RADIO READY: UHF RADIO INSTALLATION

WHAT YOU’LL NEED
UHF radio unit
Antenna and mount
Wiring harness (usually supplied)
Fuses and connectors
Zip ties
Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, etc.)

STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR MOUNTING LOCATION
Find a good spot and mount the main radio unit. The location of choice should be easy to reach to adjust settings from the driver’s seat, and easy enough to route your electrical wires and antenna cable to the unit.

STEP 2: MOUNT THE ANTENNA
The antenna is just as important as the radio. Most people mount it on the bull bar or roof rack for good reception. Attach the antenna base using a bracket, then screw the antenna into place. Run the coaxial cable neatly through the engine bay and into the cabin.

STEP 3: WIRE THE RADIO
Connect the radio’s positive (red) cable directly to the car’s fuse box or battery positive and the black to battery negative or directly to the chassis. Being wired directly to the battery means the UHF unit will receive power continuously, even if the ignition is OFF. If you would prefer the unit switches off when the ignition is off, you can wire the positive to a point in the fuse box that receives power only when the ignition switch is in the “ACCESSORY” or “ON” position.

STEP 4: INSTALL THE HANDSET
Mount the UHF handset somewhere convenient—most radios come with a little bracket for this. Stick it on the dash or console for easy access making sure the cable can reach and does not obstruct the driver from any other vehicle functions.

STEP 5: TEST IT OUT
After connecting the antenna coaxial cable to the main unit, turn it on and test the radio. If everything sounds clear, you’re good to go! Simply zip-tie all the wires and tuck everything away and enjoy!

UHF CHANNELS USES
Channels 1-8 (and 31-38) – Repeater Channels: These are used for extending the range of UHF radios. The corresponding channel pairs (e.g., 1 and 31) are linked so when you transmit on one, it repeats through a repeater on the other, extending coverage.
Channels 5 & 35 – Emergency Use Only: These are designated for emergencies only and should not be used for general conversation. Channel 5 is the primary emergency channel, and Channel 35 is the repeater output.
Channel 11 – Call Channel: Used to establish initial contact before switching to a working channel for conversation. Don’t use it for long conversations.
Channel 18 – Caravan & Camper Convoy Channel: Primarily used by caravans and campers to communicate while traveling in convoy.
Channel 29 – Road Channel (Pacific Highway): Often used by drivers on the Pacific Highway.
Channel 40 – Road Channel (Truckies): Commonly used by truck drivers on highways across Australia for road-related information, hazard warnings, and general communication.
Channels 9, 12-17, 19-21, 24-30, 39: These channels are open for general conversation and casual communication.
Channel 10 – 4WD Clubs & National Parks: Used by 4WD clubs and in national parks. It’s common for off-roaders to use this for group communication.
Channels 41-80: Newer radios might support these additional channels, which mirror the general purpose and allocations of the lower channels (such as repeaters, general communication, and convoy use).

LET’S TALK AERIALS!
Choosing the right UHF antenna (aerial) for your needs involves understanding a few key factors like gain, length, and build quality. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for and how the length can affect performance:
GAIN
Gain is measured in decibels (dBi) and refers to the antenna’s ability to focus radio signals in a particular direction, influencing how far and wide the signals travel.
Low Gain Antennas (2-3 dBi): These antennas have a broad, rounded signal pattern and are ideal for hilly or forested terrain. The signal spreads out evenly in all directions, including vertically, which makes it better for short-range communication in areas with lots of obstacles.
Medium Gain Antennas (4.5-6.5 dBi): These offer a balance between wide coverage and range, making them suitable for general purpose use in varied terrain. They perform well in moderate undulating terrain, providing a good balance of reach and coverage.
High Gain Antennas (7-9 dBi): These antennas provide a more concentrated signal and are ideal for flat, open terrain such as deserts, plains, or highways. They can transmit further, but the signal is more directional and can be blocked by obstacles like hills or dense forests.
The length of a UHF antenna typically correlates with its gain, affecting its signal pattern and range. The shorter the antenna, the lower the gain typically is.

TOPS TIPS – TRANSMITTING
1. Don’t use designated channels for general chit-chat with convoy members. This will block the channel for other users that may have important messages to get out.
2. Instead of talking directly into the microphone talk across the microphone for a clearer transmission.
3. Be sure to hold the microphone’s transmit button down for a second or two before and after you talk to ensure you transmit the whole message.