Mobile Radios

The Wouxun KG-XS20G is a compact mobile radio designed specifically for GMRS radio power user. Although significantly smaller, lighter and with lower wattage than the Wouxun KG-1000G, it boasts a feature set that sets it far apart from the typical GMRS mobile. This radio is configured to transmit on the 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, as well as the 8 repeater channels right out of the box. Although channels 8-14 are only authorized for very low output power on portable handheld radios and are not authorized for transmit on mobile radios by the FCC, they are available on the XS20G, but as receive only channels.

The KG-XS20G can also function as a small, full featured base station. When connected to the Wouxun DWC30WIN or Samlex SEC-1235M and a Tram 1486 UHF Fiberglass Base Antenna tuned to GMRS frequencies, the KG-XS20G operates quite well without taking up a lot of space on the top of your desk.

KG-XS20G Key Features

• 22 Simplex GMRS Channels
• 8 GMRS Repeater Channels
• Built-in NOAA Weather Channels
• 136-174.995 MHz VHF (Receive Only)
• 400-479.995 (70cm) MHz (Receive Only)
• 87.5-108MHz FM Radio (Receive Only)
• 20W Maximum Transmit Power
• High/Low Transmit Power Levels
• 999 Total Custom Memory Channels
• Color Dual Channel/Frequency Display
• Channel Name, Number or Frequency Display
• Simultaneous Dual Channel Receive
• Repeater Capability
• Standard and Non-Standard CTCSS/DCS
• Split CTCSS/DCS Tone Support
• Tune Specific Frequencies Directly (Frequency Mode)
• CTCSS/DCS Tone Scan
• Channel Scan
• Priority Channel Scanning
• Supports 10 Scan Groups
• Companding
• Backlit DTMF Speaker Microphone
• Incoming Caller ID Display
• Voltage Display
• Channel Name Edit and Display
• Group Calls, All Call and Selective Call
• 8 Group Descramble
• Companding
• Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable
• Busy Channel Lockout
• Timeout Timer
• Stopwatch Timer
• English Voice Prompts
• Roger Beep Enable/Disable
• Minimum Operating Voltage Settings
• Audible Button Beep
• Single Tone Pulse Frequency
• 2 Programmable Keys
• Keypad Lock
• DTMF Encoding and Decoding
• Built-in Speaker
• 3.5mm External Speaker Port
• PC Programmable
• Reset

Programming the KG-XS20G
The Wouxun KG-XS20G looks and feels quite different from the Wouxun KG-1000G, so one would expect it to be a little bit different when it comes to programming the radio as well. In fact, it's easier. You can do it directly from the DTMF keypad on the speaker microphone or through a PC using the Wouxun KG-XS20G programming software.

Direct from the radio
If you already know how to program frequencies into the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A or other Wouxun mobile radios, programming the KG-XS20G directly from the radio itself is basically the same. The only real differences are the channels, frequencies and menu options themselves. If you haven't programmed a Wouxun mobile before or you are new to programming any two way radio, we've figured a lot of it out for you with the KGXS20G owners manual. This manual is carefully written in plain English and is easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.

The KG-XS20G menu consists of 56 items. Default settings are bold.

*Note: *The menu items in yellow is available in Frequency mode only.
**The menu items in green is available in Channel mode only.
***The menu item in orange is available on Area "A" only.

Programming with software
The KG-XS20G uses the same Wouxun mobile PCO-003 USB programming cable that works with the KG-1000G, KG-1000M and KG-UV980P. Refer to the cable driver installation instructions for more information.

Unlike the cable, the Wouxun KG-XS20G programming software is specific to this model and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located under the Downloads tab on the Wouxun KG-XS20G product page at Buy Two Way Radios.

KG-XS20G Operation
The KG-XS20G is a very different form factor from the KG-1000G, KG-1000M or KG-UV980P, so the console, display, and some key functions are somewhat unique as well. Unlike the previously mentioned Wouxun models, it uses a KG-UV11A hand speaker microphone with an 8-pin DIN style connector. The speaker microphone plugs into a jack located in lower right corner on the front of the radio and screws into the front panel securely.

