35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 355

Index

analog systems, business replacing lost, 338 • A • systems, 112 rotators, 269 AA batteries, 289 ANL (Automatic Noise rubber duck, 37, 95 AAA batteries, 289 Limiting), 82 rules and regulations, 51 ACARS (Aircraft Communica- ANT connection, CB shortwave listening, 216 tion Addressing and , 84 trapped, 216 Reporting System), 185 antennas vertical, 94–95, 216 active antennas, 216 active, 216 whip, 37, 95 active channel indicator, warning indicator, applications, licensing, 48–50 CB radio, 83 CB radios, 84 approach and departure adapters, 234–235, 255 base, 77, 95 frequencies, 183 AF Gain (audio-frequency beam, 37, 94 APRS (Automatic Position gain), 36 building, 216–217 Reporting System), 138 air shows, recreational radio business radio systems, 115 ARES ( transmissions, 200–202 CB radios, 94–96 Emergency Service), 106 air traffic communication, collinear, 95, 123 armed forces facilities, aviation radio, 184–185 directional, 37 government radio Aircraft Communication GMRS and, 76 transmissions, 189–190 Addressing and , 36, 95 ARTS (Automatic range Reporting System home radio installation, transponder system), 76 (ACARS), 185 265–268 ATIS (Automatic Terminal airports, public safety radio insulated backstay, 128 Information Service), 183 systems, 14–15 lip mounts, 77 atmospheric changes, radio AIS (Automatic Identification loaded, 95 signals, 32–33 System), 125 mag mount, 37 audio and control signal alkaline batteries, 292 Marine HF radio service, connectors, 253–254 allocations, frequencies, 127–129 audio interference, 303 27, 39, 41 Marine VHF radio audio modifications, rules AM (), service, 123 and regulations, 51 34, 148–149 masts and towers, 267–269 audio-frequency gain amateur radio. See also mobile, 77 (AF Gain), 36 ham radio COPYRIGHTEDmobile radio installa- MATERIALAutomatic Identification characteristics of, 43–44 tion, 281 System (AIS), 125 discussed, 40, 135 MURS (Multi-Use Radio Automatic Noise Limiting licensing, 140 Service), 110 (ANL), 82 shortwave listening, 210 omnidirectional, 36, 77 Automatic Position Amateur Radio Emergency on-glass, 281 Reporting System Service (ARES), 106 positioning, 95 (APRS), 138 American Red Cross, purchasing consider- Automatic range emergency commu- ations, 45 transponder system nication, 106 quads, 96 (ARTS), 76 amplitude modulation (AM), range, maximizing, 71 Automatic Terminal 34, 148–149 regulated equipment, 42 Information Service (ATIS), 183 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 356

356 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

aviation radio disposing, 298 business radio systems ACARS (Aircraft energy capacity, 288 analog systems, 112 Communication gel-cell, 287 antennas, 115 Addressing and lead-acid, 287, 294–295 campground intercoms, 18 Reporting System), 185 lithium-ion, 75 channel selection, 115 air traffic communication, installation, delivery vehicles and 184–185 277–278 drivers, 18 approach and departure nickel cadmium, 293 digital systems, 112 frequencies, 183 nickel metal hydride, discussed, 12 civil aviation frequen- 75, 293–294 dot channels, 113–114 cies, 181 9V, 290 emergency communica- frequencies, finding, purchasing consider- tions, 18 182–183 ations, 45 encrypted signals, 112 ground control frequen- rechargeable, 292–295 fire disasters, 18 cies, 183 refrigerating spare, 295–296 installation and IFF systems, 186 safety issues, 296–298 maintenance, 112 lingo, 186 spare sets, 69, 296 licensing assistance, frequencies, 183 standard voltage, 287 112, 114 MWARA (Major World Air storing and handling, marina operations, 18 Route Area), 185 297–298 monitor functions, 115 public safety radio systems, types and ratings, 288–289 multicast systems, 112 14–15 zinc-carbon, 292 multisite systems, 113 tower frequencies, 183 stations, shortwave multi-use services, 110 frequencies, 183 listening, 213 narrowband, 113 user population, beam antennas, 37, 94 operating rules, 115 scanners, 151 beeps and rings, call PLMR (Private Land Mobile tones, 64 Radio), 110–111 block monitoring, info- professional providers, • B • sharing activities, 17 111–112 baby monitors, as radio books, radio training, 20–21 PTT (Push to Talk), 115 device, 10 boom , 262 radio service selection band plans, shortwave bootleg amplifiers, 51 considerations, 45 listening, 211 bootlegging, 330 requirements assess- base antennas, 77, 95 breaking conversations, ment, 112 base-quality, CB radios, 92 CB radio use, 89 rules and regulations, 17–18 batteries breathing, correct radio sales, lease and rental AA, 290 use, 66 services, 112 AAA, 289 scrambled signals, 112 alkaline, 292 rules and regulations, 51 selection considerations, battery indicator, 62 services, how to use, 19 109–110, 112 battery packs, 74–75, 295 shortwave listening, shared/subscribed C, 290 208–209 systems, 113 characteristic voltage, 288 BRS (Business Radio simulcast systems, 112 chargers, 78, 296–297 Service), 43 single-site, 113 coin cells, 290 building and fixing radio star channels, 113–114 D, 290 systems, 21–23 talk groups, 116 discharging, 296–297 business communications, trunked systems, 116 disposable, 291–292, 295 CB radio use, 81 volume control, 115 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 357

