You might be wondering how far can two-way radios communicate—and how much of a difference is afforded by long-range radios in comparison to standard radios? No matter what, long-range two-way radios offer a much greater span of communication, reaching hundreds of miles. Although, the exact distance a radio can communicate across varies based upon different factors including the terrain, type of radio and watts available.

Standard two-way radios can communicate a relatively short distance, usually around 25 miles on a good day. On the other hand, long-range two-way radios operating on a Wide Area Network are capable of communicating across 300 miles with the same clarity you’d get if you were talking to someone next door. Clearly, this is a huge difference.

Long Range Two-Way Radios vs. Standard Two-Way Radios

How our Wide Area Network Operates

At Highland Wireless, we understand the importance of solid radio communication, and recognize the need for much greater signal strength than standard radios offer. That’s why we offer a future-forward Wide Area Network that allows you to communicate via radio as much as 300 miles away. We were one of the first providers in Florida to offer this type of radio communication, which we see as the future of two-way radios.

How Does it Work?

A wide area radio system is a large network of connected sites, each with their own radio infrastructure. As each site receives data it sends an audio transmission to the next site and an onboard computer transmits the audio to each site necessary for broadcast. This all happens in under a second—providing quick and seamless communication across hundreds of miles. As a result, businesses in Miami, Daytona Beach, West Palm, Orlando, Tampa—pretty much all throughout Florida, can communicate without missing a beat.

How Standard Two-way Radios Work

Standard two-way radios are generally somewhere between 150MHz and 900M Hz. AM radio signals can follow the natural curves of the Earth and therefore be received hundreds of miles away. Radio signals are different, they are considered “line-of-sight” communication. Even if the point of signal is not really a straight line to the receiver, the signal moves in a straight line following the horizon. As a result, they can get blocked up by different obstacles and interferences.

While standard radio signals can move through a lot of different non-metallic objects as well as walls and many other obstacles, they can ‘hit a wall’ when it comes to certain obstacles or hilly terrain. This is especially true if the antenna height is low. Antenna height plays an important role in how a signal is projected. Raising the height of the antenna can extend the line of sight, along with the distance a signal can travel.

Power output is important too, the more watts a radio has the farther distance the signal can travel. Think of it like this: while many radio stations are operating at 50,000 to 100,000 watts, the average handheld two-way radio is broadcasting at 1-5 watts. Additional watts greatly increase the distance a radio signal can travel. Unfortunately, radios with a lot of watts will lose battery charge quickly. Hence, the need for a different system that allows for long range communication without the drawback of significant battery drain. 

Highland Wireless Wide Area Network Offers the Ideal Solution

Our Wide Area Network offers the reliable communication you need across the state of Florida. Learn more about our reliable network.

Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) are networks that enhance communication in areas that do not have good coverage. For instance, a large building in a densely urban area, or a sweeping outdoor venue. Depending on the set up of the system, they can be used to enhance mobile and/or radio device signals. For the most part, it is a three-part system that consists of:

A Donor Antenna System: usually placed on top of your building’s roof and positioned towards the nearest communication tower. It brings signals in and out of the building.  A Bi-Directional Amplifier: takes incoming signals from the donor antenna and amplifies them throughout the building. Receives signals from inside of the building and transmits them out to the donor antenna.  The Distributed Antenna System: an interconnected web of coaxial cable, power dividers, and splitters, as well as ceiling-mounted antennas, and fiber in some cases. This creates the path for signals moving to and from the BDA.

Far from one-size-fits-all, a DAS is typically designed to the unique requirements and specifications of a space or building. Indoor systems are known as iDAS and outdoor systems are known as oDAS. Not only does a DAS help improve daily productivity, it can be lifesaving in an emergency by allowing a consistent flow of communication between people, as well as First Responders.

4 Signs Your Venue or Building Will Benefit From a DAS

So, how do you know if your building or venue could benefit from implementing a DAS? Here are some key signs to look out for.

#1. You drop calls frequently – If cell phone calls and radio signals frequently drop inside of a building, a DAS may offer the appropriate solution. It is common for certain floors of a building to get better reception than others. If you must find a certain window on X floor to get okay service, it’s time to consider adding a DAS.

#2. People go outside the building to make calls – If everyone in the building resorts to huddling around the lobby or outside the building to make a call, efficiency could be improved with a DAS.

#3. Messages are difficult to send – Multimedia messages take more service to send and may be close to impossible to send or receive when inside of a building that needs a cellular repeater or DAS.

#4. You do not meet local regulations for First Responder communication – It’s imperative that First Responders can communicate in an emergency from all points of your building. A lack of radio signal can impair this from happening and lead to dire consequences.

