When we are in hills, mountains or places with poor signal, we usually choose FRS or GMRS two way radio. But once the distance is too far, our communication will be affected. At this time, you can use a repeater to expand the call range of the walkie-talkie.

Retevis repeater - further expand your call range

Today’s article takes a closer look at Retevis’ repeaters: why they are used, how repeaters work, and how repeaters can change the range of your two-way radio.

The best ones currently sold around the world are retevis rt97 repeater and retevis rt97s repeater.

Why use repeaters?

When we first tried to use two way radio, we would choose FRS. At this time, we felt that the talking distance could not meet our needs. We will change to GMRS. When GMRS cannot meet the required distance, we need to set up repeaters to expand the call range.

How does a repeater work?

A repeater charger is a combination radio receiver and radio transmitter. They receive signals and relay them, allowing two-way radios to cover greater distances. This makes the repeater the middleman. ​

The gain and installation height of the antenna also have an impact on the coverage distance. The higher the gain of the antenna and the higher it is mounted, the greater the coverage. Therefore, repeaters are usually installed high up in buildings or hills. (Note: The link feeder between the antenna and the repeater should not exceed 25m)

Repeaters can not only expand the radio range, but also make the call quality of two way radio clearer.

Main features of Retevis repeaters

We take the best-selling RT97 GMRS repeater and RT97S GMRS repeater as examples.

Both repeaters are very suitable for building communication base stations on farms, ranches, forest areas and summer camps.

·10W GMRS duplexer

·16 channel capability

·Broadband/narrowband selection via PC software

·Adjust repeater delay (hang) time via PC software

·Adjust noise squelch level via PC software

·Select high/low transmit power via PC software

·Two charging methods: 12V/24V DC cigarette lighter plug (suitable for solar power) or 120V AC adapter.

·50 CTCSS and 210 DCS privacy codes, independently receive and send privacy tone selection through PC software

·Built into cable TV amplifier box

·LCD display

The difference is that the RT97S has a DB-9 female connector for adding external controllers for linking. And you can access a dedicated microphone to make calls with two way radio.

RT97 GMRS repeaterr and MA09 7.2dBi fiberglass antenna combination

It is the best choice for building home base stations, mobile base stations, portable base stations, outdoor and temporary emergency base stations.

RT97S GMRS repeater and MA09 high gain fiberglass antenna and microphone

The RT97S is built into a cable amplifier box and is durable and waterproof. Ideal for solar repeater sites requiring low power consumption and a small footprint. This repeater is compact and portable, making it ideal for camping trips or emergency preparedness or small cell setups.