Guide to Two-Way Radios

Two-way radios provide fast and easy communication on the jobsite. There are many different types of radios that are designed for various environments. Check out PE Facts to find out which Two-Way Radio is the best for your conditions!

Two-way industrial radio communication on the worksite is becoming more and more common. Communicating using two-way radios throughout buildings and industrial sites is a practical way for workers to save time and energy. In problem areas, where other means of communication are not possible, two-way radios are an easy solution.

When deciding what type of radio communication is best for your workplace, it is important to consider your task as well as your surroundings. Some common questions about two-way radios are: what wattage will you need to achieve the clearest communication for your application; should you select UHF or VHF radios; and what range of clear communication can you expect from any given two-way radio.

Hand-held radios can assist communication if they are within two miles of each other and in "line of sight." UHF and VHF radios both provide a good range of communication in flat, open areas. The range of a two-way radio is primarily determined by the following factors:

Frequency: UHF or VHF
Industrial two-way radios function on FM business frequencies. Both UHF and VHF bands offer a similar range for communication in open areas for line of sight communications.

VHF radios provide exceptional communication in flat, open terrain, and can also be used in wood structures or structures that are smaller in square footage.

UHF radios work better in multilevel, steel and concrete structures because they are much better at penetrating surfaces. They can be used in structures that are much larger in square ft. than a VHF radio can.

Power: Identified in watts. Generally, in regards to power, the higher the watts of the radio, the better coverage it will have. You should always consider the terrain when determining how many watts your radio should have.

Terrain: The environment in which you plan to operate the radio—is it flat, open space, or are there hills, dense foliage, or structures such as buildings? All types of obstacles and landscapes are likely to affect communication differently.

Battery Life and Charging

NiMH (nickel metal hydride) and NiCd (nickel cadmium) batteries are rechargeable batteries that are typically used in two-way industrial radios. NiMH batteries have an average life of 12-18 months while NiCd batteries will usually last about 18-24 months.

In order to fully recharge your battery, manufacturers suggest using a "trickle charge." A trickle charge can be time-consuming, taking anywhere from 8-12 hours to recharge the battery. Fast-charging is a quicker alternative; so many people opt for this method. However, fast charging can extremely reduce the longevity of a rechargeable battery. It is best to only fast charge batteries when necessary. If you must use fast rate charging, it is a good idea to completely drain the batteries power once a month and trickle charge it.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q. How should used rechargeable batteries be disposed of?
A. NiCd and NiMH batteries are both considered hazardous waste by the EPA. Proper disposal is recommended. To do so, contact your local Hazardous Waste Authority or your local recycling program for proper disposal procedures.

Q. How long do industrial 2-way radios typically last?
A. If properly cared for, a low-end 2-way radio can survive about three to four years of use. High-end radios are designed to have a four to five year lifespan. Taking proper care of the radio and handling it gently can ensure it will last for the expected service life.

Q. Is a license required for two-way radios?
A. Licensing is mandatory on all professional two-way radios according to the FCC. Information on obtaining a license is the responsibility of the end-user, not of the distributor or manufacturer. Licensing forms should be included with the radios when purchased. A license is not needed to purchase two-way radios.

Please Note: The information contained in this publication is intended for general information purposes only. This publication is not a substitute for review of the applicable government regulations and standards, and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the cited regulation or consult with an attorney.