This promotion expired July 7, 2026 and is no longer available.
This Independence Day, July 4th, 2026 marks a milestone unlike any other. As America celebrates 250 years of freedom and independence, we're celebrating right along with you by offering special savings on many of our most popular radios, antennas, accessories, and preparedness products.
Our Fourth of July Sale begins Friday, July 3, 2026, and continues through midnight EDT on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. No matter if you're upgrading your GMRS station, outfitting your business, preparing for emergencies, or simply adding a few accessories to your radio collection, this is a great opportunity to save.
GMRS Radio Deals
- Save 10% on the Wouxun KG-1000G Plus GMRS Mobile/Base Radio.
- Save 10% on the Wouxun KG-935G Plus GMRS Handheld Radio.
- Buy any qualifying Wouxun GMRS radio over $99 and receive a FREE Melowave Bandit-G GMRS antenna.
- Purchase a Wouxun KG-1000G Plus, KG-XS20G Plus or KG-XS30G mobile radio and receive a FREE Wouxun ANO-680 GMRS antenna.
Two Way Radio Savings
- Save 10% on all TYT radios.
- Save 10% on all Baofeng radios.
- Save $20 on the President GEORGE FCC AM/FM/SSB CB Radio - only $259!
- Buy 6 Wouxun Business Two Way Radios, including qualifying bundles, and get 1 FREE.
Accessories and Preparedness
- Save 15% on the Melowave Bandit-G GMRS antenna.
- Save 10% on Prepper Kits
- Save 10% on XLT Audio accessories.
- Save 15% on Superhet apparel.
- Purchase a Melowave SPP-F40 40-Watt Portable/Foldable Solar Panel for only $89.99 and let the summer sun help keep your radios and portable power equipment charged while you're camping, traveling, or preparing for emergencies.
No promo code is required. All sale prices and bonus offers apply automatically at checkout. Simply add the qualifying products to your shopping cart and your discounts or free items will be applied immediately.
These offers are valid on all qualifying in-stock products during the sale period. Buy one item or stock up for your entire family, business, or emergency communications team. There is no purchase limit while supplies last.
From everyone at Buy Two Way Radios, thank you for being part of our community. We wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable Independence Day as we celebrate 250 years of American freedom. Have a wonderful Fourth of July, and don't miss your chance to save during our annual Fourth of July Sale![related_products is_auto_added="1"]
This promotion expired July 7, 2026 and is no longer available. This Independence Day, July 4th, 2026 marks a milestone unlike any other. As America celebrates 250 years of freedom and independence, we’re celebrating right along with you by offering special savings on many of our most popular radios, antennas, accessories, and preparedness products. Our […]
The Wouxun KG-XS30G is a compact base/mobile GMRS radio designed specifically for users who need powerful mobile radio with simple operation while on the road. Although somewhat similar to the KG-XS20G in size, this radio is quite different in many ways.
This radio is configured to transmit on the 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, as well as the 8 repeater channels right out of the box. Although channels 8-14 are only authorized for very low output power on portable handheld radios and are not authorized for transmit on mobile radios by the FCC, they are still available as receive only channels.
The KG-XS30G can also function as a base station. When connected to the Wouxun DWC30WIN and a Comet CA-GMRS Base/Repeater Antenna tuned to GMRS frequencies, the KG-XS30G operates quite well as a desktop radio for your GMRS shack with a minimal footprint.
KG-XS30G Key Features
- 22 Simplex GMRS Channels
- 8 GMRS Repeater Channels
- Bluetooth Audio
- 400-479.995 (70cm) MHz (Receive Only)
- 20W Maximum Transmit Power
- High/Low Transmit Power Levels
- 400 Total Custom Memory Channels
- Color Dual Channel/Frequency Display
- Channel Name, Number or Frequency Display
- Repeater Capability
- Standard and Non-Standard CTCSS/DCS
- Split CTCSS/DCS Tone Support
- Tune Specific Frequencies Directly (Frequency Mode)
- CTCSS/DCS Tone Scan
- Channel Scan
- Priority Channel Scanning
- Supports 10 Scan Groups
- Companding
- Backlit DTMF Speaker Microphone
- Incoming Caller ID Display
- Voltage Display
- Group Calls, All Call and Selective Call
- 8 Group Descramble
- Companding
- Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable
- Busy Channel Lockout
- Timeout Timer
- Stopwatch Timer
- English Voice Prompts
- Roger Beep Enable/Disable
- Minimum Operating Voltage Settings
- Audible Button Beep
- Single Tone Pulse Frequency
- 3 Programmable Front Panel Keys
- Programmable Hand Microphone Key
- Keypad Lock
- DTMF Encoding and Decoding
- Built-in Speaker
- 3.5mm External Speaker Port
- PC Programmable
- Reset
Programming the KG-XS30G
The Wouxun KG-XS30G is similar to the Wouxun KG-XS20G Plus, so there are no surprises when it comes to the programming. It's easy. You can do it directly from the DTMF keypad on the speaker microphone or through a PC using the Wouxun KG-XS30G programming software.
