This radio has a lot of power. If you are close to someone who also has one of these there is a lot of screeching feedback due to the high power. One person has to turn their radio off or change channels if you need to use it in close proximity to another. When ever I key it up at my desk, my paper shredder operates, which is humorous.
Hold one of the arrow buttons down for 3 seconds and it will change your power level from high down to low then all the squelching and those GFI boxes are way less
Not a bad looking radio and the Group call feature seems pretty nice. The one big killer for me is slow scan speed. I always have my radios scanning multiple frequencies and few things annoy me as much as a slow scan speed. Wouldn't mind getting my hands on one of these to do a performance test and teardown review. Would like to see how the internal construction quality is. Edited to add: I went to their website and it's nice to see a manufacturer that list the range of the radios at a realistic range. 2 to 3 or 4 to 5 miles depending on the model of radio they make is realistic. Some manufacturers list range at 20 to 30 miles.
Due to SMCOM radios equipped with CTCSS / CDCSS codes to avoid interference from the same frequency point and get a safe conversation. So the frequency points are wider and it takes more time to scan.I apologzize for the inconvenience.
This radio is a rugged workhorse. Excellent durability. I accidently drop mine on the ground about a twice a day (😮) ! I have also run over it in my Jeep! I don't think it is indestructable, ..... but almost.... It amazes me with its range as well. A great solid radio!
So this is a completely newbie question...but I am assuming that I don't need a license to operate these, correct? I represent a missions organization called "Far flung tin can" and we travel to some of the most remote places around the world, and looking for a good communication option for our teams.
Each country will usually have their own version of the FCC, and has their own band plans for UHF. So in one country you might not need a license, but another may require as license on a different frequency.
Would these work well for security operations? I am on a church security team, and we can't hear much with our current radios. Even with earbuds in and at full volume. We need something inexpensive, can use standard plug in earbuds, and be loud enough to hear during music, or loud public gatherings. Thanks!
These are usually Part 90 radios, if the FCC has had them tested, so a business license is required. Since ham's don't need Part 97 certification, they can pretty much use any radios on ham frequencies.
@@RKingis OK but as far as performance, how do they work for such a situation? My dad is also security for a church and needs about six of these but I’ve seen comments saying they don’t work well unless far apart from each other. He needs good inexpensive radios that won’t start screeching when they’re close.
I have 2 sets of 3. on set 1 channel 17 is 6500 frequency. set 2 channel 17 is 7000. so set 1 and set 2 cannot communicate. How do I fix this. Second question. I was told and bought these specifically because I was told I DID NOT need a license. I am seeing comments here saying you do. Don't just reply yes you do or no you don't. Explain how I know weather a radio requires it please.
I saw this listed on Amazon and I wasn't able to find any warnings that FCC license is required. On the Amazon listing, there a multiple videos of people demonstrating this radio for their personal use without using their HAM radio code. I'm suspecting people are buying and using this radio not knowing that a license is required
correct I specifically bought these because it was my impression that you did not. How are you able to tell weather a radio does/ does not require a license.
I have a question. I work at a school and we ordered two different shipments of these radios. They have the same frequencies....and we want to use them all together. How do we pair them so that we can use them all together?
Where can I learn more about using this for a church setting? What type of license do I need? and if I use this for personal / family usage, would it be a different license?
You’re looking for what I need also. The group channel is what may be useful. We had considered MURS band wouxon 805M, however, one “scenario event” of a classroom trying to reach security team would require channel change and leadership feels a group button or two channel monitoring would be better? I’m not sure yet. License is $30 for 10 years and no testing required just sending $. Seems simple enough that way.
Love your review, and your channel. Thanks for doing it. I have a comment/question regarding the FPCN30A. I ordered a set of two from Amazon, and found that they frequently cut off the first word of a transmission. I sent them back for replacement, and found that the replacement set do the same thing. Is there a fix or adjustment for this issue? Perhaps a squelch adjustment? (Not a radio expert by any means.... ). Thanks for your help!
This is actually a common phenomenon when you are using CTCSS tones on both transmit and receive. the tone code helps reduce interference and intermittent radio noise. But because it is a sub-audible tone that is transmitted along with your voice transmission, there can be a momentary delay as the receiving radio latches onto the code and opens up the squelch. Good radio practice is to wait 1/2 second when you press the PTT button in order to for the tone squelch to open up. A second option would be to use DCS or digital coded squelch. I believe the Samcoms do have that option. DCS latches and opens the squelch much faster than CTCSS and you won't run the risk of cutting off the first word of the transmission. I hope you found this helpful.
@@KB9VBRAntennas Thanks for the info. I assume I can change the squelch setting using the windows app? Also if I do switch to another method of squelch I'll is there a downside to that? Thanks
Yes, you can change the squelch settings in the programming tool. The only downside is if you are mixing different brands of radios. CTCSS is common, but not every brand supports DCS.
@@KB9VBRAntennas You should get a commission from Samcom,. I've been communicating with them about this for the better part of a year with no answer other than sending me new radios. Well done and thanks!
