[Editor's note: Catch Sumi Das demo two-way radios this week on "Fresh Gear."]
Family radio Service (FRS) represents a simple and effective method of communication within a two-mile range. You can find campers, snowboarders, even families at Disneyland using these pocket-sized two-way radios to stay in touch. Kenwood's FreeTalkXLS TK-3131 radios ($209 each) function in the same way, except they use the more powerful GMRS (general mobile radio service) standard, effectively doubling the range of FRS.
Nevertheless, like FRS, the strength of the 1-watt UHF-FM GMRS signal depends on the physical obstructions between two or more users. According to the manual, the maximum range of the radios is four miles in open locations and one and a half miles near buildings. In our tests we were able to communicate effectively within a four-mile range.
How we tested
"Fresh Gear" tested the TK-3131 in the ideal environment: San Francisco. The city is situated on a peninsula that stretches about six miles across. Hills and buildings abound. Two radios and two cars split up for a day of shopping and errand-running with periodic communications. While outside, we never had to resort to our respective mobile phones, since 4 out of 5 times our GMRS radio signal was bright and clear. Connecting to the other radio was a matter of pressing a button and dishing out the lingo: "Come in, Lost Sheep, Come in!"
GMRS radios are not a replacement for mobile phones, though. Our signal dropped out a mere mile away when we stepped into a store. The radios are most effective for recreational use, not so effective in the day to day grind of urban life.
Physical features
The radios themselves are well-built. Constructed of durable black polycarbonate, the 7-ounce radios have 3-inch bendable antennas, a rugged volume knob, jacks for a speaker and microphone, and a variety of buttons including a large talk button, menu, monitor and call buttons. Fifteen channels and 121 sub-channels plus a voice-scrambling privacy talk feature all ensure privacy.
The TK-3131 uses a Ni-MH battery pack (good for about 10 hours of use) or conveniently, three AA batteries. To conserve battery power, you can switch the radios to a lower power mode (1/2-watt signal). A charging cradle and belt hook are also included in the package.
Like other GMRS radios on the market, the TK-3131 has an FRS mode (the first seven channels), so you can communicate with those using the older and more popular standard. There are other models (including Kenwood's 2-watt TK-3101) that have five-mile ranges. Still, for many users the added signal boost can mean a world of difference -- but it will come at a cost, and we're not just referring to the cost of the radios.
Airwaves aren't free
Keep in mind that GMRS operates on frequencies that are subject to FCC rules and regulations. The FCC requires users to receive a license or be an immediate relative of a licensee. The license costs $75 for a five-year period, and a violation can cost you up to $10,000. Most users, however, don't pay the license, because the regulation is difficult to enforce.
Prices for GMRS radios range from $109 (Motorola T6400) to well over $200, excluding the license fee. Stick with FRS radios if you don't need the added distance.
Summary: Bump up the strength of your two-way radios with GMRS. The TK-3131 is a no-frills and durable communication device with a range of up to four miles.
Pros: Four-mile maximum range; well-constructed; privacy features; rechargeable and alkaline batteries.
Cons: Mildly expensive; FCC license fee.
Company: Kenwood CommunicationsPrice: $209 each
Available: Now
Specs: 7 ounces; 1-watt signal; 4.63 inches tall, excluding the antenna.
This article was originally posted January 29,2002.
