Enigma
Radio's/walkie talkie

 

 

Example

* 22 Channels, 38 Codes to minimize interference from outside your group
* Backlit LCD display for easy reading in dark conditions
* 10 audible call tones to get other's attention before you start talking
* VOX advanced voice activation lets you talk hands-free with accessory
* Requires FCC license

We use radios to communicate over the investigation site. Radio traffic should be kept to a minimum so as not to interfere with others trying to work or set up experiments.


Always make sure you have good batteries in the sets and do a radio check some distance from the base control room. It would not be a good idea to wander off then find out that the flipping radio doesn't work when you need it!


Only key people should have, use and carry the radios as then you know to whom you are talking and where the radios are.
Most UK radios have eight channels and up to 5 miles - range, some have more, with 38 "identification tones" on each. Range will vary based on terrain and conditions. You set your radios to a given channel and tone, and you will only hear messages from other radios set to the same combination. This gives 8 x 38 = 304 different codes. or, in the case of the 22 channel sets, 22 x 38 = 836 different codes. Thus, interference is not likely to be much of a problem.


The PMR446 specification allows a maximum transmission power of 500mW. Almost all models of PMR446 walkie-talkie will use the full power available.


The American FRS radios are similar in transmission range and features, but they use different frequencies. You cannot communicate with an American FRS radio using a PMR446 radio. Also, use of the American FRS radios in the UK is not legal because the frequencies that they use are used for other purposes in the UK.


The PMR446 standard has been agreed within the European Union. Used in other parts of the world will probably require a license, and may be illegal due to the frequencies being used for other purposes. It is the responsibility of the owner of the radios to check the legal position before using these radios anywhere else. In particular, our PMR446 walkie-talkie radios are NOT legal in the USA. People wanting to buy walkie-talkie radio equipment for use in America should search for Family Radio Service (FRS) walkie-talkies. These are very similar units in terms of performance and features and they are designed for use in America