The term two-way radio is a technology that allows individuals to keep in contact with each other using radio waves. Each user is given a radio unit which sends and receives audio and data sent over the radio waves. A two-way radio system can be as simple as two radios connecting directly to each other, or as complex as an encrypted network that covers an entire country.
You might know two-way radio by the name “walkie talkie,” which is the term used for unlicensed radio devices. The term two-way radio covers the unlicensed equipment and the licensed equipment.
Two-way radio works by converting audio to radio waves that are then transmitted through the air. These radio waves are received by other radios which convert the radio waves back to audio.
The conversion to radio waves can be sent as an analogue signal or a digital signal, with digital transmission being the more modern technology. With digital radio, it is possible to send other types of data over the radio waves such as text messages and status updates. It is even possible to encrypt data when using digital radio to stop people using your network without your permission.
Two-way radio works between the frequencies of 30 MHz (Megahertz) and 1000 MHz, also known as 1 GHz (Gigahertz). This range of two-way frequencies is divided into two categories:
- Very High Frequency (VHF) – Range between 30 MHz and 300 MHz
- Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) – Range between 300 MHz and 1 GHz.
From these ranges, most two-way radio equipment falls into the 136 – 174 MHz and 403 – 527 MHz parts of the spectrum and must be licensed. Each country has its own organization tasked with allocating licenses, but some two-way radio frequencies are allocated as license-free (for instance, PMR446 at 446MHz).
Two-way radios can both send and receive audio signals. It is designed to provide two-way communication between two individuals or between groups of people. Everyone using a two-way radio must communicate on the same frequency.
Some are fixed in place, while others are movable or portable. For two-way communication, they typically use a half-duplex mode. It indicates that the operators can listen and communicate at the moment, but not simultaneously.
These gadgets often contain a Push-to-Talk feature that allows customers to communicate their messages by pressing them. However, the product only gets messages when the button is released.
Portable two-way radios are commonly known as walkie-talkies or long-range handheld radios, yet they are typically limited to versions that cover a short distance. A two-way radio allows you to communicate with other radios directly and instantaneously.
Two-Way Radio Components
To fully comprehend the operation of two-way radio, it is necessary to examine its components. They are as follows:
• Antenna: A device that helps in sending and receiving radio waves.
• Loudspeaker: The message is transmitted to the operator over the loudspeaker.
• Push-to-Talk: This allows the operator to talk by pressing the button.
• Microphone: This feature makes it easy to track your message. A few gadgets feature a separate microphone, whilst others combine the microphone and the loudspeaker into a single component.
Do I Need A Two-Way Radio Licence?
It depends on what type of system you require. If you only need a small number of radios in a remote location over a small area then you might be able to use unlicensed radios (such as PMR446). If you require a larger area of coverage, require secure communications, have multiple teams who need to communicate separately, or are operating in a built-up area such as a town centre then you will need to buy licensed equipment.
Radio licencing is a complex topic, but through Motorola Solutions extensive partner network, we can pair you with a local expert to help you find the solution that is right for you while aiding you through the licensing process for your region.
Can Two-Way Radio From Different Manufacturers Communicate With Each Other?
Yes, and no; some functions are common across all manufacturers because they are defined by radio standards such as DMR. While basic functionality will work between systems (such as voice transmission), you might want to use features outside those defined by the standards.
Before deciding what equipment to purchase to extend your system, you should check what features you are already using and find out if any are unique to your current equipment. If they are not unique, you should still check with the manufacturers to ensure that interoperability testing has been performed between the systems.
Wrapping Up
Overall, two-way radios are useful equipment essential for both rapid and group communication. They let you communicate and listen from a single device, allowing comprehensive and urgent communication in critical situations.