Index 357

voting, 113 calling channels, 90 PTT (Push-to-Talk) wideband, 113 calls, making, 89 switch, 82 business user population, car operation, 92 public address, 82 scanners, 150–151 channels, 81–82 radio checking, 89 busy indicator, radio controls characteristics of, 43–44 recreational radio use, 14 and features, 36, 62 clarifier controls, 85 reference sites, 80 communications basics, 89 roger beep, 94 communications tests, 88 RX/TX indicator, 84 • C • controls and features, 82 sideband controls, 85 C batteries, 290 delta tune controls, 85 signing off, 89 cable ties, stocking up on, 236 discussed, 11–12 S-Meter indicator, 83 cables Distant/Local controls, 86 , 82 coaxial, 250 don’ts, 96–97 SWR () direct-burials, 273 doubling, preventing, 94 indicator, 84, 93 ladder line, 270 driving service uses, 81 traffic checks, 86, 89 multiconductor, 250 emergency channels, 86 trucker channels, 90 shielded, 250 emergency communica- uses for, 81 straight-through, 305 tions, 91–92 volume control, 82 twin lead, 270 foot warmers, 96 weather controls, 86 twisted-pair, 250 freebanding, 97 CERT (Community call indicator, radio frequencies, 81 Emergency Response features, 62 gain controls, 82 Team), 106, 179 Call key, radio features, 61 ground connection, 85 channels call signs, radio etiquette, handles (radio nicknames), business radio systems, 115 37, 67–68 88–89 CB (Citizens Band) call tones, rings and high-end radios, 85–86 radios, 81 beeps, 64 history of, 79 channel selectors, CB calling channels, CB home operation, 92 radios, 82 radios, 90 how to use, 86–90 channel sharing, FRS and campground intercoms, kickers, 96 GMRS, 56 business radio licensing and require- channel spacing, 72 systems, 18 ments, 80–81 LCN (logical channel camping, outdoor radio lingo, 89 number), 175 use, 70 location messages, 86 locking out, 155 car operation, CB radios, 92 connectors, 82 Marine HF radio carbon microphones, 262 microphone controls, 85 service, 126 cardioid microphones, 262 microphone selection, memory, 76 CB (Citizens Band) radios 93–94 scanners, 146 active channel indicator, 83 mini rigs, 92 trunking systems, 158 ANL (Automatic Noise NB (Noise Blanker), 82 charging batteries, Limiting), 82 noise and interference, 78, 296–297 ANT connection, 84 87–88 chatter, privacy codes, 63 antenna selection, 94–96 ongoing conversations, children, secretive radio antenna warning breaking in, 89 links, 17 indicator, 84 outside of US use, 84 Citizens Band. See CB radios base-quality, 92 PA speakers, 84 civil aviation frequencies, business communica- power indicator, 83 aviation radio, 181 tions, 81 priority watch channels, 90 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 358

