Two Way Radio Frequently Asked Questions
Should your question not be here please email us and we’ll answer as soon as possible.
What is the difference between a two way portable and a two way mobile radio?
Why are commercial two-way radios more expensive than the CB’s I see at the major electronics stores?
How far does a two way radio transmit?
What sort of after-sales support do you offer?
What is the difference between UHF and VHF?
What is a Repeater?
What is CTCSS?
Can CA Bearcom assist me with ACA licensing?
What is an Itinerant frequency?
We’ve outgrown our existing two way radio system but don’t know what the best option is. Where can we find information?
What is the advantage of two way radios over mobile phones
What if I will be using the two way radio inside - will they still work?
What is the difference between a two way portable and a two way mobile radio?
Two Way Portable, or Two Way handheld radios, are designed to be held or worn in a holster on the hip. They are ideal for when the wearer needs to move around on foot and communicate, and can be used with a variety of accessories such as earpieces, microphones or headsets.
Two Way Mobile radios are used either fixed on a desk as a base station, or in a vehicle as truly mobile communications. Accessories can be added to the mobile radio such as a desk microphone to a base station or a hands-free kit to an in-vehicle radio. Two Way Mobile radios are ideal for service vehicles and other fleet communications.
Why are commercial two-way radios more expensive than the CB’s I see at the major electronics stores?
CA Bearcom sells Motorola commercial two-way radios, which are made of the highest quality components and stringently tested to Military standards. They are designed to stand up to rigorous use in commercial situations. Whilst this quality costs more than a cheaper radio the user will be rewarded with longer radio life and more reliable communications.
Two Way Radios sold through the major electronics stores usually have a much shorter life, fewer features and are unlikely to stand continued use in a commercial environment.
How far does a two way radio transmit?
Many factors affect how far a Two Way radio will transmit including power of the radio and the environment in which it’s used (e.g. are there many buildings around? Is the area mountainous or have lots of trees?).
Whilst many Two Way radio manufacturers will give an estimated maximum range under ideal conditions, it is impossible to guess a true distance. Thus when CA Bearcom recommend a Two Way radio product if it’s to be used in an area we’re not sure about we’ll always suggest a site test first, to ensure you get an accurate picture of the coverage you’re going to get.
What sort of after-sales support do you offer?
CA Bearcom is an accredited Motorola repairer so we offer extensive after-sales support. CA Bearcom is also fully accredited to repair FM (INTRINSICALLY SAFE) rated equipment.
What is the difference between UHF and VHF?
UHF, or Ultra High Frequencies, are better able to penetrate man-made obstacles such as steel and concrete. VHF, or Very High Frequencies, are more suited to distance or open-area operations.
What is a Repeater?
A Repeater is a Two Way Radio Relay Station. It is used when the Two Way radio signal needs to be magnified to get the desired distance coverage. It works by receiving a radio signal from one unit, magnifying it and retransmitting the signal to another Two Way radio unit. It would be used in an area where coverage was hampered by terrain, buildings or other environmental conditions.
What is CTCSS?
CTCSS, or Continuous Tone Coded Squelching System, is an option that allows your Two Way radio(s) to only pick up radio signals preceded by a "code". This option helps to cut down on unwanted radio chatter. This is also known as PL, Private Line, Channel Guard, etc.
Can CA Bearcom assist me with ACA licensing?
Yes. CA Bearcom can assist customers with radio frequency licensing applications.
What is an Itinerant frequency?
There are two types of frequencies you can purchase – Fixed or Itinerant. An Itinerant frequency is a frequency primarily used for commercial activity at unspecified job locations, whereas a fixed licence allows use in a predetermined location. CA Bearcom can advise which type is best suited to your needs and the costs associated with both.
We’ve outgrown our existing two way radio system but don’t know what the best option is. Where can we find information?
CA Bearcom has an experienced sales & engineering team who can discuss your business needs and recommend a solution that best suits your needs and budget.
What is the advantage of two way radios over mobile phones
Instantaneous communications. For safety, security, efficiency and financial reasons, two-way radio is the single, most widely used communications solutions
What if I will be using the two way radio inside - will they still work?
Yes, in most indoor applications, we rent UHF radios, which can penetrate concrete and steel walls and floors relatively well. In some cases we do need to install a repeater for greater penetration, but in any case, we will do everything we can to make sure you have the coverage you need.
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