Direct from the radio
If you already know how to program frequencies into the Wouxun KG-UV920P-A or other Wouxun mobile radios, programming the KG-XS30G directly from the radio itself is basically the same. The only real differences are the channels and menu options. If you haven't programmed a Wouxun mobile before or you are new to programming any two-way radio, we've figured a lot of it out for you with the KG-XS30G owners manual. This manual is carefully written in plain English and is easy to understand, even when explaining some of the advanced features of the radio.
The KG-XS30G menu consists of 56 items. Default settings are bold.
| Menu # | Menu Item | Description | Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | SQUELCH | Squelch settings | 1 to 9|5 |
| 02 | TX-POWER | Output power | HIGH (20W)|LOW (5W)|Varies |
| 03 | W/N | Wide/Narrow bandwidth settings | NARR (12.5k)|WIDE (25k)|Varies |
| 04* | REPEATER | Repeater | OFF|ON |
| 05 | WORKMODE | Work Mode | CH-NAME|FREQ|CH-NUM|CH-FREQ |
| 06 | BACKLIGHT | Backlight Timeout | OFF|ON|1-20 sec|10 |
| 07* | STEP | Step frequency settings | 2.5k to 100.0k|12.5k |
| 08 | BAT-SAVE | Battery Saver | ON|OFF |
| 09 | RX-CTCSS | Receive CTCSS Tone | OFF|1-50 |
| 10 | RX-DCS | Receive DCS Code | OFF|1-105 +/- |
| 11 | TX-CTCSS | Transmit CTCSS Tone | OFF|1-50 |
| 12 | TX-DCS | Transmit DCS Code | OFF|1-105 +/- |
| 13 | CLR-STDBY | Standby Backlight Color | RED|BLUE|PURPLE|GREEN|YELLOW|CYAN|WHITE |
| 14 | CLR-RX | Receive Backlight Color | RED|BLUE|PURPLE|GREEN|YELLOW|CYAN|WHITE |
| 15 | CLR-TX | Transmit Backlight Color | RED|BLUE|PURPLE|GREEN|YELLOW|CYAN|WHITE |
| 16 | SCANMODE | Scan Mode | TO|CO|SE |
| 17 | SCAN-QT | Tone Scan Compatibility Check | ON|OFF |
| 18** | SCAN-ADD | Scan Add/Delete | ON|OFF |
| 19 | PRI-SCAN | Priority Scan | ON-STBY|ON-ALWAYS|OFF |
| 20 | PRI-CH | Priority Channel | 400 Channels|CH:01 |
| 21 | TONESCAN | CTCSS/DCS Scanning | NONE|CTCSS|DCS |
| 22 | TONESAVE | CTCSS/DCS Tone Save Options | RX|TX|ALL |
| 23 | VOX | Voice Activated Transmit | OFF|1-10 (Level) |
| 24 | VOX-DLY | VOX Delay | OFF|1-5 (Seconds)|1S |
| 25 | TOT | Transmit Overtime Timer | 15-900 sec (15 second increments)|60 |
| 26 | TOA | Transmit Overtime Alarm | OFF|1-10 seconds|5 |
| 27 | ROGER | Roger Beep | OFF|BOT|EOT|BOTH |
| 28 | BEEP | Button Beeps | ON|OFF |
| 29 | VOICE | Voice Guide | OFF|ON |
| 30 | BUSYLOCK | Busy Channel Lockout | ON|OFF |
| 31 | DESCRAMB | Descrambler | OFF|SCRAM 1-8 |
| 32** | CH-NAME | Edit a channel name | Name*** |
| 33** | CH-FAV | Favorite Channel | OFF|ON |
| 34 | CH-ADD | Add Memory Channel | 400 channels |
| 35 | DEL-CH | Deleting a channel | 400 channels |
| 36 | SP-MUTE | Speaker Mute | QT|QT+DTMF|QT*DTMF |
| 37 | SIDETONE | DTMF sidetone settings | OFF|DTMF|ID|DTMF+ID |
| 38 | ALERT | Tone Alert | 1750Hz|2100Hz|1000Hz|1450Hz |
| 39 | ID-EDIT | Edit Radio ID | 100-999999|101 |
