Introducing the New GMRS-RPT50 Firmware 1.008R

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

ARLINGTON, SD – BTECH is proud to unveil Firmware 1.008R for the GMRS-RPT50—a transformative update that redefines what you can expect from a GMRS repeater. Designed with direct feedback from our community and built for the demands of modern communication, Firmware 1.008R adds new layers of versatility, performance, and user-friendliness.

At BTECH, we’re not just about keeping up—we’re about pushing forward. The GMRS-RPT50 is already one of the most feature-rich and reliable GMRS repeaters on the market, but we’re always looking for ways to make it even better. This update brings powerful enhancements that expand its capabilities, improve ease of use, and give you more control over your setup. Whether you use your GMRS-RPT50 at home, in the field, or as part of an emergency communication network, these upgrades will take your experience to the next level.

Seven Highlights That Power Up Your GMRS-RPT50

1. Hand Microphone Full Transmit/Receive Functionality: With firmware 1.008R, the hand microphone is no longer limited to just configuration tasks—it can now be used for both transmitting and receiving, effectively allowing the GMRS-RPT50 to function as a base station in addition to its role as a repeater. This means users can key up and communicate directly through the repeater without needing an external radio, making it more versatile for base station operation in home, emergency, or mobile setups. Whether monitoring local traffic or coordinating with other stations, this feature adds convenience and flexibility to the repeater’s capabilities.
2. Streamlined Menu: The firmware’s menu system has been refined to remove unused, redundant, or rarely accessed items. This decluttering makes it quicker to navigate the settings you actually need, reducing the likelihood of user confusion or misconfiguration.
3. CW ID On/Off: CW ID is the Morse code identifier that can be sent automatically to comply with identification requirements. Firmware 1.008R lets you decide whether to turn this ID feature on or off, giving you the flexibility to manage IDs exactly how you prefer—either automated via CW, or handled manually or by external logic.
4. Adjustable Squelch Level: You can now more precisely set how sensitive the repeater is to incoming signals. This is helpful if you live in an area prone to weak signals or noisy RF environments. By raising or lowering the squelch threshold, you can reduce unwanted static triggers while still allowing legitimate signals to pass.
5. Carrier Squelch RX/TX Mode: Previously, many repeaters required a CTCSS or DCS tone to activate transmit or open the squelch. With 1.008R, you have the option of pure carrier-based operation, ignoring any sub-audible tones on both receive (RX) and transmit (TX). This is especially handy for simple or wide-area repeater setups where tone-based access isn’t required or desired.
6. CTCSS/DCS Transmission with Identifier: Firmware 1.008R introduces a new configuration option that allows the CW ID to be transmitted either with or without the CTCSS/DCS tone used by the repeater. This gives users the flexibility to choose whether the station ID follows the same tone settings as regular transmissions (for systems requiring a uniform tone policy) or if it is sent without a tone, which is the standard practice for identification. This option ensures compatibility with different repeater setups while maintaining compliance with identification requirements.
7. Password Disable Option: For those who prefer seamless operation, the password feature can now be turned off entirely. This option removes the prompt that appears when configuration changes, ideal for shared stations in secure locations where password protection isn’t needed.

Click Here to Download the GMRS-RPT50 Update Package

To experience these features firsthand, simply download the GMRS-RPT50 Firmware 1.008R Update Package from the link above or from the GMRS-RPT50 product page. The package contains everything you need, including step-by-step instructions to guide you through the installation.

If you have a first-production-run GMRS-RPT50 lacking hand mic transmit by default: We’ll provide the required RJ-45 programming cable —just send us a picture of your serial number and copy of your repeater purchase to: [email protected].

All In-Stock GMRS-RPT50 Units Are Now Ready to Ship—Mic Update-Ready and Backorder-Free!

Looking to add a GMRS-RPT50 to your setup? Great news—all in-stock units at BTECH areupgraded with mic transmit functionality from the start, so you’ll enjoy base station capabilities right out of the box. Plus, with no more backorders, you can order today and have your repeater in no time.

Purchase a GMRS-RPT50 Today

Help Shape the Future of GMRS

At BTECH, innovation is driven by you—our valued community. If you have ideas, feedback, or feature requests, let us know! Your suggestions could power the next major release, helping us continue to refine and expand our product line.

At BTECH, we stand by our commitment to delivering feature-rich products designed for the long haul. We believe in supporting our users well beyond the initial purchase. While other brands may sideline older models, we invest in ensuring your BTECH device remains on the cutting edge of radio technology.

About BTECH

BTECH is a leader in two-way radio innovation, offering top-quality communication solutions for amateurs, professionals, and emergency services worldwide. With a dedication to performance and usability, BTECH continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in radio communications.

For more information, visit www.baofengtech.com or contact us at [email protected]

Thank you for being a valued member of the BTECH community. Stay connected, stay informed, and enjoy the enhanced capabilities of your GMRS-RPT50!