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GMRS 40W mobileMidland MXT400 / GMRS mobile
40W GMRS mobile for ranch trucks, farm routes, and family property coverage — pairs with handheld GMRS layers.
GMRS ($35 FCC, no exam) · Mid ($200–$300)
Quick start
First-hour checklist
- Confirm active GMRS license in ULS before repeater or high-power use.
- Program repeater pairs and tones to match your GMRS card.
- Use external GMRS antenna — mag mount acceptable on steel; glass mounts lose efficiency.
- Test simplex from truck to house before storm season.
Programming
Software & memory workflow
- Midland software or manual keypad — document tones on printed card.
- See GMRS family comms article for NETNRC context.
Install checklist
Vehicle & 12V wiring
- Dedicated GMRS antenna — do not share ham antenna without proper diplexer/compliance review.
- Fuse at battery; MXT draws meaningful current on 40W keys.
Antenna & mount
Where range actually comes from
- GMRS collinear or ¼-wave — verify SWR on TX frequencies you use.
- Height matters on rolling terrain — roof beat hatch every time.
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Radio plus typical install accessories — verify vehicle fit before ordering.
Midland MXT400 mobile
40W GMRS mobile for trucks and base camp.
~$250 · Amazon →
Tram 1185 mag mount
Dual-band 2m/70cm mag mount — budget mobile antenna.
~$35 · Amazon →
NMO roof mount kit
Professional vehicle mount — drill once, swap antennas.
~$25 · Amazon →
LMR-400 coax 25 ft
Lower-loss feedline for mobile and base — PL-259.
~$45 · Amazon →
Upgrade path
Comms layers — what comes next
HandheldFirst radio & go-bag
MobileVehicle ERP & install
BaseFixed shack & mast
HF emcommRegional contingency
Part 90 / privateEncrypted & dedicated
Property owners: comms assessment wizard · PACE examples · consulting