You need the extra power in the walkie talkie so that you can waste time looking for friends to text during a natural disaster. Better get some real survival gear to stay safe. The only disaster this is great for is a cell tower meltdown. Thanks for sharing.
The foundation tech is base on RF. Power Talkie is average equal to a 2 Watt digital walkie talkie with lots of cool features. Please follow us, we will make more cool stuff.
@@powertalkie1352 I ran a test, couldn't get connected between the radios more than a city block apart. I also tested a 900mhz set, I got connected 2 miles in between them. I'll keep the 900mhz units. I replaced the antennas, got much better coverage.
Thanks for the video. Everything you described about these devices tells me one thing - go to Walmart and buy the Motorola walkie talkies. In an urban environment, they work the same.
Those will be FRS radios. They're fine for short distances, around the house, farm, ranch. amusement park, campsite, etc. I wouldn't rely on more than 1/2 -1 mile range with any kind of obstruction. GMRS radios on the other hand have up to 5 watts of power, vs 2 watt max on FRS, removable/upgradeable antennas and can use GMRS repeaters. They're more like super walkie-talkies.
Couple extra features but if you are a bit tech savvy you could use any router in the middle to connect any number of phones via VOIP dialing directly to each other using SIP via IP. Look at AREDN mesh networking. This would likely work much better in my opinion...
Its a cell phone repeater system in your pocket, a good idea as how many people struggle with PTT systems. Is it simplex or duplex. Some radios transmit receive on two different channels. I see this kind of system suitable for emergency services such as those that rely on donations to operate, coastguard RNLI or maybe areas such as here in the UK where cell phone systems are hit and miss. The ability to create a mesh network is also excellent especially if living in a rural area. Place one of these on a pole high up to ensure coverage and chain link these together. Many thanks for sharing.
You should check out the Motorola TalkAbout T800, these are also bluetooth,..connect to your phone as well, text & group messaging , gps location sharing & offline map...water resist, 35 mile..about $89 a pair on eBay
Wilfredo MYOB as with FRS/GRMS, they don’t get much further then line of site, or about a mile to mile and a half.... unless your both on mountain tops with no trees in the way. They use less then 5 watts and run on the uhf band.. hence the short distance.
Basically it's like a HAM radio pre set up to communicate between two HAM's. I bought a Baofeng UV 9R waterproof and Josh's fancy antenna (I won't spill the beans) cause I'm a prepper but I'm learning HAM and it's a lot to learn just for a one time use for emergencies. This is so much easier. I like this idea.
I use FRS radios. CB with big antennas go a long way. If you have fixed locations you can use long range (miles) WiFi links. I do like the mesh feature. Like police radio trunking.
I was sent 2 of these units to test in Canada. The manual and app was confusing and not user friendly. I hope it's been improved. I found it about 90% reliable within a short distance and some messages were lost. The weakness of this is range and the reality you can't download the app when the internet is down so every device you might wish to use it must already download the application. Maybe sometime I'll test the range.
This is in the part of the radio spectrum shared by FRS and GMRS radios, which still does not allow for removable antennas on FRS frequencies. FRS was originally limited to 0.5-watts. Changes in the rules now state that any of the old combo radios transmitting 2-watts or less are now FRS radios instead of being in the GMRS band; however, if the radio has a removable antenna, it would still fall under the GMRS rules and should require a GMRS license to operate due to the added gain you could get from connecting them to better antennas. Unless I am missing something, Eric, these things would probably require licensing and use of call signs. The allowances for transmission of data and position location were also recent additions to both services.
My understanding of the new FCC rules, you can still use older blister pack radios, but now the the FCC is allowing up to two watts of power for FRS there is no mention about having a fixed antenna, I assume it is for only FRS/GMRS blister pack radios, with fixed antenna, you're still regulated to the 0.5 watts of power on FRS.
If a radio has a removable antenna, as the Power Talkies have, Glen is quite correct that they can NOT be permitted to operate as FRS devices. Having a fixed antenna for FRS is required under FCC Part 95 Subpart B 95.587 FRS Additional Requirements (1) The antenna must be a non-removable integral part of the FRS transmitter type. They could possibly be certified for GMRS but a license is needed for the user and I am sure that is not what the designers intended. Here is the FCC certification: fccid.io/2ASMU-PT01. FRS allows up to 2 watts on the 462 main and interstitial channels but remains at 0.5 watts on the 467 interstitials. GMRS has much higher power on most channels. The device does not show how it selects a frequency to transmit on, does it?
No, their website or the Inidiegogo page does not mention any mesh functions. There are confusing graphics that look to imply it, several statements that are close to saying it, but they never say "mesh networking" and if they could they would be saying it nice and clear. (HamRadioConcepts says it above and in the video, but Power Talkie seem to be avoiding saying "Mesh") So it looks like it is Gotenna for Mesh and no voice, these for voice and no mesh, Beartooth ... maybe sometime in the future ... possibly.
Main difference: gotenna is on 900mhz frequency hopping, mesh but no connection for outside antenna. Powertk is on 462mhz, no mesh but has connector for outside antenna to increase range. Both are digital.
