Radio stations: what they are and how to talk on them
The use of radio stations can be a vital aid both in the practice of normal mountain activities and in an emergency situation. It is a basic element in terms of mountain safety, and it is essential to learn how it works and the correct way to use it to communicate.
Although the use of mobile devices is standardised, certain deficiencies are still noticeable, mainly due to the fact that lack of coverage is common in many mountain areas.
In order to enable you to take full advantage of its possibilities, the following are the most important aspects about the radio stations, what they are and how to talk on one.
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What are radio stations?
Radio stations are tools of communication created to support safety in the mountains, as they constitute a means of communication that transmits and receives information both for the rest of the group and for the outside world (groups in the same area, rescue organisations, etc.).
When purchasing a radio station, the following main options are available:
- PMR 446, which are personal use devices (PMR stands for Personal Mobile Radio) and do not require an amateur radio licence, because they operate in a restricted frequency range within 446 MHz.
- VHF equipment, which requires an amateur radio licence and can cover terrain areas greater than and close to tens of kilometres.
Characteristics that PMR 446 equipment must have
- It is recommended that they have 8 channels and 38 subtones, e.g. low-end equipment does not have these subtones.
- They should have a dual listening function, so that you can communicate on one channel only with the group and maintain a second channel to contact other mountain groups in the area.
- They must also be rain and splash resistant or fully waterproof.
- Another desirable feature is that the rechargeable batteries can be interchanged with conventional batteries.
- They are easy to operate, as they do not have complicated technical features that require exclusive radiotelephony training.
- The fact that they do not require a licence to carry and use them, together with their low cost, has greatly increased their use.
Characteristics of VHF equipment
- A licence is required to use them.
- There are models that have a dual band. It is therefore possible to use VHF on the PMR 446 band compatible with the above.
- The required licence authorises the use of frequencies in the range 144-146 MHz.
- In this frequency range you will have the possibility to request help from other radio amateurs directly or through the network of repeaters located throughout the country.
How to talk through radio stations
Communication problems or a complete lack of communication are the cause of more than 60% of accidents. It is therefore necessary to learn how to talk on a radio station in the correct way, as this element of communication is very useful in the mountains.
It is important to emphasise that before conveying information, you should think about what you are going to say, in order to ensure that you are able to achieve an short, clear and concise conversation. It should then be said with maximum vocalisation so that the words used express exactly what needs to be conveyed.
- The first thing to be clear about is where to carry the transmitter, as its antenna must be kept free at all times. To achieve this, the ideal place to carry it is on the shoulder strap of your rucksack. It should be positioned in such a way as to ensure that there is always adequate transmitting and receiving capability.
- To begin speaking, face the microphone, which is usually located at the front of the transmitter, and speak about an inch away from it.
- When speaking, press the PTT button (Push to talk), to open the station's broadcast. Wait one second and start talking.
- When the transmission is finished, wait another second and release the PTT button. By following these steps, the message will be transmitted completely, as there is a tendency to release the button a little before you finish speaking.
It is recommended to protect the space between your mouth and the microphone in order to avoid disturbance from ambient noise and other environmental elements.
Some models of walkie-talkies:
The variety of models on the market is very wide. Among the models that have most caught our attention are these three:
- PMR 446 unlicensed
- 8 channels, 38 CTCSS tones and 104 DCS codes
- Rechargeable batteries included.
- 12 cm antenna
- IPX4 water protection
- PMR 446 unlicensed
- 8 channels and 121 subtones
- Range: 10 kms
- Rechargeable battery included
- Autonomy: 17 hours
- Dust and water protection: IP67
- PMR 446 unlicensed
- 16 channels, 50 CTCSS and 210 DCS subtones
- Rechargeable battery included
- Dust and water protection: IP67
Conclusion
You know how important it is to the correct use of the radio station, especially for safety and in the event of an emergency or accident. This element is a fundamental part of mountain activities, especially if they are carried out in larger or smaller groups.
