What common features should we expect as a minimum on all VHF handheld radios?Īll will have a dedicated Ch16 call button, a favourite channel mode, dual- and often triple-watch scanning, and an illuminated display screen.Īll those tested come with detachable belt clips, which not everyone will want. To ensure the correct channels are available it’s important when buying a new radio to check that it’s set to the region in which it’s being operated. Handhelds are built for two main operational areas – international, which includes Europe, and the USA and Canada. Sets comply with international regulations which utilise Ch70 as the distress and safety channel. There are also now three DSC-enabled radios available on the UK leisure market. Thus the latest Icom and Standard Horizon radios have only keypad control.Īnother advantage of the keypad is that you’ll usually find a bar chart indicating the level of volume and squelch that has been set, so at a glance you can see whether the volume is at a reasonable level to receive transmissions. Keypads make waterproofing the radios easier, eliminating the problem of worn O-rings on rotary knobs. More floating and waterproof models are available, and coinciding with this is the replacement of the rotating knob control with keypad operation.
Since our last test of handheld radios there have been some changes to set design. Tester Peter Crump checks out handheld VHF functions
All the models tested here are designed for the leisure market. Prices range from £65 for a basic model to more than £300 for the most expensive. These top-specification sets are available with DSC capability as well – which, coupled with a built-in GPS, will automatically transmit (when activated) an emergency distres ssignal giving your location.īattery technology is developing too, and like smartphones many models now have lithium ion (Li-ion) cells.īearing in mind their emergency role, many are capable of having the battery pack exchanged for ordinary disposable alkaline cells in case the rechargeable batteries get run down.
Radios vary in price from basic models, which are at best splash-proof (IPX4), to floating models capable of taking submersion beyond one metre (IPX8). If you click on this then we may receive a small amount of money from the retailer when you purchase the item. With each product is a ‘Buy Now’ or ‘Best Deal’ link.
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