The keys on the hand microphone and their primary functions are listed below:

As a GMRS radio alone, the Wouxun KG-XS20G is a great value. As a mobile/base station radio, it can add affordable, yet powerful versatility to any GMRS operation.

Want a more compact mobile GMRS radio with the functionality, quality and performance of a full size model, but without the full size price? The new Wouxun KG-XS20G GMRS Base/Mobile Two Way Radio is the one to choose!

This video provides a quick, yet detailed introductory overview of KG-XS20G, shows off its unique physical attributes, and lists its many powerful features. It's available now and only from Buy Two Way Radios!

Want more videos about 2-way radios? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

When we initially announced the arrival of the KG-1000G in November 2020, we knew it was something different and special, and even called it "best mobile GMRS radio in the world". We just didn't know how popular it would be. Nine months later, we're still trying to keep up with the high demand for this mobile, and it consistently receives high ratings and reviews across the board. The only caveat is the price. While the KG-1000G is a great value for all its many features, Some customers express concern that it costs too much for extra or advanced features that some of them will never use. To resolve this, we're excited to announce a new model for those who want the practical functionality and performance of a GMRS mobile, but at a lower price. Introducing the Wouxun KG-XS20G Compact Mobile GMRS Radio!

We knew we wanted it to be more budget friendly. The tough part was choosing which features were most important to have that would maximize the user experience without sacrificing core functionality, quality and performance. We think that the KG-XS20G provides an optimal balance of the three.

Let's take a look at some of the key features of the KG-XS20G and find out what they are all about.

Compact and light
Many mobile radios require ample space for permanent installation in or around the dash. Unfortunately, some vehicles just don't have the room. In other situations, a permanent installation isn't feasible or even wanted, particularly when drivers want the flexibility to swap the unit between one or more vehicles as needed. The Wouxun XS20G is a perfect solution.

The XS20G is designed for use in vehicles that don't offer much extra room for large, bulky transceivers. At only 2.16 × 4.72 × 4.7 inches (55 × 120 × 119.5 mm) it's roughly two-thirds the size of the typical mobile radio. Its compact frame accommodates installation in horizontally narrower spaces, and at a mere 22.36oz (634g), its lighter weight allows the XS20G to be installed, moved or removed with greater ease.

Power
The XS20G can transmit at a up to 20 watts of power, with two adjustable power levels. While not as powerful as full sized mobile transceivers such as the 50 watt KG-1000G, it does offer the maximum optimal wattage for its size. The lower wattage generates less heat. This enables the XS20G to operate within its compact, lighter enclosure without the need for a cooling fan or the heavier, bulkier case of a full size mobile that also serves as a heat sink.

GMRS Transmit and Dual Band Receive
As is the case with the full size, 50 watt Wouxun KG-1000G, the KG-XS20G includes all 30 GMRS channels, but is allowed to transmit only on channels 1-7 and 15-22 of the GMRS, as well as the 8 GMRS repeater channels. However, it is capable of receive-only operation on any frequency between 400-470MHz on the UHF band and 136-174MHz on the VHF band. It also has a built-in commercial FM radio, a standard feature on many Wouxun handheld and mobile transceivers. The KG-XS20G is FCC type accepted for both parts 95E (GMRS) and 15B (scanning UHF and VHF), so you have a fully legal radio for GMRS operation. For the record, the FCC ID is WVTWOUXUN25.

NOAA Weather Mode, Weather Scan and Alerts
One feature that is becoming increasingly popular on both handheld and mobile radios is the ability to receive NOAA weather channels and alerts. Wouxun acknowledged this by including a NOAA weather mode on the KG-XS20G. It's also very easy to access. Simply hold down the BAND key for 2 seconds and weather mode is activated, instantly tuning to the last weather channel accessed. You can change the channel to any of the 7 NOAA channels using the Channel/Frequency Knob or the arrow keys. The Weather Mode function can also be assigned to the PF1 or PF2 key from the menu. The XS20G also has a weather scan and weather alert function, the latter which to monitor the weather frequency currently selected for the 1050Hz subaudible tone that is broadcast when a weather alert or warning is issued.

