PMR446 (Licence-Free) Radio

What is two-way radio?
Two-way radios are those things used by cops like Starsky and Hutch. Security guards, rescue services and the military all rely on them for instant and efficient communications. They will work anywhere in the world, and are very reliable. There are no airtime or rental costs for most systems. Modern technology has shrunk the size and weight of a handportable radio so it will fit into a small pocket. It should be portable enough for even by the most weight conscious traveler. Most radios systems were licensed by the Radio communications agency (in the UK), until PMR446 became available in 1999.

What is PMR446 and why aren't we already using radios?
All radio communications are subject to international regulations. Until 1999 most radios had to be licensed at some cost and could only be used in a restricted area. Licence-exempt radios were no more than toys. PMR 446 is an international standard for unlicensed use in many nations. It specification is suited to very small radios and has already been adopted by the professional user. With its international acceptance it is ideal for the traveler. PMR 446 can be used 'off-the-shelf' without technical support. Any make of PMR446 radio will talk with any other so you and your friends may each have different makes of radio but will still be able to communicate.

PMR446 sounds just like CB radio!.
CB or Citizens Band is an old fashioned radio system imported from the USA. It uses a radio frequency prone to noise

and interference. Range varies with weather conditions. It also works poorly in town and forest areas. Although there are 40 channels available there is no provision for tone squelch so you are forced to listen to other users. PMR 446 has the privacy of tone squelch meaning you do not have to listen to other users on your channel. It also uses UHF frequencies ideal for penetrating buildings and forest.

Is there privacy when using Two-way radio?
All radio communications can be eavesdropped. PMR 446 is no exception. Anyone with a radio scanner can listen in on others but Tone squelch means you never need hear any other users. If your conversation really is private some radios come equipped with a scrambler system.

A note about Cellular (Mobile) phones
Cellular phones have their uses in the outdoors but they depend on being close to the cellular base station network. These base stations are expensive to run so are only found in areas of high population density. Wilderness areas are by definition unpopulated so reception will always by patchy or nonexistent.
Cellular calls cost money and take time to dial and connect. Two-way radio is instant and airtime is free.