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Football Officiating => Texas Topics => Topic started by: Ump62 on February 21, 2017, 05:20:43 PM
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For the past couple of years TASO has allowed the use of Official to Official communications with the use of an "approved" system. The cost of an approvable system that met TASO requirements was prohibitive for most crews. The result was a few crews getting approval and many more using unapproved systems.
If you had an approved system or if you were a maverick and used a system without approval, what system did you use? Are you happy with it? Would you buy the same system or look for an alternative?
I'm not a fan of reinventing the wheel, if you've already researched this or have experience please share what you've learned.
Thanks.
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Not trying to stifle conversation, but rather than start a new thread on a topic that's been discussed ad nauseam, recommend you do a search for this topic. I believe your questions will be answered.
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These are extremely reliable and very inexpensive radios (as cheap as $17 each). They TX/RX in both UHF and VHF bands utilizing frequency modulation. You can dial in a frequency in the FRS or GMRS bands that is slightly off from the actual channels for those services, and never be interrupted and be within the FCC rules and someone with a cheap FRS radio cannot monitor. The headsets utilize the same jack as all Kenwoods, so there is a very wide variety available for use. Being a licensed amateur radio operator (ham), I can utilize ham radio frequencies since everyone on the field would be utilizing my license, and they are within view. I would like to be able to use these.
Search ebay for Baofeng UV-5R.
https://baofengtech.com/?gclid=CJPlkJbdo9ICFdgWgQodBIcDmQ (https://baofengtech.com/?gclid=CJPlkJbdo9ICFdgWgQodBIcDmQ)
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TASO will be approving more economical solutions (~$25/radio range) for use this year. These will be posted to the TASO website sometime in the March timeframe - at least that is the target -- so stay tuned!
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Here is what I gathered from the meeting about the radios.
1. They must provide private transmission, a system of "privacy codes".
2. Push to talk.
3. Paired with headset and microphone.
4. Water Resistant
5. Black or black and white in color.
If the radio you want to use is not on the list it must be sent to TASO for approval. Once a radio is approved and added to the list then anyone can use that radio without submitting anything to TASO.
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1. They must provide private transmission, a system of "privacy codes".
LOL LOL LOL
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From the meeting notes posted today:
The requirements for wireless crew communication devices have been changed, which should result in the approval of more affordable systems for crews that choose to use these devices. A list of approved radios will be available in the Member’s Portal at taso.org.
Although, I scanned taso.org and didnt find any such approved list. If anyone has a link, please provide it here.
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TASO indicated they would update the TASO.org website in March timeframe so check back again over next few weeks.
In my humble opinion, this is a good decision by TASO and will enhance crew communication as long as crews use it as with that intention - which I think most will by and large.
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Being a licensed amateur radio operator (ham), I can utilize ham radio frequencies since everyone on the field would be utilizing my license, and they are within view.
If this is the case, is the model you listed the best option? What about the 888S?
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If this is the case, is the model you listed the best option? What about the 888S?
Very solid little UHF transceiver. One issue I see is that I think you have to program it with a PC. You can set up channels through programming so you have multiple options when on-site at a game then. The UV-5R is fully operational without a PC.
Either one would work great. The antennas are interchangeable, so you can buy a stub antenna for very little. That way you wouldn't have a tail and the transmitter power (ERP that is) would be much less than with the longer antenna (which is what you want for a short range).
For $13, you cannot beat that radio for sure.
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Is a license required for the 888?
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Is a license required for the 888?
Not if operated in the FRS frequencies, or any other unlicensed frequencies this radio can transmit on. You would need the programming software and cable for this radio, about $10 on ebay. This radio has a fairly solid scrambler you can activate so no one can monitor.
Very specifically, you can set this radio to TX anywhere from 462.5500 to 462.7250 MHz, or 467.5625 to 467.7125 MHz and not be required to obtain a license. I would suggest setting it somewhere between the FRS channels (you can find on a Google search) with a PL (CTCSS or privacy) tone with the beat-shift scrambler enabled and you will never have to worry about interference or being overheard.
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Not if operated in the FRS frequencies, or any other unlicensed frequencies this radio can transmit on. You would need the programming software and cable for this radio, about $10 on ebay. This radio has a fairly solid scrambler you can activate so no one can monitor.