Channel and Frequency Modes
The KG-XS20G can display and tune frequencies either by the channels to which they are assigned or by entering each frequency directly. You can switch between the channel and frequency modes by simply pressing the mode button until the desired mode is reached.

Up to 999 total memory channels can be programmed into the SX20G. Channels 1-30 are pre-programmed to the 22 simplex and 8 repeater GMRS channels by default. The rest can be programmed by the user and saved as custom channels. The radio can be programmed either with the optional Wouxun PCO-003 programming cable and programming software or directly from the radio using the full DTMF keypad on the hand microphone. The programming software is available as a free download and can be found under the Downloads tab on the KG-XS20G product page.

Standard and Non-Standard Tones and Codes
The XS20G supports 155 industry standard CTCSS tones and DCS codes, including 50 CTCSS and 105 DCS. It also supports non-standard tones and codes, including both positive and negative DCS codes. This maximizes your options for filtering out unwanted conversations from other parties on the same channel or frequency.

One handy feature of this radio is the Tone Scan. The KG-XS20G can scan an incoming signal for a CTCSS or DCS tone and Identify it for you. This saves a lot of guesswork when trying to figure out what tone or code everyone else is using. To make it even easier, the once the tone is identified, the radio can update the tone settings of the current channel.

Programmable Function Keys
The XS20G has two programmable function keys, marked as PF1 and PF2. PF1 is located on the front panel of the radio, and PF2 is on the left side of the hand speaker microphone. Although they have presets out of the box, both can be reconfigured with one of 12 different functions. Each key can be assigned up to two functions, one activated with a short press of the key, the other with a long press. The function keys can be programmed with the programming software or directly from the menu of the radio on the fly.

Better Menu
Speaking of programming, the menu of the XS20G is vastly improved from past handheld and mobile Wouxun models in a few ways. First, it's been reordered to put frequently accessed items earlier. Second, some menu items have been renamed from the standard "Wouxun" naming convention to make them more understandable to English users. Also some menu options were re-arranged in an attempt to group them with similar items. In all, it's an easier menu to navigate, understand and use.

Full Color Dual Display
One key feature of this radio that cannot be overlooked is the display. Unlike the straightforward LCD display of the KG-1000G, the full color screen of the XS20G is based directly on those of classic Wouxun handheld radios such as the KG-UV8D and KG-UV9D series. In fact, it's very similar to the display of the KG-UV8D, yet with considerable improvement. The colors are rich and bright, the alphanumeric digits are sharp and easy to read, and the icons are easy to identify. The brightness is also adjustable.

Like the aforementioned handhelds, this is also a dual display, meaning that the radio has an A and B side and both can be displayed at once. The radio can toggle between dual display and single display mode, adding even more versatility to the KG-XS20G.

Other Features
Of course, it would be remiss to neglect some of the other features of this radio, and in spite of its small stature, there are many of them. The selection of scan options comes to mind, including priority channel scanning and support for up to 10 scan groups. Bandwidth is selectable, there are multiple speaker output settings, and there is a 3.5mm jack in the back for an optional external speaker. As with many other Wouxun radios, the KG-XS20G supports Talk Around. It also has a reverse frequency function, selective call, and tone alert. There are several additional features many would consider minor, and some would not use at all. But they are there, ready to activate, just in case.

Antenna Options
One important consideration that inevitably arises is the choice of antenna for this radio. Although it isn't a huge 50W GMRS powerhouse like the KG-1000G, the antenna requirements of the KG-XS20G are not much different. Of course, we've done most of the legwork already. Our recommendations can be found by clicking on the Accessories tab on the XS20G product page and choosing the antenna that fits your vehicle requirements and budget. It's not much more complicated than that.

