VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) come with distinct pros and cons, understanding these differences will help you identify the best signal frequency for your two-way radio needs. For instance, UHF does not travel as far as VHF but may grant higher bandwidth occupation.

All wireless communication systems, including cell phones and two-way radios, operate on what is known as operating frequency. The government regulates these frequencies and the equipment used to communicate through them. Since people need all different types of radio signals a variety of wireless equipment is necessary to satisfy all needs.

In the United States, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) regulates the radio frequency bands. According to US frequency groups there are four different categories: low-band VHF (49-108 MHz), high-band VHF (169-216 MHz), low-band UHF (450-806 MHz), and high-band UHF (900-952 MHz).

The FCC is in control of who operates within each specific band and if anyone has priority over other operators. The primary users are properly licensed radio and television broadcasters as well as commercial communication services such as cell phones and two-way radios.

VHF and UHF each include their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

VHF- Very High Frequency

Very high frequency is commonly used for FM radio broadcast, two-way land mobile radio systems, long-range data communication, and marine communications, just to name a few. VHF includes radio waves from 30 MHz to 300 MHz.

VHF waves must not exceed the local radio horizon of 100 miles. VHF frequencies are less likely to be interrupted by atmospheric noise, issues with electrical equipment, and other interferences.

There are different bands within VHF frequency, including low-band and high-band. Low-band VHF range of 49 MHz includes transmission of wireless microphones, cordless phones, radio controlled toys and more. Slightly higher VHF range of 54-72 MHz operates television channels 2-4, as well as wireless systems defined as “assistive listening.” VHF frequencies 76-88 MHz operate channels 5 and 6. The highest low band VHF is 88-108 MHz and operates the commercial FM radiobroadcast band.

With so many different users the low-band VHF is not recommended for use of serious applications due to the levels of radio “noise” present at these frequencies. Despite the potential background noise this a popular option because of the low cost equipment. Transmission power is limited to under 50 mW, unless you are operating an assistive listening system in the 72-76 MHz range. Also, a large antenna booster is necessary, measuring as much as 3 feet in length, thus limiting portability.

High-band VHF range is popular for professional applications. The lowest high-band (169- 172 MHz) includes 8 different frequencies designated by the FCC, and is often used by the general public and wireless microphone devices. These frequencies are known as “traveling frequencies” because they can be used all around the US without fear of interference from broadcast television. Power is limited to 50 mW, although antenna size is smaller (around 20 inches per ¼ wavelength type). Businesses, government operations and the Coast Guard operate on this “traveling” band. For best results you typically only want to operate two to three units on this frequency. 

The high-band VHF between 174 and 216 MHz is used for VHF television channels 7-13. High quality audio is possible as well as smaller antenna size, down to 14 inches or less. The same 50 mW power restrictions apply.

Low-band VHF frequencies are far more likely to incur interferences than high-band VHF frequencies. (Reference)

UHF- Ultra High Frequency

UHF radio waves are much shorter in length than VHF, measuring around 12 to 24 inches. As a result antenna length is reduced as well as radio range. Anything from a building to a human body can interfere with UHF transmissions. Dropouts and interferences are far more likely, but greater bandwidth occupation is permitted. As a result you may find a wider frequency range as well as wider range of audio signal. Up to 250 mW is allowed, exceeding the 50 mW power restrictions applied to VHF.

Low-band UHF overlaps with high-band UHF, low is 450-536 MHz and high is 470-806 MHz. Typically, business services and UHF television channels 14 through 69 operate using these frequencies. High-band UHF (anything above 900 MHz) offers the least amount of disturbances and requires antennas measuring between 3 and 4 inches. These channels operate studio-to-transmitter links as well as other primary users and additional channels.     

UHF radio waves generally only go as far as line of sight. Anything in the way of your sight will also interfere with frequency range, such as buildings, tall trees or any other obstruction. The transmission is high enough to penetrate through building walls, making indoor reception a possibility.  It is the limited line-of-sight broadcast range that makes UHF unsuitable in some instances. VHF offers a much larger broadcast range, which is preferred in some industries.

