Two-Way Radio FCC Licensing Explained

In this article, we discuss the purpose and methods of the FCC licensing of two-way radio broadcasts. By the end, you should have a much better understanding of what the FCC does and why it is important for your business to obtain your license through a trusted professional, like Altech. Read on to find out more.

You might want to get two-way radios in the modern world for many reasons. Whether it be working security at an event, hospitality, construction, and more industries can benefit from two-way radios. The FCC supplies information for many different purposes you might have. But did you know that your business needs a license before you even start broadcasting?

For a business to use commercial radios over two watts you must have an FCC license. A license is valid for ten years and during that time there are rules and regulations that need to be followed. Altech will ensure you’re aware of the guidelines and help with all follow-ups from FCC notifications. Choosing to obtain your license through Altech makes the process easier and faster for your business.

Why Regulate Radio?

The reason that the FCC regulates radio frequencies is to ensure that they are a useful resource for commercial or private users. If the system were not licensed, anyone could use it without limitation, and the frequencies would end up unusable.

Any radio that is under two watts in power does not need a license. This means that you can still use toy radios or private walkie-talkies so long as they are not too powerful.

If your company is caught operating a radio without a license in the US, you can be fined up to $25,000.

How Do I Get A License?

To receive a license, you must apply. However, the FCC has many different forms and requirements to obtain an FCC license, it can be confusing. It’s best to work with a professional like Altech since FCC licensing is very complicated.

When you apply for an FCC license, you must also agree to the rules the FCC has on the use of two-way radios.

How Altech Can Help with the FCC Licensing Process

Avoid long delays, having your application returned, and dealing with the reapplication process by working with the professionals at Altech. We specialize in FCC licensure and can show you how to get a license in NYC and understand the rules in doing so. We’re here to help you with all your licensing needs from navigating the licensing database to licensing renewals!

Key Takeaways:

  • Radio frequencies would be unusable if we didn’t regulate radio.
  • A license is required to operate a two-way radio over two watts.
  • FCC licensing is very complicated so it’s best to work with a professional.

Where To Get a Two-Way Radio

You should now have a much better understanding of how two-way radio licensing is handled. Ready to purchase a two-way radio? Reach out to Altech Electronics today! We have a large collection of two-way radios for you to choose from. 

Motorola TLK 100 and TLK 150 vs. the Old Nextel Push-to-Talk Versions

What do you know about the new Motorola TLK 100 and TLK 150? Read about how these two-way radios compare to the older Nextel push-to-talk phones.

Did you know that cellphone technology has grown so fast there are now more phones than people in the world? 

The rise of the smartphone isn’t the only communication revolution that’s happening. 

Smartphone tech might have eclipsed two-way radio. But many businesses and organizations still have a heavy need for two-way communication. Because of this, the push-to-talk market is forecast to grow steadily in the coming years. 

One of the first big players in the PTT market was Nextel. If you’re wondering, does Nextel still have push-to-talk—the answer is no. 

However, there is a new player on the block that offers even more functionality than Nextel. The Motorola TLK 100 and TLK 150 are just as good as Nextel push-to-talk phones, and better. 

Don’t miss out on this powerful solution for your business. Read on to find out more about the Motorola radios vs the old Nextels.

Range

Does Nextel still have push-to-talk? No, but this is not really a concern. Because Motorola is offering a far more reliable (and scalable) push-to-talk solution.

One of the biggest advantages of the Motorola TLK 100 and 150 radios over the old Nextel phone technology is that Motorola’s push-to-talk devices can transmit anywhere within range of a wifi connection or a cellular network.

Motorola push-to-talk radios use existing, nationwide cellular networks. They can also connect to your wifi network. This means that employees can speak to each other from across the country with a Motorola push-to-talk phone or radio.

This wasn’t possible with Nextel push-to-talk phones. If you had a Nextel push-to-talk phone, you could only reach contacts within your network area. 

Motorola’s App Can Turn Any Device into a Push-To-Talk Cell Phone

If you were wondering, does Nextel still work, here’s another reason not to be disappointed that this old push-to-talk option isn’t widely available. 

With Nextel push-to-talk phones you had to connect to another Nextel push-to-talk phone otherwise the service could not work. 