358 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

civilian agencies, condenser microphones, 263 government radio conducted interference, 324 • D • transmissions, 191–192 configuration settings, D batteries, 290 clarifier controls, CB scanners, 156 DAB (Digital Audio radios, 85 connectors Broadcasting), 210 cleaning tools, 232 audio and control signal, data channels, trunking clear message, radio 253–254 systems, 158 etiquette, 37 coaxial power, 252 daytime/nighttime behavior, cloning function, direct current, 251–252 shortwave listening, 220 scanners, 164 female, 251 DCS (digitally coded clothing, for emergencies, 107 jacks, 251 squelch) privacy CLOVER digital signals, 212 male, 251 code, 63 clubs, joining, 148, 344 Molex, 252 dead spots, 331 coaxial cables, 250 pins, 251 dealers, scanners, 166 coaxial power connec- plugs, 251 delivery vehicles, business tors, 252 powerpole, 252 radio systems, 18 collinear antennas, 95, 123 RF, 254, 283–285 delta tune controls, communications receivers, shells, 251 CB radios, 85 scanners, 148 stocking up on, 234–235 demodulation, 33 communications tests, contests, ham radio, 137 departure frequencies, CB radios, 88 control channels, trunking aviation radio, 183 communications-grade systems, 158 desk microphones, 263 receivers, shortwave control connections, Digital Audio Broadcasting listening, 214 computers, 305–307 (DAB), 210 Community Emergency controls and features, radio Digital Response Team (CERT), components, 36 (DSC), 123–125 106, 179 conventions, recreational digital signals, shortwave community events, info- radio transmissions, listening, 212–213 sharing activities, 17 202–203 digital systems, business computers. See also PCs conversations, breaking in, radio systems, 112 control connections, CB radios, 89 digitally coded squelch 305–307 conversions, frequency (DCS) privacy code, 63 decoding signals, 302 measurements to direct current connectors, hardware compatibility, 301 , 29–30 251–252 home radio installation, cordless phones, as radio direct-burial cable, 273 263–264 device, 10 direction finding techniques, keying connections, 306 courtesy, etiquette, 64, 69 341–342 memory requirements, 302 coverage, 165, 342 directional antennas, 37 PC and radio compatibility, crackle and hissing noises, disaster response, 299–302 squelch, 36 17, 105–106 signal interface selection, crank-up towers, 268 discharging batteries, 303–304 crimp terminals, 282 296–297 software compatibility, 300 CTCSS tones, privacy codes, versus one-to-one sound cards, 306 62–64, 155 communication, toolsets, 231 current, measuring, 244 scanners, 149 troubleshooting, 308–310 customer support, disposable batteries, concerts, radio transmis- scanners, 167 291–292, 295 sions, 14, 202–203 disposing batteries, 298 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 359

Index 359

Distant/Local controls, CB go kit components, 107 home built radio systems, radios, 86 ham radio, 137 type acceptance, 22 distant stations, shortwave health and welfare licensing issues, 46–50 listening, 209 queries, 100 radio rules and regulations, distress channels, marine how and when to 19–20 radio, 120–121, 126–127 communicate, 101 registration process, 47–48 disturbances, radio information sources, 103 Federal Registration Number signals, 16 message, 104 (FRN), 47 domestic broadcasters, 208 planning for, 100–101, feedline considerations, dot channels, business radio 333–336 home radio installation, systems, 113–114 practicing for, 108 270–273 doubling, CB radio use, 94 radio tests, 104 FEMA (Federal Emergency drivers, CB radios, 81 receiving calls for help, 105 Management Asso- DSC (Digital Selective rescue coordination ciation) frequency Calling), 123–125 centers, marine searches, government duplex communications, radio, 124 radio transmissions, 191 36, 71 response organizations, 106 female connectors, 251 dynamic microphones, 263 SAR (search and rescue), filters, stocking up on, 236 marine radio, 124 fire disasters, business radio what and why informa- systems, 18 • E • tion, 101 fishing, outdoor radio use, 70 ear bud headsets, 78 Emergency Locator fixed stations, shortwave EDACS (Enhanced Digital (ELTs), 182 listening, 211 Access Communications encrypted signals, business fixing and building radio System), 158, 175 radio systems, 112 systems, 21–23 electret microphones, 263 energy capacity, FM (), electrical power, safety batteries, 288 35, 148–149 issues, 255–256 Enhanced Digital Access food items, emergency electrical tape, stocking up Communications System needs, 107 on, 236 (EDACS), 158, 175 foot warmers, CB radios, 96 electro-motive force, equipment freebanding, CB radios, 97 voltage, 245 purchasing, 45 freebies, tools, 238 electronics and technology, regulated, 42–43 frequencies ham radio, 138 shortwave listening, 217 adjustment, scanners, 154 electronics toolsets, 231 etiquette, radio, 37 AF Gain (audio-frequency ELTs (Emergency Locator events, using radios at, 68–69 gain), 36 Transmitters), 182 exams, ham radio, 141–142 allocations, 27, 39, 41 emergency communication external antennas, GMRS aviation radio, 182–183 (emcomm) and, 76 CB (Citizens Band) business radio systems, 18 radios, 81 calling for help, 104–105 civil aviation, 181 CB radios, 86, 91–92 • F • GHz (gigahertz), 27 communication readiness, Service. See FRS HF (), 27 103–104 machines, digital Hz (hertz), 26 disaster response, 105–106 signals, 212 kHz (kilohertz), 27 discussed, 13 FCC (Federal Communica- measurements, 26–30 emergency circumstances, tions Commission) metric system, 28 99–100 discussed, 14 MF (), 27 ham radio use, 135 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 360

