Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) is a means by which a receiving radio will remain silent until it receives a transmission that includes a special audio tone. As long as this tone is continuously received, you will be able to hear the person who is transmitting. Digital Coded Squelch (DCS) is somewhat similar, but instead of sending a continuous tone of differing frequency, a Digital data transmission is added to the radio signal.
One method is not necessarily better than the other. The radios you are using have to have the same ability to send and receive the same coding signal, no matter which of the two you use. The function of CTCSS or DCS is to keep you from hearing others, not to keep others from hearing you.
https://www.gme.net.au/us/faqs/
I guess I could have just shared that quote – but what would be the fun in that!?
One thing I was keen to get sorted – was utilising the CTCSS or DCS systems to set up a ‘private’ network when using the GME TX667 radios with the kids.
Essentially, I wanted the radios to only talk to each other, so, without resorting to private channels and digital encryption – I set the handhelds to use a DCS code.
It is important to understand that this won’t stop people being able to listen in to your conversation – but in my case, it sets it up so others cant be heard on the channel we are using, without knowning what code we are using.
Relativly simple to setup, it essentially means if the units are switched to the nominated channel, then the DCS also turns on – if I want/need to use another channel – then the code switches back off again.
The truck unit also features the same system, so should I want, I can also leave that running and also use it. Though, normally, we are likely at camp at this point anyhow.