| 40 | ID-DELAY | ID Delay | 100~3000ms|300ms |
| 41 | PTT-ID | Caller ID TX mode | OFF|BOT|EOT|BOTH |
| 42 | RING | Ring Time | OFF|1-10 seconds|5 |
| 43 | CALL-CODE | Select Call ID | None|1-20 Groups|1 |
| 44 | STARTUP | Power On Message | MESSAGE|VOLTAGE |
| 45 | ST-MSG | Custom Power On Message | None|8 Characters |
| 46 | TIMER | Stopwatch Timer | ON|OFF |
| 47 | RPT-TONE | Squelch Tone | OFF|ON |
| 48 | AUTOLOCK | Keypad Auto Lock | OFF|10-60 (Seconds) |
| 49 | LOCKMODE | Lock Mode | KEY|KEY+PTT |
| 50 | DENOISE | Noise Reduction | OFF|ON |
| 51 | COMPAND | Compander | ON|OFF |
| 52 | PF1-SHORT | Front Key PF1 Short Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 53 | PF1-LONG | Front Key PF1 Long Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 54 | PF2-SHORT | Front Key PF2 Short Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 55 | PF2-LONG | Front Key PF2 Long Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 56 | PF3-SHORT | Front Key PF3 Short Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 57 | PF3-LONG | Front Key PF3 Long Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 58 | PF4-SHORT | Side Key PF1 Short Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 59 | PF4-LONG | Side Key PF1 Long Press Assignment | OFF|BRT|BACKLIGHT|BLUETOOTH|CALL|CLR-STDBY|CLR-RX|CLR-TX|DENOIS|FAVORITE|FM-RADIO|FREQ-CNT|MONITOR|REVERSE|SCAN|TALK-A|TX-POWER|VOX |
| 60 | VOLTAGE | Voltage | NONE |
| 61*** | RADIOMEM | FM Radio Memory | RECALL|MEMORY |
| 62 | BLUETOOTH | Bluetooth Audio | OFF|ON |
| 63 | BT-MODE | Bluetooth Mode | BT-PTT|RADIO-PTT |
| 63 | SPEAKER | Speaker setting | RADIO|MIC|BOTH |
| 64 | RESET | Reset | VFO|ALL |
*Note: *The menu items in yellow are available in Frequency mode only.
**The menu item in orange is available in FM-RADIO mode only.
**The menu items in green are available in Channel mode only.
Programming with software
The KG-XS30G uses the same Wouxun mobile PCO-003 USB programming cable that works with the KG-1000G Plus, KG-XS20G Plus and KG-XS20H. Refer to the cable driver installation instructions for more information.
Unlike the cable, the Wouxun KG-XS30G programming software is specific to this model and is currently available for Windows PCs only. The programming software is located in the Downloads section on the Wouxun KG-XS30G product page at Buy Two Way Radios.
KG-XS30G Operation
The basic form factor of the KG-XS30G is similar to that of the KG-XS20G, KG-XS20G Plus and KG-XS20H, so the console, display, and some key functions are somewhat familiar. However, there are some important differences. The KG-XS30G has more programmable keys. Although the hand speaker microphone uses the same 8-pin DIN style connector as the other models, the key designations are slightly different. The hand microphone plugs into a jack located in lower left corner on the front of the radio.