UHF radio signals are used in many facets of life including satellite communication, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, walkie-talkies, cordless phones, cell phones, and television broadcasting.

A large advantage of UHF transmission is the short wavelengths produced by the high frequency.  The size of the radio wave relates directly to the length of transmission as well as the reception antennas. In general, UHF antennas are short and wide.

The cost of operating UHF equipment outweighs the operation of VHF equipment.  This is because it is more work to create UHF compatible devices based on the ways high frequency and short wavelength radio signals interact together. The difference in cost largely relates to the need for antennas, cables and other additional equipment. 

Need help identifying the best radio frequency for your needs? Contact Highland Wireless today and speak with leading experts regarding two-way radio technology.

Two-way radios have a specific range they operate within and anything outside of that will cause your radio to lose signal. A radio antenna booster, or a signal booster of any kind, will help extend your two-way radio range. Radio range can be increased through an extender, repeater or booster. Not only do radio antenna boosters and extenders increase the range you have to communicate, but also they provide clearer voice quality for ease of communication.   

Radio Antenna Booster

A radio’s signal strength relies on a number of factors including the radio antenna size, the frequency band, and surrounding landscape, including if you are indoors or outdoors.

Two-way radio signals travel in a straight line meaning mountains, buildings, trees or even a group of people can get in the way of transmission signals. Simply mounting a two-way radio inside of a vehicle can create interference issues. This is why many go with external antennas mounted to the roof of the vehicle. 

The higher your radio antenna the less likely it is going to encounter interruptions as it travels from one radio to another. This is why if you stand at the top of a mountain you are going to get the best signal strength, there’s nothing in your way because you are at the highest point. You don’t have to run to the top of the closest hill to restore two-way radio communication. Instead, extending and improving your antenna is often the easiest way to improve radio range.

What Does A Radio Repeater Offer?

Simply put, a radio repeater takes a poor, weak or ineffective radio signal and amplifies it as well as rebroadcasts it. This increases the overall range of your two-way radio.

Even with superior conditions most two-way radios only reach so far in distance before a repeater is needed. A repeater system is located at a higher elevation, this device receives and re-transmits signals using a higher power so that it will reach its intended destination. Emergency personal, police departments, commercial businesses and ambulance services all use repeaters to ensure important messages are transmitted and received. If you live in a region surrounded by high mountains or tall buildings a repeater is incredibly useful.

Repeaters are built using two different frequencies that seamlessly come together. One frequency transmits the message and the other receives it. In order to use a repeater system you will need to connect your radio so that it is set to transmit the repeater’s output frequency as well as enable the radio’s offset mode. As a result, the radio transmits on the repeater’s input frequency and reverts to the repeater’s output frequency when the radio is not used for transmitting. (Reference)

Most radio repeaters offer real-time transmission of messages, taking only 50 or so milliseconds to process and resend a signal. ‘Store and forward’ repeaters are another option used to store messages meant for transmission at a later time. 

An antenna booster is not technically a repeater because it is not using an additional device to rebroadcast anything. An antenna booster is often used alongside radio repeaters to make it easier for the repeater to receive and retransmit original messages.   

High Quality Receivers

A high quality receiver is very important to the overall capabilities of any radio range extender. The electronics used to receive and resend signals need to be sensitive enough to pick up weak signals and transform them into powerful signals easily understood by intended audiences. Although, you don’t want the system to be overly sensitive and start transmitting background noise that overwhelms and complicates the system. A good receiver will have as much as 50% more sensitivity when it comes to picking up signals. At the same time they have as much as 2 or 3 times less background noise due to amplified selectivity.   (Reference)

Wide Area Network

Ditch the complex nature of antenna boosters and repeater stations with a much more simple solution: our Wide Area network, which grants the longest radio range ever. In fact, you can talk from as far as 300 miles apart and still feel like you are right next door to the person on the other end.