360 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

frequencies (continued) GMRS (General Mobile Radio microwave, 27, 31 Service) • H • MURS (Multi-Use Radio channel sharing ham radio. See also Service), 110 capabilities, 56 amateur radio offset, 72 characteristics of, 43–44 APRS (Automatic Position polarity, 26 discussed, 9, 12, 55 Reporting System), 138 scanners, 160–161 external antennas and, 76 contests, 137 shared, 40 FRS comparison, 56–57 discussed, 12 signal changes, 25 licenses, 20, 57–59 electronics and UHF (), go kit components, technology, 138 27, 31 emergency items, 107 emergency communica- VHF (), government channels, tion, 137 18, 27, 31 Marine VHF radio exams for, 141–142 vibrations, 26 service, 120 FCC values, 135 frequency modulation (FM), government radio GPS systems, 138 35, 148–149 transmissions home built radio systems, FRN (Federal Registration armed forces facilities, 22–23 Number), 47 189–190 networking basics, 137 FRS () civilian agencies, accessing, recreational radio use, 14 channel sharing 191–192 , 138–139 capabilities, 56 fema frequency talking basics, 137 characteristics of, 43–44 searches, 191 hamfests, 343–344 discussed, 9, 12, 55 medevac (medical hand microphones, 263 GMRS comparison, 56–57 evacuation), 189 handheld radios, 12, 122 handheld radios, 39 military aviation handles, CB radio nicknames, furniture selection, home communications, 88–89 radio installation, monitoring, 190–191 hardware compatibility, 264–265 military frequencies, computer use, 300 fuses, 236, 276–277 187–188 headphones (headsets) rules and regulations, design considerations, • G • 192–193 home radio installation, tactical communica- 261–262 gain tions, 189 ear buds, 78 CB (Citizens Band) radio, 82 GPS (Global Positioning headset microphones, 263 radio controls and System), 76, 138 helmet, 78 features, 36 ground connection, CB recreational radio gel-cell batteries, 287 radios, 85 transmissions, 204 gender chargers, 164 ground control frequencies, health and welfare queries, General Mobile Radio aviation radio, 183 emergency commu- Service. See GMRS ground plane antennas, nication, 100 general-coverage receivers, 36, 95 helmet headsets, 78 shortwave listening, ground waves, shortwave hertz (Hz), 26 211, 214 listening, 217–218 heterodynes, 87 GHz (gigahertz), 27 grounding, home radio HF (high frequency), 27 Global Positioning System installation, safety high-end CB radios, 85–86 (GPS), 76, 138 issues, 258–259 higher grounds, maximizing GMDSS (Global Maritime Guide to Understanding range, 71 Distress and Safety Electricity and Electronics hiking, outdoor radio use, 70 System), 124 (G. Randy Slone), 240 hilltopping, 342 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 361

Index 361

hissing and crackle noises, information and news kickers, CB radio use, 96 squelch, 36 channel, Marine VHF kits, home built radio hobbyist user population, radio service, 120 systems, 22–23 scanners, 151 info-sharing activities, holding radios, correct person-to-person use of, 65 communication, 17 • L • home built radio systems, in-person radio training, 21 ladder line cables, 270 21–23 installation and maintenance, Land Mobile Service radio home operation, CB business radio service, 40 radios, 92 systems, 112 LCN (logical channel home radio installation installing home radios. See number), 175 antenna considerations, home radio installation lead-acid batteries, 265–268 installing mobile radios. See 287, 294–295 computer setup, 263–264 mobile radio installation leasing, business radio feedline considerations, insulated backstay systems, 112 270–273 antennas, 128 licenses furniture selection, 264–265 interference business radio systems, headphone designs, audio, 303 112, 114 261–262 CB radio communication, CB (Citizens Band) radios, location considerations, 87–88 80–81 259–261 conducted, 324 FCC (Federal microphone selection, signal, 303 Communications 262–263 troubleshooting, 320–324 Commission), 14, 46–50 safety issues, 257–259 wind and noise, 339 GMRS (General Mobile speaker considerations, intermodulation, 321 Radio Service), 20, 57–59 261–262 International Broadcasting ham radio (amateur), 140 home repair and craft Services (IBS), 214, 223 marine radio, 133 kits, 232 international calling, Marine radio services, 42 homebrewing, home-built VHF radio service, 120 ULS (Universal Licensing radio systems, 22–23 , 31 System), 48–50 hops and skips, radio ISO (International Marine unlicensed operations, 47 signals, 87 Organization), 124 line-of-sight, propagation, 30 hot spots, 331 ITU (International Telecom- lingo Hz (hertz), 26 munications Union), 212 aviation radio, 186 CB radios, 89 scanners, 177–178 • I • • J • lip mounts, antennas, 77 IBS (International Broadcast- jacks, connectors, 251 listening rules, 329 ing Services), 214 junk box supplies, 238 listen-only users, radio IFF (identity friend from foe), service selection aviation radio, 186 considerations, 45 impedance, Ohm’s law, 249 • K • lithium-ion batteries, 75 indicators keying connections, radio loaded antennas, 95 CB (Citizen Band) radio, audio, 306 location considerations 83–84 keypads, Marine HF radio home radio installation, radio features, 61–62 service, 127 259–261 kHz (kilohertz), 27 mobile radio installation, 278–280 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 362