Go-tenna has shitty range, and you cannot change/extend the antenna. Last I saw they were VHF, and lower power, so waay further range once you factor in the terrible antenna that’s built in. If they’re 900 mhz, that’s even worse
Cool. The free FireChat App does this without hardware, using BT and WiFi, but albeit with much less range. That is unless you have a larger group and can build out a decent mesh network.
also I think these all use the same channel, the app network likely acts like a switch directing traffic. There may be an inherent limit but these are obviously for neighborhoods, not a whole state or country
It has potential. But you use both the baterry of the radio and the phone. Also you have an encrypted conection between transmitter and radio and turn to unencrypted via rf. But its good to have options.
Reminds me of NBEMS. This would be nice to have when a family member does not know how to operate a radio or has a ham ticket. Thanks for sharing Eric.
Oh, there are so many limitations to be considered. Yes, it’s a battery powered bridge repeater... but look at this from a risk standpoint: you need to regularly ensure the battery is functional; you need to install the app; if it’s available (they absolutely disappear every now and again); oh, and everyone with a handheld will need to do the same: get the app, check periodically for updates, power-cycle the battery. FRS seems a far more reliable and usable service.
OK good product but what is the operating freq on the UHF. Adding a external antenna might be problematic for the frequency being used it may be unlawful to use a higher gain antenna.
I guess the setup download app must be done before the Emergngy event otherwise without power no place to download app if the internet fails, just wondering if they add to the kit some type of micro adapter to hookup to the fone and install the app instead
I like the chain possibility. But truly that's not really enough to keep me from using either gmrs or ham. Just because I wouldn't want to carry my cell phone and a short range walkie-talkie. Now if that would build a solar station kit sort of like repeaters that you can set up cheaply easily plug and Play and forget that would be a better option. But of course they would have to be able of charging while operating. Which there's a lot of tech today that does not accomplish that. But still it's a Nate concept because of the chain link.
Fire Chat app does the same thing, but without having to have the radios. It's a mesh network App itself. Now Those do however have the option of changing out the antenna for increased range. Fire Chat is only cellphone to cellphone. I do like the system.
Stelth Trekker, firechat only works over WiFi or bluetooth, which limits it’s range considerably. With these, at 2 watts out, and a yagi, you’re looking at 10-20 miles easy line of sight. With just a nice roll up folded dipole, 20 ft in the air, you’re looking at 10-15 miles from unit to unit in an urban setting. Firechat doesn’t even come close.
Bluetooth, QR codes, & RF. Cool concept, but let's be honest, normies aren't going to want to use this. They'd rather just find the local tech guy/ham and be dependent on us to buy it, set it up, use it, and fix it when inevitably stops working. And when it does work, they will refuse to use it. This thing is DOA because anyone technical enough to use it would rather just buy a $20 radio and/or get their ham license. Thanks for another video! 73's KD9LJF
Can you put a link in the description because I'm looking for this power talking all over the place and I can't find it thank you and have a blessed and wonderful day
Does it need a license? Amazon specs put it on GMRS primaries @ 2watts which means these seem to fall under the new FRS no-license rules. Also, short data bursts are now allowed which is exactly what these are. I say... these are long over due and might just be a hit because it's coupled with the phone/app. Next move for the FCC is to allow DMR on a portion of the FRS band, like Europe does. Then that would allow text as well.
If they only added a small NAS to store the phone apps, yes you would have to install from untrusted site the product would be more emergency ready as more people could join your network. Just a thought
What frequency do they use? Is it a free frequency or licensed frequency? Just wondering? You mentioned 2watts of power.. so are they using a MUR channel?
Hello. I work in small European company. We have 2 offices and they are in diferent cityes, 100km away eachother. My boss buy us DMR radios because GSM not work there. My question is: Can we connect theese two ofices via internet using something like hot-spot?
I don't know about iOS but in Android you can turn on Airplane Mode and then turn on Wifi and/or Bluetooth. I do it all the time. I use old cell phones with no service as mini tablets. By turning on Airplane Mode it saves some battery, and prevents the phone from causing RFI on computers and speakers as it's still connecting to cell towers. Then you can turn on Wifi to access the internet through your wireless router, or turn on Bluetooth to play music through a speaker. Cell phones with no cellular account still search for cellular connections, and are able to dial 911 (and 611 I think) even without a valid account. So never just throw away old cell phones, instead you can donate them to elderly so they can dial 911 in an emergency.
@@powertalkie1352 After reading the comments of many viewers, I am not convinced that this is a concept that really makes sense or is truly practical. In an apocolyptic or a basic grid down, scenario, etc., I wonder about this pinging biz? Maybe 2 tin cans and plenty of string in between! Smoke signals and Morse code? Let's get down to brass tacks. Real scenarios in which a desperation for comms between whomever, is seemingly essential, is there an outside faction, whose objective is to identify and to squash all identified attempts of communication. Where are we really trying to go and get to, with ideas, presented in this video? Let's really get thorough with all of this comm. tech. We see "HAM" radio comm. actually being outlawed, at this very moment in November of 2019. An agenda coming from what source, which says in essence " we must not allow them access to the "airwaves", squash all means and methods of communication, that's an ORDER"! Do you see where I am going ?
Hi, Dave, Thanks for your comment. Firstly, communication perhaps matters most in our life, Is it text and voice convey more accurate information than the smoke signals? We'd rather consider it a fire hydrant, everyone should prepare it in the house, who knows what will happen next? We don't deny the limitation of this product. Power Talkie is, essentially base on the walkie talkie technology. It has some problems the same with walkie talkie, such as shorter distance under obstructing. What we did is improving the voice clearness and adding more fun functions based on new technology. We are also in the progress of improving this product. We are going to have Power Talkie Pro soon. Please follow us to get to the newest release. We are delighted to hear your suggestions, please tell us more about your thoughts about our products.
