Rugged Radios GMR25 User manual

GMR25
GMR25 IP67WATER
RESISTANT
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
IP67WATER
RESISTANT
GMR25 IP67WATER
RESISTANT
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
IP67WATER
RESISTANT
GMR25 IP67WATER
RESISTANT
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
IP67WATER
RESISTANT
GMR25 IP67WATER
RESISTANT
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
IP67WATER
RESISTANT
GMR25 IP67WATER
RESISTANT
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
Listen-Only Off Road Race Channels
+ any frequency between
136-174MHz and 400-480MHz
Talk to other GMRS Radios
Access Repeaters Nationwide
10-12 Mile Range
Depending on terrain
and line of sight.
25-WATT GMRS 2-WAY RADIO
IP67WATER
RESISTANT
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 1 3/15/19 2:29 PM

PLEASE READ
STOP
Thank you for purchasing a Rugged Radios 2-way radio.
This radio was optimized before shipping to you.
Please be sure to read this manual before changing any settings.
If you have any questions, please call
Rugged Radios 888.541.7223.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 2 3/15/19 2:29 PM

______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Notes:
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 3 3/15/19 2:29 PM

0678
FCC NOTICE
The GMR25 operates on GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) frequencies, which require a Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) license. You must be licensed prior to operating on channels 1-7,
15-22 or RP15-22, and RUGGED which comprise the GMRS channels of the GMR25. Serious penalties
may result from unlicensed use of GMRS channels, in violation of FCC rules, as stipulated in the Commu-
nications Act’s Sections 501 and 502 (amended). You will be issued a call sign by the FCC that should be
used for station identication when operating your radio on GMRS channels. You should also cooperate
by engaging in permissible transmissions only, avoiding channel interference with other GMRS users, and
being prudent with the length of your transmission time
To obtain a license or ask questions about the license application, contact the FCC at 1-888-CALL FCC or
go to the FCC’s website: http:// www.fcc.gov and request form 605.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 4 3/15/19 2:29 PM

Contents
Users Safety Information ...........................................................................................1
Package Includes ........................................................................................................1
Main Features .............................................................................................................2
Initial Installation .........................................................................................................3
Mobile Installation............................................................................................ 3
DC Power Cable Connection........................................................................... 4
Fixed Station Operation................................................................................... 5
Replacing Fuses.............................................................................................. 7
Antenna Connection ........................................................................................ 8
Installing the Antenna ...................................................................................... 9
Accessories Connections.........................................................................................10
External Speaker........................................................................................... 10
Microphone.................................................................................................... 11
Getting Acquainted ...................................................................................................12
Front Panel Operation ................................................................................... 12
Front Panel Icons .......................................................................................... 13
Display........................................................................................................... 14
Rear Panel..................................................................................................... 15
Microphone.................................................................................................... 15
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 5 3/15/19 2:29 PM

Transmitting...............................................................................................................17
Menu ...........................................................................................................................18
Menu Options ............................................................................................................18
Squelch (SQL)......................................................................................... 18
Back Light ............................................................................................... 18
Scan Skip ................................................................................................ 19
Sub Screen.............................................................................................. 19
Listen Only............................................................................................... 19
Radio Info ................................................................................................ 19
Rugged Radios Repeater Channel...........................................................................20
Simple Trouble Shooting ..........................................................................................21
Specication ..............................................................................................................22
General.............................................................................................................22
Receiver ...........................................................................................................22
Transmitter.........................................................................................................23
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 6 3/15/19 2:29 PM

01
Users Safety Information
● Do not attempt to congure your radio while driving.
● This radio is designed for a 13.8V DC power supply. Do not use a 24V battery to power on
the radio.
● Please keep it away from interference devices (Such as TVs, generators, etc.)
● Do not expose the radio to long periods of direct sunlight or place it close to heating
appliances.
● If an abnormal odor or smoke is detected coming from the radio, turn off the power
immediately and contact your dealer.
● Do not transmit with high power for extended periods or the radio may overheat.
Package Includes
● Radio unit x 1
● Hand Mic x 1
● Mobile mounting bracket x 1
● DC power cable with fuse holder x 1
● Screw packs x 1
● Protection fuses x 1
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 1 3/15/19 2:29 PM