362 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

location messages, CB Marine VHF radio service mayday messages, radios, 86 AIS (Automatic Identifi- emergency communi- locks cation System), 125 cations, 104 Lock feature, radio antenna selection, 123 measurements controls, 62 characteristics of, 43–44 current, 244 locking out channels, distress channels, 120–121 frequencies, 26–27 scanners, 155 do’s and don’ts, 129–130 medevac (medical logical channel number DSC (Digital Selective evacuation), 189 (LCN), 175 Calling), 123–125 medium frequency (MF), 27 LORAN (Long Range GMDSS (Global Maritime medium wave (MV) ), 122 Distress and Safety signals, 207 LRT (Logic Trunked System), 124 memory channels, 76 Radio), 158 government channels, 120 memory group select, Marine LSB (lower sideband) international calling, 120 HF radio service, 127 controls, CB radios, 85 ISO (International Marine memory requirements, LW () signals, 207 Organization), 124 computer use, 302 licensing, 133 metal bristle brushes, LORAN (Long Range cleaning tools, 232 • M • Navigation), 122 metal fasteners, stocking up mag mount antennas, 37 MMSI (Marine Mobile on, 236 magnifiers, required Service Identity), meteor scatter tools, 230 123–124 communication, 33 Major World Air Route Area NEMA interface, 122 metric system, (MWARA), 185 news and information frequencies, 28 male connectors, 251 channel, 120 MF (medium frequency), 27 marina operations, business noncommercial channels, MFSK (Multi-Frequency Shift radio systems, 18 118–119 Keying), 212 Marine HF radio service phone patch, 120 Mic Gain, radio controls and antenna selection, 128–129 priority channels, 121 features, 36 characteristics of, 43–44 radio controls, 120–121 microphones distress channels, 126–127 radio tests, 130 CB radios, 85, 93–94 do’s and don’ts, 129–130 rescue coordination connectors, CB radios, 82 features, 127 centers, 124 speaker-mics, 77 licensing, 133 SailMail system, 131–132 speaking in, 66 primary communication SAR (search and rescue) throat, 77–78 channels, 126 plans, 124 types of, 262 radio tests, 130 sat (satellite) phones, 131 microwave frequencies, SailMail system, 131–132 selection consider- 27, 31 sat (satellite) phones, 131 ations, 122 military selection considerations, shore operator contact, 120 aviation communications, 128–129 transmit power, 122 government radio signals, 125 water resistance, 122 transmissions, 190–191 weather , 132 weather alerts, 121–122 military frequencies, Marine Mobile Service weather faxes, 132 187–188 Identity (MMSI), 123–124 Maritime Mobile services, 40 scanner use, 19, 151 masts and towers, antennas, mini rigs, CB radios, 92 267–269 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 363

Index 363

MMSI (Marine Mobile Service MV (medium wave) noise Identity), 123–124 signals, 207 ANL (Automatic Noise mobile antennas, 77 MWARA (Major World Air Limiting), 82 mobile phones Route Area), 185 CB radio interference, emergency radio use 87–88 and, 13 hissing and crackle noises, as radio device, 10–11 • N • squelch, 36 mobile radio installation narrowband, business radio noise-canceling antennas, 281 systems, 113 microphones, 263 battery connections, National Electrical troubleshooting, 317–320 277–278 Manufacturers Noise Blanker (NB), 82 do’s and don’ts, 276 Association (NEMA), 122 noncommercial channels, fuse taps, 276–277 National Incident Marine VHF radio location considerations, Management System service, 118–119 278–280 (NIMS), 179 noncompliance equipment, power supply, 275–278 National Oceanic and regulated equipment, 42 resources for, 273–274 Atmospheric Adminis- null-modem adapters, 164 safety issues, 274–275 tration (NOAA), 17, 76 NWS (National Weather mobile stations, shortwave National Weather Service Service), 76 listening, 211 (NWS), 76 modulation, 33–35, 148–149 NAVTEX (Navigation Molex connectors, 252 Text), 212 • O • monitor functions, business NB (Noise Blanker), 82 obscene language, rules and radio systems, 115 neighborhood organization, regulations, 52 monitor key, radio info-sharing activities, 17 offset, frequencies, 72 features, 61 NEMA (National Electrical Ohm’s law, 247–249 , 16, 34, 148 Manufacturers omnidirectional antennas, Motorola Type I systems, Association), 122 36, 77 scanners, 184 nets, shortwave listening, 209 omnidirectional Motorola Type II systems, networking basics, ham microphones, 263 scanners, 184 radio, 137 one-to-one versus dispatch multicast systems, business news and information communication, radio systems, 112 channel, Marine VHF scanners, 149 multicom frequencies, radio service, 120 on-glass antennas, 281 aviation radio, 183 news organizations, public online license registration, multiconductor cables, 250 safety radio systems, 15 GRMS, 58 Multi-Frequency Shift Keying nickel cadmium batteries, 293 online radio training, 21 (MFSK), 212 nickel metal hydride operating controls, radio multipath interference, 32 batteries, 75, 293–294 features, 60 multisite systems, business nicknames, CB radio handles, operating problems, radio systems, 113 88–89 troubleshooting, 315–317 MURS (Multi-Use Radio NIMS (National Incident operating rules, radio Service) Management services, 42 characteristics of, 43–44 System), 179 out message, radio frequency specifics, 110 NOAA (National Oceanic and etiquette, 37 power and antennas, 110 Atmospheric range specifics, 110 Administration), 17, 76 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 364