@@powertalkie1352 - I will try to boil it down. Why do we need hand held comm. tech at all? The "overlords" giveth and the "overlords" taketh away, at their will and behest. The overlords allow rapid advancement in cell phone/"smart" phone tech. The overlords allow us this internet "thing", they allow utoob to exist, meanwhile the overlords manipulate and modify all permitted platforms as they mold each human creature to the objectives of their deviant demonic agendas. The "overlords" at a moments notice, can order the flipping of a switch, and instantly rob humanity of all it's means and methods of comm. Do we deceive our ownselves, that we are in some way prepping by possessing comm. tools? Is their a demon somewhere laughing, in evil intonations, looking upon all humanity as a "joke"? "Those stupid, stupid humans with their walkie talkies, ha ha ha, hee, hee, hee"! I guess I failed. I didn't "boil it down".
jojojeep1 get the baofeng bf-f8hp great radios and in case of a emergency and power down you have a two option one frs and gmrs which is legal to use as long as you set your radio properly or option 2 set all repairs around your area so you can use it anywhere you want and it’s completely legal in case of catastrophe any kind of emergency that there is no contact with the family or other people. At that time you don’t need envy licence at all
Steve Terry yea that’s sound like a good idea to have it but there is a really small percentage of people who have that there is at least 60 % of people who have walkie-talkies and you can get in contact with anyone who who is on the same frequency as long you find the transmitting code. But after all never enough those electrons you newer know wen you will need it.
MTBC-TRAILS MIHAJLOVIC I already have one, with three extra batteries the extra long batteries, and I also have the DB 2 roll up Antenna, I live in such a good neighborhood on Long Island as far as reaching repeaters from my bedroom with the stock Whip I could reach 16 maybe 17 repeaters crystal clear so if the shit hits the fan you know out of 17 repeaters somebody’s going to have a solar system with batteries
jojojeep1 I was looking to purchase extra large battery’s for my baofeng but I really don’t know which one to get it there is so Many of them that they are fake on amazon. Do you have Any recommendation of the seller. Thank
MTBC-TRAILS MIHAJLOVIC I have to think I really forgot to be honest with you I know I had the same worries when I bought mine but I got the real ones funny thing is I never use them I wait every 2 to 3 months I drain them and recharge them I’ve had them about a year
A very small point. How many wireless routers run off a re-chargeable battery, mesh, allow external antennas, and run in the UHF band at 2 watts? Answer: none.
This could be useful once it becomes more wide spread and more apps and ways to use it come out. Raspberry pi and a few hacks and this could be programmed for repeaters or satellite links. Maybe
If you're serious about surviving, giving up your 1st world problems and emojis is just common sense. I would care more about linking with others with real radios than an exclusive club of people that own these. If anyone remembers the "Cybiko's" in 2000, they were very similar to how these operate.
I need to know one thing... if walkie talkies have a range of 1-2miles then howcome a phone (smaller and less powerful) can communicate with a BST tower 10miles away?
Any transceiver that uses a repeater, such as a cellphone, is able to reach and receive longer distances due to the tower having significant height and allowing mostly line of sight communications. On the ground, at perhaps 5 or 6 feet, the earth's curvature and other obstructions limit communications distance. However, an HT (Handie Talkie) at a high elevation, such as on a high hill can reach much farther away to similar units and even further if both units are on high locations. That is how the companies that make FRS units can make the claim of many miles of distance.
My son recently was breaking down a trailer and found the following piece of equipment. How does that Cobra Walker Talkie compare to the kind of technology of Power Talkie and or GoTenna? trekrtech.com/products/copy-of-cobra-acxt1035r-flt-camo-37-mile-floating-two-way-radio-walkie-talkie-camo
What is the point? Just use a pair of HT, smaller, cheaper, better range, less batteries to charge. Just don't see any application where these would be better than the HT.
i had setup a mesh network in my area with friends before. we all connected sharing internet if one internet ever goes down. i thought this was cool too. mesh of phone network.
Interesting concept, although for some reason not available on Amazon right now. That brings up a question: Does this depend upon the company infrastructure to work? What if you have a lot of people with these devices in your personal network, and the company goes away?
I think these are classified as GMRS and would require a license regardless of the fact that the antenna is removable. I did a search for FCC FRS rules and it seems that the frequencies used by these radios classify them as GMRS although I could be wrong as the wording is a bit confusing. Here is an excerpt from the rules "However, if the device exceeds the limits under the “Data” tab or includes any of the following channels (467.5500, 467.5750, 467.6000, 467.6250, 467.6500, 467.6750, 467.7000, and 467.7250 MHz), then it is a GMRS device and an individual FCC license is needed to operate the device other than on the channels and with the bandwidth and power limits shown under the “Data” tab." The data tab list the power limitations for FRS which is 2 watts. Here is a link to the entire rule text in case someone smarter than me wants to go read it and provide any clarifications. www.fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-divisions/mobility-division/family-radio-service-frs. EDIT forgot to mention that these radios operate on the frequencies listed in the quote above. Edit2 I keep re-reading this and now I've convinced myself that I am probably wrong. Hopefully someone smarter than me can weigh in and help answer the question.
