This radio will be your communication lifeline should an extended blackout occur where phones and computers will not be able to communicate once the tower battery backup systems go dead . Should that scenario happen Leave radio in charger turned on and listen for transmissions. Range of 15 km-20 km line of sight. Due to relative low power, 8 watts, no license is required for the approved frequency range of this radio in Mexico
Purchase info : many options , search Baofeng or Tidradio is the same radio
Option 1 : Basic 8 watt with charger and head set ,aprox $ 600 pesos +100 import duties
Option 2 :Radio with various accessories , Larger battery + – spare battery + longer antenna, +program cable + usb charger + Headset + Microphone – $ 1100 pesos+ $ 100 import
How to use – Un-packaging : Immediately charge battery 4-6 hrs
Attach belt clip , use the 2 screws already located at the back
Attach antenna – do not transmit without antenna
Turn on with volume knob on top – and increase volume to desired level
Radio will announce Frequency mode, or Channel mode
Note: settings are blocked if the squelch green light is on or if the keypad is locked
Keypad Lock toggle – hold # until radio voice says unlock /lock
To Change SQL > press menu ,use arrows to find SQL -menu to program # (1 to 10 )
Pressmenu again -,radio voice says confirm, exit
for Maximum Range – select TXP and set power to high
Press the orange button to toggle to get Frequency mode if on Channel mode
Use blue button to toggle the arrow to the top line > and enter your desired frequency
Toggle blue button > to the bottom line and type alternate frequency
Toggle blue button to return > to top line frequency for your groupRadio Check
Hold down # key until says locked . Lock prevents settings from changing accidentally
You are ready to communicate
Live radio check
Turn on your radio and make sure the arrow is on the top line frequency
For best range move to the highest line of sight and call out to connect with others
for maximum range -(set your squelch to 0 or a low # or hold button under PTT button for temporary 0 sql )
also set Transmit power to high
Calling out , Press large PTT black button on the left side, (wait 1 second and then talk
IE: “Your Name, location , Radio check, anyone have a copy , over” , release PTT
Additional info
See the useable frequency chart lists VHF , UHF and walkie talkie channels.you can use these frequencies to program the Channel mode. (Note: 40 channel C B frequencies are not available on this Ham Radio)