Friday Night Net PMR446 coverage experimentation

We were experimenting with a new format of the net for Friday, also listening on PMR channel 08 for a separate PMR446 net. It was a chance for compare the performance between some regular amateur handhelds, a Yaesu FT3D with G7LEE and a Yaesu VX-series handheld with 2E0RWW, both with the stock antenna, and PMR446 rigs (Floureon). It so happened Gary, tactical call GSF was on PMR channel 8 (446.09375MHz) was near the Scout Hut in Benedict Street.

He was received 5/5 by G7LEE whereas 2E0RWW was received 5/9 on 433.475MHz. The performance of the PMR rigs was noticeably poorer than the Yaesu handhelds. That is to be expected since there is a 10:1 price difference reflecting the differing performance ambitions, but it’s the first time I have observed this comparatively in the field. The 1 mile path to GSF in town is shorter and clearer than the 3.5 miles to 2E0RWW/P and the rise of Chalice Hill is some near field clutter to 2E0RWW/P.

I also learned that at the edge of its range PMR446 is extremely sensitive to the position of the transmitter - a horizontal shift of just 10cm can make the difference between only just about readable and clear copy.

The vertical profiles are (PMR08 and then for 70cm)

PMR08 vertical profile

70cm vertical profile

heights are in feet ASL and distances in miles