With the Motorola push-to-talk phone technology, you can turn just about any phone into a push-to-talk device with the proprietary app, WAVE. You can install the WAVE app on almost any phone, laptop, or desktop, and turn it into a push-to-talk device for communicating with teams in the field. 

Distraction Free

Another benefit of the Motorola TLK 100 and 150 radios is they are distraction free. Without an interactive screen, there is less temptation for employees to get distracted out on the job than with one of the old Nextel phones. 

Although they offer seamless push-to-talk communication with just about any smartphone or other device, the new-gen Motorola radios are also still fully compliant with distraction-free driving laws. Because the old Nextels were still phones, they could not be used legally while driving. 

The Motorola TLK 100 and 150 also offer GPS tracking.

Rugged

Finally, the Motorola TLK 100 and 150 are far more rugged than the old Nextel phones were. This makes them much better suited for heavy-duty use, while still being able to connect perfectly with less rugged devices that are on the WAVE app. 

Motorola has long been heading up the charge on mobile communication technology, having introduced the first portable commercial cellular phone. Now they are leading the way in new push-to-talk solutions. 

Does Nextel Still Have Push-To-Talk? No, but There Are Even Better Push-To-Talk Solutions Available

Were you wondering if Nextel still has push-to-talk? If so, you’re probably in need of a reliable push-to-talk communication solution for your business. 

Although Nextel push-to-talk phones aren’t an option anymore, Motorola is now offering an even more comprehensive solution to businesses and teams. 

If you need reliable push-to-talk communications for your business, contact us today for a quote. 

Two Way Radios: Safe Way to Manage Large Events

Two way radios are a great tool to have during large events. Take a look at how these devices can keep attendees safe and secure.

Two way radios are helpful to communicate emergencies and possibly prevent tragedies from happening. 

But why are two way radios the best for security communication at a significant event? Keep reading to find out all you need to know about using them.

Provides Large Event Security

Companies have been using radio waves and frequency bands for some time, and it provides a secure and reliable technology that can be useful when managing a large event. 

These radios can provide bidirectional communication, which is essential when security or management oversees a large event, like a concert, festival, or sporting event. 

For example, officials and referees still use these types of radios at sporting events. They use it to coordinate with each other and speak with that equipment. 

There are even radios between football coaches and the quarterback to ensure they have the right plays. 

While these events benefit the game, they also keep the attendees safe. If there’s a medical emergency, having these radios can be helpful to quickly communicate what the problem is and get emergency help for an attendee. 

Radios are also especially helpful when hosting a concert or a festival. Security teams can use these two way radios to communicate at different points during the event and relay information that could be crucial to keeping the attendees safe. 

Benefits of Using Two Way Radios

If everyone on your team has cell phones, why do you need a two way radio? While a phone might be more flexible, there are some advantages that a two way radio will give your team. 

First, some event areas don’t have good cell service, and these two way radios don’t use cell service, so you won’t have to worry about not being able to reach someone. 

They also provide instant communication. They’re free and easy to use, and you can easily reach anyone in range instead of waiting for someone to answer a call on a cell phone. 

One of the other benefits of using these radios is that it’s cheaper than using cell phones as well. If you’re communicating at an event, it’ll be temporary, so you can even rent these devices so that you don’t have to commit to buying a set for one night and never using them again.

Discover More About Why You Need Two Way Radios for Large Events

These are only a few reasons why having two way radios at your large event will help keep everyone safe. 

If you’re hosting a large event and safety and security is your priority, look for a great set of two way radios today.

You can start by checking out our website to find a model that suits your needs.

Common Push-to-Talk Radio FAQs

Over 85 percent of businesses in the US rely on their employees to use their cell phones for communications. When the cell network goes down, you won’t be able to contact your team, and that’s a risk you want to avoid.

Are you thinking about investing in a push-to-talk (PTT) radio, but you’re not sure if it’s the right decision for your business? Here are some interesting facts to consider before you make your choice.

1. What Is Push-To-Talk Radio?

These two-way radios have a feature that allows a member of your team to send a message by pressing a button and speaking into the device. The button switches between voice mode to transmit mode, allowing one person to communicate at a time.

These radios also use half-duplex communication lines, where users take turns and full-duplex lines that allow transmission and reception at the same time.