Very specifically, you can set this radio to TX anywhere from 462.5500 to 462.7250 MHz, or 467.5625 to 467.7125 MHz and not be required to obtain a license. I would suggest setting it somewhere between the FRS channels (you can find on a Google search) with a PL (CTCSS or privacy) tone with the beat-shift scrambler enabled and you will never have to worry about interference or being overheard.
Doc,
You should set up a table at the regional clinics and sell/setup radios for a nominal fee for all of us telecom laymen.
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Part of being able to use them is being able to figure them out. It isn't that complicated really.
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Doc,
You should set up a table at the regional clinics and sell/setup radios for a nominal fee for all of us telecom laymen.
Here here!
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Perhaps Doc should have a breakout session covering telecom rules and setup.
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TASO indicated they would update the TASO.org website in March timeframe so check back again over next few weeks.
In my humble opinion, this is a good decision by TASO and will enhance crew communication as long as crews use it as with that intention - which I think most will by and large.
Still haven't seen any update on this from TASO's page. Anyone have word on when the updated list might be published?
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Hef, you obviously don't know how difficult and time consuming posting something on a website is. There is undoubtably several complicated key strokes involved.
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Hef, you obviously don't know how difficult and time consuming posting something on a website is. There is undoubtably several complicated key strokes involved.
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ahhh....yes. I have occasionally encountered troubles in pushing buttons.
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I've ordered 2 of the Boafeng 888 radios and the software from China. Once I get them and play around with them, and if they work well, I'll submit a form for approval of these. I'm really curious how well the scrambler works.
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I've ordered 2 of the Boafeng 888 radios and the software from China. Once I get them and play around with them, and if they work well, I'll submit a form for approval of these. I'm really curious how well the scrambler works.
Please keep us posted, Doc. BTW, what's the cost of those Boafengs?
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Thought you already used the Chinese radios?
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Thought you already used the Chinese radios?
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No sir. We've got the Moto 1020. Okay radio but pricey. Would like to sell them and go with less expensive option.
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Please keep us posted, Doc. BTW, what's the cost of those Boafengs?
I ordered a set of two for $24 from California and a set of 2 from China for $4 for the pair. Not a typo, $4 for the pair. Found on ebay. It takes a month or more to get them from Hong Kong, but shipping is free and price is incredibly cheap.
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I ordered a set of two for $24 from California and a set of 2 from China for $4 for the pair. Not a typo, $4 for the pair. Found on ebay. It takes a month or more to get them from Hong Kong, but shipping is free and price is incredibly cheap.
A man after my own heart. :bOW
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TASO has published the updated list of approved devices. The good news here is that several of the newly approved solutions can be purchased for < $20 a unit from what I saw just checking on Amazon. Much more affordable. You can see the complete list of approved solutions in your TASO Football members portal.
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TASO has published the updated list of approved devices. The good news here is that several of the newly approved solutions can be purchased for < $20 a unit from what I saw just checking on Amazon. Much more affordable. You can see the complete list of approved solutions in your TASO Football members portal.
Good news for sure. These FRS radios are much less expensive. Be forewarned, these are very easily monitored and interfered with by anyone with any FRS radio. You will be listened to, so be very careful what you say.
Also, if you plan on using any of these radios in the GMRS band, you WILL be required to get a license with the FCC. It is a simple process, but it is required to transmit in the GMRS band since it is a much higher transmitting power. The chances of getting caught are practically non-existent, as long as you aren't transmitting on a repeater input frequency. If you happen to do that, you might be transmitting for about 40 to 60 miles.
GMRS licensing statement from FCC.
https://www.fcc.gov/general/general-mobile-radio-service-gmrs (https://www.fcc.gov/general/general-mobile-radio-service-gmrs)
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As an example, looking at the specs of all of the Moto radios added to the list, none should be operated above channel 14 without a GMRS license:
Read right towards the end of the page:
https://www.motorolasolutions.com/en_us/products/two-way-radios/consumer-two-way-radios/t200-series/t200.html#tabproductinfo (https://www.motorolasolutions.com/en_us/products/two-way-radios/consumer-two-way-radios/t200-series/t200.html#tabproductinfo)
• The FCC requires that all operators using GMRS frequencies obtain a radio license before operating their equipment. To obtain the FCC forms, please call 1-800-418-3676 to request Forms 605 and 159, which includes all of the forms and instructions you will need. It is the responsibility of the radio user to read and understand all applicable rules and regulations regarding GMRS.
Cost is $65 per radio.
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So they list radios that have been approved in accordance with the TASO standards but fail to list the standards. It's like pulling teeth...
