the unit transmitts using 0.5 watts on the FRS channels and 1.0 watts on the GMRS channels, battery life seems to be about 20 hours. also, the GMRS channels are not available in units within Canada, and to use the GMRS channels requires a lic and a fee from the FCC. i try not to use the GMRS channels because you CANNOT transmit your postion to another unit while on those channels. hope this helps. I am not sure what you consider heavy cover, but the unit seems to work fine for me in the woods.