tab on the Wouxun KG-XS20G product page at Buy Two Way Radios.

    KG-XS20G Operation
    The KG-XS20G is a very different form factor from the KG-1000G, KG-1000M or KG-UV980P, so the console, display, and some key functions are somewhat unique as well. Unlike the previously mentioned Wouxun models, it uses a KG-UV11A hand speaker microphone with an 8-pin DIN style connector. The speaker microphone plugs into a jack located in lower right corner on the front of the radio and screws into the front panel securely.

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

    Button Operation
    UP ARROW Select previous channel/frequency|Select menu option
    DOWN ARROW Select next channel/frequency|Select menu option
    MAIN Change master channel (A/B Area)|Change single/dual display
    1-SQL Squelch menu hotkey
    2-PWR Power menu hotkey
    3-W/N Bandwidth menu hotkey
    4-RPT Repeater menu hotkey
    5-BRT-A Active backlight menu hotkey
    6-BRT-S Standby backlight menu hotkey
    7-W-ALT Weather alert menu hotkey
    8-SAVE Power save menu hotkey
    9-CTCSS RX CTCSS menu hotkey
    0-(None) No hotkey function
    *-SCAN Scan key
    #-LOCK Keypad lock key
    MENU Enter program menu|choose/set menu option
    EXIT Exit menu/cancel

    As a GMRS radio alone, the Wouxun KG-XS20G is a great value. As a mobile/base station radio, it can add affordable, yet powerful versatility to any GMRS operation.

  • How to program a channel into the Wouxun KG-1000G

    Wouxun KG-1000G Mobile GMRS Two Way RadioProgramming a Wouxun mobile radio with your computer, USB cable and programming software is a relatively straightforward procedure, but it isn't always convenient or practical, especially if it's already permanently mounted in your vehicle. Fortunately, it can also be programmed directly from the radio itself. With all the buttons and dials, it seems complicated, but it's not. In fact, programming a Wouxun radio is really quite easy. You just need to learn and follow these simple steps.

    How to program a frequency into the Wouxun KG-1000G GMRS or KG-1000M MURS mobile radio

    • Step 1. Be sure the radio is turned on and in standby mode.
    • Step 2. Press the [MAIN] or 1 [BAND] key on the speaker microphone to choose the side of the radio you want to program (Side A or Side B).
      Conversely, you can press the 1 [BAND] key on the speaker microphone or the [BAND] key on the front panel of the radio to perform this function as well.
    • Step 3. Press the 6 [VFO/MR] key repeatedly to toggle between frequency (VFO) and the three channel (MR) modes until you enter Frequency Mode.
      The radio should be in Frequency (VFO) Mode to program the frequency into the channel.
    • Step 4. Press the 2 (MHZ) key. The display should show a set of hash marks.
    • Step 5. Enter the desired frequency.
    • Step 6. Press the 4 (MEMCH) key to assign the frequency to a channel memory.
    • Step 7. Enter the channel number you want to assign to that frequency.
    • Step 8. Press the [MENU] key to store the frequency and channel number in the radio.
      You can also press the red [MENU] button on the front panel of the radio to perform this function.
    • Step 9. Press the 6 key until you are in channel mode.
    • The channel and frequency are now programmed into your radio.

    To add more channels to your KG-1000 series radio, simply repeat these steps.

    This procedure can also be used to program the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A, Wouxun KG-UV950, and the Wouxun KG-B55 Dual Band 2/440 Base Station.

  • MURS Radio Comparison Chart

    MURS Two Way RadiosThe recent uptick in demand for two way radios has more consumers and businesses alike looking at options that do not require a license to operate, such as FRS and MURS. Because of this, more MURS radios are being added, and these models bring more features and flexibility than ever before. But what was once a simple choice between two or three models now requires a little more thought. How do you choose the correct MURS radio for your need?

    The following chart lists the MURS radios on our web site at Buy Two Way Radios with a comparison of their key features.