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So they list radios that have been approved in accordance with the TASO standards but fail to list the standards. It's like pulling teeth...
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If these several FRS radios have been approved then there really is no need for standards or an approval process. All FRS radios are essentially the same. Some have a couple of more functions but not enough to make any difference. I don't see any need for a list of radios approved any longer. FRS radios are in very wide use and there are few other options available, MURS, GMRS or very expensive spread spectrum. They've opened it wide open for any radio you can purchase with this approval. Have at it guys. Just realize the masses will be listening once word gets out we are using these. Be careful what you say. Someone is definitely listening. All good because the communication advantage is huge. The standards are essentially, the radio has to be black or white and be able to communicate.
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Too bad, I found a really good deal on some pink zebra striped ones.
^no
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Too bad, I found a really good deal on some pink zebra striped ones.
^no
Perfect for breast cancer and zebra awareness month.
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Here you go!
(http://pisces.bbystatic.com//image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/9766/9766274_ra.jpg;maxHeight=500;maxWidth=500)
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Amazon link?!?!
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Sorry to be a downer :( but Black or black & white are the only acceptable colors allowed by TASO
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Why do you hate supporting cancer? :sTiR:
tR:oLl
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:bOW
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Hef, you get to go with the Dick Tracy option:
(http://www.image-tmart.com/prodimgs/8/88006730/MultiChannels-Wrist-Watch-Style-with-Adjustable-Band-Walkie-Talkie-pair_600x600.jpg)
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Is that your professional recommendation based on the approved list from TASO?
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I think, as in seasons past, crews will ignore TASO policy and buy what works for them. Their policy was very poorly rolled out initially and unnecessarily cost members more Money than needed.
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I think, as in seasons past, crews will ignore TASO policy and buy what works for them. Their policy was very poorly rolled out initially and unnecessarily cost members more Money than needed.
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Come on, SkyButt, you wanted to be on the cutting edge!
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The Baofeng BF-888S radios have been approved.
https://www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-BF-888S-Transceiver-Illumination-Flashlight/dp/B007F7MZ04 (https://www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-BF-888S-Transceiver-Illumination-Flashlight/dp/B007F7MZ04)
These are only programmable through a PC but come pre-programmed on all 16 channels. I have purchased 2 from a US supplier and got the software and put data in all 16 channels. These are what I recommend, but you have to purchase the programming cable. The software is available online. These program in seconds. You can save the programming info so programming a new radio is very simple. The ones from the US seem to not have the scrambling capability (and $13 each from Amazon), but the ones from China should. You can order a pair of these from China on ebay for around $5. It takes about a month to get them (still waiting on the ones I ordered). These can be programmed to function just like the other FRS radios or a bit differently so no one will be able to monitor your conversation. They are very lightweight, 6 oz, and very simple to operate once programmed. These are much more sturdy than any FRS radios near their price range. If anyone wants a set, I might be able to help get them and program them for you for just cost of the radios themselves.
Then again, it might be easier to go down to Academy or Walmart and buy the approved FRS types.
deadhorse:
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I received 4 Baofeng BF888S radios today from a US supplier that have the scrambler function. I'm amazed. These are the by far the best little radios for the price and with the security we need. Unless you have the exact same radios and right frequency and tone, you will not be able to monitor these, even if programmed to FRS frequencies. I highly recommend these. These have been approved by TASO and are much more secure than any of the less expensive radios that have been approved. I'm glad to help if you need it. Keep your comms secure guys.
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Im also interested in the audio fidelity. Worked two games with a crew last year and the audio was tough to make out. Ambient noise, location of mic, speaking too loud and get clipping are issues. What headset/earpeace mic set will work good for both audio fidelity and moving down the sidelines quickly and not come off?
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I tried 4 different types last year and this was by far the best. It has a single wire out of the radio that goes into a three way splitter. One is for the clear inner ear piece, goes over ear and inserts into ear. One is the for the mike that clips onto the collar (zipper). One is for the PTT, which attaches to a velcro loop. I put that loop around my belt just above my right front pocket. When you want to talk, just hit the PTT. Coaches don't even notice you have a radio with this headset. Ambient noise is a problem in a very loud setting. The over the ear types with boom mike might have a little better volume, but the inner ear type really doesn't need much volume. The mikes in a very loud setting can be problem. There really isn't much that can be done about that. All in all, my crew was very happy with this setup.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2Pin-Acoustic-Tube-Earpiece-Earphone-finger-PTT-for-Kenwood-Baofeng-Retevis-TYT-/172576222590?hash=item282e582d7e (http://www.ebay.com/itm/2Pin-Acoustic-Tube-Earpiece-Earphone-finger-PTT-for-Kenwood-Baofeng-Retevis-TYT-/172576222590?hash=item282e582d7e)
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Doc -- talk about how the R on the crew handled both the radio cable and stadium mic. Also, is the privacy in the programming or on the radio setting?
