What about the Radios that Jaycar sells? What is the Difference?

These radios utilise the PRS channels; therefore, to answer this question, we need to understand what PRS is and its limitations.

What is PRS?

PRS stands for Personal Radio Service.
In New Zealand, PRS radios are licence-free handheld or mobile radios that operate in the UHF band (usually around 476–477 MHz). They’re designed for short-range personal or recreational communication, much like walkie-talkies.

You can buy and use PRS radios without applying for a licence, as long as the radio complies with RSM (Radio Spectrum Management) rules and stays within the approved power and channel limits.

⚙️ PRS Technical Basics

• Frequency range: 476.425 MHz – 477.4125 MHz

• Number of channels: 80 UHF channels (some reserved for data or repeater use)

• Power limit: Maximum 5 watts

• Licence: None required, provided equipment meets NZ PRS standards

• Range: Typically 0.5 – 2 km, depending on terrain and conditions

• Frequencies: What FHZ is used by PRS Channels – Click Here

🏁 Limitations for Motorsport Use

While PRS radios are fine for simple recreational or pit-crew chat at small events, they come with serious limitations for competitive motorsport or professional use:

1. Limited Range

   With only 5 W of power and a small built-in antenna, PRS radios struggle with range. In a race environment — where cars move fast, terrain varies, and buildings or hills block signals — communication often drops out after just a few hundred metres.

2. No Dedicated or Private Channels

   PRS operates on shared public frequencies. Anyone nearby using PRS (4WD groups, farms, event staff, etc.) can talk on the same channels. This means:

   • Interference is common

   • Conversations aren’t private

   • You cannot reserve a channel for your race team

3. No Repeaters or High-Power Base Stations

   PRS prohibits the use of external repeaters to extend range, and all equipment must stay within the low-power limit. This removes the option of setting up a high-power base or repeater near the track for clear communication.

4. Crowded Channels at Events

   Because PRS is open to the public, large motorsport events often have many teams using the same channels, leading to cross-talk and interference — especially in pit areas.

✅ Summary — Why PRS Isn’t Ideal for Motorsport