Product Review
BTECH GMRS-PRO
5W GMRS Handheld
IP67 Waterproof
Part 95E / 15C
by: John 'Miklor'
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General Description / Summary
The GMRS-PRO represents the Next Generation of GMRS radios featuring Bluetooth, GPS, Compass and Speedometer, also capable of sending text/data between radios. Programming is performed using an Android or iOS apps. There is no computer required. It comes pre-programmed with all GMRS repeater and simplex channels, with the capability of storing and scanning an additional 180 VHF and UHF receive channels. In the Box Included with the radio are the following: - GMRS-PRO Handheld (IP67) - 2600 mAh Lithium-Ion Battery - Belt Clip - Type-C USB Charging Cable - Screwdriver for attaching belt clip - Full 71 page English User Manual (.pdf link) FCC Part 95E certified - 2AGND-GMRS-PRO Frequency Range 87-108 MHz (Rx) 136-174 MHz (Rx) 400-520 MHz (Rx) 180 - Programmable channels (6 banks of 30) Enclosure The GMRS PRO measures 2.3" (W) x 5.0" (H) x 1.5 (D)" and weighs in at only 11oz (.31 kg). The top of the radio shows the antenna on the left, on/off volume control on the right with the GPS antenna in the center. The red button is one of the 3 Programmable function buttons. Picture 2 shows the PTT along with the other 2 programmable buttons. Each button has a long and short press option for a total of 6 user selectable functions. A list of program options can be shown HERE which includes: FM Radio, alarm, channel up/down, talk around, scan, power H/L, etc
IP 67 - Waterproof The IP67 rating by definition states "IP67 can withstand temporary immersion in water of up to 1 meter for about 30 minutes". This makes it desirable for use in any outdoor environment. For the sake of this review I took a leap of faith. I filled my bathroom basin and submerged my PRO for about 50 minutes. When I removed it, I dried it off, set the channel to GMRS01 and the transmitter and receiver worked perfectly, both with crystal clear audio.
Unlike other handhelds, programming the GMRS PRO is done using Android and iOS apps. This includes all functions including firmware updates. There is no computer required. Click on icons below to view screen images.
Bluetooth Programming of the GMRS-PRO is done by pairing Bluetooth to your iOS or Android device. The Bluetooth can also be used to connect your Bluetooth AirPods and similar devices for private listening. Channel Sharing Between Radios The GMRS PRO can share channels between radios. Again, no need for a PC to program. A link to this procedure can be found HERE. Transmitter Using a calibrated Bird Termaline watt meter, the high power position showed a solid 4.9W on high power with low power at 0.5W. Channels 8-14 are restricted to 0.5W, while the high power option can be used on all other GMRS channels.
Microphone / General Settings My on the air audio reports were excellent. One of the nice features is the microphone gain control. There are 3 levels (low, med, high) allowing you to back off the microphone a bit in a quiet location, or tighten it if you're in a noisy environment. Receiver / On Screen Scanning The GMRS PRO has 180 channel capability, configured as 6 banks of 30 channels each. The first bank is preprogrammed with all GMRS channels. Although the frequency combinations are fixed, CTCSS/DTCS tones, power levels and bandwidth can be altered via the app or keypad. The other 5 banks can contain any receive frequency between 136-174 and 400-520 MHz. The scan option allows you to scan either selected channels or a specified frequency range. Also included is an FM radio option covering 87-108 MHz. Accessory Jack Behind the waterproof cover is an M1 accessory jack. There is also an M1/K1 adapter available which allows the use of all current K1 type accessories used in current BTech models. (Spkr/Micr, etc.) K1/M1 Adapter
Display / Display Syncing The multicolor LCD display supports up 8 character channel names. Shown here is an example of the two channel display used with the Dual Watch/Dual Display option. Also shown on the LCD is the GPS information including compass direction, speed and elevation.
GMRS Frequency Chart
In Summary The GMRS PRO is truly the Next Generation of GMRS handheld. - Bluetooth Programmable using Android / iOS apps - GMRS Transceiver and UHF&VHF Scanner - Scans all channel banks in 1.5 seconds - Multiple Bluetooth connection methods - Radio short message function - GPS positioning system - Partner location and direction reporting system - Multiple emergency functions - High-Capacity Lithium-Ion battery (2600mAh) - Broadcast FM receiver 87-108 Mhz. - 30x6 channel groups - NOAA Alert - Dual watch / Dual reception - IP67 rating for dust and water resistance - USB-C direct charging
Note: This equipment was received for the purpose of a fair and unbiased review. All findings are factual based on the equipment I received. Any issues if found have been reported both here and back to the seller or manufacturer. |