The keys on the hand microphone and their primary functions are listed below:
| Button | Operation |
|---|---|
| UP ARROW | Select previous channel/frequency|Select menu option |
| DOWN ARROW | Select next channel/frequency|Select menu option |
| MODE | Change Channel/Frequency Modes |
| 1-SQL | Squelch menu hotkey |
| 2-TXP | TX Power menu hotkey |
| 3-W/N | Bandwidth menu hotkey |
| 4-RPT | Repeater menu hotkey |
| 5-MODE | Work Mode menu hotkey |
| 6-BKLT | Backlight menu hotkey |
| 7-STEP | Frequency Step menu hotkey |
| 8-SAVE | Power save menu hotkey |
| 9-RX-CTS | RX CTCSS menu hotkey |
| 0-(None) | No hotkey function |
| *-SCAN | Scan key |
| #-LOCK | Keypad lock key |
| MENU | Enter program menu|choose/set menu option |
| EXIT | Exit menu/cancel |
As an XS Series GMRS mobile radio, the Wouxun KG-XS30G adds value with simplified operation and Bluetooth audio. It offers more affordability while maintaining powerful versatility to your offroad or home base GMRS operation.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
The Wouxun KG-XS30G is a compact base/mobile GMRS radio designed specifically for users who need powerful mobile radio with simple operation while on the road. Although somewhat similar to the KG-XS20G in size, this radio is quite different in many ways. This radio is configured to transmit on the 15 high powered GMRS simplex channels, […]
TYT has introduced another addition to its growing lineup of professional DMR radios with the new MD-680D. Designed for commercial and industrial communications, this UHF handheld combines digital and analog operation in a rugged package built for everyday business use.
The MD-680D operates on UHF frequencies from 400-470 MHz and supports both DMR digital and conventional analog FM communications. This allows organizations to continue using existing analog radios while gradually migrating to a digital system. Mixed-mode capability helps simplify the transition without requiring every radio in the fleet to be replaced at once.
One of the standout features of the MD-680D is its selectable transmit power of up to 9 watts. Higher output power can improve coverage in larger facilities or challenging operating environments, while the low power setting helps conserve battery life when maximum range isn't required. The included 2200mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 25 hours of operating time in digital mode, making it well suited for extended work shifts.
Instead of using a traditional LCD screen, the MD-680D features a hidden Active View LED display that provides operating information while maintaining a clean, durable exterior. Two programmable side keys allow quick access to commonly used functions, and a rotary channel selector makes changing channels fast and intuitive.
The radio includes many of the features expected in a professional DMR handheld. Channel scan, emergency call, transmit time-out timer, PTT ID, DTMF signaling, CTCSS and DCS signaling in analog mode, 2-Tone and 5-Tone signaling, and multiple channel zones are all supported. Built-in audio companding helps improve voice clarity in noisy environments, while analog voice scrambling adds an extra layer of privacy where permitted. Remote stun, remote kill, and remote revive functions also make the MD-680D easier for system administrators to manage across larger fleets.
With 198 programmable memory channels and support for digital and analog channel spacing, the TYT MD-680D offers the flexibility needed for a wide range of commercial applications. Businesses looking for an affordable professional DMR handheld with high power output, long battery life, and compatibility with existing analog systems will find the MD-680D to be a capable addition to the TYT product lineup. Price: $99.95.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
TYT has introduced another addition to its growing lineup of professional DMR radios with the new MD-680D. Designed for commercial and industrial communications, this UHF handheld combines digital and analog operation in a rugged package built for everyday business use. The MD-680D operates on UHF frequencies from 400-470 MHz and supports both DMR digital and […]
The Wouxun KG-XS30G is a powerful mobile GMRS radio designed for drivers, off-road enthusiasts, RV travelers, and home base station operators who want advanced features with straightforward operation. Built on the success of the popular KG-XS series, the KG-XS30G combines up to 20 watts of output power with Bluetooth audio support, customizable controls, enhanced audio processing, and a modern user interface that makes it easier than ever to stay connected.
In this full video edition of the 2x award nominated The Two Way Radio Show Podcast, we introduce the Wouxun KG-XS30G mobile GMRS Radio, talk about its features, and compare it to the KG-XS20G Plus. We'll also take some of your comments and questions from our blog, YouTube Channel and our Two Way Radio Forum.
Listen to the audio only version of this episode and Subscribe to the show!
Want more videos about 2-way radios? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel and Rumble channel![related_products is_auto_added="1"]
The Wouxun KG-XS30G is a powerful mobile GMRS radio designed for drivers, off-road enthusiasts, RV travelers, and home base station operators who want advanced features with straightforward operation. Built on the success of the popular KG-XS series, the KG-XS30G combines up to 20 watts of output power with Bluetooth audio support, customizable controls, enhanced audio […]
This promotion expired July 7, 2026 and is no longer available.