I ordered a couple of radios and will try them out after reprogramming them.
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Doc -- talk about how the R on the crew handled both the radio cable and stadium mic. Also, is the privacy in the programming or on the radio setting?
I ordered a couple of radios and will try them out after reprogramming them.
One reason I like the head set that is split to three wires is that it is completely out of the way of a stadium mike. Stadium mike's, as all R's know, are quite varied. You see some lapel mikes and some boom mikes, so you never know what you're going to find. You just need to be very cognizant of which button you're pushing.
The scrambler is in the programming settings.
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I now have the 888S (2 of them so far) and am downloading the Chirp software. Can you step me through the programming process for the radio to get secure frequencies? Thnx!!
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I now have the 888S (2 of them so far) and am downloading the Chirp software. Can you step me through the programming process for the radio to get secure frequencies? Thnx!!
Sent PM.
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Send the pm my way. I think I know how to do it, but why not use someone else's experience
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Several guys have asked if they can use radios for JV games. Any TASO policy that anyone can find that would not allow them in JV?
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jasontx,
we as a chapter bought everyone a radio and plan to use at all games to improve communication on the field and to use as training on the field during sub-varsity
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Hey Greg, an official in Houston said i should contact you about the Beofeng 888s radios. I am looking to get them for onfield communications between our officials. I am a HAM operator and the one thing I noticed is these are in the 70c band. Would we be able to use these radios since the others don't have a license? The FRS is in the 462. range, can they be programed to not use the HAM freq? If we can, do you have a suggestion for what headset will work with them? Sorry for the long reply. Thanks for your help. ^TD
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Hey Greg, an official in Houston said i should contact you about the Beofeng 888s radios. I am looking to get them for onfield communications between our officials. I am a HAM operator and the one thing I noticed is these are in the 70c band. Would we be able to use these radios since the others don't have a license? The FRS is in the 462. range, can they be programed to not use the HAM freq? If we can, do you have a suggestion for what headset will work with them? Sorry for the long reply. Thanks for your help. ^TD
These TX from 400 to 470, so they can be programmed in the FRS range. That's my suggestions.
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Aren't FRS frequencies not secure? Is there a way to secure them?
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Aren't FRS frequencies not secure? Is there a way to secure them?
Depends on the radio. The Baofeng 888 has a scramble function (not be confused with privacy tone). It can also be tuned to frequencies inside the FRS band but not exactly on a FRS frequency. Also, TASO has approved numerous FRS radios, so apparently there is no concern about this.
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List of TASO approved radios:
http://www.intra-focus.com/taso/docs/2017%20TASO%20Football%20Approved%20Communication%20Systems%20732017.pdf (http://www.intra-focus.com/taso/docs/2017%20TASO%20Football%20Approved%20Communication%20Systems%20732017.pdf)
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Retevis H-777 is identical to the Baofeng BF-888.
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Is a privacy key not sufficient?
I mean I got a set of the midland radios, and I get it...if someone happens to be on the same channel/privacy key combination, they could pick you up....but what is that likelihood?
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Sooner or later some ambitious entrepreneur will say "hey, I can rent scanners out at football games." My race track scanners are programmable to every channel on a Midland radio.
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Is a privacy key not sufficient?
I mean I got a set of the midland radios, and I get it...if someone happens to be on the same channel/privacy key combination, they could pick you up....but what is that likelihood?
Calling a CTCSS tone a "privacy" tone is nothing more than a marketing gimmick. Yes, absolutely, no doubt about it, anyone with a FRS radio can hear your transmission, even with a "privacy" tone. All this tone does is open the squelch of the receiving radio when it hears a given tone and if that function is turned on. If you have a FRS radio with no tone squelch turned on, you can hear anyone and everyone transmitting on that "channel," whether or not they are transmitting a tone. So, if you're using one of those FRS radios, leave no doubt, people are listening.
