Long range two-way radios can communicate as far as 20 to 30 miles, although Florida Fleet Talk can offer up to 300 miles of communication for your business. Even long-range radios can fluctuate in how far they can actually communicate based on several environmental factors. On the other hand, Florida Fleet Talk offers reliable and seamless communication no matter what.

Higher frequency radios do not propagate as far as lower frequency radio waves. For instance, a 900 MHz radio will transmit twice as far (at least) in free space as a 2.4 GHz radio, assuming both radios are used at the same modulation and output power. Furthermore, the longer the wavelength is the more likely it will propagate through thickly constructed walls. A longer wavelength needs a larger area to transmit and receive. As a result, you’ll require a larger antenna.

When using a lower frequency, you can ensure a better range for a given output power and receiver sensitivity. Although, in some cases a higher frequency is required, for instance if you are using a smaller antenna, require more bandwidth, there is need for a worldwide frequency band, or because of line-of-sight considerations across long distances.

After selecting transceivers at the correct frequency along with the optimal transmit power and receiver sensitivity, you’ll need to match the transceivers to the correct antenna, possibly connecting the two using an RF cable.

Antennas are considered passive devices. They reduce the signal strength in some directions while increasing the signal strength in others.

Directional antennas provide the greatest gain, while helping to limit the level of interference the antenna receives. It does so by producing a signal loss from any direction in which the antenna does not point. If a known interreference exists, you can use the antenna to your advantage by pointing the antenna in that direction to alleviate interference. In many cases, a cable is necessary to connect the transceiver to the antenna in order to provide the best transmission.

Antenna height is important as well, the higher you place the antenna the greater the maximum RF range you’ll receive. This can help you get across hurdles in the environment such as trees, tall buildings, mountains, cars, and even people. In addition, it’ll help you secure the actual RF line-of-sight by ensuring around 60% clearance in the Fresnel zone. It’s important to account for the Earth’s curvature as well.

The Longest Two-Way Radio Network – Florida Fleet Talk

Even the longest range offered by two-way radios can’t compete with Florida Fleet Talk, our all-digital network that’ll connect your team from the Florida Keys to Jacksonville. This advanced radio technology offers zero static and superb sound quality, plus it’s easy to use while offering up to 300 miles of range.

Benefits of Florida Fleet Talk

• Long range communication without the distractions of a cell phone
• Clear and uninterrupted communication
• Safe and legal communication no matter the job or location
• Communicate with one person or an entire team of people
• Works with Motorola and Kenwood radios, which are resistant to dust, water and impact damage, making them great for all job sites.
• High-tech radios offer a wide range of useful features including GPS
• It’s only $25 per month/per radio – this is far more affordable than cell phones.
• You have the option to rent or buy radios and accessories

Event security in Florida is of utmost importance these days, and two-way radios are the best way to keep everyone safe and well-coordinated at events big and small. From sporting events to festivals, art shows, and concerts, the ability for all personnel to effectively communicate is key.

Cell phones pale in comparison to two-way radios when it comes to event security, and for a wide range of reasons.

Why Two-Way Radios Rule Supreme for Event Security

Two-way radios are made to provide the highest level of communication during small and large-scale events. There are a wide range of radios to pick from depending on your needs.

Pros to Using Two-Way Radios for Event Security:

• The ability to quickly alert the appropriate individuals of any suspicious behavior
• Coordinate between one or more people at a time
• Push-to-talk feature makes it quick and easy to communicate
• Tracking and GPS features available
• Crystal clear sound even in areas with a lot of background noise
• No dropped calls – reliable signal strength throughout the event grounds
• More affordable than buying countless cell phones for each member of your security team, as well as other staff on site who need to be kept in the loop

Why Cell Phones Don’t Work for Event Security

Cell phones are our best friends these days – they do just about everything for us, from waking us up in the morning to connecting us to old and new friends. But, the one thing cell phones were never intended to do was provide event security. For one, cell phones are not as quick to operate or connect as two-way radios. Secondly, they are much easier to infiltrate and do not offer the same level of privacy and security. In addition, cell phones can go down in an emergency or when too many people are trying to use them at one time in the same area.

Cell phones don’t offer push-to-talk capabilities so imagine trying to dial a number every time you need to contact someone, and then waiting for the phone to ring. Plus, cell phones offer a plethora of distractions – from social media to game apps. This increases the likelihood that someone will become distracted and miss something important.

On the other hand, two-way radios are virtually free of distractions. They are designed to provide everything you need to stay connected throughout an event without any unnecessary bells and whistles. Plus, everyone can communicate at once without interference.