Would be interesting to know what the method of modulation is. Clearly these are on FRS/GMRS frequencies, but is the mode digital, analog AFSK or what? Digital will give increased range. The fact that these have non-fixed antennas makes me think that you need a GMRS license ($85), or if they are not type accepted, may be illegal. Part 95 rules change: www.buytwowayradios.com/blog/2017/04/fcc_reforms_part_95_rules_for_personal_radio_services.html
As soon as I took them out of the box, I ran a test and got a range of less than 1/2km. So I changed the antennas and improved 100%. Not better than my gotennas on 900mhz with internal antennas at 1watt. I don't like the app, when you get a msg it doesn't notify you, the seller said its a glitch on the software.
When do you plan to do video on real world range test ? Really want a set but would like to see a realistic range test and maybe battery life test . Thank you for this video
@@mike330i just get a normal two way radio. The only problem with two way radios is you can only talk to each other no texting but most Cruise lines have a onboard texting app free of charge. Meaning with that app you could text anybody onboard the ship.
Max Murphy phone gets gps coordinates (just a set of numbers), phone sends it through Bluetooth, power walkie sends it to other power walkies over rf. There you go...
Did some digging and these do not meet the requirements of part 95 operation in the U.S. Number 1 issue, detachable antenna, 2 I'd wager that when you send voice via them the transmission length will exceed 1 second which is also a limitation. The "certifying" lab blatantly lies in the paperwork they submitted to the FCC. The compliance report states the antenna is not user removable but photos show it removed and even the user manual shows installing the antenna. Guess the FCC is asleep at the switch, just pay your application fees and move along.
There where 800 and 900 mhz radios that you could send text on. I do not know what happend to them. I saw them about 7 or 8 years ago. Online. I can bo longer find them. And I also remember they where encrypted field programmable and had a detachable antenna and some even came with crossband repeat. They where from china. And one I remember had an option to hook up a garmen gps unit to it. This was before baofeng and pushing.
So what happens when the comms go down and you only have the required app on one phone? Should have been programmed with a base app that can be installed via bluetooth and then updated to the highest version on the mesh network.
Go Michele... cheers interesting concept. I'm curious, how these pwrtalkies work in large groups, whats the maximum number of users? also the way the device provides extend range to others it's not clear to me...
Mode of emission 111KOF1D: Modulation Type: [F] Angle-modulated, straight FM Modulation Nature: [1] Digital, on-off or quantized, no modulation Information Type: [D] Data, telemetry, telecommand
Very useful in an emergency no matter what frequencies it works on!
You need the extra power in the walkie talkie so that you can waste time looking for friends to text during a natural disaster. Better get some real survival gear to stay safe. The only disaster this is great for is a cell tower meltdown. Thanks for sharing.
I’m curious how these would work in poor terrain where line of sight may not be consistent.
Power antenna 📶 😂
The foundation tech is base on RF. Power Talkie is average equal to a 2 Watt digital walkie talkie with lots of cool features. Please follow us, we will make more cool stuff.
@@powertalkie1352 I ran a test, couldn't get connected between the radios more than a city block apart. I also tested a 900mhz set, I got connected
2 miles in between them. I'll keep the 900mhz units. I replaced the antennas, got much better coverage.
They'd work like most radios with poor line of sight, crappy.
Interesting. Do a point to point with a pair of beams and see what range you can get.
Thanks for the video. Everything you described about these devices tells me one thing - go to Walmart and buy the Motorola walkie talkies. In an urban environment, they work the same.
Those will be FRS radios. They're fine for short distances, around the house, farm, ranch. amusement park, campsite, etc. I wouldn't rely on more than 1/2 -1 mile range with any kind of obstruction. GMRS radios on the other hand have up to 5 watts of power, vs 2 watt max on FRS, removable/upgradeable antennas and can use GMRS repeaters. They're more like super walkie-talkies.
Couple extra features but if you are a bit tech savvy you could use any router in the middle to connect any number of phones via VOIP dialing directly to each other using SIP via IP.
Look at AREDN mesh networking. This would likely work much better in my opinion...
Its a cell phone repeater system in your pocket, a good idea as how many people struggle with PTT systems. Is it simplex or duplex. Some radios transmit receive on two different channels. I see this kind of system suitable for emergency services such as those that rely on donations to operate, coastguard RNLI or maybe areas such as here in the UK where cell phone systems are hit and miss. The ability to create a mesh network is also excellent especially if living in a rural area. Place one of these on a pole high up to ensure coverage and chain link these together. Many thanks for sharing.
You should check out the Motorola TalkAbout T800, these are also bluetooth,..connect to your phone as well, text & group messaging , gps location sharing & offline map...water resist, 35 mile..about $89 a pair on eBay
Wilfredo MYOB as with FRS/GRMS, they don’t get much further then line of site, or about a mile to mile and a half.... unless your both on mountain tops with no trees in the way. They use less then 5 watts and run on the uhf band.. hence the short distance.
No mesh ability
Basically it's like a HAM radio pre set up to communicate between two HAM's. I bought a Baofeng UV 9R waterproof and Josh's fancy antenna (I won't spill the beans) cause I'm a prepper but I'm learning HAM and it's a lot to learn just for a one time use for emergencies. This is so much easier. I like this idea.
Interesting application for wilderness search & rescue. Thank you!