364 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

outdoor sporting events, priority channels public communications, recreational radio use, Marine VHF radio radio etiquette, 68 14, 69–70 service, 121 public places, using radios output watch channels, CB at, 68–69 output power, regulated radios, 90 public safety radio systems equipment, 42 priority scan feature, aviation use, 14–15 repeaters, 72 scanners, 156 discussed, 12 over message, radio privacy codes news organizations, 15 etiquette, 37 CTCSS tones, 62–64 public events and DCS, 63 concerts, 14 disadvantages, 63 scanner use, 18–19 • P • PL tones, 62 Push to Talk. See PTT PA speakers, CB radios, 84 privacy code indicator, 62 PCs. See also computers radio chatter, 63 as radio device, 10 squelch circuit, 63 • Q • with scanners, 162–163 sub-audible tones, 62 QSL (Q-Signals), 19, 224 Personal Radio Support Private Land Mobile Radio quads, antennas, 96 Group (PRSG), 58 (PLMR), 110–111 person-to-person professional providers, communication, info- business radio systems, • R • sharing activities, 17 111–112 RACES (Radio Amateur phone patch, Marine VHF program guides, shortwave Civil Emergency radio service, 120 listening, 222 Services), 106 pilots, public safety radio programming scanners, races, recreational radio systems, 14 160–164 transmissions, 196–200 pins, connectors, 251 propagation radio bands, scanners, 147 PL tones, privacy codes, 62 ground wave signals, 30–31 radio chatter, privacy PLMR (Private Land Mobile line-of-sight, 30 codes, 63 Radio), 110–111 multipath interference, 32 radio direction finding, plugs, connectors, 251 patterns, 31 341–342 polarity, frequencies, 26 reflections, 31–32 radio navigation, scanner power shortwave listening, use, 151 calculations, 245–246 217–221 radio rodeo competition, 343 power adapters, 78 sky-wave, 31 radio services. See power button, tropospheric, 32 services, radio scanners, 153 PRSG (Personal Radio radio signals power indicators, 62, 83 Support Group), 58 atmospheric changes, power problems, PTT (Push to Talk) 32–33 troubleshooting, 312–315 business radio systems, 115 disturbances, 16 power supplies CB (Citizen Band) radios, 82 ground wave signals, 30–31 mobile radio installation, how to use, 65–66 vibrations, 26 275–278 radio controls and features, radio waves purchasing consider- 36, 61 frequencies, 25–27 ations, 45 public address polarity, 26 rules and regulations, 51 CB radios, 82 , 28–30 powerpole connectors, 252 Marine VHF radio service, 120 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 365