    MURS Radio Feature Comparison Chart

    MURS Radio Feature Comparison Chart
    Item M-538HT M-538BS V10MR RMM2050 KG-805M KG-1000M
    Brand Dakota Alert Dakota Alert Icom Motorola Wouxun Wouxun
    Radio Service MURS MURS MURS MURS MURS MURS
    Type Handheld Base Station Handheld Handheld Handheld Mobile/Base
    Max Transmit Power 2W 2W 2W 2W 2W 2W
    MURS Channels 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Custom Channels NO NO 16 NO 128 999
    Weather Channels
    Weather Scan
    Weather Alert
    Full VHF Band Receive
    Multi-Band Receive
    AM Receive
    FM Radio
    Privacy Codes 38 CTCSS 38 CTCSS 50 CTCSS/
    84 DCS
    39 CTCSS/
    180 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    50 CTCSS/
    105 DCS
    LCD Display
    Adjustable Squelch
    Channel Scan
    Monitor Mode
    Key Beep
    Voice Compander
    Descrambler
    Keypad Lock
    Call Tone
    Volume Control
    VOX
    Timeout Timer (TOT)
    Power Save
    Selectable Power Levels Hi/Lo Hi/Lo Hi/Med/Lo
    Alarm Feature
    Alert Tone
    Signal Strength Meter
    Hand Microphone
    Integrated Controls
    on Hand Mic
    Audio Connector
    PC Programmable
    Reset Function
    Power AA AC Li-Ion Li-Ion Li-Ion 12V DC
    Removeable Antenna
    Dust/Water Protection NO NO IP67 IP54/55 IP55 NO
    Warranty 1 Year 1 Year 2 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year
    Price (MSRP) $84.99 $74.99 $169.00 $189.00 $99.99 $369.99

    Additional resources:
    Video - What is a MURS Radio?
    TWRS-11 - All About MURS
    Best MURS Radios of 2020
    The Motorola RMM2050 MURS Two Way Radio Unboxing

  • What is RPT-TONE?

    Wouxun RPT-TONE Menu OptionMany of the Wouxun branded radios we carry at Buy Two Way Radios include a feature called RPT-TONE. This function is somewhat of a mystery to many, because when activated, it doesn't seem to actually do anything, or at least anything immediately noticeable to the average operator. What is RPT-TONE, and what, if anything, does it do?

    RPT-TONE is often found on many commercial (business) and amateur radios, but under different names. It is most commonly referred to as Squelch Tail Elimination, or STE. Motorola calls their iteration of it reverse burst. In simple terms, the feature mutes or eliminates the squelch burst often heard at the end of a transmission as the PTT is released. This noise is quite brief, usually less than a second in duration, but can become quite annoying when chatting back and forth on calls.

    There are a few common methods for eliminating squelch burst, and each depends on what the manufacturer adopts as their standard. Baofeng and Wouxun send a specific PL tone for about 500 milliseconds or so at the end of the transmission. Some other manufacturers allow the user to adjust the tone somewhat in the programming software. Motorola uses the reverse burst method, which reverses the phase of the tone at the end of the transmission, in effect "cancelling out" the squelch. No matter which method is used, the result is the same. The squelch burst is, audibly at least, eliminated.

    To activate squelch tail elimination on Wouxun radios, locate RPT-TONE in the menu, choose OFF, and save the setting. The radios that receive a transmision from this unit should not hear a squelch tail. To transmit the squelch tail, turn RPT-TONE ON. This feature can also be activated and deactivated in the Wouxun programming software for each model.

    Here is a list of Wouxun radios featuring RPT-TONE and its location in the menu for each model.

    Model Type Menu # Options Default
    KG-1000G GMRS 46 ON/OFF ON
    KG-UV8D Amateur 47 ON/OFF OFF
    KG-UV8D-PLUS Amateur 47 ON/OFF OFF
    KG-UV8E Amateur 47 ON/OFF OFF
    KG-UV8H Amateur 47 ON/OFF OFF
    KG-UV9P Amateur 47 ON/OFF OFF
    KG-UV920P-A Amateur 41 ON/OFF ON
    KG-UV980P Amateur 46 ON/OFF ON
  • How to create scan groups on the Wouxun KG-1000G

    The Wouxun KG-1000G is perhaps the most powerful and versatile GMRS mobile radio around. Among its powerful features is the ability to create scan groups. It's easy to set up and use, but can be a little confusing to those who are not familiar with this function. What are scan groups? How do you set a particular channel to a specific scan group? Once configured, how do you activate this feature on the KG-1000G?

    What are Scan Groups?
    The KG-1000G is pre-programmed with 22 GMRS simplex and 8 GMRS repeater channels out of the box, for a total of 30 channels. However, it also allows you to program additional customized channels into the radio, for a combined total of 999 channels. That's a lot of channels to scan. Now, you could just press the scan button and let the KG-1000G just scan everything, but if you are using a lot of the custom memory channel slots, or all of them, a general scan for any active channels could take awhile.

    This is where Scan Groups come in. You can assign a specific number of channels to a scan group and configure the radio to scan only those channels, greatly decreasing the time it takes to find an active channel and increasing the efficiency of the scan.

    Let's say you only want to scan channels 1-7 during the day and channels 15-22 in the evening. You could remove the channels you don't want to scan from the general scan list momentarily, but that would be quite time consuming and impractical, especially if you want to go back and scan those other channels later. Instead, you could create one scan group for channels 1-7, another scan group for channels 15-22, and leave the rest alone, in case you do want to scan all the channels as normal at some point. Then simply choose the group you want to scan for the moment, and press the scan button.

