In another thread, y’all noted “the Mars Mod on the Icom 2730a permits transmitting to include GMRS, up to 470 MHZ.”
Two other questions:
Jack
@Jack_Simanonok No amateur radio is designed to be used for GMRS. The Icom 2730 radio is an amateur radio.
You may find GMRS radios at this live link: GMRS Handheld & Mobile
The Icom 2730 is an amateur radio, designed for FCC Part 97 specifications for amateur radio use. Usage of the Icom 2730 for GMRS would not fit the guidelines. An amateur radio license is required for transmitting on the IC-2730B. The MARS CAP modification is not to access, nor is it to use, with GMRS.
The MARS CAP modification we perform is usually for licensed operators from the Military Auxiliary Radio Service (MARS) or Civil Air Patrol (CAP). It is the responsibility of each radio operator to make sure they are in compliance with FCC regulations regarding frequency usage, power output, and accepted equipment.
RE: Bluetooth compatible hearing aids
I am not familiar with any compatibility. I do not see it addressed in the manual. You could call Icom Tech support to inquire: 425-454-8155 (Press #3)
VS-3 Bluetooth - you can download the manual from here: Manual IC-2730 and Optional Accessories
GigaParts link for VS-3 Icom Bluetooth Pendant Headset
GigaParts link for Icom UT-133 Internal Bluetooth Board
Sorry, I responded to my inbox copy of your response, but that doesn’t seem to populate here. So I’ll paste it:
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Thank you, Sue.
I hold a current GMRS license, and own several GMRS radios. I intend to customarily use the specified radio for specific frequency use. I use GMRS primarily with my family, as they are not amateur licensed. I am familiar with part 95 requirements for certification of GMRS radios, and that no amateur radio may be so certified.
I am principally concerned here with the technical question of what exactly the mods do. There _might_ be circumstances in which the FCC emergency use clauses (sections 97.4403 and 97.405) apply, and I would like to be as prepared as possible, in case - for example - I have my amateur radio online but my GMRS is not, and GMRS transmission would be required to meet those emergency needs.
In case you are not familiar with them, I’ve copied the sections below.
Hopefully, I would never be in such a situation. But being prepared is one of the main reasons to pursue amateur radio.
Jack
No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radiocommunication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available.
(a) No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station in distress of any means at its disposal to attract attention, make known its condition and location, and obtain assistance.
(b) No provision of these rules prevents the use by a station, in the exceptional circumstances described in paragraph (a) of this section, of any means of radiocommunications at its disposal to assist a station in distress.
Like Sue stated it is not designed to work on GMRS even though a MARS mod will allow you to TX/RX in that frequency range. In some cases it actually put wear on finals/mosfets over time. Seen it myself when i was doing Returns at GigaParts.