KG-XS20G or KG-1000G
But that's not all to consider when shopping for a mobile GMRS radio. Now we come to the moment of some serious contemplation. With the arrival of the XS20G, Wouxun has two mobiles from which to choose. The question is, which one do you really need?

If you want a full featured, high powered GMRS mobile radio or base station with everything under the sun, including the ability to turn it into a repeater (which requires two), then the KG-1000G may be the one to choose. However, if what you really need is a compact, easy to move mobile with sufficient power that is still feature rich, but more moderately priced, then the Wouxun KG-XS20G may just be the perfect radio for you. Price: $219.99

After two decades, a mobile MURS radio has arrived. Could this be the ultimate MURS radio? Judge for yourself in this quick introductory video of the new Wouxun KG-1000M MURS Base/Mobile Two Way Radio!

In this video, we give you a detailed view of KG-1000M, show you some of its exciting features and explain why we think it's the ultimate MURS radio, and most likely the only mobile transceiver made for the Multi-Use Radio Service. Plus, its license-free! It's now in our warehouse and available exclusively at Buy Two Way Radios!

Want more videos about 2-way radios? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

In the autumn of 2000, the FCC created the Multi-Use Radio Service, or MURS. As the name implies, it can be used for multiple applications, from wireless home and office intercom systems to callboxes, public address systems, and portable handheld two way radios. Best of all, its available to use by almost anyone, whether for home or business, license free.

For much of its history, interest in MURS was limited to specific types of applications, partially because of its relative obscurity and the dearth of radios available that supported the service. Recently there has been growing interest in MURS. As a result, we've seen a slow but steady influx of type accepted MURS radios in the US marketplace. These products were limited to portable handheld MURS radios, such as the increasingly popular Wouxun KG-805M MURS radio.

Until now.

In response to a growing demand for alternative options, one manufacturer just released a new radio that may usher in a whole new era for the Multi-Use Radio Service, the Wouxun KG-1000M Mobile MURS two way radio!

The KG-1000M is the first mobile MURS radio from Wouxun, and it hits the ground running out of the gate. It transmits and receives all 5 MURS channels at the full legal limit of 2 watts for maximum allowable power and performance. It also receives on several other bands, allowing you to hear traffic from other radio services such as FRS, GMRS, business, marine, airband and more. It includes a NOAA weather mode and a built-in FM radio. It even receives AM transmissions!

At first glance this multi-band functionality may not seem overly impressive on its own. After all, there are other mobile radios out there with these capabilities, such as the KG-UV920P-A and KG-UV980P. However, the KG-1000M is FCC type accepted for legal use on MURS, which makes it a total game changer for users of this service. And that's just the beginning.

The KG-1000M is also capable of simultaneous dual mode operation, with A and B sides or areas, each capable of independent operation. This means it can receive on one area while transmitting on the other. You can even receive on both areas simultaneously. This is particularly useful when using the NOAA weather radio, as you can monitor the weather channels while scanning, transmitting or receiving on MURS. Essentially it is two mobile radios in one.

As a dedicated MURS radio alone, the KG-1000M is an extremely powerful device. In addition to the 5 primary MURS channels, it also has memory slots for additional custom programmed channels, for a total of 999 channels. But they aren't just for MURS. Any frequency from the wide RX range supported by the KG-1000M can be saved as a listen only channel. It also supports standard and non-standard CTCSS tones and DCS codes, plus the ability to split these tones and codes for transmit and receive. This means that you can leave the first 5 MURS channels straight, and customize them all with different tones and codes in hundreds of configurations on additional programmed channels as needed. Each channel can also be assigned a custom name with up to eight alphanumeric characters, so you can ID them instantly when switching channels.

Its powerful versatility doesn't end there. The Scan options provide even more. Of course, you can scan all 999 programmable channels, but you can also scan them with CTCSS tone and DCS code detection. The KG-1000M also features priority scanning and support for up to 10 Scan Groups, for even greater control over scans.

