GMRS (GENERAL MOBILE RADIO SERVICE) is a standard set by the American government for UHF walkie-talkies that can be purchased and used in the USA and Canada without any restrictions. However, it is recommended to obtain a license from the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). Many radios available for sale combine the FRS and GMRS channels, offering a total of 22 channels. These radios operate on frequencies around 462 and 467MHz. GMRS radios have a power output of up to 5 watts, allowing for longer communication ranges compared to FRS radios. It should be noted that the use of FRS radios in the UK and Europe is not legal, although it is not uncommon for people to purchase American radios while on holiday or online, unaware of the legal issues involved.
IP (INGRESS PROTECTION) RATINGS are an internationally recognized series of standards that determine the level of protection against dirt, dust, and liquids for electronic devices. These ratings consist of two numbers, with the first number indicating the level of protection against solid particle ingress and the second number indicating the level of protection against liquids. A higher number in each category corresponds to a higher level of protection. For instance, an IP67 rating means that the product is completely dustproof and can be immersed in water.
The JOINT FREQUENCY MANAGEMENT GROUP (JFMG) is a committee responsible for assigning radio frequencies to different companies and organizations using radio equipment during major events to prevent clashes between users. This ensures efficient and interference-free communication.
LONE WORKER is a feature found in some walkie-talkies that provides added safety for individuals working alone. At preset time intervals, the radio user is prompted to press a button to indicate that they are okay. If the user fails to respond to the periodic alert, the radio automatically sends out an alarm message after a designated period. This feature is designed to protect lone workers by alerting a control center or security office if the person becomes incapacitated or in need of assistance.
MAN-DOWN is another feature available in certain walkie-talkies. It utilizes a tilt-switch inside the radio that triggers an alarm signal if the radio is tipped on its side for a specified period. The radio typically emits a warning beep to alert the user that an alarm signal will be sent if the radio is not returned to an upright position. The purpose of the "man down" feature is to ensure the safety of lone workers by automatically alerting a control center or security office if the person falls, becomes ill, or is attacked.
Milliamp-hours (mAh) is a unit used to measure the storage capacity of a battery. Walkie-talkies typically come with rechargeable batteries that have capacities ranging from 1000 to 2000 milliamp-hours (mAh). The battery pack's capacity is usually indicated, for example, as 1700mAh.