    How to create a Scan Group
    The KG-1000G supports up to 10 scan groups. Channels are added to a group by assigning a range of channel numbers to it using the KG-1000G programming software. Channels can be assigned to multiple groups. For instance, Channels 1-7 can be assigned to Group 1, channels 5-12 assigned to Group 2, etc. You can assign one channel to a group, however you cannot assign multiple channels individually within a group. In other words, Channel 1 can be its own scan group, but Channels 1,3, and 5 cannot. They can only be entered in a range of channels, e.g. Channels 1-7.

    To create a scan group, open the Wouxun KG-1000G programming software, click on the Scan Group tab and choose the group number to which you want to add channels. Then enter the first channel in the range of channels to be scanned by choosing it in the drop down list in the CH-From column, and enter the last channel in the range by doing the same in the CH-To column. You can also enter a name for the scan group up to 6 characters long in the Scan-Name column.

    Programming a Scan Group into the Wouxun KG-1000G

    How to activate a Scan Group
    There are two ways to choose and activate a scan group. If you are already creating your scan group(s) in the programming software, simply click on a radio button to the left of the CH-From column of the scan group you want to activate and choose the side of the radio to which the scan group will be assigned (Side A, Side B or Both). Save your configuration to the radio and it's all set.

    Choosing a Scan Group in the Wouxun KG-1000G Programming Software

    Alternately, you can leave the scan group default to ALL while in the programming software and activate your scan group directly from the radio itself. Press the [MENU] button, choose SC-GROUP from the menu (option 43) and choose the number or name of the scan group you created in the programming software that you want to activate. Press [MENU] to save your option, and press [EXIT] to exit the menu. Now, whenever you press the Scan key, it will scan only the channels in the scan group you chose.

    Wouxun KG-1000G Scan Group Menu Option

    You can change the scan group on the KG-1000G at any time by going back to the SC-GROUP option in the menu and choosing another group, or choosing ALL if you want to scan all channels sequentially as normal.

    It is important to note that the Scan Group function is not available in Frequency Mode, simply because it is used for scanning channels, not frequencies. Also, this feature is not available when the KG-1000G is in Repeater Mode.

    Questions? Feedback? Leave your comments below!

  • How to install the Wouxun programming cable and driver

    We've received numerous calls recently from customers who are having trouble installing some of the Wouxun programming cables in a Windows 10 PC. This can occur whether Windows recognizes the cable or not. Installing the driver from the mini-cd that comes with the cable does not resolve the issue. Why is the cable not working and how do you fix it?

    If you are running Windows 10, technically it should install automatically, or at least it used to, as Windows includes a Silicon Labs USB driver in its driver list. However, Silicon Labs has updated their driver and this driver no longer works. The driver on the mini-cd included with the cable from Wouxun is also no longer valid for Windows 10. Unfortunately, in many cases Windows 10 insists on installing the incorrect version of the driver anyway, further compounding the problem.

    To confirm this, open the Device Manager in Windows 10. The cable may appear under Other Devices with an exclamation mark, also known as a splat mark (!) next to the listing for the cable.

    Wouxun Programming Cable error in Device Manager

    Here's how to fix the issue and install the Wouxun PCO-001 or PCO-003 programming cable on a Windows 10 computer.

    Step 1. DO NOT attempt to install the driver from the mini-cd that comes with the cable. This is the first step, and is the most common cause of the issue. Wouxun provides it, but to be frank, there's really nothing on it that is particularly useful in the year 2021 and beyond. Don't even mess with the little green mini-cd. Please. Just don't.

    Wouxun Programming Cable Driver Mini-CD

    Step 2. Download the updated CP210x UART driver. It is available from the Wouxun PCO-001 or PCO-003 product page at Buy Two Way Radios. The driver is located under the Downloads tab above the product description. It works. It's been tested.

    Wouxun Programming Cable Product Page Driver Download
    Step 3. Unzip the driver package. The package includes drivers for both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

    Wouxun Programming Cable Driver File List

    Now we come to a very important part of the installation process, the installation itself. But wait, don't just start yet. A common procedure is to install the driver through the Update Driver wizard. This is where many users get into trouble, and where Windows will typically want to install the incorrect driver. Rather than going through all that mess, keep it simple and just use the installer provided in the package. Yes, there is an installer, actually two to be precise. All you need to know is which one to run. Then, just run it. In most cases, the installer will do the heavy lifting for you.

    Here is how to install the driver.

    Step 1. Check your version of Windows 10. Are you running the 32-bit or 64-bit version? This is important, as it will determine which version of the driver installer you need to run.