I use FRS radios. CB with big antennas go a long way. If you have fixed locations you can use long range (miles) WiFi links. I do like the mesh feature. Like police radio trunking.
Thank you for assisting with the test Michelle ..!!
I was sent 2 of these units to test in Canada. The manual and app was confusing and not user friendly. I hope it's been improved. I found it about 90% reliable within a short distance and some messages were lost. The weakness of this is range and the reality you can't download the app when the internet is down so every device you might wish to use it must already download the application. Maybe sometime I'll test the range.
This is in the part of the radio spectrum shared by FRS and GMRS radios, which still does not allow for removable antennas on FRS frequencies. FRS was originally limited to 0.5-watts. Changes in the rules now state that any of the old combo radios transmitting 2-watts or less are now FRS radios instead of being in the GMRS band; however, if the radio has a removable antenna, it would still fall under the GMRS rules and should require a GMRS license to operate due to the added gain you could get from connecting them to better antennas. Unless I am missing something, Eric, these things would probably require licensing and use of call signs. The allowances for transmission of data and position location were also recent additions to both services.
My understanding of the new FCC rules, you can still use older blister pack radios, but now the the FCC is allowing up to two watts of power for FRS there is no mention about having a fixed antenna, I assume it is for only FRS/GMRS blister pack radios, with fixed antenna, you're still regulated to the 0.5 watts of power on FRS.
If a radio has a removable antenna, as the Power Talkies have, Glen is quite correct that they can NOT be permitted to operate as FRS devices. Having a fixed antenna for FRS is required under FCC Part 95 Subpart B 95.587 FRS Additional Requirements (1) The antenna must be a non-removable integral part of the FRS transmitter type.
They could possibly be certified for GMRS but a license is needed for the user and I am sure that is not what the designers intended. Here is the FCC certification: fccid.io/2ASMU-PT01.
FRS allows up to 2 watts on the 462 main and interstitial channels but remains at 0.5 watts on the 467 interstitials. GMRS has much higher power on most channels. The device does not show how it selects a frequency to transmit on, does it?
This is cool, also you can build your own radio tower
Someone invented the GoTenna... again.
Would like to know the difference.
No, their website or the Inidiegogo page does not mention any mesh functions. There are confusing graphics that look to imply it, several statements that are close to saying it, but they never say "mesh networking" and if they could they would be saying it nice and clear. (HamRadioConcepts says it above and in the video, but Power Talkie seem to be avoiding saying "Mesh")
So it looks like it is Gotenna for Mesh and no voice, these for voice and no mesh, Beartooth ... maybe sometime in the future ... possibly.
Main difference: gotenna is on 900mhz frequency hopping, mesh but no connection for outside antenna. Powertk is on 462mhz, no mesh but has connector for outside antenna to increase range. Both are digital.
@@carlossantini3605 says mesh on their amazon description
Go-tenna has shitty range, and you cannot change/extend the antenna. Last I saw they were VHF, and lower power, so waay further range once you factor in the terrible antenna that’s built in. If they’re 900 mhz, that’s even worse
10-4 toodoloo 😁. Interesting project for disaster areas that have no radio training.
Go Michelle ..!.!.!
Cool. The free FireChat App does this without hardware, using BT and WiFi, but albeit with much less range. That is unless you have a larger group and can build out a decent mesh network.
If everyone had one, the uhf system would get overloaded
Not if they only used it in times of emergency
also I think these all use the same channel, the app network likely acts like a switch directing traffic. There may be an inherent limit but these are obviously for neighborhoods, not a whole state or country
When Michelle said 10-4, I did laugh. Way to go Michelle.
Yeah that was amusing, her replying 10-4 woohoo.
It has potential. But you use both the baterry of the radio and the phone. Also you have an encrypted conection between transmitter and radio and turn to unencrypted via rf. But its good to have options.
Reminds me of NBEMS. This would be nice to have when a family member does not know how to operate a radio or has a ham ticket. Thanks for sharing Eric.
Chirping a baofeng may be better route.
Cool radios. Great idea.
Wonder if a improved antenna could be used for these?
Oh, there are so many limitations to be considered. Yes, it’s a battery powered bridge repeater... but look at this from a risk standpoint: you need to regularly ensure the battery is functional; you need to install the app; if it’s available (they absolutely disappear every now and again); oh, and everyone with a handheld will need to do the same: get the app, check periodically for updates, power-cycle the battery. FRS seems a far more reliable and usable service.
OK good product but what is the operating freq on the UHF.
Adding a external antenna might be problematic for the frequency being used it may be unlawful to use a higher gain antenna.
I guess the setup download app must be done before the Emergngy event otherwise without power no place to download app if the internet fails, just wondering if they add to the kit some type of micro adapter to hookup to the fone and install the app instead
I like the chain possibility. But truly that's not really enough to keep me from using either gmrs or ham. Just because I wouldn't want to carry my cell phone and a short range walkie-talkie. Now if that would build a solar station kit sort of like repeaters that you can set up cheaply easily plug and Play and forget that would be a better option. But of course they would have to be able of charging while operating. Which there's a lot of tech today that does not accomplish that. But still it's a Nate concept because of the chain link.
Is the transmission digital encrypted? I’m curious if a digital scanner can pick a conversation up.
Fire Chat app does the same thing, but without having to have the radios.
It's a mesh network App itself. Now Those do however have the option of changing out the antenna for increased range. Fire Chat is only cellphone to cellphone. I do like the system.