Highland Wireless maintains an extensive Wide Area network that connects West Palm Beach, Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, St Augustine and Tampa, Florida. We are among the first leading the way for this exciting advancement in radio technology, and are ecstatic to see how far it has already come along.

Our Wide Area network works thanks to a series of sites equipped with proper radio infrastructure, all of which connect and work together. This equipment may be located 300 feet up on a tower, or on top of a building. Every site is linked together through an IP network. When a message is input it moves through the stations on its way to its intended recipient in a mater of seconds.   

Contact Highland Wireless today to learn more about radio range that extends over 300 miles! 

Highland Wireless is pleased to announce our latest partnership with Net-Logic Marine Electronic Solutions. We will be providing radio services for their latest custom technology for yachts known as the Vesselwatch. Net Logic Marine carefully selects partnerships to ensure the greatest yacht technology in the industry. The latest Vesselwatch is no different, providing superior service to users, something we are so happy to be a part of.

In a June press release Net Logic wrote: “Net Logic Marine is always very careful to select only the most competent and professional distribution partners, we have appointed Highland Wireless as our central US agent. Highland wireless are experts in 2 way radios and run the local radio network making them our ideal partners.”

We are excited to add more reliability to communication within the yachting industry, thus enhancing safety, security and peace of mind. 

Managing partner Chip McCulloch said:

“We feel there is tremendous opportunity in the US and throughout the western hemisphere to expand this market. The mega-yacht industry is in transition from simple push-to-talk crew radio communications to greater utilization of their radio to manage the safety and owner services of these beautiful vessels. Vesselwatch takes advantage of the many features of these new digital radio products in a single, user friendly, cost efficient package. We think yacht management software it’s the way of the future and are pleased to be at the forefront of this technology.”

What Is The Vesselwatch?

The Vesselwatch is an intelligent radio system that is fully compliant with Marine UHF radio systems. The Vesselwatch relies on Motorola digital radio network as well as a VW gateway. As a result, users have access to seamless communication between crew and onboard guests. Considered the best available UHF radio system, the Vesselwatch offers alarm monitoring, crew management tools, and a Steward call system. The goal is to more efficiently provide information to the appropriate crew members, and this device does just that.

Key features of the Vesselwatch include:

• A standard 40Bit encryption secures all voice and data communication against security breaches. You can increase this security up to 256Bit through available upgrades.
• The Vesselwatch takes advantage of Highland Wireless’ Wide Area network to provide extended coverage over a vast area.
• Thanks to single-site trunking over 1,000 users can operate the system at once.
• Instant connection to Alarm and Monitoring Systems allow the proper crew members to be reached right away. Alarms can also be grouped so that only certain crewmembers are notified at one time, reducing the chance for a traffic block in communication lines.

This device allows you to track all main vessels, tenders, assets and toys so that you are never in the dark about what’s going on while out at sea. All tracked items are also secured by a virtual security fence alarm. Plus, the Speed Alert function allows you to track and manage the enforcement of speed restrictions on or off the yacht. Any smart device can be hooked up to the Vesselwatch and remote asset shutdown is also available.   

Main benefits the Vesselwatch has to offer:

• Greater accountability of crewmembers.
• Fixed costs = money saving opportunities.
• Guaranteed coverage for routine and emergency communication.
• Full integration capabilities with existing telephone system.
• Wireless technology ensures system is easy to install.
• Faster response and communication capabilities.
• Ultra high security to protect against intruders.
• Clearer communication thanks to reduced background noise.
• Smaller and lighter handsets for convenience and ease of use.

Leading The Way In Yacht Radio Communication

Highland Wireless is pleased to help make the numerous perks of the Vesselwatch a possibility thanks to our reliable radio systems throughout the state of Florida.

According to the Director of Commercial Development, Jack Robinson, “They (Highland Wireless) are the best at what they do, we can offer them the most advanced radio software platform in the sector, and our commercial synergy is perfectly aligned.”

