Hampton Roads Club Mini

In one of the many postings I've read - I saw a mention of "bring along the radio so you can stay in contact"  What radio do the majority have?  It would be nice to get one so we can stay in the communication loop on the various runs :)
Laurie

What's used is the FRS radio
FRS is Family Radio Service

you can find them at Best Buy, COSTCO, BJs ... all over
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=cat06017&type=category

often you see combined FRS/GMRS radios

Quote:

FRS radio distinctions:
1) Unlike with CB (citizens band) radios and most other 2-way radios, there is no license required to use an FRS radio.
2) There are no fees for usage, airtime or per-call charges. (Aside from the cost of batteries, they are virtually free to use.)

GMRS:
GMRS or General Mobile Radio Service radios operate on any of up to 8 dedicated channels (15-22) designated by the FCC. GMRS radios typically have power ratings of 1.0 to 5.0 watts and have a maximum allowable power of 50 watts.

GMRS radios are very similar to FRS radios, except for a few important distinctions:
1) GMRS radio use requires you to purchase an FCC operator?s license.
2) GMRS radios generally achieve greater ranges than FRS radios.
3) While FRS radios may not legally be altered, GMRS radios may legally be outfitted or retrofitted with optional antennas, car antennas or home antennas to extend their range. For more information, please visit the FCC online at FCC.gov. Note: Some GMRS radios (those with non-detachable antennas) will not accommodate antenna alterations. If you intend to alter your GMRS radio, please take care to choose a radio with a detachable-style antenna that accommodates your needs.

FRS/GMRS dual-service or "hybrid" radios:
FRS/GMRS 2-way radios are simply dual-service, or "hybrid," radios that provide access to both the FRS and GMRS bands, utilizing FRS channels (1-14) and GMRS channels (15-22). Use of a dual-service radio?s GMRS bands requires an FCC operator?s license. Dual-service radios may be used without an operator?s license, if only the FRS channels are used.

end quote

{from http://www.bestbuy.com/olspage.jsp?categoryRep=cat06000&guideID=1072288099473&id=cat12077&type=page }

generally MINI events use channel 7, sub channel 21 (I have no idea why)
but as you can see that leaves things in the FRS band and means you don't need a license....

10-4 good buddy?

(btw - no this is not a CB ..... that's different)