Plain-English Definitions for Preppers, Off-Gridders, and First-Time Users
Introduction
Just got your first radio? Or trying to follow a radio video or forum and it’s like people are speaking a whole different language?
You’re not alone.
The world of radio is filled with terms, acronyms, and jargon that can feel like a barrier — but once you learn the basics, everything clicks fast.
This guide gives you clear, simple definitions for the most common radio terms, so you can actually understand what you're hearing and start using your gear confidently.
Essential Radio Terms (In Plain English)
Frequency
The specific number (measured in MHz) your radio uses to transmit or receive.
Example: 146.520 MHz is a common HAM simplex frequency.
Channel
A preset frequency slot. Most consumer radios label frequencies as “channels” (e.g., Channel 1 = 462.5625 MHz on GMRS).
Simplex
Direct radio-to-radio communication on a single frequency.
No repeater, just two radios talking to each other.
Duplex / Repeater Use
Your radio transmits on one frequency and receives on another to use a repeater, which extends range.
Example: You transmit on 146.100 MHz, receive on 146.700 MHz.
Offset
The difference (usually in MHz) between your transmit and receive frequencies when using a repeater.
Tone / PL Tone / CTCSS / DCS
Privacy tones that keep you from hearing other users — but don’t prevent them from hearing you.
If the tone doesn't match on both radios, they won't hear each other.
Squelch
A setting that mutes background static until a strong enough signal is received.
Lower squelch = more range, but more noise.
Higher squelch = less noise, but weaker signals get blocked.
Call Sign
Your FCC-issued ID if you're a licensed HAM operator (e.g., W1AW). Used to legally identify yourself on the air.
Push-to-Talk (PTT)
The button you press to transmit your voice.
Speak clearly while holding it down — then release to listen.
Modulation (AM/FM/SSB)
The way your voice is transmitted over the air. Most common:
-
FM = Used on most VHF/UHF radios (GMRS, HAM)
-
AM/SSB = Used in CB or HF radios
Line of Sight (LOS)
Radio waves travel straight — so trees, hills, and buildings block range. The higher your antenna, the better your LOS.
Repeater
A station that rebroadcasts your signal from a high location to extend range. Great for HAM and GMRS comms over long distances.
Antenna Gain
How much your antenna focuses your signal.
Higher gain = more range horizontally
Lower gain = more coverage in hills or urban areas
Bandwidth
The space a signal takes up on the frequency spectrum.
Narrowband (12.5 kHz) and wideband (25 kHz) are most common.
Dual-Band Radio
A radio that operates on two bands — usually VHF (2m) and UHF (70cm).
Handy for HAM operators and local comms.
SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)
A measurement of antenna efficiency.
High SWR = signal bouncing back into your radio (bad)
Low SWR = efficient transmission (good)
Handheld (HT)
Short for "Handie-Talkie."
Your standard walkie-talkie-style portable radio.
Mobile Radio
A radio designed for vehicle or home mounting. More power, more range than a handheld.
Base Station
A stationary radio setup, often with an external antenna and power supply. Ideal for off-grid comms and homesteads.
Bonus: Common Radio Phrases
| Phrase | What It Means |
|---|---|
| “Copy” | I understand what you said |
| “Over” | I’m done talking — your turn |
| “Stand by” | Wait a moment |
| “Out” | Conversation is over |
| “Do you copy?” | Can you hear me? |
| “Go ahead” | I’m listening — proceed |
Final Thoughts
Learning radio terms doesn’t have to feel like decoding a secret language.
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll communicate more clearly, troubleshoot faster, and operate more confidently — especially in off-grid or emergency situations.
Print this guide. Share it with your group. And start sounding like someone who knows what they’re doing — because you will.