Take your mobile GMRS station to the next level with a free antenna from Buy Two Way Radios! For a limited time, purchase a qualifying Wouxun GMRS mobile radio and receive a free Wouxun ANO-680 GMRS Magnet Mount Mobile Antenna at no additional cost.
This special promotion runs from June 22 through July 7, 2026 at midnight EDT. It's an easy way to get more value from your new mobile radio while ensuring you have an antenna designed specifically for GMRS operation.
The promotion applies to the three Wouxun mobile GMRS radios: the KG-1000G Plus, KG-XS20G Plus, and the new KG-XS30G. Each radio offers its own combination of features, from compact installations to full-featured mobile communications for everyday driving, off-road adventures, emergency preparedness, or coordinating with family and friends.
The included Wouxun ANO-680 is a GMRS mobile antenna engineered to provide dependable performance on the GMRS band. Pairing a quality antenna with your mobile radio is one of the most important factors in achieving reliable communications, making this promotion especially valuable for anyone setting up a new mobile station.
Want to upgrade an existing installation or purchase your first GMRS mobile radio? This limited-time offer helps you get on the air with a complete solution while saving money on an essential accessory.
No coupon code is required. Simply purchase a qualifying Wouxun mobile radio during the promotional period, and your free Wouxun ANO-680 GMRS Antenna will be included with your order while the supply lasts.
The offer ends July 7, 2026, at midnight EDT, so if you've been considering a new Wouxun mobile GMRS radio, don't wait.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
This promotion expired July 7, 2026 and is no longer available. Take your mobile GMRS station to the next level with a free antenna from Buy Two Way Radios! For a limited time, purchase a qualifying Wouxun GMRS mobile radio and receive a free Wouxun ANO-680 GMRS Magnet Mount Mobile Antenna at no additional cost. […]
Need a reliable, durable, POWERFUL and compact mobile two way radio for your vehicle or GMRS home base station? Introducing the NEW Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio!
This short introductory video is a quick look at the KG-XS30G and provides a brief overview of its key features. It's available now at Buy Two Way Radios!
For more details, read our official announcement of the Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio.
Listen to our KG-XS30G podcast to learn more about it!
Want more videos about 2-way radios? Browse our video blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel and Rumble channel![related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Need a reliable, durable, POWERFUL and compact mobile two way radio for your vehicle or GMRS home base station? Introducing the NEW Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio! This short introductory video is a quick look at the KG-XS30G and provides a brief overview of its key features. It’s available now at Buy Two Way Radios! […]
We introduce the Wouxun KG-XS30G mobile GMRS radio, talk about its features, and compare it to the KG-XS20G Plus. We’ll also take some of your comments and questions from our blog, YouTube channel and our forum at twowayradioforum dot com.
Intro :00
Billboard 1:08
The Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio 1:23
When Wouxun launched the KG-XS20G mobile radio in the summer of 2021, it quickly became quite popular. Then they released the KG-XS20G Plus, and it replaced the original in both performance and popularity. Now, Wouxun has a new model, and it adds something more to this series. It's the KG-XS30G.
Questions and Answers 20:51
Comments and questions from our blog, our YouTube channel and members of the Two Way Radio Forum. Check out and join the forum! It's free!
Wrap up and Close 25:43
Send in your comments and questions for Danny and Rick to show[at]buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. If we read your comment about this episode on a future episode, we may send you a free t-shirt or some swag! Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!
© 2026 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.
Podcast: Download (Duration: 26:28 — 24.3MB) | Embed
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[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We introduce the Wouxun KG-XS30G mobile GMRS radio, talk about its features, and compare it to the KG-XS20G Plus. We’ll also take some of your comments and questions from our blog, YouTube channel and our forum at twowayradioforum dot com. Intro :00 Billboard 1:08 The Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio 1:23 When Wouxun launched the […]
The new Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio is here, bringing a redesigned front panel and some new, exciting feature upgrades to the Wouxun XS series mobile lineup. Designed for GMRS operators who want strong performance, flexible customization, and easier everyday operation, the KG-XS30G takes many of the popular features of the KG-XS20G Plus and packages them into a refined radio with several notable enhancements.
Like its predecessor, the KG-XS30G supports all 30 GMRS channels, including 8 built-in repeater channels. It delivers up to 20 watts of output power and supports direct frequency entry, repeater operation, CTCSS/DCS privacy tones, flexible channel scanning, and PC programming.
