Convoy Radio Channels and Frequencies

For all DO drives, we use the following radio channels: • Channel 1: Lead Marshal / Convoy Control • Channel 2: Sweep Marshal • Channel 9: Emergency / Distress Make sure your walkie-talkie is set to the correct channel before any drive. PMR446 radios are standard — please ensure yours is fully charged. Highly recommended for all members regardless of star level. --- ### Technical Guide to PMR446 Channels and Convoy Frequencies Configuring your handset to the standard **convoy radio channels** prior to reaching the desert meeting point ensures that the morning safety briefing proceeds without delay. In the heat of the dunes, having instant audio communication with the Lead and Sweep Marshals keeps everyone coordinated, informed, and safe. #### Standard PMR446 Frequency Assignments The standard 8-channel PMR446 plan operates on the following UHF frequencies: - **Channel 1 (Primary Convoy):** 446.00625 MHz - **Channel 2 (Sweep / Secondary):** 446.01875 MHz - **Channel 3:** 446.03125 MHz - **Channel 4:** 446.04375 MHz - **Channel 5:** 446.05625 MHz - **Channel 6:** 446.06875 MHz - **Channel 7:** 446.08125 MHz - **Channel 8 (Distress / Calling):** 446.09375 MHz (Note: On 16-channel PMR radios, Channel 9 operates at 446.10625 MHz) #### Managing CTCSS / DCS Privacy Sub-Codes In popular desert driving areas like Al Qudra, Maleha, and Pink Rock, multiple off-road clubs often drive in the same vicinity. To prevent cross-talk and channel bleeding, the Lead Marshal may assign a CTCSS sub-tone (for example: Channel 1, Code 12). Setting your sub-tone ensures your speaker unmutes only when transmissions from our specific club frequency are received. Verify your radio’s tone squelch settings with your marshal before heading out into the sand. #### Radio Battery Care in Desert Temperatures Intense desert heat rapidly drains lithium-ion and NiMH batteries. Always arrive at the briefing with a fully charged unit and keep a 12V in-car charging cable connected throughout the drive. If your primary radio fails mid-drive, signal the vehicle ahead with headlight flashes and horn bursts until you reach a safe stopping ridge to borrow a backup handset from a marshal.