Highland Wireless owns and operates major two-way radio communication networks throughout Florida. We are the main supplier of UHF on-board yacht communications. We have achieved this level of success not only by providing the most reliable services in the industry, but by partnering with major yacht management and yacht supply companies. If you combine all of the years of experience our senior management and technician staff has you have over 200 years of valuable knowledge. We have been in business since 2002, always striving to expand the capabilities of two-way radios on land and out at sea. 

Together Vesselwatch, Motorola and Highland Wireless are making powerful things happen with one compact device. Learn more about the Vesselwatch here: (Here)

Contact Highland Wireless today to find out how our reliable, long range radio services can help your business achieve new heights.   

Two-way radio capabilities far surpass what many people realize offering a world of unexpected benefits and perks to businesses and individuals. As radio technology improves the benefits only keep getting better. Electronic chip sets grant GPS receivers their powers, and the technology behind these chips has greatly expanded within the last four-years. This means newer models include greater capabilities than ever before.

Cell phones might be the most modern form of communication but two-way radios remains the most dependable form of communication for businesses of all types and sizes. These sturdy suckers can certainly handle a punch, plus they are equipped to keep everyone in constant communication without the distractions presented by cell phones. When you switch to two-way radios the benefits are aplenty… here are 8 surprising benefits radio systems offer.

1. GPS Two-Way Radio Capabilities

Many of the latest two-way radios include GPS capabilities that allow you to locate your team with one glance at the screen. This functionality also prevents team members from getting lost and wasting precious time on the clock. The options with GPS are endless and may benefit your business in many ways. This may also offer the opportunity to clock performance and uncover tricks to saving time and making more money.

2. Bluetooth Two Way Radio Capability

Bluetooth is included on many of the leading two-way radios and offers a number of benefits. For one it allows hands-free communication, which is vital in some industries, for instance cab drivers that are required by law in certain states to talk hands free at all times while behind the wheel. Other hands-on industries don’t have time to pick up a device to talk either, in which case the freedom of Bluetooth is very valuable.

3. Emergency Two-Way Radio

In emergencies two-way radios remain the leading source of successful communication. When everyone is trying to use their cell phones at once the airwaves become blocked and calls stop going through. With your own two-way radio system you don’t have to worry about this. Weather and other elements can also cause power outages and downed phone lines that cut off all forms of communication, unless you have a two-way radio.

4. Stand Up To “Ouch” & “Splash”

Dropping a cell phone can easily be the end of a device but commercial two-way radios are a different beast entirely. Radios are made to stand up to the challenges of work out in any field. A construction site, for instance, isn’t the place for a dainty little iPhone, hence why construction teams are almost always outfitted with two-way radios.  There are a number of water and dirt-resistant radios, and almost all models are built to withstand a fair share of falls. Thanks to this durability you spend less money replacing devices and work environments chug along undaunted even if someone steps on their device or drops it in a puddle of water.

5. Communicate Near Or Far

Two-way radios have only recently developed capabilities of conversing over a very long range. Most two-way radios operating on GMRS or Family Radio services typically only communicate across a few miles at most. All of that is changing with the latest Wide Area network capabilities offered by Highland Wireless. The latest developments in technology allow you to talk over 300 miles and it sounds like the person on the other end is right next-door.

Contact us to learn more about our Wide Area network.

6. Ditch The Distractions

Most people would agree that cell phones are very distracting. The last thing you want is to be distracted on the job, this can lead to unnecessary accidents and wasted time. Two-way radios don’t offer access to apps, games, or social media meaning the distractions are axed out while reliable and easy to access communication remains.

7. Text Or Talk Radio Capabilities

Two-way radios don’t just offer verbal lines of communication; they also allow you to send text messages as well. When working under discreet conditions this can be extremely useful, as well as countless other scenarios. Some two-way radios do not come with a screen; in this case text messaging is not an option. If this is a feature you want make sure to keep that in mind.

