Questions: RV 2 way Radio & Comm Experts

[dkoldman]

ODMaster Software

So I decided to advance and learn about the ODMaster Software and Bluetooth feature. I was preparing for the worst, but after 5 minutes I was reading and writing from my radio to the laptop. I have not tried with the phone yet. The manual says you have to have the phone for the laptop to work but they must have updated the Odmaster Web version.

1. I created my account (free) I am sure the Chinese have all of my info now and may use the radios to get some RV forum classified secrets so be careful what you put in this thread

2. No software to install. Cloud based. No data programming cable, not even a need for USB-C data cable :coolsmiley:

3. Push one button on the radio to turn the Bluetooth on

4. Pressed the Connect to Bluetooth in the Web app and presto the laptop found the radio.

5. I had a standard template, but I read from the Radio to load all of my settings. I made a few changes on the laptop and wrote the updates back to radio, super easy



I will play with this a little and then try my phone. I can already see how I can keep all 4 radios programmed exactly alike.

 

[dkoldman]

If you are thinking about emergency use purposes, having as many frequencies (and thus more potential contacts for help) is important. In an emergency, no one will care if you have your license or not. Adding CB channels is probably ideal, since every trucker has one.

I am sure I bought overkill. I only bought the radios to talk with a family during a Family Retreat we have planned at a State Park with ZERO access to cellular or WiFI. I got a GMRS license about 6 weeks ago. I am sure license is not needed for Emergencies.

My radios are all configured with GMRS and I can program about 169 frequencies and save of my choice.

I can change any of radios from GMRS to Ham mode or even fully Unlock should I desire off the grid and rogue. 2 buttons to do so and I can switch back on demand. I have no desire for HAM license, just learning what I can as GMRS for now.

 

[dkoldman]

So I need to give Midland kudos and some props.

After a month of them not being able to tell me if the 18CPV4 would work with my 18 year old GXT500s, they started to turn sympathetic when I ordered the new dual pin charger they recommended from one of their Authorized Resellers. But the Reseller kept saying the part was a backorder. After 3 weeks the Reseller was still singing the same old song... on backorder.... another 7 - 10 days.

So I went back to Midland saying I will just buy from them directly and cancel my order with the Reseller. They asked for all my info, and I asked them how much to pay? 2 Days later Midland says they had shipped the Charger free because I am good loyal customer to insist to use two of their 18 year old radios

I got the dual pin plug charger last week and it works like a charm with my new aftermarket battery packs. The dual pin charger is a lot more compact than docking station anyway. It can charge both radios at the same time.

The GXT500 radios can't touch the H3s, but it is simple to use for someone that may be intimidated by the buttons on H3. The GXT500s even with full charge; may only last 12 -18 hours if being used? The H3s can go 3 or 4 days.

Now with 6 radios in my arsenal, a GMRS license, I am kind of a big deal

 

[TRMott]

So I need to give Midland kudos and some props.

After a month of them not being able to tell me if the 18CPV4 would work with my 18 year old GXT500s, they started to turn sympathetic when I ordered the new dual pin charger they recommended from one of their Authorized Resellers. But the Reseller kept saying the part was a backorder. After 3 weeks the Reseller was still singing the same old song... on backorder.... another 7 - 10 days.

So I went back to Midland saying I will just buy from them directly and cancel my order with the Reseller. They asked for all my info, and I asked them how much to pay? 2 Days later Midland says they had shipped the Charger free because I am good loyal customer to insist to use two of their 18 year old radios

I got the dual pin plug charger last week and it works like a charm with my new aftermarket battery packs. The dual pin charger is a lot more compact than docking station anyway. It can charge both radios at the same time.

The GXT500 radios can't touch the H3s, but it is simple to use for someone that may be intimidated by the buttons on H3. The GXT500s even with full charge; may only last 12 -18 hours if being used? The H3s can go 3 or 4 days.

Now with 6 radios in my arsenal, a GMRS license, I am kind of a big deal

Now that you're a big deal where do we line up for autograph? Do we bring our own pen/marker? ��

 

[dkoldman]

Now that you're a big deal where do we line up for autograph? Do we bring our own pen/marker? ��

This put a smile on my face tonight. I am gonna have my people reach out to your people so you will know where my next Autograph signing will be. Not sure if you will need a pen or marker because I have never been to one of my signings

 

[Chateau_Nomad]

As you get near Carrollton TX around sunset, look for the glow in the sky. That's the sunset reflecting off a very shiny fiberglass WBGO motorhome roof... you can't miss it!

I'd advise caution... those bodyguards he has on staff don't mess around...

 

[TRMott]

This put a smile on my face tonight. I am gonna have my people reach out to your people so you will know where my next Autograph signing will be. Not sure if you will need a pen or marker because I have never been to one of my signings

We'll be listening for the signals!
I think you definitely need to go with the JUMBO permanent markers... there's going to be quite a line up! ��