The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) is in the 151 – 154 MHz spectrum range. The most common use of MURS spectrum is short-distance, two-way communications using small, portable hand-held devices that function similar to walkie-talkies.
Similar services include General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) and Family Radio Service (FRS).
Background
The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) dates back to 2002 when the FCC changed the service rules for five industrial/business frequencies known as the “color dot” frequencies from Part 90 to Part 95 of the FCC rules.Licensing
The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) is licensed by rule. This means an individual license is not required to operate a MURS device. You can operate a MURS device regardless of your age and for personal or business use so long as you are not a representative of a foreign government.The FCC service rules for the Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) are located in 47 C.F.R. Part 95.
Channels
There are five MURS channels and the channels are either 11.25 kHz or 20.00 kHz each.151.820 MHz (11.25 kHz)
151.880 MHz (11.25 kHz)
151.940 MHz (11.25 kHz)
154.570 MHz (20.00 kHz)
154.600 MHz (20.00 kHz)
Operating a Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) Device
You can operate a MURS device in any place where the FCC regulates radio communications. A MURS device must be certified by the FCC. A certified MURS device has an identifying label placed on it by the manufacturer.None of the MURS channels are assigned for the exclusive use of any system. You must cooperate in the selection and use of the channels in order to make the most effective use of them and to reduce the possibility of interference.
No MURS unit, under any condition of modulation, shall exceed 2 Watts transmitter power output.
The usual range of communications between MURS devices is less than a few miles; connecting the unit to an external antenna can extend the range to ten miles or more. You cannot make telephone calls with a MURS device.
Published: August 04 2011