Stelth Trekker, firechat only works over WiFi or bluetooth, which limits it’s range considerably. With these, at 2 watts out, and a yagi, you’re looking at 10-20 miles easy line of sight. With just a nice roll up folded dipole, 20 ft in the air, you’re looking at 10-15 miles from unit to unit in an urban setting. Firechat doesn’t even come close.
Perhaps run them through a cross band repeater setup?
BigIron 06 exactly a uhf amplifier would be good too
Bluetooth, QR codes, & RF. Cool concept, but let's be honest, normies aren't going to want to use this. They'd rather just find the local tech guy/ham and be dependent on us to buy it, set it up, use it, and fix it when inevitably stops working. And when it does work, they will refuse to use it. This thing is DOA because anyone technical enough to use it would rather just buy a $20 radio and/or get their ham license.
Thanks for another video! 73's KD9LJF
Can you put a link in the description because I'm looking for this power talking all over the place and I can't find it thank you and have a blessed and wonderful day
Me : Hello sweetheart.
Crush : Wow
😂
Does it need a license? Amazon specs put it on GMRS primaries @ 2watts which means these seem to fall under the new FRS no-license rules. Also, short data bursts are now allowed which is exactly what these are. I say... these are long over due and might just be a hit because it's coupled with the phone/app.
Next move for the FCC is to allow DMR on a portion of the FRS band, like Europe does. Then that would allow text as well.
If they only added a small NAS to store the phone apps, yes you would have to install from untrusted site the product would be more emergency ready as more people could join your network. Just a thought
What frequency do they use? Is it a free frequency or licensed frequency? Just wondering? You mentioned 2watts of power.. so are they using a MUR channel?
Hello. I work in small European company. We have 2 offices and they are in diferent cityes, 100km away eachother. My boss buy us DMR radios because GSM not work there. My question is: Can we connect theese two ofices via internet using something like hot-spot?
Sounds like a great idea!
Now have to find them in Germany and a legal way to use them 🤔👍
We have the version for Europe,the frequency for free use is 446.006252-446.09375Mhz
Runs on uhf band FRS looks like on amazon. So in that case get a uhf antenna outside that would work great
Is there a baofeng equivalent for this? Power talkie not available in my country
Brilliant idea, if it works as advertised.
I don't know about iOS but in Android you can turn on Airplane Mode and then turn on Wifi and/or Bluetooth. I do it all the time. I use old cell phones with no service as mini tablets. By turning on Airplane Mode it saves some battery, and prevents the phone from causing RFI on computers and speakers as it's still connecting to cell towers. Then you can turn on Wifi to access the internet through your wireless router, or turn on Bluetooth to play music through a speaker.
Cell phones with no cellular account still search for cellular connections, and are able to dial 911 (and 611 I think) even without a valid account. So never just throw away old cell phones, instead you can donate them to elderly so they can dial 911 in an emergency.
I like it Eric, however my personal preference would be a self contained unit/radio with gps.
Any updates on this, now only $59 for two on Amazon?! Also wondering about the alternative antenna you would recommend for longer range.
I prefer Gotenna because of the mesh network aspect
I would have to spray paint over that orange with camo colors, first and foremost.
That's a great idea! Thanks, Dave.
@@powertalkie1352 After reading the comments of many viewers, I am not convinced that this is a concept that really makes sense or is truly
practical. In an apocolyptic or a basic grid down, scenario, etc., I wonder about this
pinging biz? Maybe 2 tin cans and plenty of string in between! Smoke signals and Morse code? Let's get down to brass tacks. Real scenarios in which a desperation for comms between whomever, is seemingly essential, is there an outside faction, whose objective is to identify and to squash all identified attempts of communication. Where are we really trying to go and get to, with ideas, presented in this video? Let's really get thorough with all of this comm. tech. We see "HAM" radio comm. actually being outlawed,
at this very moment in November of 2019.
An agenda coming from what source, which says in essence " we must not allow them access to the "airwaves", squash all means and methods of communication, that's an ORDER"! Do you see where I am going ?
Hi, Dave, Thanks for your comment. Firstly, communication perhaps matters most in our life, Is it text and voice convey more accurate information than the smoke signals? We'd rather consider it a fire hydrant, everyone should prepare it in the house, who knows what will happen next? We don't deny the limitation of this product. Power Talkie is, essentially base on the walkie talkie technology. It has some problems the same with walkie talkie, such as shorter distance under obstructing. What we did is improving the voice clearness and adding more fun functions based on new technology. We are also in the progress of improving this product. We are going to have Power Talkie Pro soon. Please follow us to get to the newest release.
We are delighted to hear your suggestions, please tell us more about your thoughts about our products.
@@powertalkie1352 - I will try to boil it down. Why do we need hand held comm. tech at all? The "overlords" giveth and the "overlords" taketh away, at their will and behest. The overlords allow rapid advancement in cell phone/"smart" phone tech. The overlords allow us this internet "thing", they allow utoob to exist, meanwhile the overlords manipulate and modify all permitted platforms as they mold each human creature to the objectives of their deviant demonic agendas. The "overlords" at a moments notice, can order the flipping of a switch, and instantly rob humanity of all it's means and methods of comm. Do we deceive our ownselves, that we are in some way prepping by possessing comm. tools? Is their a demon somewhere laughing, in evil intonations, looking upon all humanity as a "joke"? "Those stupid, stupid humans with their walkie talkies, ha ha ha, hee, hee, hee"! I guess I failed. I didn't "boil it down".