2. What Are the Benefits of Push-to-Talk Radio Systems?

A push-to-talk two-way radio allows your business to maintain consistent communications in the field. The TLK-150 is one of the best Motorola two-way radios for business use. It’s easy to use and provides reliable communications for your work teams.

Its high-end Bluetooth® capabilities make it ideal for fast data transfers, and the B/T BLE beacons are suitable for indoor location tracking. Handheld two-way radios are more reliable than cell phones, which can encounter dead zones. 

Your customer service team will benefit from the ability to receive responses from any member of your team, company-wide. It’s a quick, efficient way to communicate, and you can improve client support.

3. Are Push-to-Talk Radios Good In Emergency Situations?

Push-to-talk radio systems are extremely well suited for emergency use as they will function well, even when cell phone or landline service is disrupted. With push-to-talk, you won’t waste time checking emails or sending a text as the easy-to-understand audio is clear and crisp at the push of a button.

The TLK-100 provides location tracking capability using Wi-Fi systems, adding a layer of security for your employees, so you’ll always know where to find them.   

4. Do Push-to-Talk Radios Improve Security?

A two-way radio allows concise communications and keeps the conversation within a specific group of people in mission-critical situations. When businesses use cell phones, they operate over an open cell phone network, which can be vulnerable to security risks.

If your business relies on cell phones and you lose coverage, your operations can come to a standstill. Push-to-talk radios allow your team to adapt and respond to events as they occur.

5. What Is Their Range?

Radio waves travel in straight lines. They have the advantage of traveling through non-metallic objects, walls, or other obstructions. The range of a two-way radio depends on the communication distance, power output, and the specific radio frequency it uses.

Generally, lower frequencies produce a longer wavelength, which lets a radio signal travel a greater distance. A higher power output means a higher broadcast reach, but it also uses the battery faster.

Key Takeaways:

  • A push-to-talk two-way radio allows your business to maintain consistent communications in the field. 
  • Radio waves have the advantage of traveling through non-metallic objects, walls, or other obstructions.
  • The TLK-150 is one of the best Motorola two-way radios to use as it provides reliable communications for your teams.

Consider Push-To-Talk Radio Today

Most people don’t think twice about their communications systems until they break down. Allow the experts at Altech Electronics to help you find the best push-to-talk radio for your business communication needs to get your team back in touch. Contact our professional team for a free consultation today!

 

Why You Should Have Altech Install Your Two-way Radios

Two-way radios are one of the most prominent communication methods on the market. This is because they are often more reliable and less costly than other types of communication. Nevertheless, you should also be mindful of the fact that installation is almost equally important. With that in mind, here is an overview of why you should have Altech install your two-way radio.

Benefits of Two-Way Radio Installations at Altech

Knowledgeable Team of Professionals

One of the top benefits of entrusting Altech with your two-way radio installation is that we have a team of professionals with decades of installation experience. In addition, our crew fully understands all aspects of a two-way radio installation. So, no matter what kind of equipment you choose or your unique needs, our qualified crew of 25 experts will be ready and willing to assist you.

Convenience

Having Altech handle your installation is highly convenient. Rather than being forced to wait for hours on end to get a response, Altech goes above and beyond to work around your schedule. This means you can sit comfortably, knowing that your installation will be handled with the utmost care and precision while also being as timely as possible.

Personalized Packages

Every business’s needs are different and unique; thus, many companies benefit from having personalized packages. Depending on the size of your company and what your communication needs may be, your company may have vastly different needs than others. Therefore, we pride ourselves on being able to assess each company’s needs and design a system that works best for your communication goals.

Cost-Effectiveness

Additionally, our installation services are also highly cost-effective. Rather than paying top-dollar for subpar installation services, here at Altech, we provide premium quality installation services without overcharging you. You can select the best equipment and services without worrying about astronomical installation prices. Moreover, we are also available to help with servicing and repairing your two-way radio system at minimal cost compared to other installation companies.

Key Takeaways:

  • When it comes to cutting-edge communication methods, the two-way radio is an excellent choice.
  • Two-way radios are highly convenient, reliable, and cost-effective.
  • Altech provides cost-effective, convenient, two-way radio installation services for businesses of all kinds.

Have Us Install Your Radios Today!

Overall, if you are searching for premium-quality two-way radio installation services, Altech is here to help! We go above and beyond to provide our customers with premium-quality products and installation services. Contact us today for a consultation and more information.