What that tone will help you do is minimize people trying to transmit and mess with you. They can transmit and you won't hear it unless they are using the correct tone. Finding the correct tone takes no more than a few minutes and any 12 year old can do it. They will then not only listen to you, they will talk to you!
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Sooner or later some ambitious entrepreneur will say "hey, I can rent scanners out at football games." My race track scanners are programmable to every channel on a Midland radio.
I foresee someone trolling young crews.
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Depends on the radio. The Baofeng 888 has a scramble function (not be confused with privacy tone). It can also be tuned to frequencies inside the FRS band but not exactly on a FRS frequency. Also, TASO has approved numerous FRS radios, so apparently there is no concern about this.
A couple of question. If I program the radios between "standard" FRS frequency will people with radio with "standard" channels be able to put up our transmissions. Two, are we in danger of being walking on "reserved" frequencies that will get us in trouble.
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If I program the radios between "standard" FRS frequency will people with radio with "standard" channels be able to put up our transmissions. >Do you mean, will they be able to hear you? No. They might hear some weak occasional signals depending if the radio's bandwidth is set to wide instead of narrow. Regardless, they won't hear much. If the scramble mode is on you can transmit on the same frequency and they won't understand anything. It will be garbled.
Two, are we in danger of being walking on "reserved" frequencies that will get us in trouble. >Keep it within the FRS frequencies or mobile frequencies (you can get those from a Google search in the UHF band). The latter frequencies would be the same as what you would get with expensive Motorola of Kenwood radios that we would have no problems transmitting on. The large majority of public service entities are now utilizing digital transmission modes so we don't even have to worry about bothering them.
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To take the radio conversation in a different direction:
does anyone have advice for best methods/tips/tricks to weather-proof radios for the inevitable inclement weather game?
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To take the radio conversation in a different direction:
does anyone have advice for best methods/tips/tricks to weather-proof radios for the inevitable inclement weather game?
Zip lock bags. Cut a small hole in the bottom of one and slip the bag over the antenna. You may need a piece of tape around the bad to hold it in place. Electrical tape works fine since it is waterproof.
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These are the pouches we use. These have a loop that the official's belt goes through and a clip on top to keep the radio in place. These work very well, instead of just relying on the radio clip, which can easily allow the radios to slip off the belt and go flying. With these, it is very easy to put the radios in a freezer quart size ziplock bag and not have to worry about losing the radios.
https://www.amazon.com/MSC-20B-Multifunctional-Holster-Baofeng-Transceiver/dp/B071XHZ61V/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1502813872&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=radio+pouch&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/MSC-20B-Multifunctional-Holster-Baofeng-Transceiver/dp/B071XHZ61V/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1502813872&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=radio+pouch&psc=1)
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These are the pouches we use. These have a loop that the official's belt goes through and a clip on top to keep the radio in place. These work very well, instead of just relying on the radio clip, which can easily allow the radios to slip off the belt and go flying. With these, it is very easy to put the radios in a freezer quart size ziplock bag and not have to worry about losing the radios.
https://www.amazon.com/MSC-20B-Multifunctional-Holster-Baofeng-Transceiver/dp/B071XHZ61V/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1502813872&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=radio+pouch&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/MSC-20B-Multifunctional-Holster-Baofeng-Transceiver/dp/B071XHZ61V/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1502813872&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=radio+pouch&psc=1)
My crew uses the Baofeng 888s and @TexDoc has helped me reprogram them and sent me in the right direction on how to purchase some shorter antennas. I am excited to use my radios this season with the modifications that he has recommended. Love the pouch idea. Just found a 5pack of the same ones for 29.99 on amazon....prime eligible.
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Someone at a scrimmage last week mentioned that they had heard (ugh 3rd-hand knowledge), that Midland radios used above channel 15 or something was an FCC violation. Any validity to that?
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Someone at a scrimmage last week mentioned that they had heard (ugh 3rd-hand knowledge), that Midland radios used above channel 15 or something was an FCC violation. Any validity to that?
Yes, this is the GMRS band, and you are supposed to have a license, $60. But, let's be honest, with all the radios out there, does anyone ever pay the FCC for this? No.
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Yes, this is the GMRS band, and you are supposed to have a license, $60. But, let's be honest, with all the radios out there, does anyone ever pay the FCC for this? No.
Thanks for the clarification Doc. I got a set for my crew and all but one worked on Channel 20. I am going to try it again tonight on a lower channel...but would it be plausible that the radio wouldnt work on that freq? or more likely I just got one that is defective?