I will save my money and buy two Bawfangs
jojojeep1 get the baofeng bf-f8hp great radios and in case of a emergency and power down you have a two option one frs and gmrs which is legal to use as long as you set your radio properly or option 2 set all repairs around your area so you can use it anywhere you want and it’s completely legal in case of catastrophe any kind of emergency that there is no contact with the family or other people.
At that time you don’t need envy licence at all
Steve Terry yea that’s sound like a good idea to have it but there is a really small percentage of people who have that there is at least 60 % of people who have walkie-talkies and you can get in contact with anyone who who is on the same frequency as long you find the transmitting code.
But after all never enough those electrons you newer know wen you will need it.
MTBC-TRAILS MIHAJLOVIC I already have one, with three extra batteries the extra long batteries, and I also have the DB 2 roll up Antenna, I live in such a good neighborhood on Long Island as far as reaching repeaters from my bedroom with the stock Whip I could reach 16 maybe 17 repeaters crystal clear so if the shit hits the fan you know out of 17 repeaters somebody’s going to have a solar system with batteries
jojojeep1 I was looking to purchase extra large battery’s for my baofeng but I really don’t know which one to get it there is so Many of them that they are fake on amazon. Do you have Any recommendation of the seller. Thank
MTBC-TRAILS MIHAJLOVIC I have to think I really forgot to be honest with you I know I had the same worries when I bought mine but I got the real ones funny thing is I never use them I wait every 2 to 3 months I drain them and recharge them I’ve had them about a year
Why not just use pmr radio and talk, doesn't make sense to have to use a power hungry phone and two portable wireless routers...
Wireless routers do not have 2 miles range. But you have a point
A very small point. How many wireless routers run off a re-chargeable battery, mesh, allow external antennas, and run in the UHF band at 2 watts? Answer: none.
Good video ....more test please👍👍👍
Waaaay better than the stupid go-tenna. You can put some good low loss feed line, and roll up UHF folded dipole, and text for miles on these things.
This could be useful once it becomes more wide spread and more apps and ways to use it come out. Raspberry pi and a few hacks and this could be programmed for repeaters or satellite links. Maybe
If you're serious about surviving, giving up your 1st world problems and emojis is just common sense. I would care more about linking with others with real radios than an exclusive club of people that own these. If anyone remembers the "Cybiko's" in 2000, they were very similar to how these operate.
Very interesting
It would be interesting to know the frequency. Can you check it on a frequency counter on a follow up video?
It's easier to look at the specs (I Googled it) 462.5625MHZ - 462.725MHZ
How many bluethooth connection suport for 1 radio device?
I need to know one thing... if walkie talkies have a range of 1-2miles then howcome a phone (smaller and less powerful) can communicate with a BST tower 10miles away?
Any transceiver that uses a repeater, such as a cellphone, is able to reach and receive longer distances due to the tower having significant height and allowing mostly line of sight communications. On the ground, at perhaps 5 or 6 feet, the earth's curvature and other obstructions limit communications distance. However, an HT (Handie Talkie) at a high elevation, such as on a high hill can reach much farther away to similar units and even further if both units are on high locations. That is how the companies that make FRS units can make the claim of many miles of distance.
Can you send it through a ham antenna?
Because my antenna is 80feet high
👍
I would like to see a comparison between Power Talkie and GoTenna (the latest versions of both).
My son recently was breaking down a trailer and found the following piece of equipment. How does that Cobra Walker Talkie compare to the kind of technology of Power Talkie and or GoTenna?
trekrtech.com/products/copy-of-cobra-acxt1035r-flt-camo-37-mile-floating-two-way-radio-walkie-talkie-camo
What is the point? Just use a pair of HT, smaller, cheaper, better range, less batteries to charge. Just don't see any application where these would be better than the HT.
It's too much of a "gimic" for me. It's hard to beat a couple of reliable, simple HTs.
Baofeng, UV5R'S.
Cool idea I can see it’s uses but how far has the messages went
If one of the phones on the Power Talkie mesh network has internet, will that allow other, out of cell/wi-fi range access to internet? (albeit, slow)
That is awesome. I like how you can send audio
Since you have to screw on an antenna, it leads me to believe that an external yagi could be attached to Increase the range.
Mesh network test with multiple devices would be very interesting
Does it use the 900MHz band? Saw and invested in something similar 2 years ago that utilized 900MHz and it was not to my liking. Thanks for the review
DialM4Microcontrollr 462 MHz GMRS
I've always thought this stuff was cool as hell... If only more people would get on board
i had setup a mesh network in my area with friends before. we all connected sharing internet if one internet ever goes down. i thought this was cool too. mesh of phone network.
Orange is a nice color... ;)
How would you pair these if the internet was already down? -W4SOE
Can more than one phone connect through one of those orange mesh network units to connect with other? Or is it only one phone to one orange unit?
with Bluetooth, it is 1 phone per orange unit
So does she have a pair of Power talk like you?
Or she have your other power talk if so how do you charge both if she has one?
Interesting concept, although for some reason not available on Amazon right now. That brings up a question: Does this depend upon the company infrastructure to work? What if you have a lot of people with these devices in your personal network, and the company goes away?
They do rely on the phone app interface so I suppose if the company folded and app support went away there might be issues.
