"Daddy, daddy do you read me? Over." Talk isn’t cheap but
it's easy on new radios"Big Daddy here, little momma, what's up?"
"Daddy, Crystal fell off her bike and skinned
her knee, but we're getting a Band-Aid from
Julie's mom. So everything's OK. Over."
"Daddy, we're going to play
some tennis. Will be home in an hour. OK?""OK, Carly. Will you pick up some lettuce
on your way home? Over?""Will do, daddy. 10-04."
The messages may be mundane but the medium is the message here. It's Motorola's new TalkAbout two-way radios designed for families and sports enthusiasts.The radios come in two models -- the TalkAbout and TalkAbout Plus -- which are easy to use at the push of a button. Unlike most two-ways radios, TalkAbouts require no licensing or fees because they operate on the newly created Family Radio Service, a reclassified band of radio frequencies set aside by the FCC specifically for family use.
TalkAbouts have instant, clear communication within a range of about two miles, depending on the terrain. A clear line of sight guarantees the two-mile range, but in a test the radio lost contact a mile from a valley home.
TalkAbouts work with any number of other two-way FRS radio users without service fees, call charges or phone numbers. That means if you're on the same channel you can communicate with any number of TalkAbouts.
They are useful for staying in touch on bicycle rides or while hiking. Parents also can use them to keep track of kids at the mall or the beach.
The radios weight about 7 ounces and are about 41/2 inches long and easily fit in your shirt pocket or bag. They are powered by three AA batteries that last about 30 hours.
TalkAbouts aren't cheap. Suggested retail price is $149 to $179 each.
For retailer locations call 1-800-353-2729.
Tim Ryan, Star-Bulletin