02
Main Features
Dirt, Mud & Water... It's all part of the off-road riding and now we've got a radio that
will withstand it all! The GMR25 amateur mobile radio is stout and reliable, ready for
any adventure. This radio is also equipped with a Rugged Radios Accessory Port
allowing you to upgrade the radio to do even more! Upgrades include things like:
External Speaker, Headsets, intercom systems and more! Whether you are in a 4X4,
UTV or other vehicle, the GMR25 is a great option!
Features:
25 Watt Radio
8 Repeater Channels
15 GMRS Channels (1-7 & 15-22)
7 LSO Weather Channels
7 LSO Off-Road Industry Channels
Small & Compact Design
Rugged Radios Accessory Ready
(intercom, headset & more)
Special Features:
Dual Watch Mode
VFL Mode (Variable Frequency Listen Only)
Battery Voltage Display
Adjustable Squelch
KeyPad Lock
External Speaker Port
Clear Backlit Display
Channel Scan Mode
IP67 Water Resistant (with data port closed)
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 2 3/15/19 2:29 PM

03
Initial Installation
Mobile Installation
To install the radio select a safe and convenient location inside your vehicle that min-
imizes danger to your passengers and yourself while the vehicle is in motion. Consider
installing the unit at an appropriate position so that knees or legs will not strike it during
sudden braking of your vehicle. Try to pick a well ventilated location that is shielded from
direct sunlight.
CAUTION: Extreme care should be exercised when drilling into dash to avoid damage to
under dash components.
1. Install the mounting bracket in the vehicle using the supplied self-tapping screws and
at washers.
2. Position the radio, then insert and tighten the supplied hex/Phillips screws.
■ Double check that all screws are tightened to prevent vehicle vibration from
loosening the bracket or radio.
Mounting bracket
Tapping screw
(M5x20mm)
Washer (M5)
Car body
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 3 3/15/19 2:29 PM

04
■ Determine the appropriate angle of the radio, using the 3 screw hole
positions On the side of the mounting bracket.
DC Power Cable Connection
The vehicle battery must have a nominal rating of 12V. Never connect the radio to a 24V battery.
Be sure to use a 12V vehicle battery that has sufcient current capacity. If the current to the radio
is insufcient the display may darken during transmission or transmitting output power may drop
dramatically.
1. Route the DC power cable supplied with the radio directly to the vehicle’s battery terminals
using the shortest path from the radio. We suggest you do not use the cigarette lighter socket
as some cigarette lighter sockets introduce an unacceptable voltage drop. The entire length of
the cable must be dressed so it is isolated from heat, moisture and the engine secondary (high
voltage) ignition system/cables.
2. Conrm the correct polarity of the connections, then attach the power cable to the battery
terminals: Red connects to the positive (+) terminal and black connects to the negative (-)
terminal.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 4 3/15/19 2:29 PM

05
3. Connect the DC power cable to the radio’s power supply connector. Press the connectors rmly
together until the locking tab clicks.
Fixed Station Operation
In order to use this radio for xed station operation you will need a separate 13.8V DC
power supply (not included).
The recommended current capacity of your power supply is 12A.
1. Connect the DC power cable to the regulated DC power supply and ensure that the
polarities are correct. (Red: positive; Black: Negative).
Ext. Power jack DC power cable
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 5 3/15/19 2:29 PM

06
Use the supplied DC power cable to connect the radio to a regulated power
supply. Do not substitute a cable with smaller gauge wires.
2. Connect the radio’s DC power connector to the connector on the DC power cable.
3. Press the connectors rmly together until the locking tab clicks.
Note: Before connecting the DC power to the radio be sure to switch the radio and
the DC power supply OFF.
Do not plug the DC power supply into an AC outlet until you make all connections.
Regulated power supply
DC power cable with fuse holder
Regulated
power supply
Red
Black
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 6 3/15/19 2:29 PM

07
Replacing Fuses
If the fuse blows, determine the cause then correct the problem. After the problem is
resolved replace the fuse. If newly installed fuses continue to blow, disconnect the power
cable and contact Rugged Radios for assistance.
Only use fuses of the specied type and rating otherwise the radio could be damaged.
Note: If you use the radio for a long period when the vehicle battery is not fully
charged or when the engine is OFF, the battery may become discharged and will not have
sufcient reserves to start the vehicle. Avoid using the radio in these conditions.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 7 3/15/19 2:29 PM