Benefits of Adding a DAS

• Improve wireless or radio coverage in an area that otherwise has poor signal or coverage
• Enjoy fewer coverage gaps than other systems can offer
• Provides greater coverage while using less overall power
• Greater safety to the public, including people who work and live in a space, as well as First Responders in an emergency.
• Increases productivity by making in-building communication easier and more reliable.
• Enables consistent communication across crowded venues, thus enhancing public safety, security, and helping events run smoother.

Still unsure if you could benefit from the addition of a DAS? Contact Highland Wireless today! We offer free pre-testing of signal strength as well as site surveys.

SOURCES:

5 Signs You May Need an In-building Cellular Repeater System (DAS)

https://www.radio-electronics.com/info/antennas/das-distributed-antenna-systems/basics-tutorial.php

There are three main types of Distributive Antenna System (DAS) designs passive, active, and hybrid. The most common system recommended today is a hybrid DAS, which is considered the best option about 60% of the time. Active systems are recommended around 32% of the time, while passive systems are applied about 6% of the time. Passive systems are the simplest and most affordable to install but they do not offer the same reliability. A passive DAS is more commonly found in smaller buildings with fewer interruptions to RF signals. Active systems are the most complex and provide the greatest coverage. They are used in larger buildings with a lot of RF signal loss. Lastly, hybrid systems offer the best of both by combining the technology used in active and passive systems.

A Breakdown of Each Type of DAS Design

Passive DAS – Passive DAS is typically used indoors and for smaller areas. It is considered the simplest option in terms of design and is therefore more cost effective. The system consists of a repeater that transfers signals to and from the antenna. It relies on coax cabling to move the signals. A passive DAS is often recommended for buildings shrouded in metal, concrete, or thick masonry. These are all examples of materials that are difficult for RF signals to penetrate and, as a result, tend to block signals and cause “dead zones.”

Active DAS – Active DAS is more complex than a passive DAS. It is typically used in larger spaces or venues. If there are additional barrier materials blocking RF signals, an active DAS may be necessary to improve signal strength. This system includes fiber optic cabling that are capable of altering RF signals into light for distribution purposes, before turning it back into a recognizable signal once it reaches its intended destination.

Advanced fiber technologies are employed by up to 65% of engineers who specialize in DAS design. As a result of more advanced fiber technologies, digital transportation of RF signals is greatly enhanced. In many cases, this type of system can improve coverage as well as capacity and overall performance.

The downside to an active system is that it requires additional maintenance when compared to a passive system. Although, the enhanced communication capabilities and reliability make up for that in many cases.

Hybrid DAS – A combination of a passive design that relies on coax, and an active design that relies on fiber optics, Hybrid systems offer the best of both worlds. A hybrid system combines the technology of coax and fiber optics to distribute signals. It is a single passive DAS that is connected to a few passive systems that rely on RF amplifiers.

Since it is similar to a passive system, the design and installation tend to be less complex. This option typically produces better signals and offers fewer signal losses than a passive system. Although, there is still some signal loss because the antennas are wired together through coaxial cables. Over 50% of engineers believe that hybrid systems often make the best option.

What is the Best DAS Design for Your Building? – We offer free pre-testing of signal strength and site surveys. During this process, an engineer comes on site to assess your building or venue. As a result, we can provide you with the knowledge you need to decide on the best system regarding budget, reliability, and so forth. Contact us today to learn more and set up your free consultation and assessment.

SOURCE:

http://micro.apitech.com/pdf/whitepapers/DAS-API-WhitePaper.pdf

Two-way radios are designed for businesses like yours. They are durable, reliable, and free from the distractions present on a modern-day smartphone. On the other hand, smartphones are designed to distract with endless apps, photos, and text messages pouring in. All in all, smartphones are highly distracting and can actually lead to mistakes and other issues in the workplace.

The Benefits of Two-Way Radios for Businesses

There are many reasons businesses are making the switch from cell phones to two-way radios, here are five of them.

#1. More Affordable – Two-way radios help you run a successful business without the high costs of smartphones and costly cell phone plans. Cell phone companies have found countless ways to tack on extra fees to your monthly bill. Radios don’t come with the same range of fees that cell phones do, like data charges or roaming fees. Not to mention, many smartphones cost over $1,000 these days. Radios are far more affordable and don’t come with the same risk of added fees. Plus, since they are more durable and less likely to break, you’ll spend less money fixing and replacing devices.

#2. More Reliable – Cell phones are not made to withstand the harsh environments found on construction sites and other work zones. On the other hand, there are many two-way radios that are designed to withstand everything from water to hard falls, and even fire. This is crucial in an emergency situation because it means radios will continue to work when cell phones may not. Plus, in a crisis cell phone towers become overwhelmed by everyone trying to make calls or send messages. All the while, radio communication remains open and more reliable.

Additionally, radios work on ships out at sea and in other locations where cell phone signals are nowhere to be found. Plus, two-way radios provide clearer communication in loud work zones. These are just some of the many reasons two-way radios provide more reliability than cell phones.

