UHF radio’s or walkie talkies as most Aussies like to call them are quite affordable and a must have for any motorhomer or caravanner. It can also be a marriage saver when trying to reverse your caravan or motorhome in a caravan park. No more screaming match just a simple chat over the air waves to help direct your significant other into the correct parking location. They are also great to keep track of your kids around the camp ground, it gives them a little independence but they know that mum, dad, grandpa or grandma are close by should they need to get in contact. Or if you intend to go bush walking by yourself in the event of an accident it allows you to get in contact with someone near by for assistance.
UHF radio is your primary vehicle to vehicle short-range communication device. A UHF allows contact with nearby travellers, truckies, stations, miners or garages for assistance. The range is dominantly line-of-sight using Simplex mode (Single channel). Using repeaters to extend the signal in Duplex mode (relayed over two channels) can cover 100+km, though repeaters are not likely available in many outback regions, so can’t be relied upon for extending range.
There is some etiquette to be had when using UHF radio’s. Remember that your conversation is NOT PRIVATE as kids can listen in, make sure you keep the language clean. Kids learn new words at an alarming rate. They also choose the most inappropriate time to repeat them.
When travelling in rural areas, be considerate of those on farm’s who rely on UHF in many instances as the sole reliable tool for communication.
While nobody has the right to exclusivity on a public channel, it’s not that hard an ask to switch channels when travelling if the frequency is in use, or to use a convoy channel.
Basic UHF use:
- Switch on your radio and find a channel free of activity.
- For basic close range use – your radio needs only be in simplex mode. Using duplex mode will allow you to utilise local repeater channels. These privately owned repeaters are free to use – and are placed to massively boost transmission range. Check local sources to determine these channels – and avoid using them unless you need to; and are aware of their rules and courtesies.
- Before transmitting your message; consider what you are going to say. Keep the message to the point, and easily understood. Remember that UHF is open airwaves, where anybody can listen or join in on any channel – so never transmit confidential information.
- You may wish to open with a radio check. Hold the transmit button on the side of your radio or handpiece, position the microphone 5 to 10 centimetres from your face; and wait one second before beginning your transmission. This will avoid your voice being cut off.
- Upon finishing your message, release the transmit button. Unlike telephone communication, users can’t transmit simultaneously – so always wait for others to finish their message before replying.