    Step 2. Be sure Windows is up to date. If not, we recommend that you download and install the updates before installing the new driver. This is a good practice anyway for security reasons and general peace of mind.

    Step 3. Run the correct version of the cable driver installer. The 32-bit version is called CP210xVCPInstaller_x86 and the 64-bit version is CP210xVCPInstaller_x64.

    4. Follow the installation instructions on screen.

    After installation is complete, check the device manager. The splat mark (!) should be gone. Note the COM port number as well. You will need to know this when choosing the correct COM port for the cable in the programming software.

    Wouxun Programming Cable Driver Working

    The Wouxun programming cable should now be correctly installed. To verify the installation, right-click on the cable in the Device Manager and go to Properties. Click the Driver tab. The Driver Date and Driver Version should match what is in the image below.

    Wouxun Programming Cable Driver Version

    One final tip
    If everything is correctly installed, but the computer still cannot detect the cable, it is possible that Windows Power Management is to blame. This is especially something to check if you are using a laptop, where Power Management is set with strict parameters for battery conservation. To check this, go to the Device Manager, right-click on the cable, and click the Power Management tab. Remove the check from Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power and click OK. This should resolve the issue.

    Questions? Feedback? leave a comment below.

  • How to install an FTDI Programming Cable on newer versions of Windows 10

    Something has changed with a recent update of Windows 10 that may affect the installation or operation of radio programming cables equipped the FTDI chip, such as the XLT Painless Programming Cable. Previously, all you needed to do was plug the cable into an available USB port and Windows would automatically detect it and install the driver, making the cable instantly recognizable and available for use.

    All of that changed with a recent Windows 10 update. When installing the USB programming cable, Windows 10 does not correctly recognize the cable or is unable to locate the driver for it. When checking the device manager, the USB port may look something like what is in the image below:We have contacted FTDI support to learn more about the issue and find out when it may be corrected for future Windows updates. FTDI acknowledged the issue and assured us that their developers are currently working to resolve it. FTDI estimates that a fix with the Windows 10 automatic downloads should be available "within the next couple of weeks".

    However, there is a fix for the interim. FTDI provided an executable installer that can be run manually to install the cable driver. Here are the steps for installation:

    1. Download CDM21236_Setup.zip
    2. Unzip and run the executable setup file
    3. Connect the cable to the PC

    Conversely, you can install the driver manually via the Update Driver tab in device manager properties using the driver-only package. To perform this type of installation, follow the steps below:

    1. Download CDM+v2.12.36.1+WHQL+Certified.zip (this is the driver-only package)
    2. Unzip the file
    3. Plug the cable into the PC
    4. When Windows asks to search for a driver, choose the option Browse my computer for driver software.
    5. Navigate to the unzipped folder
    6. Check the box for include subfolders and click Next
    7. When the installation is complete, note the COM port assigned to the device and click Close

    And that's it. The cable should now be recognized by Windows and properly installed.

  • How to Reset the KG-905G

    Wouxun-KG-905G-Reset-RadioThe Wouxun KG-905G is a very advanced GMRS radio with a lot of advanced features. In spite of all its functionality and programmable options, it is an easy radio to program and configure. It also performs very well without any issues. Under most circumstances it should seldom, if ever, need a reset.

    If there is a need to reset the radio back to its original factory settings, that's simple too. Unlike the KG-805G, the KG-905G has a built-in RESET option. Just press MENU, choose option 35 for RESET, press MENU for ALL to confirm, wait 8 seconds while it performs the operation, and you're good to go.

    When choosing RESET in the menu, ALL is the only available option to choose. It resets all of the function settings and channel parameters to factory defaults.

    You can also reset the radio by loading in the factory default codeplug.

    What if there is no Reset option in the menu?
    The Reset option may disappear if you programmed your KG-905G using the programming software and saved it to the radio. This is because the checkbox for the reset option in the software isn't checked by default. If left unchecked, the software will remove the option from the radio menu.

    To resolve this, simply run the programming software, load your codeplug from the radio, place the check in the box next to Reset, and save the codeplug back to the radio. The Reset option should show in the radio menu.

    Why is the Reset option removable?
    Believe it or not, this is a feature, not a bug, and its purpose is simple. It prevents other users who are not authorized to reset the radio from doing so.

    For example, let's say a KG-905G is assigned to each member of your family and you've programmed all units to specific channels and feature configurations. You want full access to your radio, but you don't want the kids to accidentally reset this configuration on theirs. Perhaps another family member is visiting who is covered by your GMRS license and you issue them a radio, but you don't want them to mess around with it too much and wipe out your presets. All you need to do is take the check out of the box for the RESET option when programming those units and it won't show up in the menu.

Items 31 to 40 of 174 total

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. ...
  8. 18

CUSTOMER REVIEWS