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Not to steal thunder or anything from Ham Radio but there is another service that is little known and constantly looked-over. It is GMRS or General Mobile Radio Service. It shares frequencies with FRS (Family Radio Service) but GMRS requires license. There is no test and a 5 year license is available online from the FCC for about 80.00.
Licensed GMRS users are allowed to use up to 50 watts with commercial grade equipement including repeaters. That is a far cry from the GMRS/FRS hybrid radios available all over the place (wally world, sporting goods stores, etc) that claim "15 mile range!" and other similar fantasy hype.
GMRS is starting to get more usage with repeaters popping up in the DFW metroplex as well as Houston and a few other cities and rural areas too.
This is a handy service for families who only need one person to be licensed in order for the entire family to use. Great for the state fair or other activities where you need to keep in touch with others when not everyone is a ham.
If anyone wants more info;
http://www.popularwireless.com/gmrsfaqa.html
http://www.provide.net/~prsg/wi-gmrs.htm
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index. ... ral_mobile