Cell phones are notorious for failing in dead zones and dropping calls, this is especially true in underground locations, large buildings, and areas where a lot of people are gathered together. Two-way radios are designed to get around these flaws. Plus, many two-way radios are outfitted with specialized technology that allow for crystal clear voice signal despite background noise.

Rent Two Way Radios from Highland Wireless

Renting two-way radios for event security is an affordable option that’ll save you a lot of hassles. You don’t have to worry about spending a large sum of money up front to buy a bunch of radios, nor do you need to worry about storing or maintaining radios. Renting radios is the easiest way to outfit your entire team with a reliable form of communication.

Highland Wireless is an authorized dealer of both Motorola and Kenwood two-way radios in Florida. We have all of the equipment you need to host a successful event with top-notch communication for greater security. Learn more about our radio rentals or contact us today with questions

Trying to decide if you should buy or rent two-way radios? Here are several questions that can help you come to the right decision.

Renting is often the ideal choice. For one, renting radios is more affordable and gives you the chance to always have the most up-to-date equipment without having to store radios or worry about maintenance.

4 Questions to Ask When Trying to Decide if You Should Buy or Rent Two-Way Radios

#1. How Much Are You Looking to Spend?

If you purchase an entire fleet of two-way radios, there’s going to be a large up-front cost. On the other hand, renting two-way radios is surprisingly affordable with a low monthly cost.

It’s not just the upfront costs that you can save money on. In addition, renting two-way radios reduces other expenses too, such as maintenance. When you rent your radios from a reliable supplier, they take care of all maintenance. If you purchase radios, any issues that arise typically fall on you because you take on the responsibility for all radio hard costs, including depreciation.

#2. How Long Do You Need Radios For?

Two-way radio rental agreements can be written with short and long-term options, this makes them a flexible option. Regardless if you need radios for a few hours, a few days, several months or longer, there are options. Even if you need radios for a long period of time, renting may still be the best option because it allows you to change or upgrade equipment as needed.

The type of radios you need may change based upon the project at hand. Renting gives you the flexibility to change out radios as needed based upon your circumstances.

#3. How Soon Do You Need Radios?

Are you planning an event and need a lot of radios right now? Rental radios can be used immediately and quickly set up to coordinate with all other frequencies and on-site equipment. If you are planning a large-scale event, you may need a lot of radios to outfit the entire staff, in which case renting often makes more sense.

By renting you don’t have to deal with maintenance and storage of radios once the event comes to an end. You have the freedom to rent as many radios as you need, and you can always add on last minute rentals if you suddenly need to hire more staff or have a larger than expected crowd.

#4. Do You Want to Try Before You Buy?

Unsure if two-way radios are right for your team? Or just not sure which two-way radios in particular will work best? Renting gives you a chance to try out radios before you buy them.

Benefits to Renting Two-Way Radios from Highland Wireless

Highland Wireless is leading the way in two-way radio rentals. We are a trusted and authorized two-way radio dealer for both Motorola and Kenwood radios.

There are many benefits to working with us, including:

• We offer a wide selection of two-way radios by Kenwood and Motorola.
• Not only do we provide all of the equipment you need, but in addition, we offer a reliable wide area network (Florida Fleet Talk) that spans from the Florida Keys to Jacksonville, Florida.
• We specialize in in-building systems, Marine, On-site, Special Events, and Fleet – we have the equipment you need no matter what.
• Our radio rentals come with all accessories
• Staff is available at all times to assist with any issues 
• We are here to help your business grow and thrive!

Learn more

Often referred to as ‘The Fourth Utility,’ cellular enhancement systems improve in-building coverage for cellphones by re-amplifying cellular frequencies owned by the major carriers. A reliable cellular enhancement system is crucial to increasing business productivity. After all, a lack of reception can hinder your ability to grow and thrive.

5 Facts About Cellular Enhancement Systems

#1. Cellular enhancement systems work with a range of carriers

Operators that are commonly supported by the use of cellular enhancement systems include AT&T Mobility, Sprint Corporation, T-Mobile US, and Verizon Wireless. In addition, a variety of smaller regional carriers are also covered.

#2. A lot of buildings experience issues

From below ground office spaces to high rise buildings, a lot of different buildings experience issues with coverage because there are a lot of things that can get in the way of signals penetrating and flowing through a building. For instance, high rise buildings are constructed from heavy duty materials that make it difficult for signals to infiltrate, especially when a building is surrounded by other tall buildings.