I just bought these Radios have am having issues finding the progroaming software. I bought the program cord but no luck on software, can you help please.
Can I program my own licensed frequency into the radio? Not the pre-programmed stuff? 461-465 Mhz freq range.???? I have tried using the FPP without any luck. Can it be modified without software and cable?
I believe if you hold the button just below the PTT button. While the radio is off hold that button in then turn your radio on with the button still pushed in. That will take you to the different frequencies then do it again and it should set you right back to default
No you wouldn't be able to. They aren't type accepted for FRS as they have a removable antenna and the FRS band has a 2 watt limit. The GMRS band requires a license.
KB9VBR Antennas I work on a ship about 240m long and we need two way radios capable of going through the steel bulkheads. We don’t know much about this but our watch standers already have some Harris p7100s, I was looking at these samcoms but I didn’t know what kind of license I would need
There is no built in bluetooth functionality, so you would have to use an externally connected bluetooth device. I don't have any knowledge on a compatible device.
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73s, Michael. I like the group function and the simple programing. This looks like a great backpacking radio.
I really like the styling of Samcom radios.
This is just a radio using the SAMCOM name. According to OEM Samcom, they are using the name illegally. Wonder Why?
This radio has a lot of power. If you are close to someone who also has one of these there is a lot of screeching feedback due to the high power. One person has to turn their radio off or change channels if you need to use it in close proximity to another. When ever I key it up at my desk, my paper shredder operates, which is humorous.
Hold one of the arrow buttons down for 3 seconds and it will change your power level from high down to low then all the squelching and those GFI boxes are way less
Not a bad looking radio and the Group call feature seems pretty nice. The one big killer for me is slow scan speed. I always have my radios scanning multiple frequencies and few things annoy me as much as a slow scan speed. Wouldn't mind getting my hands on one of these to do a performance test and teardown review. Would like to see how the internal construction quality is.
Edited to add: I went to their website and it's nice to see a manufacturer that list the range of the radios at a realistic range. 2 to 3 or 4 to 5 miles depending on the model of radio they make is realistic. Some manufacturers list range at 20 to 30 miles.
Due to SMCOM radios equipped with CTCSS / CDCSS codes to avoid interference from the same frequency point and get a safe conversation. So the frequency points are wider and it takes more time to scan.I apologzize for the inconvenience.
This radio is a rugged workhorse. Excellent durability. I accidently drop mine on the ground about a twice a day (😮) !
I have also run over it in my Jeep! I don't think it is indestructable, ..... but almost....
It amazes me with its range as well. A great solid radio!
Show us how to use the Programing cable and software
Thanks, good review well laid out...thanks for sharing...Vic
I’d like to purchase these and use them in the construction field. Would I need a license for that? Thanks in advance!
Yes!
So this is a completely newbie question...but I am assuming that I don't need a license to operate these, correct?
I represent a missions organization called "Far flung tin can" and we travel to some of the most remote places around the world, and looking for a good communication option for our teams.
It all depends on what jurisdiction you are in. These require a license in the U.S..
Each country will usually have their own version of the FCC, and has their own band plans for UHF. So in one country you might not need a license, but another may require as license on a different frequency.
How do you update the channels with the computer?
Would these work well for security operations?
I am on a church security team, and we can't hear much with our current radios. Even with earbuds in and at full volume.
We need something inexpensive, can use standard plug in earbuds, and be loud enough to hear during music, or loud public gatherings.
Thanks!
These are usually Part 90 radios, if the FCC has had them tested, so a business license is required. Since ham's don't need Part 97 certification, they can pretty much use any radios on ham frequencies.
@@RKingis OK but as far as performance, how do they work for such a situation? My dad is also security for a church and needs about six of these but I’ve seen comments saying they don’t work well unless far apart from each other. He needs good inexpensive radios that won’t start screeching when they’re close.
I have 2 sets of 3. on set 1 channel 17 is 6500 frequency. set 2 channel 17 is 7000. so set 1 and set 2 cannot communicate. How do I fix this.
Second question. I was told and bought these specifically because I was told I DID NOT need a license. I am seeing comments here saying you do. Don't just reply yes you do or no you don't. Explain how I know weather a radio requires it please.
How can the dpl be deactivated so these can be used with other brands on the same frequency?
I saw this listed on Amazon and I wasn't able to find any warnings that FCC license is required. On the Amazon listing, there a multiple videos of people demonstrating this radio for their personal use without using their HAM radio code. I'm suspecting people are buying and using this radio not knowing that a license is required
correct I specifically bought these because it was my impression that you did not. How are you able to tell weather a radio does/ does not require a license.
I cannot figure out the scan. We are picking up a couple other plants comm's. It is scanning??
Can’t get the software to open on my computer. Any help would be appreciated!
I have a question. I work at a school and we ordered two different shipments of these radios. They have the same frequencies....and we want to use them all together. How do we pair them so that we can use them all together?
You should be able to get the CPS from the vender, and program then under the school's licensed frequencies.
