Are you experiencing more “dead zones” or areas of static than usual with your two-way radios? There are several things you can do to improve the range of your radios.
Simple Ways to Improve Poor Radio Coverage
#1. Check the Antenna
The antenna is an important component to two-way radios and if there’s an issue with the antenna there’s going to be an issue with your coverage and range. Check to make sure the radio’s antenna is not bent, cracked or otherwise broken to the point that the metal coiled antenna piece is exposed. In addition, make sure the antenna is screwed on correctly to the antenna connector of the radio. If the antenna is not attached correctly or broken it’ll drastically reduce your coverage. Simply replacing an old and damaged antenna provides an effective solution.
#2. Check the Batteries
Fresh batteries with a full charge will ensure your radio transmits as far as possible. Batteries on all rechargeable two-way radios that are 1.5 to 2 years old may start to degrade and therefore not hold a charge for as long. This is considered normal wear and tear. If your two-way radio is not reaching the same range it once did, it might be time to check out the batteries and consider replacing them.
#3. Old Radios
Just like all electronics, two-way radios have a shelf life and at a certain point they become old and worn out and do not operate with the same efficiency as they once did. Radios that have peaked above 5 to 6 years old likely need to be replaced. In addition, radios that have not been serviced in a while may require some repairs to get them working in optimum order again. Radios require regular maintenance to keep them working in good condition for as long as possible.
A benefit to renting two-way radios is that we take care of maintenance and repairs as needed. Need a new set of radios? We take care of that too. Learn more
#4. Location, Location, Location
Location is everything in real estate, as well as in the world of two-way radios. Radio range fluctuates depending on where you are located. Tall mountains and thick walls on a building, both of these things and more can influence radio range. The metal on a car or building can block radio signals from getting through. This is an especially pressing problem in certain parts of the building, such as an underground parking garage. You can usually improve radio range by simply moving to another area. There is always the option to add an in-building radio enhancement system to improve coverage in all areas.
#5. Add a Radio Enhancement System
A radio enhancement system is designed to improve signal strength throughout the entire building so that you get coverage no matter where you are. It is very common for the thick building materials used in today’s modern buildings to block out signals. A radio enhancement system is made up of three parts: A Donor antenna system, Bi-Directional Amplifier, and a Distributed Antenna System. All of these components work together to provide reliable in-building coverage.
Learn more about In-building Radio Enhancement Systems
Need Greater Radio Range?
Two-way radios can only communicate so far, that is unless you have Florida Fleet Talk. This all-digital network has the power to connect radios as far as 300 miles apart, from Jacksonville to the Florida Keys. Learn more