#3. How cellular enhancement systems work

The in-building cellular enhancement system works by connecting to the carrier’s signal source via a bi-directional amplifier or a base transceiver station. The signal source is responsible for receiving and transmitting the signal. Using a network of coaxial cable and optical fiber, the frequency is sent throughout the building. When the system is set up, a series of in-building coverage antennas are placed in particular locations to provide the best all-around coverage.

Instead of reading or modifying the information sent through the signal, the system simply reinforces the signal – be it data or voice – so that signals can transmit in dead areas or low signal areas within a building.

#4. 2G enhancement systems are being replaced with 4G enhancement systems

Originally, cellular enhancement systems were intended for 2G or 3G based services, but we are now making the shift towards 4G. Systems designed for 2G are typically only for voice-based services, and are characteristically not capable of supporting 4G services, which is the norm today. As we shift from voice-based messages to high speed data, 4G services become more necessary. Even a well-designed 2G system may not be up to par for the latest communication requirements.

#5. The difference between passive and active cellular enhancement system

A passive system is easier to install and may be recommended for smaller buildings in which just one (maybe two) MNOs require enhancement. They are not typically used in spaces that exceed 100,000 square feet. The RF power must be balanced in all coverage antennas to provide a uniform signal that reaches across the entire building. If you need to expand or build upon a passive system in the future, it may require complete re-engineering of the system.

On the other hand, an active in-building cellular enhancement system is more complicated to install but is necessary for buildings that require conversion of the radio frequency into other forms. Additional equipment placed throughout the building is used to convert the signals back into native radio frequency format, which can then be passed through the coverage antennas. This type of system is considered ‘active’ because the equipment on both ends of the cable necessitate AC or DC power to properly operate.

Unsure which system you require?

We are more than happy to help.

Cellular Enhancement Systems by Highland Wireless

At Highland Wireless, we offer free pre-testing of signal strength levels and site surveys. We can offer a quote based on floor plans if your building is in pre-construction. Contact us today to learn more

The two most commonly used commercial grade two-way radios are made by Kenwood and Motorola. Both companies have longstanding reputations in the industry and are known for producing high quality radios with a lot to offer. The two can be compatible in certain circumstances, but there are some things to know and consider before deciding to use them together.

As a retailer for both brands, our clients often ask us if Motorola and Kenwood radios are compatible. The short answer is ‘yes.’ Although, there are some things that need to happen for the radios to work together.

Frequency Range & Compatibility

First of all, both radios need to operate on the same frequency range. If you are using a UHF radio, it’ll need to be paired with another UHF radio, and if you are using a VHF radio, it’ll need to be paired with another VHF radio. Otherwise, if you try and use two radios on a different frequency range, they will not work together.

On-Site Radios & Compatibility

“On-site” radios are the easiest to match together because they come pre-programed out of the box. For instance, the Kenwood TK-3230 and Motorola CLS1410 can be used together right out of the box if you use the first few channels. In which case, there is no programming required.

The same is true if you use high-wattage units like the Kenwood TK-3402-U16P and the Motorola RDU4160d. Thanks to the user-friendly menu that comes with these radios, you can change frequencies as needed. This makes programming other channels rather simple.

LMR Radios and Compatibility

LMR radios, or PCR radios, are not as cross-compatible because they are fully programmable. Common examples of LMR radios include the Motorola CP200 and the Kenwood TK-3402U-K. Due to the lack of a user-friendly menu, you cannot change frequencies at your discretion, which means it’s more complicated to program them for compatibility.

You will need a PC programming software and cable to make these two radios compatible, which is likely more than you bargained for. In which case, it’ll make more sense to stick with all Motorola or all Kenwood radios. That being said, these units can still usually be made compatible, although it may require programming by an authorized dealer.

Kenwood VS Motorola Radios

Kenwood and Motorola radios are both great options when seeking a quality commercial-grade radio. Both companies offer a variety of different two-way radio models that tend to get similar star ratings. When deciding which is the best option for your business, it’s much easier to compare individual radios side-by-side than it is to compare the two brands. One may offer a radio that is more compatible with your needs than the other, but both make excellent options.

Things to Consider when Finding the Best Radio for Your Needs:

• Construction & Durability

The type of environment radios will be used in will influence the best type of radio for your needs. If you’ll be using radios in the rain or around water, a waterproof unit is crucial. If you plan to use radios in construction, dustproof becomes an important feature.

• Battery Life

Battery life is another important component to consider. If you need the radio to last a very long time, you may want to consider getting a radio with a battery extender accessory.

• Range, Frequency & Audio Quality

How far can radios communicate without interference? What does the radio sound like if there is background noise? These are all important questions to consider as all radios are different.