08
Antenna Connection
Before operating, install an efcient well-tuned antenna. The success of your installation
will depend largely on the type of antenna and its correct installation. The radio can give
excellent results if the antenna system and its installation are given careful attention.
Use a 50Ω impedance antenna and low-loss coaxial feed-line that has a characteristic
impedance of 50Ω, to match the radio input impedance. Coupling the antenna to the
radio via feed-lines having a impedance other than 50Ω reduces the efciency of the
antenna system and can cause interference to nearby broadcast TV receivers, radio
receivers and other electronic equipment.
Note: Transmitting without rst connecting an antenna or other matched load may
damage the radio.
Always connect the antenna to the radio before transmitting. All xed stations should
be equipped with a lightning arrester to reduce the risk of re, electric shock and radio
damage.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 8 3/15/19 2:29 PM

09
Installing the Antenna
For the best range, only the Rugged Radios 1/2- wave antenna should be used.
Specic installation requirements vary between vehicles. Use the following guidelines
to install the antenna. Where you locate your antenna does make a difference!
1. Metal surfaces covered by berglass or vinyl may affect radio range. Avoid these locations.
2. Mount the antenna as high on the vehicle as possible. The higher the better.
3. If possible, mount the antenna in the center of whatever surface you choose.
4. Be sure the mounting location is clean and dry before installing the antenna.
5. Route the antenna cable through an accessible entry point, such as a door or trunk
opening.
6. When routing the antenna cable inside the vehicle, keep the cable away from noise
sources, such as the ignition system, gauges, etc.
7. Exercise care to prevent cable damage. Make use of existing gaskets, grommets and
weather stripping to protect the cable along its route.
IMPORTANT: Mount antenna up high
and do not coil-up excess cable.
Antenna
Coax Cable External Speaker Port
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 9 3/15/19 2:29 PM

10
Accessories Connections
External Speaker
If you plan to use an external speaker, choose a speaker with an impedance of 8Ω.
The external speaker jack accepts a 3.5mm mono (2-conductor) plug. When an external
speaker is connected, the radios internal speaker is automatically disabled.
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 10 3/15/19 2:29 PM

11
Microphone:
For voice communications, connect the handmic supplied into the modular socket on the
front of the panel and tighten the connector nut. Attach the supplied microphone hanger in
an appropriate location using the screws includes included in the screw set
NOTE: Disconnect the hand mic if you are using a microphone equipped accessory
connected to the 5-pic cable at rear of the radio.
MIC
1
SCN
4
TOT
7
LAM 8
POW
0
*
BEP
A
B
MUTE
#
VOL
9
DTaM
5
LOCK
6
SQL
CALL
MENU
FUN
2
STP 3 C/T
VFO
Antenna
External Speaker
Microphone Connector
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 11 3/15/19 2:29 PM

12
Getting Acquainted
Front Panel Operation
UV
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 12 3/15/19 2:29 PM

13
NO. Key Function
1 (Power) Press and hold button for 1 second to turn on or off.
2Vol Dial Adjust volume level
3 Main Dial Change frequency, memory channel and scan direction etc.
4 F Long Press: Opens function menu (Radio must not be locked)
5 Lo ( )
Quick Press: Changes power level of channels 22-55
Note: When channel is changed, power level defaults to high
Long press: Locks all keys on front panel & hand mic, except PTT
6
Mz(UV)
Note: To use this
feature, the lower
display must be
selected and must
be in VFL Mode
Quick Press: Allows user to change VFL frequency by 1 MHz. Quick press
again to exit and to ne tune frequency
Long press: Must be in VFL (Variable Frequency Listen): Switches between
VHF and UHF
7 TC
First quick press: Display will show “T SQ”, indicating an analog tone on
transmit and receive.
Second quick press: Display will show “DCS”, indicating a digital tone on
transmit and receive
Long press: Allows user to set analog or digital tone code
8V/M
Quick press (must be in lower display and have Listen-Only active-See Sub
Screen in Function Menu): Changes between Memory channels and VFL
Mode
9 A/B(SC)
Quick press: selects upper or lower channel display
Long press: Begins scan in currently selected channel display
To stop scan, quick press A/B / SC button
10 TX Lights during transmitting
11 Mic. Connector Microphone connection port
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 13 3/15/19 2:29 PM

14
Icon Function
Memory Channel Number
High Power Output / Middle Power Output/ Low Power Output
T CTCSS Encode
SQ CTCSS Decode
DCS DCS Encode and Decode
Beep
Auto Power-off
Frequency Mode
+Positive Direction of Offset
Display
GMR25 Rugged Radios.indd 14 3/15/19 2:29 PM