What you'll need
- Baofeng radio, chargedSee it on Amazon · ~$30
- Programming cable (optional but easiest)See it on Amazon · ~$15
- Free CHIRP software on a computer
- Your family radio plan
- 1
Charge it and screw on the antenna
Charge the battery fully in the cradle. Screw the antenna on snug. Never press the talk button without the antenna on: it can damage the radio.
- 2
Turn it on
Turn the knob on top clockwise until it clicks. The same knob is the volume.
- 3
Read the screen
There are two lines, A on top and B on the bottom. A small arrow shows which one you're using. Press the A/B button to switch. Too confusing? Turn off dual watch: press MENU, scroll with the arrows to TDR, set it to OFF, then press MENU to save and EXIT.
- 4
Know the two modes
The orange VFO/MR button switches between frequency mode (you see numbers like 146.520 and can type any frequency) and channel mode (you see saved channel numbers). Use frequency mode to start.
- 5
Listen to the weather first
In frequency mode, type your local NOAA weather frequency with the keypad, like 1 6 2 5 5 0. You'll hear the weather broadcast. It's legal for anyone and a great first win.
- 6
Cut the static
Press MENU, find SQL (squelch), set it to 3–5, press MENU to save, then EXIT. Now it stays quiet until someone actually talks.
- 7
Talk (once you're licensed)
Hold the big button on the left side (PTT), wait one second, then talk with the radio a couple of inches from your mouth. Say your call sign. Let go to listen. Only one person can talk at a time.
- 8
Lock the keypad
Hold the # key until a lock symbol appears so pocket bumps don't change your channel. Hold # again to unlock.
- 9
Save your channels the easy way
Typing channels in by hand is slow. Plug the programming cable into your computer, open the free CHIRP software, and type your family's channels into a simple spreadsheet. Or visit a local ham club: someone will happily help.
- The small top button on the side turns on regular FM radio. Holding it sets off a loud alarm. Press it again to stop.
- The small bottom side button is a flashlight. Holding it opens the squelch so you can hear weak signals.
- Set power to LOW (MENU, then TXP) to save battery for close talking.
- Button layouts change between models. Look at the labels printed on your radio.
- Write your settings on the radio card from your family radio plan and tape it to the back.
- Talking without the antenna on.
- Using a UV-5R on FRS or GMRS family channels. It isn't certified for them.
- Leaving it on all day. Use check-in times and save the battery.
- Buying radios and never practicing.
Radios & staying in touch
Open →Keep goingNavigation & radios
Open →Keep goingFamily radio plan printable
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