Walkie-talkie privacy code matcher

How the matcher works

Two radios hear each other when they share the frequency and the tone. The channel number gives the frequency: FRS and GMRS channels 1–22 are the same on every US radio, PMR446 channels 1–16 on every European one.12 The privacy code gives the tone, and here brands differ: each maker prints its own table of code numbers.3

The matcher reads those tables from the makers' user guides. Codes 1–38 are the same 38 CTCSS tones in the same order on Motorola, Midland, Uniden and Rocky Talkie. Above 38 the DCS codes carry different numbers: DCS 023 is code 39 on a Motorola Talkabout and DCS 1 on a Midland GXT.34

Code 0 means off: the radio plays every call on the channel. A privacy code is not encryption — anyone with the code off hears you.5

Sources

1. 47 CFR 95.563, FRS channels · eCFR
2. ECC/DEC/(15)05 decision text, channel plans · CEPT
3. Talkabout MS350 series user guide, tone and code table · Motorola Solutions
4. Midland GXT1000 series manual (copy) · Midland
5. Cobra support article 47001193822, codes and channel sharing · Cobra Electronics