It’s important for companies and organizations to stay in contact with each other using a two-way radio communication system. It has been proven that two-way radios offer a wide range of benefits above and beyond communication that they provide, such as improving decision-making, teamwork, and providing essential health and safety devices. 

In some cases it may even be the case that the most effective radio system will not function properly if there aren’t the proper procedures and training in place and the user is not capable of handling the radio correctly.

In this section we cover some tips and advice about what to think about when using two-way radios, whether it be PMR446 walkie talkies, analog two-way radios or digital two-way radios, as well as LTE/PoC radios and satellite PTT radios. I hope you and your team will find them useful.

Also read: Radios Icom

Here’s how it works

Please make sure that your battery has been charged. Otherwise, you will not be able to go very far. After that, you should switch on the radio. This is usually done with the volume control. You should ensure that the radio is set to the correct channel or else you won’t be able to hear anyone, and vice versa. Listen for transmissions and adjust the volume to an audible level that is comfortable.

Getting Heard

For your safety, make sure to wait until the channel is clear enough before making a call in order to avoid interference. To use PTT, simply hold the button down. 

Clearly and at a normal voice level, speak into the microphone, which should be placed between 10 and 15 centimeters from your mouth. Let go of the PTT to go back to receiving.

When you press the PTT button, you are the only one in your group that can speak. This is how most radios work; no one else can hear you. That is why you should think carefully about what you will say. Moreover, it is important to remember that by keeping the button pressed, you are blocking anyone else from joining the conversation as well as you might block someone on your frequency who has an emergency to broadcast! Don’t panic, and you’ll soon become accustomed to using the radio.

Clear your mind

It’s best to keep your communications short and to the point since two-way radios only allow for one person to speak at one time. As a result, other users will have the opportunity to either confirm your message or to request further clarification before you continue to your next point. Do not rush the other user and give them time to think before responding to you.

Before you speak, pause

There may be a short delay between pressing the push to talk button (PTT) and your radio transmitting when you first press it. Wait a moment before speaking to ensure your listeners hear the whole message, otherwise you could have the start of your sentence cut off.

Take a Lingo Class

Two-way radio communication is more efficient and effective when everyone understands and uses the same communication language and etiquette. This is especially true when there are more than two people using the same channel. Some of your colleagues may say “Over” at the end of their comments, or “Out” when the conversation is complete and the channel can be used by others. By learning these phrases, you will be more confident as well as more efficient on the radio.

If you adhere to the following basic tips, you will be able to communicate and use your system more effectively.