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WHAT IS FRS?
FRS, or Family Radio Service, is a UHF radio frequency band allocated by the FCC for
general public use. The operating frequency ranges from 462.5625 to 467.7125 MHz, with a
maximum transmitting power of one half watt. FRS radios are small and lightweight, making
them ideally suited for outdoor activities. FRS radios typically feature a half watt of transmit
power. You can expect your FRS radio to offer reliable operation at a one-mile range. If the
area between you and another FRS operator is free of obstructions, operation up to two miles
can be achieved. FRS radios broadcast on one of 14 channels, each with a specific frequency
within the FRS band.
The use of FRS radios does not require a license. FRS was intended for use by families and
small groups as an inexpensive means of two-way voice communication. FRS is intended for
use throughout the United States, its territories and possessions. It may also be used in Canada.
FRS is not approved outside of these areas and may interfere with local government communi-
cation frequencies (fire, police, etc.).
FRS Features
More sophisticated FRS radios also include call functions, squelch codes, channel scan
features, and voice scramble capabilities. Call functions allow you to push a Call button on
the radio to alert other radios set on the same channel. This feature generates a call tone and is
handy in a noisy environment where the tone is easier to initially identify than plain speech.
Squelch codes allow you to selectively block out other FRS users that are not part of your
group. They will still be talking with others in their own group, but you will not hear them on
your radio. They may or may not hear you and members of your group on their own radios.
Squelch codes act as a filter, blocking your FRS radio from hearing other unwanted FRS users.
FRS Explained
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