Radio Oddity GD168 Review
Radioddity GD168 Review: A Comprehensive Look at this Feature-Rich Handheld Radio
The Radioddity GD168 is a highly advanced handheld radio that has been making waves in the amateur radio community. With its impressive feature set and sleek design, it's no wonder why many enthusiasts are eager to get their hands on one. In this review, we'll delve into the details of this radio and explore its capabilities, performance, and overall value.
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Key Features
- Support for DMR, FM, and AM modes
- 4000 channels, with the ability to store up to 100,000 contacts
- High-resolution color display
- Advanced noise reduction and voice enhancement features
- Support for talker alias and DMR ID database
- Satellite communication capabilities with automatic Doppler shift correction
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Performance and Audio Quality
The GD168's audio quality is exceptional, with clear and crisp transmission. The radio's noise reduction features work well to minimize background interference, and the voice enhancement feature helps to bring out the nuances of the speaker's voice.
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Satellite Communication
The GD168 is capable of communicating with satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), using a feature called "Satellite Data Writing". This allows the radio to download and store satellite position data, enabling real-time tracking and communication.
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Software and Programming
The GD168's software is user-friendly and makes it easy to program and customize the radio. The programming software allows users to import and export data, making it simple to manage contacts and channels.
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Talker Alias and DMR ID Database
The GD168 supports talker alias, which allows users to send a preset call sign as part of the data packet when transmitting. Additionally, the radio can load the DMR ID database using software, making it easy to manage and update contact information.
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Conclusion
The Radioddity GD168 is an impressive handheld radio that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Its high-quality audio, advanced noise reduction, and satellite communication features make it an excellent choice for amateur radio enthusiasts. While the software may take some getting used to, the radio's overall performance and value make it well worth considering.
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| Radio Oddity |
A radio drama series that aired from 2014 to 2018 on BBC Radio 4. |
| Background |
The show was created by Julian Simpson and Ian Potter, and produced by Pier Productions. It starred David Tennant as the host, with a supporting cast including Tom Mison, Phoebe Nicholls, and Sarah Hadland. |
| Format |
The show featured a mix of comedy, drama, and science fiction elements, often parodying popular culture and social norms. Each episode typically consisted of three or four standalone stories, linked by a framing device. |
| Reception |
Radioddity received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise for its original writing, clever characterizations, and talented cast. The show developed a dedicated fan base over its four-season run. |
| Radio Oddity GD168 Review |
| Overview |
The Radio Oddity GD168 is a popular handheld two-way radio that offers a range of features and functionalities. In this review, we will delve into the details of this device to help you decide if it's the right choice for your communication needs. |
| Design and Build |
The GD168 has a compact design that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. The device is made of high-quality materials, including a durable plastic casing that can withstand rough handling. The radio also features a large LCD display screen that provides clear visibility, even in low-light conditions. |
| Features |
The GD168 comes with an impressive array of features, including:
- 16 channels with 50 CTCSS tones and 105 DCS codes
- Long-range communication up to 5 miles (8 km)
- Rechargeable battery with up to 20 hours of use
- Vox function for hands-free operation
- Built-in flashlight and SOS alarm
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| Performance |
The GD168 delivers clear and crisp audio, even in noisy environments. The device's range is impressive, allowing for reliable communication over long distances. We were also impressed with the radio's battery life, which easily lasted a full day of use. |
| Ease of Use |
The GD168 is relatively easy to use, even for those who are new to two-way radios. The device features a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate the various menus and settings. |
| Conclusion |
Overall, we were impressed with the Radio Oddity GD168's performance and range of features. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as a relatively short antenna, this device is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable handheld two-way radio. |