I think these are classified as GMRS and would require a license regardless of the fact that the antenna is removable. I did a search for FCC FRS rules and it seems that the frequencies used by these radios classify them as GMRS although I could be wrong as the wording is a bit confusing. Here is an excerpt from the rules "However, if the device exceeds the limits under the “Data” tab or includes any of the following channels (467.5500, 467.5750, 467.6000, 467.6250, 467.6500, 467.6750, 467.7000, and 467.7250 MHz), then it is a GMRS device and an individual FCC license is needed to operate the device other than on the channels and with the bandwidth and power limits shown under the “Data” tab." The data tab list the power limitations for FRS which is 2 watts. Here is a link to the entire rule text in case someone smarter than me wants to go read it and provide any clarifications. www.fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-divisions/mobility-division/family-radio-service-frs. EDIT forgot to mention that these radios operate on the frequencies listed in the quote above. Edit2 I keep re-reading this and now I've convinced myself that I am probably wrong. Hopefully someone smarter than me can weigh in and help answer the question.
Or, you could just use a walkie Talkie?! 😔
You could, but you can set it at a high place for better reception. It supports mesh network so a couple of them would increase its range further
Would be interesting to know what the method of modulation is. Clearly these are on FRS/GMRS frequencies, but is the mode digital, analog AFSK or what? Digital will give increased range. The fact that these have non-fixed antennas makes me think that you need a GMRS license ($85), or if they are not type accepted, may be illegal. Part 95 rules change: www.buytwowayradios.com/blog/2017/04/fcc_reforms_part_95_rules_for_personal_radio_services.html
I sincerely love that idea I wish maybe there was others to you can check out
cool three video in one day
Could I extend tang with external antennas?
Do you think someone will make this with gmrs? Now that is can send text and gps. Also more power.
I could use something like this up here in Maine.
Eric, very interesting!
As soon as I took them out of the box, I ran a test and got a range of less than 1/2km. So I changed the antennas and improved 100%. Not better than my gotennas on 900mhz with internal antennas at 1watt. I don't like the app, when you get a msg it doesn't notify you, the seller said its a glitch on the software.
In a real remote area, or real infrastructure failure, there is no substitute for HF.
What is HF please?
Stands for high frequency
When do you plan to do video on real world range test ? Really want a set but would like to see a realistic range test and maybe battery life test . Thank you for this video
I checked the FB page, the regular price is $200, they have a special price for Oct for $99.
Would this work on a cruise ship? Wifi is so expensive on board.
It doesn’t have internet
I believe the range would be very limited on a ship. Plenty of steel doors and walls to obstruct.
@@randygood3399 That's too bad. Still looking for a way to communicate with family members on the ship.
@@mike330i just get a normal two way radio. The only problem with two way radios is you can only talk to each other no texting but most Cruise lines have a onboard texting app free of charge. Meaning with that app you could text anybody onboard the ship.
@@robcantone3258 Thanks for your reply.
Oooo....oooooo.....pick me Eric to test. lol I would like to see this on MURS for a little better range/power.
How does the GPS/Location sharing work if the phone isn’t connected to cellular or WiFi and the transmitters are only connected to each other?
Max Murphy phone gets gps coordinates (just a set of numbers), phone sends it through Bluetooth, power walkie sends it to other power walkies over rf. There you go...
Gps connects to the satellites has nothing to do with your cellular network. You can get gps signal on any phone even without a sim card
Does it work alone without a phone? Just as a walkie?
So the only buyer on Amazon gave this 1 star. Hmmm. Is it worth it? Seems to work, even if a little bit buggy.
Did some digging and these do not meet the requirements of part 95 operation in the U.S. Number 1 issue, detachable antenna, 2 I'd wager that when you send voice via them the transmission length will exceed 1 second which is also a limitation. The "certifying" lab blatantly lies in the paperwork they submitted to the FCC. The compliance report states the antenna is not user removable but photos show it removed and even the user manual shows installing the antenna. Guess the FCC is asleep at the switch, just pay your application fees and move along.
Can you send photos and videos with the Powertalkie
There where 800 and 900 mhz radios that you could send text on. I do not know what happend to them. I saw them about 7 or 8 years ago. Online. I can bo longer find them. And I also remember they where encrypted field programmable and had a detachable antenna and some even came with crossband repeat. They where from china. And one I remember had an option to hook up a garmen gps unit to it. This was before baofeng and pushing.
Hi,hope the product stil on the market, I am sure network company's don't like it ,The link is not active
So what happens when the comms go down and you only have the required app on one phone?
Should have been programmed with a base app that can be installed via bluetooth and then updated to the highest version on the mesh network.
MPIronmanJC Nothing happens. You need to prepare.
Go Michele... cheers
interesting concept. I'm curious, how these pwrtalkies work in large groups, whats the maximum number of users? also the way the device provides extend range to others it's not clear to me...
Police in Russia and British Fire services can use this radio (462/467 MHz).
whats the range on them? lets say i have one unit at work and my wife has the other at home 20 miles away some how i doubt it would beam out that far
Learn To Survive you need line of sight, 20 miles with yagi antennas and no obstruction between them
Mode of emission 111KOF1D: Modulation Type: [F] Angle-modulated, straight FM
Modulation Nature: [1] Digital, on-off or quantized, no modulation
Information Type: [D] Data, telemetry, telecommand
Now home brew an antenna with some significant gain.