Then there is the Tone Scan. This feature scans for CTCSS tones and DCS codes. It allows you to discover the precise tone or code used on a specific channel, completely eliminating the guesswork of which one the sender is using.

Among its many other features, the KG-1000M has caller ID display, group, call, all call and selective calling, DTMF encoding and decoding, a compander, descrambler, wide and narrow bandwidth selectivity, and English voice prompts. Environment features include four power level settings, APO power management, minimum operating voltage adjustment and a built-in cooling fan in the back with adjustable control from the menu.

Of course, a dual mode radio wouldn't be very easy to manage without a dual display, and the KG-1000M has one. Like the equally powerful GMRS version of this series, the popular and highly rated KG-1000G, this dual display is detachable and includes both angled and flat switchboard panels in the kit, so you can mount it virtually anywhere in or around your dash while the base of the radio is neatly tucked away somewhere else within your vehicle.

Actually, the KG-1000M is essentially the same radio as the KG-1000G, only it's for MURS instead of GMRS. Physically, it's nearly identical, right down to the control knobs, front panel keys and 3 color LED. The hand microphone is also the same, with speaker, TX/RX indicator LED and volume control. Like the 1000G, the hand mic allows nearly full control of radio including full menu access and on-the-fly programming directly from the radio. The KG-1000M has two speakers built into the base of the radio that can be controlled independently. The additional speaker in the hand microphone brings the total number of speakers to three.

For all the functionality that is core to this radio, there is yet one more feature that sets the KG-1000M apart from any other MURS radio on the market. Aside from three different Channel Modes, the KG-1000M also has Frequency Mode. That's right. In Frequency (VFO) Mode, you can type in or to tune directly to a specific frequency regardless of the frequency having been previously saved. This is a feature rarely, if ever seen on license-free radios, and never on one for MURS.

Until now.

As for the price? For all it's advanced features and powerful functions, the KG-1000M is available for the same price as the GMRS model at $369.99.

The KG-1000M is the logical alternative for those who want more range and flexability than FRS offers for personal use, and without the need to purchase a license. It's also good choice for businesses that are already using MURS and need mobile radios, or are looking for VHF radios that are license-free.

Mobile GMRS radios have become increasingly popular during the last few years. The concept of a mobile or base station radio that operates on the GMRS and is fully compatible with a traditional handheld GMRS transceiver is of great interest to many licensed GMRS operators. Considering that the General Mobile Radio Service includes 22 standard simplex channels, it is naturally assumed that a GMRS mobile will transmit on them all, just like a portable handheld model. But that isn't the case. Why?

Our customers ask us why their mobile GMRS radio cannot access channels 8-14, or can only receive on them. For instance, the Wouxun KG-1000G can receive on those channels, but cannot transmit on them. In the case of Midland's MicroMobiles, channels 8-14 are missing entirely. It isn't just a FAQ from our customers. This is also an item of speculation on GMRS forums and in the comments section of many Youtube videos.

So, what gives? Why are these channels fully accessible on a portable handheld GMRS walkie talkie, but not available for transmit on Part 95 type accepted, FCC approved GMRS mobile or base station radios?

The popular answer provided in these venues commonly focuses on the wattage limitation imposed by the FCC on these channels. The typical line of reasoning is that these channels have a one half watt transmit limit, and high powered mobile radios simply can't reduce their power to such a low level, so therefore they can't transmit on those channels legally. While the wattage theory does make some sense, and the inability to go below one watt may indeed be the case with some mobile radios, this answer is not actually correct.

The real reason can be easily found within the FCC rules for GMRS. Specifically, the rule in Part 95, Subpart E which limits the frequencies commonly assigned to channels 8-14 to hand-held radios only. Here is the applicable section (from § 95.1763 GMRS channels):

(d) 467 MHz interstitial channels. Only hand-held portable units may transmit on these 7 channels. The channel center frequencies are: 467.5675, 467.5875, 467.6125, 467.6375, 467.6625, 467.6875, and 467.7125 MHz.