Index 365

radioteletype (RTTY), rental service, business radio scanners, 157 16, 212–213 systems, 112 , 51 range repeaters where to find, 52 maximizing, 71 duplex communications, 71 RX/TX indicator, CB MURS (Multi-Use Radio output, 72 radios, 84 Service), 110 radio controls and range problems, 69 features, 36 specifications versus simplex, 74 • S • reality, 74 store-and-forward, 74 safety issues reactance, Ohm’s law, 249 wide area coverage, 73 batteries, 296–298 receive and busy requirements assessment, electrical power, 255–256 indicator, 62 business radio home radio installation, receive-only radios, 20 systems, 112 257–259 reception confirmation, rescue coordination centers, mobile radio installation, shortwave listening, marine radio, 124 274–275 223–224 resistance, voltage, 246–247 SAR (search and rescue), rechargeable batteries, resorts, outdoor radio marine radio, 124 292–295 use, 69 satellites recreational radio RF connectors, 254, 283–285 remote sensing, 18 transmissions rings and beeps, call satellite (sat) phones, air shows, 200–202 tones, 64 marine radio, 131 CB radios, 14 roger beep, CB radios, 94 scanners concerts, 202–203 roger response, radio AM and FM signals, 148–149 conventions, 202–203 etiquette, 37 antennas and acces- discussed, 196 roof-mounted towers, 268 sories, 166 ham radios, 14 rotators, antennas, 269 aviation user popula- headphone use, 204 RTTY (radioteletype), tion, 151 marine radio, 14 16, 212–213 business user population, outdoor sporting events, rubber duck antennas, 37, 95 150–151 14, 69–70 rugged terrain, outdoor radio channels, locking out, 155 races, 196–200 use, 70 channels and services, 146 reference pressure, rules and regulations cloning function, 164 voltage, 245 antenna and power clubs for, 148 reference sites, CB radios, 80 limits, 51 communications references, shortwave audio modifications, 51 receivers, 148 listening, 225 broadcasting, 51 configuration settings, 156 reflections, propagation, business radio systems, coverage and modes, 165 31–32 17–18, 115 CTCSS (continuous refrigeration, batteries, FCC (Federal Communi- tone-coded squelch 295–296 cations Commission), system), 155 registration process, 19–20 customer support, 167 FCC, 47–48 government radio dealers, 166 regulated equipment, radio transmissions, 192–193 discussed, 145 services, 42–43 home built radio systems, dispatch versus one-to-one religious broadcasters, 208 type acceptance, 22 communication, 149 remote sensing satellites, 18 obscene language, 52 frequencies, finding, radio services, 50–52 160–161 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 366

366 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

scanners (continued) scanning indicator, radio shortwave listening frequency adjustment, 154 features, 62 amateur rations, 210 government user school coordination antenna selection, 216 population, 151 activities, info-sharing band plans, 211 hobbyist user popula- activities, 17 beacon stations, 213 tion, 151 scrambled signals, business broadcasters, 208–209 how to use, 152–156 radio systems, 112 communications-grade LCN (logical channel SDR (software-defined receivers, 214 number), 175 radio), 138 DAB (Digital Audio lingo, 177–178 search and rescue (SAR), Broadcasting), 210 military use, 19 marine radio, 124 daytime/nighttime military user popula- searching versus behavior, 220 tion, 151 scanning, 156 distant stations, 209 Morse code, 148 seasons, atmospheric equipment vendors, 217 Motorola Type I changes, 33 fixed stations, 211 systems, 184 secondary functions, general-coverage receivers, Motorola Type II scanners, 155 211, 214 systems, 184 secretive radio links, ground waves, 217–218 PC use with, 162–163 for children, 17 IBS (International power button, 153 select label, radio Broadcasting priority scan feature, 156 features, 61 Services), 214 programming, 160–164 services, radio ITU (International public safety actions, 18–19 categories, 40 radio bands, 147 comparisons between, Union), 212 radio navigation, 151 43–44 LW (longwave) signals, 207 rules for, 157 Fixed, 41 mobile stations, 211 scan delay, 156 frequency allocations, 41 MV (medium wave) searching versus Land Mobile Service, 40 signals, 207 scanning, 156 licensing requirements, 42 nets, 209 secondary functions, 155 operating rules, 42 program guides, 222 selection considerations, regulated equipment, 42–43 radio controls, 214–215 164–167 rules and regulations, 50–52 radio selections, 213–214 simplex communica- scanners, 146 radioteletype and digital tions, 149 selection considerations, 45 signals, 212–213 software, transferring data severe weather watchers, 17 reception confirmation, to, 172–173 shared frequencies, 40 223–224 squelch settings, 154 shared/subscribed systems, references, 225 starting scans, 154 business radio signal propagation, 217–221 step size, 156 systems, 113 skip zones, 219–220 stopping scans, 154 shells, connectors, 251 sky waves, 218 suspending scans, 154 shielded cables, 250 station addresses, 225 touch-and-go control, 154 short operator contact, World Time, 221 trunking systems, Marine VHF radio sideband controls, 157–160, 173 service, 120 CB radios, 85 volume control, 154 short-range personal signal changes, warranties, 166 communication, FRS, 43 frequencies, 25 weather alerts, 152 shortwave bands, ham radio, signal interface selection, weather watchers, 18 138–139 computer use, 303–304 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 367

