Two Way Radio FAQs
Q: How do I determine the best solution for my business?
A: Partnering with us is an important first step. We spend time learning about your business and how your specific operation works. Then we use this knowledge to develop customized solutions. It may be as simple as spending five minutes discussing application and results desired, or it may require a site audit to determine the best, cost-effective system. In any case, we will design a system that provides the results you need now and prepares you for the future.
Q: How should I charge my portable radio?
A: All portables require a battery to supply power to the unit. If the batteries are charged correctly, the units will provide a longer period of operation. Plus the life of the battery will be increased. It is always best to turn off the radio prior to charging and, when possible, drain the battery prior to charge. Never transmit when the portable is in the charger. Charge the battery for a full cycle, typically meaning a normal charge time of 10 hours for standard charger and one hour for rapid chargers. Never leave the battery in a charger for extended periods.
Q: Is an FCC license required to operate two-way radios?
A: Yes. All business frequencies require an FCC license. We provide our customers with all details necessary for a valid FCC license. We can assist and obtaining a license and will help determine which frequency to use and which service best suits your operation of two-way radios. Systems that are operated as SMRs or wide area trunking may be licensed by the system owner and do not require the end user to apply for a license.
Q: How much do portable radios cost?
A: The cost of portables range from $300 - $1300 depending on such variables as: Quality, Durability, Battery Type, Frequency, and Features.
Q: What is the range of portable radios and what’s the difference between UHF and VHF?
A: Coverage is reliant on power, antenna height and terrain. On-site portable radios will typically cover from 1 –3 miles in radius, while wide-area radios can offer coverage up to a 30-mile radius from the repeater site.
Due to the characteristics of radio waves, UHF radios generally offer better building penetration and therefore are ideally suited for indoors as well as for areas of high building density (cities). VHF radios are better suited for areas where there is vegetation, where the signal can pass through objects. For this reason VHF radios are ideal for outdoor use. Where the application requires a combination of indoor and outdoor use, a UHF radio is preferable.
Your sales consultant will know by your specific application which radio will best fit your needs.
Q: What are the benefits of a two-way radio versus a cell phone?
A: Cost and Dispatch Capabilities.
Push a button and be connected to one or one hundred individuals. Two-way radios are easy to use with a push-to-talk feature, which enables the user to communicate instantly with anyone on the network. Two-way radios are designed to be utilized in extreme conditions and offer rugged features. Flat monthly fee with no per minute airtime cost, unlike cellular phones. Low monthly costs, which include unlimited talk-times.
Rental FAQs
Q. I have a large order. Should I place my order on line?
A. We prefer in that situation, that you call 800-259-2929 to speak to a Rental Sales Rep for a more customized quote to meet to your specific rental needs
Q. Once I place my order, what happens next?
A. One of our rental service representatives will contact you to review your order. The dates, quantity and location will confirmed to ensure accuracy and arrangements would be made take care of your deposit.
Q. What number should I call if I have a question or problem with my order?
A. We offer 24/7 customer service to help you with your order, please call 800-259-2929.
Q. In addition to Renting Radios I would like to have some one on site to help with distribution and inventory management. Do you offer such a service?
A. Yes we do. Depending on your dates and market we can offer you a very competitive rate for staffing.
Q. What is the talk range of the radio signals?
A. 2-way radio coverage range is approximately 1-mile outdoors. Indoor coverage varies based on construction of the building where the equipment is being used. Large Convention Centers are normally covered within a given Hall. In hotel applications, at least multiple floors are covered.
If you have specific coverage questions please call 800-259-2929. We have a database consisting of past rentals, which can help you to choose the right equipment for your work area.
Q. Do you rent LTR radios?
A. Yes. We now offer Motorola LTR radios with or without Passport feature
Q. Do you rent Intrinsically Safe Radios?
A. Yes. We have a large inventory of I/S radios.
Q. What I/S models do you rent?
A. Primarily we rent HT1000 radios but we also can rent the MTS2000 Smartnet radios also.
Q. What kind of accessories do you offer with your radios?
A. For 2-way radios we offer Audio Accessories including: Speaker Microphones, Light Headsets, Double Headsets and Ear microphones.
Q. How long do batteries last?
A. On average Motorola radio batteries last about 8 hours.
Q. How many batteries do I get with an order?
A. We always include a minimum of an additional 1/3 of the order size (12 radios =4 spare Batteries)
If you require more spare batteries due to the nature of your event, please note your request in the comment section when placing your order.
Q. Do I need a FCC license to rent from you?
A. No. We have National FCC Frequencies that are programmed into your radios. Additionally we can program/match radios to your frequencies should you request that option.
Q. What radio brands do you have?
A. Motorola.
Q. What is a Repeater?
A. A repeater is installed in a fixed location with the intent of coverage enhancement. Multi-story buildings are covered more thoroughly and dead spots are removed. The building’s construction, number of floors and the presence of steel and concrete determine range
Q. Do your cellular phones offer International-dialing options?
A. We offer International Dialing. However, for your protection this feature is not activated unless requested.
