GMRS Outlaws
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Fix and program your GMRS radio

Pick what is going wrong and get the fixes in order, then follow the steps to program a repeater into your radio.

Fixing a node instead? See build and fix a simplex node.

What is wrong

I cannot hear anything

Try these in order:

  1. 1Turn the volume up and the squelch down.
  2. 2Check the channel and frequency are correct.
  3. 3Make sure the battery is charged and the antenna is screwed on.
  4. 4Move outside or to a window. Walls and basements block signal.
  5. 5Try another radio nearby to see if the channel is busy.

Program a repeater into your radio

  1. 1. Gather the details

    Write down the repeater's output frequency, the offset and the PL tone. For WSFW755 that is 462.675 MHz, plus 5 MHz and PL 141.3.

  2. 2. Set the receive frequency

    In a memory channel, enter the repeater's output frequency. That is what you listen on.

  3. 3. Set the offset

    Choose a plus offset of 5.000 MHz so the radio transmits on the input frequency, 467.675 MHz.

  4. 4. Set the PL tone

    Turn on tone on transmit, and use 141.3 Hz. Turn on tone on receive as well if you only want to hear that repeater.

  5. 5. Set the power

    Pick high or low power. Use low power when you are close.

  6. 6. Match the bandwidth

    Use the width the repeater owner asks for.

  7. 7. Name the channel

    Give it a short name like WSFW755 so you can find it fast.

  8. 8. Test

    Press the key briefly and release. You should hear the repeater drop out.

Programming with a computer

Programming with a computer
Many radios can be set up with free programming software and a cable. This is much faster than the keypad if you have many channels.
Back up first
Always read the radio's settings and save a copy before changing anything.
Use the right cable
The wrong cable can fail to connect or damage the radio. Check your radio's manual.
Save the file
Keep your saved channel file so you can reload it after a reset.

When to reset the radio

  1. 1Back up your channels if you can.
  2. 2Check the manual for the reset method. It is different on each radio.
  3. 3A reset returns all settings to factory defaults and erases your channels.
  4. 4Reload your saved channel file or program the channels again.

Use the offset calculator to check your transmit frequency and the repeater page for full settings.