Index 367

signal propagation, speakers talk groups, business radio shortwave listening, broken, 338–339 systems, 116 217–221 home radio installation, talking basics, ham radio, 137 signals, radio 261–262 terminal crimping tools, 282 atmospheric changes, microphones, 77 terrain, outdoor radio use, 70 32–33 speaking correctly, radio use, testing radios disturbances, 16 66–67 CB (Citizen Band) radio, 88 ground wave signals, 30–31 specifications, range, 74 coverage, 342 hops and skips, 87 speed of light, wavelengths, discussed, 68–69 Marine HF radio service, 125 28–29 emergency communica- vibrations, 26 sports activities, scanner tion, 104 signing off use, 18 marine radio, 130 CB radios, 89 squelch settings theft and radio loss radio etiquette, 37 CB (Citizens Band) radio, 82 protection, 69 simplex communications privacy codes and, 63 throat microphones, 77–78 radio controls and features, radio controls and tone of voice, correct radio 36, 72 features, 36 use, 66 scanners, 149 scanners, 154 tools simplex repeaters, 74 SSB (single sideband), 41 adapters and connectors, simulcast systems, business stand by message, correct 234–235 radio systems, 112 radio use, 66 bargain toolsets, 231–232 single sideband (SSB), 41 standing wave ration (SWR) cleaning, 232 single-site systems, business indicator, CB radios, freebies, 238 radio systems, 113 84, 93 home repair and craft skiing areas, outdoor radio star channels, business radio kits, 232 use, 69 systems, 113–114 junk boxes, 238 skip zones, shortwave station addresses, shortwave required, 229–230 listening, 219–220 listening, 225 selection considerations, skips and hops, radio station identification, rules 229–233 signals, 87 and regulations, 51 stocking up on, 233–237 sky waves, shortwave step size, scanners, 156 toolbox components, listening, 218 stocking up, tools, 233–237 232–233 sky-wave propagation, 31 storage, batteries, 297–298 tower frequencies, aviation S-Meter indicator store-and-forward radio, 183 CB radio, 83 repeaters, 74 traffic checks, CB radios, shortwave listening, 215 straight-through cable, 305 86, 89 soft bristle brushes, cleaning stranded wire, 249 trails, outdoor radio use, 70 tools, 232 sub-audible tones, privacy training, radio use, 20–21 software compatibility, codes, 62 transmit power computer use, 300 SWR (standing wave ratio) Marine HF radio software-defined radio indicator, CB radios, service, 127 (SDR), 138 84, 93 Marine VHF radio service, solder, stocking up on, 236 120, 122 soldering iron and gun, transmit receive and busy required tools, 230 • T • indicator, 62 solid wire, 249 tactical communications, trapped antennas, 216 sound cards, computer government radio tropospheric propagation, 32 connections, 306 transmissions, 189 35_595822 bindex.qxd 6/21/05 10:12 PM Page 368

368 Two-Way Radios & Scanners For Dummies

troubleshooting NOAA (National Oceanic computer connections, • V • and Atmospheric 308–310 vertical antennas, 94–95, 216 Administration), 17, 76 interference, 320–324 VHF (very high frequency), NWS (National Weather noise, 317–320 18, 27, 31 Service), 76 operating problems, vibrations, radio signals, scanner use, 18, 152 315–317 26, 29 severe weather power problems, 312–315 voice tone, correct radio watchers, 17 trucker channels, CB use, 66 SKYWARN program, 17 radios, 90 voltage, 230, 245, 287 weather controls, CB trunking systems volume control radios, 86 business radio systems, 116 AF Gain, 36 welfare and health queries, scanners and, 157–160, 173 business radio systems, 115 emergency communi- tuning controls, shortwave CB (Citizens Band) radio, 82 cation, 100 listening, 215 radio features, 60 whip antennas, 37, 95 twin lead cables, 270 scanners, 154 wide area coverage, twisted-pair cables, 250 voting, business radio repeaters, 73 type acceptance systems, 113 wideband, business radio home built radio VOX indicator, radio systems, 113 systems, 22 features, 62, 75 wildlife tracking, 344 regulated equipment, 42 wind and noise, interfer- ence, 339 • W • wire current, 249 • U • wire cutters, required warranties, scanners, 166 tools, 230 UHF (ultra high frequency), water resistance, Marine VHF World Time, shortwave 27, 31 radio service, 122 listening, 221 ULS (Universal Licensing wavelengths System), 48–50 converting frequency ultraviolet light, atmospheric measurements to, 29–30 • Z • changes, 32–33 speed of light, 28–29 unicom frequencies, aviation vibration and, 29 zinc-carbon batteries, 292 radio, 183 weather unidirectional micro- atmospheric changes, radio phones, 263 signals, 32 unlicensed operations, 47 marine radio, 132 USB (upper sideband) Marine VHF radio service, controls, CB radios, 85 121–122