Suppose I just want to talk car to car, hiking, go to the mall, bike riding, do you need a license using these radios?
can you program the 'tone' on these? Im trying to use a repeater nearby and not sure how to set my unit up. Thanks!
Can you send the link for the programming
Where can I learn more about using this for a church setting? What type of license do I need? and if I use this for personal / family usage, would it be a different license?
You’re looking for what I need also. The group channel is what may be useful.
We had considered MURS band wouxon 805M, however, one “scenario event” of a classroom trying to reach security team would require channel change and leadership feels a group button or two channel monitoring would be better? I’m not sure yet. License is $30 for 10 years and no testing required just sending $. Seems simple enough that way.
Great video. I'm subbing
If i purchase lets say 6 of these can they be used like regular two way or do they need programed to the same channel sorry im a newbie
WHAT DOES THE "POWER" PASSWORD DO, WHY IS IT LOCKED?
Love your review, and your channel. Thanks for doing it. I have a comment/question regarding the FPCN30A. I ordered a set of two from Amazon, and found that they frequently cut off the first word of a transmission. I sent them back for replacement, and found that the replacement set do the same thing. Is there a fix or adjustment for this issue? Perhaps a squelch adjustment? (Not a radio expert by any means.... ).
Thanks for your help!
This is actually a common phenomenon when you are using CTCSS tones on both transmit and receive. the tone code helps reduce interference and intermittent radio noise. But because it is a sub-audible tone that is transmitted along with your voice transmission, there can be a momentary delay as the receiving radio latches onto the code and opens up the squelch. Good radio practice is to wait 1/2 second when you press the PTT button in order to for the tone squelch to open up.
A second option would be to use DCS or digital coded squelch. I believe the Samcoms do have that option. DCS latches and opens the squelch much faster than CTCSS and you won't run the risk of cutting off the first word of the transmission.
I hope you found this helpful.
@@KB9VBRAntennas Thanks for the info. I assume I can change the squelch setting using the windows app? Also if I do switch to another method of squelch I'll is there a downside to that? Thanks
Yes, you can change the squelch settings in the programming tool. The only downside is if you are mixing different brands of radios. CTCSS is common, but not every brand supports DCS.
@@KB9VBRAntennas You should get a commission from Samcom,. I've been communicating with them about this for the better part of a year with no answer other than sending me new radios. Well done and thanks!
Don't forget, most radios have a sleeping circuit to extend your battery.
I just bought these Radios have am having issues finding the progroaming software. I bought the program cord but no luck on software, can you help please.
I did a little sleuthing and found this link for software on their website. www.sanconsales.com/download.html
Can I upset like repeater whit this radios and how ?
Can I program my own licensed frequency into the radio? Not the pre-programmed stuff? 461-465 Mhz freq range.???? I have tried using the FPP without any luck. Can it be modified without software and cable?
Part 90 radios are not allowed to have frequency front panel programming, so you would need the CPS.
Is it possible to reset these. I am unable to get my group channel back. My TX and RX numbers are off?
I believe if you hold the button just below the PTT button. While the radio is off hold that button in then turn your radio on with the button still pushed in. That will take you to the different frequencies then do it again and it should set you right back to default
Did they have permission to use this vid on Facebook?
How you get the programming software?
To bad it's not dual band...deal breaker for me.
Nice review
Just picked up a new one right out of the box, on eBay for $40
Can I use these legally without a permit? I think 5 watt handheld uhf is legal under the FCC as long as it’s just handheld
No you wouldn't be able to. They aren't type accepted for FRS as they have a removable antenna and the FRS band has a 2 watt limit. The GMRS band requires a license.
KB9VBR Antennas so if I get the license that’s like $70 for 10 years I could use these? Also thanks for the fast response!
KB9VBR Antennas I work on a ship about 240m long and we need two way radios capable of going through the steel bulkheads. We don’t know much about this but our watch standers already have some Harris p7100s, I was looking at these samcoms but I didn’t know what kind of license I would need
@@KB9VBRAntennas so as long as I have my gmrs license I can use the pre loaded channels as long as i use my call sign???
@@mackspubliclandhuntingoutd6715 we use this for our business, what license?! Haha
Can this radio be use with a Bluetooth earpiece?
There is no built in bluetooth functionality, so you would have to use an externally connected bluetooth device. I don't have any knowledge on a compatible device.
How can i use the default channel 1 ? Or is that another model ?
You use the CPS to setup your licenced frequencies.
u did not mention an F-C-C license do u need 1
0:55
@@OGBlackBridge?
How is the sound quality?
Surpisingly good. Audio is loud and clear.
No alpha tags is a deal breaker for me.
I wish to this model has 3000 mah battery like the previous model has.
Can someone tell me how to turn it off
Turn the right most knob all the way counter clockwise
do i need a licesnce to talk?
Yes! Amateur radio, GMRS, or Part 90 business license.
The poor mans DTR 700
DTR/DLR are 900mgz FHSS, and 1watt.