One of the most noticeable differences between the KG-XS30G and the KG-XS20G Plus is the overall operating style. The KG-XS20G Plus was designed around a dual receive display system with Area A and Area B operation, allowing users to monitor two channels simultaneously. The new KG-XS30G simplifies the interface with a cleaner single display layout while adding more programmable controls and expanded customization features. this new layout is designed to be easier for many operators to use while driving in a vehicle.
In addition, the display has seven selectable backlight colors. These can be customized for transmit, receive, and standby modes, giving operators more flexibility to personalize the display.
The KG-XS30G also introduces several other new convenience and customization features. One of the most anticipated additions is Bluetooth audio support, a feature not available on the KG-XS20G Plus. This allows compatible wireless audio accessories to be used with the radio, providing more flexibility for mobile installations that require hands-free operation. Bluetooth functionality can be configured directly through the radio menu, making it easier to integrate the accessories without connecting the radio to the programming software.
Another major upgrade is the addition of four configurable function keys. The KG-XS30G includes programmable assignments for PF1 through PF4 with separate short and long press functions. Three programmable keys are on the front of the radio, and the fourth is on the side of the hand microphone. This gives users significantly more shortcut options compared to the KG-XS20G Plus, which offered only two programmable keys.
The new radio also adds several advanced audio and signaling features, including a built-in descrambler, noise reduction, compander, frequency counter, and incoming caller ID display. While the KG-XS20G Plus already included a compander and caller ID support, the KG-XS30G expands the overall feature set with more emphasis on audio enhancement and customization.
And did we mention that the KG-XS30G has a superheterodyne receiver? Well, in case we didn't, it does, so we just did. And there you go.
There are a few differences with memory management and band support. The KG-XS20G Plus supports up to 999 custom channels and dual-band receive capability across both VHF and UHF receive ranges. The KG-XS30G focuses specifically on the UHF range with receive coverage from 400-479.995 MHz and supports up to 400 custom channels. Although the channel capacity is lower, the streamlined design may appeal to operators who primarily use GMRS and do not need extensive VHF monitoring capability.
The hand microphone has been optimized for the radio as well. The KG-XS30G microphone includes its own speaker, volume control, keypad lock switch, keypad backlight switch, and configurable PF4 key. Combined with the simplified front panel layout and large high visibility display, the radio is designed for easy operation while mobile.
The KG-XS20G Plus still offers powerful features and great performance. However, users looking for Bluetooth support, expanded programmable controls, customizable backlighting for operating modes, improved audio processing, and a more simplified, streamlined operating interface may find the KG-XS30G to be the better fit for the GMRS operator on the go.
The Wouxun KG-XS30G continues Wouxun’s tradition of feature-rich GMRS radios while refining the user experience for both new and experienced GMRS operators. Whether used in a vehicle, off-road rig, RV, or home base station, the KG-XS30G delivers a strong combination of power, flexibility, and reliable everyday comms that Wouxun users have come to expect. It's available at Buy Two Way Radios. Price: $119.99.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
The new Wouxun KG-XS30G Mobile GMRS Radio is here, bringing a redesigned front panel and some new, exciting feature upgrades to the Wouxun XS series mobile lineup. Designed for GMRS operators who want strong performance, flexible customization, and easier everyday operation, the KG-XS30G takes many of the popular features of the KG-XS20G Plus and packages […]
Spend enough time around CB radio and you'll eventually hear all sorts of general "rules of thumb" from old timers about it. One such saying recently posted in our Two Way Radio Forum is the claim that every foot of CB antenna adds another mile of communication range. It sounds simple enough. But is it actually true?
Well, not exactly. There's a lot more to it than that.
The idea goes back decades, during the peak of the CB radio boom in the 1970s, when operators noticed that longer antennas usually performed better than shorter ones. At 27 MHz, where CB radio operates, antenna size really does matter. The wavelength is long enough that a full quarter-wave antenna is around 102 inches tall. That's why the classic 102-inch steel whip became legendary among CB enthusiasts.
Shortened CB antennas are essentially compromises. While a compact 2-foot antenna may be more convenient on a vehicle, it typically sacrifices efficiency compared to a longer 4-foot or 5-foot antenna. As a result, many operators observed better performance with larger antennas and eventually simplified the concept into catchy sayings like "one foot equals one mile."
The problem is that it's oversimplified. Radio range simply doesn't work that way.