| Rating |
4.5/5 stars |
| Recommendation: |
| The Radio Oddity GD168 is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and anyone looking for a reliable handheld two-way radio. We highly recommend this device to anyone in the market for a high-quality two-way radio. |
| Q1: What is the Radio Oddity GD168? |
The Radio Oddity GD168 is a handheld, dual-band two-way radio designed for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders. |
| Q2: What frequency range does the GD168 operate on? |
The GD168 operates on VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-520 MHz) frequencies, allowing for communication with a wide range of devices. |
| Q3: What is the transmission power of the GD168? |
The GD168 has a maximum transmission power of 5 watts, providing reliable and clear communication over long distances. |
| Q4: Does the GD168 have any special features for outdoor use? |
Yes, the GD168 is designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, featuring a waterproof and dustproof design (IP67 rating), making it suitable for harsh environments. |
| Q5: Is the GD168 compatible with other devices? |
The GD168 is compatible with other two-way radios that operate on the same frequency range, allowing for seamless communication between different brands and models. |
| Q6: How long does the battery last in the GD168? |
The GD168 has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 24 hours of continuous use, depending on usage patterns and settings. |
| Q7: Can I customize the channel settings on the GD168? |
Yes, the GD168 allows for customization of channel settings, including CTCSS and DCS codes, to match specific communication needs. |
| Q8: Does the GD168 have any additional features beyond basic two-way radio functionality? |
Yes, the GD168 includes features such as a built-in flashlight, SOS alarm, and FM radio, making it a versatile device for outdoor use. |
| Q9: Is the GD168 suitable for emergency response situations? |
The GD168 is designed with emergency responders in mind, featuring priority scanning, voice scrambling, and other features that make it an effective tool for emergency communication. |
| Q10: What kind of warranty does Radio Oddity offer for the GD168? |
Radio Oddity offers a 2-year limited warranty for the GD168, providing peace of mind for customers who purchase this device. |
| Pioneers/Companies |
Contributions |
| Nikola Tesla |
Developed the principles of radio communication, including the use of tuned circuits and the transmission of energy wirelessly. |
| Guglielmo Marconi |
Developed the first practical wireless telegraph, transmitting radio signals over long distances and paving the way for modern radio communication. |
| Lee de Forest |
Invented the audion tube, a type of vacuum tube that amplifies weak electrical signals, revolutionizing radio technology. |
| RCA (Radio Corporation of America) |
Developed and commercialized radio technology, creating some of the first radios for consumer use and establishing the modern radio industry. |
| Bell Labs |
Conducted groundbreaking research in radio communication, developing technologies such as frequency modulation (FM) and satellite communication. |
| Jagadish Chandra Bose |
Made significant contributions to the development of radio science, including the invention of the "Bose detector" for detecting radio waves. |
| Reginald Fessenden |
Made the first audio broadcast in history, transmitting music and speech over radio waves on Christmas Eve in 1906. |
| David Sarnoff |
Played a key role in the development of television and radio broadcasting, helping to establish NBC (National Broadcasting Company) as one of the first major broadcast networks. |
| Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company |
Developed some of the first commercial radios, including the popular "Aeriola Jr." model, and helped to establish radio broadcasting in the United States. |
| Philco (Philadelphia Storage Battery Company) |
Produced innovative radios that were affordable and accessible to consumers, helping to popularize radio technology in the early 20th century. |
| General Information |
| Manufacturer: |
Tait Communications |
| Model: |
GD168 |
| Frequency Range: |
136-174 MHz, 403-470 MHz, 480-522 MHz |
| Technical Specifications |
| Mode of Operation: |
Analog FM |
| Channel Spacing: |
12.5 kHz, 20 kHz, 25 kHz |
| Transmit Power: |
1W, 2W, 3W, 4W (Selectable) |
| Modulation Type: |
FM |
| Antenna Connector: |
SMA Female |
| Receiver Specifications |
| Sensitivity (12dB SINAD): |
0.35 μV (Typical) |
| Selectivity: |
60 dB ( Typical) |
| Intermodulation Rejection: |
65 dB (Typical) |
| Transmitter Specifications |
| Frequency Deviation: |
±5 kHz |
| Adjacent Channel Power Ratio (ACPR): |
-60 dB (Typical) |
| Battery and Power Specifications |
| Battery Type: |
Li-ion, 2200mAh |
| Talk Time (5/5/90 duty cycle): |
Up to 12 hours (Typical) |
| Physical and Environmental Specifications |
| Dimensions: |
122 x 55 x 25 mm (Without antenna) |
| Weight: |
Approx. 220g (With battery and antenna) |
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