In an area of open, level terrain with no obstacles or over open water, the average distance to the horizon is just a few miles.
At some point, they are blocked or diverted by the curvature of the earth.
Since the earth is round, GMRS radio signals do not have an unlimited line of site across the entire globe. Higher frequency GMRS radio signals cannot penetrate earth, so if the terrain is hilly or mountainous, the distance the signal can travel may be reduced significantly. If the terrain is populated with vegetation such as trees or heavy brush, such obstructions can slow or eventually block the signal at some point along the way. If the area is flat with few or no obstructions, the signal can freely travel unencumbered towards the horizon, even at a very low power. The terrain between the radios is another important consideration. Such things include, but are not limited to, hills, trees, bridges, buildings, vehicles and anything else that can potentially block, deflect or divert the radio signal away from its intended target. Anything that gets in the way can adversely affect the line of sight. GMRS radios operate on "line-of-sight", which simply means that as long as they or their operators can clearly "see" each other with nothing between them to obscure their view, the radios should be able to communicate with one another. The GMRS operates on UHF frequencies around 460 MHz, so our range estimations will be based on that variable. Higher frequencies in the UHF band do not travel as far but can pass around obstacles more easily.
Lower frequencies such as those on the VHF band travel farther but can be more easily blocked. The type of radio signal is a significant variable in determining range. In short, range is absolutely relative.Ī number of variables determine actual range. Although range has an absolute definition, it is defined by a range of variables. The reason for this is contained in the word itself. This simple, five letter word is easy to enunciate, yet it is perhaps one of the most complicated to resolve in the consumer radio marketplace. Ironically, it's also one of the least understood among the masses, which makes it quite controversial. Range is a popular word in the world of portable handheld two way radios or walkie talkies.
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