Those channel center frequencies are the seven frequencies assigned to GMRS channels 8-14.

In other words, only handheld GMRS radios can transmit on channels 8-14 because, well, you can only transmit on channels 8-14 with a handheld GMRS radio.

Yep, because the FCC said so. That's all it is. And there you go.

The Wouxun KG-1000G GMRS Base/Mobile Two Way Radio goes well beyond the limited capabilities of the typical GMRS radio. It transmits on 15 simplex GMRS channels and 8 GMRS repeater channels. It has NOAA weather channels and receives on multiple bands, including 2 meter, (144-148 MHz), 70cm (420-450 MHz), 6 meter (50.1-54 MHz) and airband frequencies on AM. This is a great transceiver for licensed operators who want full access to the GMRS and the ability to monitor other bands (receive only) without paying for an additional scanner or multi-band receiver.

In addition to its capabilities as as a powerful mobile GMRS radio, The KG-1000G also makes a nice base station. When connected to the Wouxun SPS31WIN, Samlex SEC-1235M or similar power supply, the KG-1000G performs quite well as a desktop GMRS transceiver. When connected to a second KG-1000G as shown in this tutorial video, the two radios can even operate as a fully functional GMRS repeater!

KG-1000G Key Features

• 22 Simplex GMRS Channels
• 8 GMRS Repeater Channels
• Built-in NOAA Weather Channels
• 50-53.995 MHz (6m) (Receive Only)
• 108-179.995 MHz VHF (Receive Only)
• 320-349.995 MHz (Receive Only)
• 400-479.995 (70cm) MHz (Receive Only)
• 700-985 MHz (Receive Only)
• AM 108-136MHz (Receive Only)
• 87.5-108MHz FM Radio (Receive Only)
• 50W Maximum Transmit Power
• 4 Transmit Power Levels
• 999 Total Custom Memory Channels
• Dual Frequency Display
• Remote Head Mounting Capability
• Three Color Selectable LED
• Repeater Capability
• GMRS Repeater Operation Mode (Second KG-1000G Required)
• Standard and Non-Standard CTCSS/DCS
• Split CTCSS/DCS Tone Support
• Priority Channel Scanning
• Frequency Scanning
• CTCSS/DCS Tone Scan
• Simultaneous Scanning on A/B Areas
• Auto-Detect AM Transmissions
• Dual Speakers with Independent Volume Controls
• Dual 3.5mm External Speaker Ports
• Backlit DTMF Speaker Microphone
• Incoming Caller ID Display
• DTMF Encoding and Decoding
• Channel Name Edit and Display
• Group Calls, All Call and Selective Call
• 8 Group Descramble
• Companding
• Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable
• Busy Channel Lockout
• APO Power Management
• English Voice Prompts
• Roger Beep Enable/Disable
• Minimum Operating Voltage Alarm
• Stun/Kill Function
• Single Tone Pulse Frequency
• Keypad Lock
• Cooling Fan
• Adjustable Cooling Fan Control
• Automatic Temperature Testing
• Timeout Timer
• PC Programmable
• 3 Configurable Front Panel Buttons
• Reset

Programming the KG-1000G
Programming the Wouxun KG-1000G may seem daunting at first, but it is actually a relatively simple and straightforward process. You can do it directly from the DTMF keypad on the speaker microphone or through a PC using the Wouxun KG-1000G programming software.

Direct from the radio
If you already know how to program frequencies into the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A or other Wouxun mobile radios, programming the KG-1000G directly from the radio itself will be much the same experience. If you haven't programmed a Wouxun mobile before or you are new to programming any two way radio, no worries. The KG1000G owners manual is carefully written in plain English and is easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.

The KG-1000G menu consists of 54 options. Default settings are bold.

*Note: The menu item in red is available in the menu for display only. It can be modified through optional programming software.
**The menu item in yellow is available in VFO mode only.
***The menu item in green is available in Channel mode only.
****The menu item in violet is not available in repeater mode.
*****The menu item in orange is available on Area "A" only.

