PMR446 (Personal Mobile Radio, 446
MHz) is a radio frequency part of the UHF range
that is open without licensing for personal usage
in most countries of the European Union. It has
roughly the same use as FRS or GMRS in the United
States and Canada. Depending on surrounding terrain
range can vary from a few hundred meters (in a city)
to a few kilometers (flat countryside). PMR446 is
primarily used in consumer-grade walkie-talkies
similar to those used for FRS/GMRS in the United
States and Canada.
PMR446 usage is not generally legal in the United
States; however, the standard allocation is within
the range of the 420-450mHz band allocated to US
amateur radio operators and in practice could be
used under FCC amateur regulations. The conflicting
allocations have been something of a nuisance to
US amateur operators due to use of the gear by European
tourists in the US.
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