Communication range depends on far more than antenna length alone. Terrain, antenna height, installation quality, grounding, atmospheric conditions, receiver sensitivity, interference levels, and even weather can all affect how far a CB radio signal travels.
In many cases, the height of the antenna from the ground is actually more important than the physical length of the antenna itself. CB radio communication is largely line-of-sight, which means the signal travels best when there is a clear path between transmitting and receiving antennas. Raising an antenna higher above the ground, vehicle roofline, buildings, or surrounding terrain often allows the signal to travel farther with fewer obstructions in the way. That's why a properly mounted antenna on the roof of a vehicle will usually outperform the same antenna mounted lower on a bumper or side view mirror.
Even a shorter antenna mounted higher in the air can sometimes outperform a longer antenna mounted too low. While antenna length affects efficiency, antenna height often has a much greater impact on real-world communication range because it improves signal propagation and reduces blockage from hills, trees, structures, and even other vehicles.
Yet, there may be some truth behind the old saying. In general, a properly designed, longer CB antenna will often outperform a very short one when both are mounted on the same plane or level. But there is no scientific formula stating that each foot automatically adds another mile of range.
Like many old sayings, it's better viewed as radio folklore than engineering fact.
Still, the underlying lesson remains valid. The antenna matters far more to the overall operation of the radio than many operators realize. When it comes to CB radio performance, the real "rule of thumb" is that the antenna matters.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Spend enough time around CB radio and you’ll eventually hear all sorts of general “rules of thumb” from old timers about it. One such saying recently posted in our Two Way Radio Forum is the claim that every foot of CB antenna adds another mile of communication range. It sounds simple enough. But is it […]
Attic antennas can be a clever way to stay on the air without attracting attention from the HOA. But could that hidden ham or GMRS aerial also discourage unwanted attic tenants like squirrels, raccoons, rats, and mice?
Unfortunately, the science says probably not.
The idea sounds plausible at first. Radios radiate electromagnetic energy, and some pest-control gadgets claim to use sound or electromagnetic fields to repel rodents, therefore an operating antenna might make an attic uncomfortable for pests. It sounds reasonable on the surface. The problem is that there is very little scientific evidence supporting the idea.
The Federal Trade Commission has previously challenged manufacturers of ultrasonic pest-control devices over unsupported claims that they effectively repel pests. Studies generally show that animals such as rats and mice may initially react to unfamiliar sounds or vibrations, but they often adapt quickly and return to normal behavior. A ham aerial or GMRS antenna is even less likely to have much effect because it is not designed to produce ultrasonic sound in the first place.
A radio antenna is also not the same thing as an ultrasonic pest repeller. A GMRS or ham antenna radiates radio frequency energy while transmitting. It is not producing the kind of high-frequency sound marketed for pest control, and it is not transmitting continuously unless the radio is keyed. Most personal radio use is intermittent. That makes it even less likely to create a constant environmental nuisance for squirrels.
Could strong RF energy affect animals? Of course it can. At high enough exposure levels, RF energy can have biological effects on any living creature, primarily related to heating. But that is an RF safety concern, not a pest-control strategy. The ARRL notes that indoor and attic-mounted antennas require attention to RF exposure, distance, power level and duty cycle, especially when people may be nearby. In other words, if an attic antenna were producing enough RF energy to make wildlife uncomfortable, it would also raise questions about whether the installation is appropriate for humans.
Exterminators and wildlife control professionals point to a much less exciting answer, the simple fact that squirrels and other pests are best controlled by exclusion. That means finding entry points, trimming access routes such as overhanging tree branches, and permanently sealing openings after the animals are out. Some professional exterminators recommend keeping tree branches at least 8 feet from buildings and securing entry points after exclusion. In general, the primary control methods for these unwanted pests are removal, exclusion and habitat modification.
So, while an attic antenna may help prevent the HOA from pestering you, it probably will not stop raccoons, squirrels, rats, or mice from doing the same in your attic. For that, good home maintenance still works better than RF. For pest control, use screens, repairs and professional extraction. For radio, use the attic antenna because it works to keep HOAs from your invading your home communications, not because it doubles as a rodent repeller. Because it doesn't.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]
Attic antennas can be a clever way to stay on the air without attracting attention from the HOA. But could that hidden ham or GMRS aerial also discourage unwanted attic tenants like squirrels, raccoons, rats, and mice? Unfortunately, the science says probably not. The idea sounds plausible at first. Radios radiate electromagnetic energy, and some […]