A "channel" on a two-way radio is a talk group (group of two-way radio users that communicate). The number of channels on a two-way radio is dependent on the radio (radios typically allow for anywhere between 16 and hundreds of channels), the FCC license and the two-way radio users' needs (how many channels do you need/want).

Analog: Analog radios have provided a simple and easy-to-use experience for users, but as many businesses continue to evolve the need for clearer voice, expanded features and coverage have increased. With analog radios, every noise picked up by the microphone is transmitted, making it difficult for users to understand each other in noisy environments. Radio interference creates static on analog radios and makes the conversation less intelligible. Voice gets garbled and the message must be repeated, especially the closer you move to the boundaries of coverage. Also, analog radios typically allow for only one two-way conversation at a time per channel, limiting your team's ability to collaborate.

Digital: Clear communication is critical to operating efficiently and digital two-way radios offer advantages compared to analog including, clearer voice quality, increased radio capacity, better signal coverage and extended battery life. Built-in error correction capabilities maintain clear voice transmission as well as remove background noise, static and voice distoration even at the far reaches of coverage. Digital encoding aids in delivering clear voice in extreme conditions. Capacity expansion allows you to double the capacity of your existing 12.5kHz channel which can lower licensing costs. Digital radios provide up to 40% longer battery life allowing radio users the ability to communicate the entire day without recharging.

In two-way radios, encryption modifies a voice signal using a coding algorithm. This algorithm is controlled by an encryption key. The encryption key is used by the transmit and receive radios to enable the voice signal to be coded and decoded for both radios. Encryption is used with frequencies to further privatize radios communications.

VHF stands for "Very High Frequency" and UHF stands for "Ultra High Frequency." UHF has two ranges, low band (operates on 378-512 MHz) and high band (operates on 764-870 MHz). VHF also has two ranges, low band (49-108 MHz) and high band (169-216 MHz). Both bandwidths have distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the application. VHF is typically better for long ranges with no obstructions (walls, equipment) and is best for use outside in open spaces. UHF frequencies are preferred inside facilities because the frequencies are shorter and can move around corners and turns more effectively. Most two-way radio users would benefit from UHF.

Transmission range varies per model. Transmission range can be calculated based on the environment it will be used in, antenna, obstructions, and power of the radios. CavCom‘s field technicians can do a site and range evaluation to find the right radios for your facility.

The stronger the signal strength, the more it can withstand weakening when it passes through obstacles. Signal strength is mainly a result of a radio's power output, measured in watts. Commercial radio stations typically broadcast at 50,000 or 100,000 watts. Compare that to a handheld two-way radio which uses between 1/2 - 5 watts. You can see there is a big difference.

A two-way radio repeater is an infrastructure built to amplify your communication – and has a receiver, transmitter, and a base station antenna. With this technology combination, the coverage area in workplaces, and the building penetration for coverage, is greater. Typically, two-way radio repeaters are used in very large workspaces, the repeater allows the two-way radio transmitting signals at higher powers, which improves facility communication. But not every workplace requires a radio repeater.

5 Reasons you might need a two-way radio repeater

• Poor Coverage
• Facility layout and barriers
• Coordination of teams on different frequencies
• Unique applications that require specific infrastructures
• Wide Area Coverage

The absolute best way is to use a combination of a holster and in-ear or speaker mic technology. This way your radio stays on your belt and you talk into the speaker mic clipped to your lapel. Companies that buy holsters and speaker mics send in their radio for repair less than half as often as companies that don't.