#3. Better Network Security – Security is crucial when operating a business. Two-way radios provide enhanced security when compared to a cell phone. Cell phone networks are easier to breach and more heavily targeted. With two-way radios, there are several options you can rely on to keep private conversations private.

#4. Enhanced Communication & Group Collaboration – Thanks to a handful of features offered on two-way radios, it’s a lot easier to communicate as a group. You can send private or group messages with the push of a button. This improves safety and collaboration efforts, allowing everyone from construction workers to school security personnel to communicate quickly and efficiently.

#5. Prolonged Battery Life – Battery life is a huge concern. It is common for cell phones to not last through an entire shift without dying. As cell phones get older, battery life continues to decrease. Two-way radios are made to last through long shifts and there’s always the option to add reliable battery extenders. Plus, since there are far fewer distracting things to do on a two-way radio, battery power isn’t wasted surfing the web or texting.

The Benefits of Florida Fleet Talk

The one thing you used to be able to argue for cell phones is that they can communicate across longer distances. While traditional two-way radios didn’t have the capacity to communicate across hundreds of miles, our radios do thanks to Florida Fleet Talk.

For only $25 per radio/per month, Florida Fleet Talk ensures your two-way radios communicate across secure and reliable radio raves that extend from Jacksonville all the way down to Miami. That’s up to 300 miles of communication with no interruptions, static, or sound quality issues. You get clear and reliable communication across nearly the entire state of Florida. That’s communication you can count on.

Learn more about Florida Fleet Talk

SOURCES:

https://blog.amerizonwireless.com/two-way-radio-or-cell-phone-whats-best-for-your-business

 

If you’re looking to find the best two-way radios for your team, you’ve come to the right place. Allow us to break down the most important factors that influence 2-way radio selection by offering a list of questions you can ask yourself to help narrow down your needs. After all, there are many different types of radios that offer various features. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on application, environment, and budget.

8 Questions That’ll Help You Identify the Ideal Two-Way Radio for Your Needs

There are a wide variety of two-way radios out there—the goal is to find one that best fits your needs. So, what are your needs? We recommend starting by jotting down a list of the features you need a two-way radio to offer—such as Bluetooth, GPS, intrinsically safe, etc. The following questions are intended to help you narrow down your list of must-have features.

#1. Are two-way radio needs short term or long term?

If you only need radios for a specific window of time, say for instance one season, or over the weekend for a concert, you may want to consider renting radios instead of buying them. This may offer a more cost-effective option. Especially considering we offer affordable Kenwood and Motorola two-way radio rentals that include chargers and all other necessary accessories.

#2. Do radios need to be intrinsically safe?

A radio that is Certified Intrinsically Safe can be used in hazardous environments. It is designed to withstand a wide range of elements, from water to fire, while still remaining functional. Intrinsically safe radios are required in certain settings, such as onboard ships, as well as for Marine and Fire Team communication. In fact, recent updates to the law require two intrinsically certified radios onboard every ship.

#3. What tier of communication platform do you require (for ships)?

There are three tiers of communication levels:

• Mission Critical Tier System (best)
• Professional Tier System (better)
• Commercial Tier System (good)

The ideal system for your fleet can be determined by three different factors: available budget, vessel size, and functionality requirements. Learn more about the three different systems and what they offer here.

#4. Will radios be used in a rough environment where durability is crucial?

There are water-proof radios, dust-proof radios, and radios built tough enough to withstand a pretty steep fall. In addition, there are radios that get the job done but are not intended for high risk environments. It all depends on what you need situationally. It’s worth investing in a more durable and rugged radio if you need it, but if you don’t, you might save money by going with a less hardy model.

#5. Are you going to be discussing confidential information over two-way radios?

Certain two-way radios offer advanced features to heighten security when communicating across the network to one or multiple people at once.   

#6. How long will radios be in use for each day before retiring to their charger?

If radios require long-term usage, you may want to consider adding a battery extender. Not to mention, Motorola is known for their long-lasting IMPRES^TM battery technology. 

#7. Do you require communication across UHF or VHF frequency bands?

Are you communicating on VHF/Very High Frequency [low band—49 to 108 MHz, or high-band—169 to 216 MHz]? Or, UHF/Ultra High Frequency [low band—450 to 806 MHz or high-band—900 to 952 MHz]? Some radios are equipped to handle both, but not all radios are. It’s important to know what frequency band you’ll be communicating across when picking the best two-way radio for your fleet.

#8. Do you require advanced features?

From basic two-way radios to more technically advanced radios, you have a good deal of options based upon your needs. Some advanced features available for two-way radios that may be of interest to you include:

• Bluetooth
• GPS & tracking
• LCD color screen
• Hands-free
• Voice activated
• Full keyboard
• Submersible
• Intrinsically safe
• IMPRES^TM battery technology (offered on Motorola radios)