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Thanks for the clarification Doc. I got a set for my crew and all but one worked on Channel 20. I am going to try it again tonight on a lower channel...but would it be plausible that the radio wouldnt work on that freq? or more likely I just got one that is defective?
Are you using a "privacy tone" or running it wide open? See if there is an open squelch button on the radio, transmit on one and hold the open squelch button on the bad one. If you hear the transmission you have a wrong setting. If you hear nothing, it is a bad radio.
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I was using with a privacy tone.
This is the radio we are using.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZR4G/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I3CCRYM33TS21O&colid=2MH2VEZ8JFLX6
As far as I know, I havent seen an "open squelch" button. but I'll try this tonight.
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Turn off the tone on both radios then try. Make sure on the same channel. You should certainly hear something. Then turn them back on and try. If still no signal, then change tone number. If you never get it to communicate, check volume first then head back to the store and get another one.
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how to purchase some shorter antennas
Can you fill us in?
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Can you fill us in?
For dual band (VHF/UHF) radios:
https://www.amazon.com/Antenna-BaoFeng-Kenwood-Handheld-Two-way/dp/B01N49GXCP/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504186207&sr=8-2&keywords=short+uhf+antenna (https://www.amazon.com/Antenna-BaoFeng-Kenwood-Handheld-Two-way/dp/B01N49GXCP/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504186207&sr=8-2&keywords=short+uhf+antenna)
For single band UHF radios:
https://www.amazon.com/450-470-Antenna-Portable-Replaces-FA-SC73US/dp/B01KOWIYYM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1504186207&sr=8-3&keywords=short+uhf+antenna (https://www.amazon.com/450-470-Antenna-Portable-Replaces-FA-SC73US/dp/B01KOWIYYM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1504186207&sr=8-3&keywords=short+uhf+antenna)
You can find them cheaper on ebay but most likely coming from China.
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You can find them cheaper on ebay but most likely coming from China.
Kinda like the radio?
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Can you fill us in?
I just ordered these. qty 5 for this price coming from US seller is a good deal.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/5Pcs-SF-18-Short-Soft-Antenna-UHF-400-470MHz-SMA-Female-For-BaoFeng-Radio-USA/172812671161?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/5Pcs-SF-18-Short-Soft-Antenna-UHF-400-470MHz-SMA-Female-For-BaoFeng-Radio-USA/172812671161?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649)
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Kinda like the radio?
I think 99% of electronics comes from Asia now days, regardless of the brand. At $10 a radio, its okay with me. If breaks, I chunk it and get another. You guys still using Yapalong?
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Hey guys, sorry to dig up an old thread, but we just got approved for radios here in PA, and just wondered how the radios you guys bought have worked out to you after using them for a season. Which ones do you recommend?
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Suggest you PM TexDoc as he is the resident expert.
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Cheapo Midlands work fine. 2 for $25 or so
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Wanted to pull this thread back up. Have been using the Midland FRS radios for several seasons now. Getting a GMRS license and wondering about getting several of those radios and using them. We have some general quality issues with the Midlands -- clarity, interference, etc. I have guys that talk and we only get a part of what they say. Telling someone to "repeat" is often a problem depending on the situation. Plus, I'm wondering if the ear pieces for the "better" radios might also be better.
I'm assuming that one GMRS licensee is sufficient for everyone. I don't mind getting a case of radios and taking them to games. Several of our crew chiefs do that anyway. If it ends up being better, I'm all for it. My guys will agree. Plus, some of them forget to charge their radios!
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In my experience, the radio isn't the problem - it's the crappy headsets, particularly the ones where the PTT button is on the throat. They're an investment, but the Good Call Officiating headsets are a vast, vast improvement, plus it's easier when the button is on your waist. The quality of the mic is what matters most, I think, and the cheaper the headset, the worse the quality.
What I don't like, it the GCO headsets are a vast improvement for everyone who can hear me - but if your whole crew doesn't have them, it's kind of pointless. You won't be able to hear any better until they get a better quality mic.
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What I don't like, it the GCO headsets are a vast improvement for everyone who can hear me - but if your whole crew doesn't have them, it's kind of pointless. You won't be able to hear any better until they get a better quality mic.
The problem with small, cheap mics is that most officials have a tendency to talk too loudly. They over-modulate the capability of the mic, which causes problems. Talking at a normal voice level will help, but it’s hard to remember in the heat of battle.