Programming with software
The KG-1000G uses the same PCO-003 USB programming cable as many other popular Wouxun mobile radios, including the KG-UV920P-A, KG-UV950P, and KG-UV980P. Simply follow the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A cable driver installation instructions and the programming cable should be ready to go.

Unlike the programming cable, the Wouxun KG-1000G programming software is specific to the radio and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located under the Downloads tab on the Wouxun KG-1000G product page at Buy Two Way Radios.

KG-1000G Operation
Working the KG-1000G is almost exactly same as operating the KG-UV950P or KG-UV980P. In fact, it is based on the same form factor as the KG-UV980P, so the console, key layout and dual speakers are identical for both radios. It also uses the same KG-UV10A hand speaker microphone. The speaker microphone plugs into a jack located on the right side when facing the front panel. The location of everything else on the front panel is also the same as the aforementioned KG-UV980P, including the LCD display, dual volume control knobs and large channel knob.

The keys and their primary functions are listed in the chart below:

As a GMRS radio alone, the Wouxun KG-1000G is a great value. As a mobile/base station radio or repeater, it can add affordable, value added versatility to any GMRS operation.

It's been a long time coming, but now the wait is finally over. the ultimate GMRS mobile radio is here! Get a quick introductory overview of the new the Wouxun KG-1000G GMRS Base/Mobile Two Way Radio!

In this video, we provide a close up view of this mobile, list some of its exciting key features and explain why we think it's the most advanced GMRS mobile transceiver available today. It's now in stock and available exclusively at Buy Two Way Radios!

Want more videos about 2-way radios? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

You want your mobile two way radio on your desktop, or you want to convert it into a base station for your shack. You've picked out radio, the antenna, and location for your rig. All you need is the power supply. There's just one minor detail. You know exactly how much power you need, but what type of power supply should you choose?

There are several types of power supplies. These include those that are unregulated, ripple regulated, regulated linear and switching. In this article we are going to focus on comparing the two types we carry at Buy Two Way Radios for use with our mobile and base station two way radios. These two types of power supplies are Linear (regulated) and Switching.

Linear Power Supplies
Linear power supplies have been around for a long time. At one point it was the only choice for power supplies. They produce clean, quiet DC voltage with little to no electromagnetic noise. This makes the linear power supply a great choice for use in radio communications. A linear power supply takes the AC line voltage and puts it through a transformer to lower the voltage, then a through a rectifier and filters to convert it to DC output voltage.

Linear power supplies are well suited for use with radios, but they do have a few drawbacks. The large transformers and filter circuits generate a lot more heat, which in turn requires large heat sinks to compensate. Due to all these components, they are also quite heavy. The more power they provide, the heavier and larger they become. In addition, their energy efficiency is fairly low compared to a switching power supply.

Switching Power Supplies
Switched Mode or Switching power supplies are smaller, lighter and more advanced. They also operate at considerably higher efficiency than a linear model. Switch power supplies also generate less heat, which can be an important advantage when operating in a small ham shack or in an area with limited air circulation.

The drawback to switching power supplies is that they can introduce RFI noise. This can be a problem with inexpensive, lower quality models and small, "brick" style power supplies intended for general consumer electronics, but is not generally an issue with power supplies intended for radios and built by high quality, name brand manufacturers. Even so, the noise can be sometimes be alleviated by using EMI chokes or ferrite cores on external wiring to the radio.

Before you shop around for power supplies, it is important to know that they are not all the same. It can make all the difference between choosing the right power supply for your radio, and not having all the power you really need.

The Midland MXT115 is a GMRS micromobile two way radio that is also repeater capable. All you need to do is activate them. This is actually quite simple and can be done very quickly, once you know how to do it. how do you activate and configure them?

In this episode of Radio 101, Rick shows you how to easily setup the 8 GMRS repeater channels on the Midland MXT115. He also shows you how to configure a CTCSS tone or DCS code on a repeater channel.

Want more videos? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!