8. Save Money Every Month

Two-way radios are far more affordable than other forms of communication. You can even rent radios for however long or short of time you may need them. You can supply every team member with a radio and service for the same price as one cell phone plan.

Highland Wireless offers the latest two-way radios, reliable service and repairs for one low monthly price. Contact us today to learn more. 

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a land-mobile FM UHF radio service used for two-way communication over short distances. If you live in the United States you need a license to operate GMRS equipment, in Canada this same equipment can be used without a license.

The GMRS uses channels around 462 MHz and 467 MHz. There are other services that are similar to the GMRS including Family Radio Service, Multi-Use Radio Service, and Citizens Band Radio Service.

GMRS communication is available to individuals needing a way to communicate across short distances. One licensed individual is in charge of the radio use but any family members are legally allowed to operate the radio under the direction of the licensed individual. Businesses are not typically granted access to use GMRS because the goal is to keep the lines open for personal users. In the past businesses were given licenses to operate GMRS equipment and some are still given approval today.

The History Of GMRS

GMRS was second to its predecessor known as Class A Citizens Radio Service, which was introduced in the 1960s. By the 1970s larger metropolitan statistical areas were getting jams in lines of communication. As a result, businesses were moved to Business Radio Service channels to provide relief and allow easier access to communication for personal radio use. This caused some commotion at the time but proved beneficial. It was at this time that the GMRS was given its modern day name. (Reference)

What Is The GMRS? 

GMRS radios are typically portable hand-held devices similar to Family Radio Service (FRS) radios. There are both mobile and land-based stations available for GMRS systems.

It is legal for public service and commercial land mobile bands to operate GMRS systems, as long they are GMRS type-approved. These commercial UHF radios are considered much higher quality than the walkie-talkies you can purchase at your local store, and offer advanced capabilities and communication reliability.

GMRS Licensing

In 2010, the FCC made a proposal to open up GMRS for use without an individual license but as of now this is still just a proposal. You currently need a license granted through the FCC to operate GMRS systems. A license to operate is valid for a five-year period. You may apply to renew your license within 90 days of the current license expiration date, you may also apply up to the very last date your current license is still good. Once your license officially expires it is mandatory by law that you apply for a new license or stop use of GMRS systems.

If your business was given a license to operate GMRS prior to July 31, 1987 you are eligible for renewal, even though most GMRS users are regulated to individuals. It is illegal for a GMRS station to include any modifications that increase power output.

You are eligible to apply for a GMRS system license as long as you are 18-years or older and you do not represent a foreign government. If you are licensed any of your family members (regardless of age) are legally allowed to operate the GMRS stations and units.

The fee for a license application is currently $85; this fee is subject to change annually.

You can learn more about the FCC service rules regarding the GMRS here: https://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/rules-regulations-title-47

GMRS Range

The range associated with GMRS is similar to other UHF radio services and generally only extends to line-of-sight distance. The height of the radio antenna determines the distance of range, as does location, terrain and weather. On average the range between two GMRS hand-held radios is between one or two miles. Mobile units with higher antennas could foreseeably communicate across 5 miles. If the GMRS repeater includes a tall antenna this will extend communication from the station considerably, reaching as far as 20-miles. The presence of hills, buildings and other obstructions may greatly reduce this range.

GMRS Channels

There are 8 channels considered exclusive to the GMRS as well as 7 “interstitial” channels that are shared with Family Radio Service. With a license you may transmit up to 50 watts on GMRS frequencies based upon the type of station you have. More commonly 1 to 5 watts is projected. Units may have detachable or external antennas.

FRS channels 8 through 14 are not for GMRS use. In order to access these channels you will need an FRS transceiver or a hybrid transceiver, which may only be operated under FRS guidelines.(Reference)

Highland Wireless is Florida’s go-to provider for the latest two-way radios and service. Contact us today to learn how you can set up a two-way radio system for one low monthly cost.