Two-way radios may seem like an outdated form of communication. Nevertheless, their presence in the workforce is incredibly valuable to this day.
Using two-way radios correctly is the trick to maximizing their abilities. Read about the six mistakes you could be making when using two-way radios.
An Untrained Team Using Two-Way Radios
It doesn’t take much training to understand how to use two-way radios. However, if no one explains the process to the team, you’re likely to experience irksome communication issues.
Employees might grab the radios by the antenna and damage the signal. They might consistently use the wrong frequency and never receive transmissions. With a few hours of training, the employees will get the hang of using two-way radios in no time.
Storing Two-Way Radios in Improper Locations
Did you know that the way you store two-way radios can impact their quality? One of the best maintenance tips for two-way radios is to store them properly when not in use.
Make sure the radios are in a dry, cool, room-temperature location. Moisture and heat can cause electrical malfunctions. Next, ensure the team switches the radios off and removes the batteries when the devices are not in use. It’s the best way to guarantee the radios have a charge and remain in good condition for the following shift.
Charging Radio Batteries Overnight
You might have heard that charging electronics after they’re fully charged is bad for the batteries and lifespan of the equipment. Some smartphones have improved technology that prevents early aging, but two-way radio batteries typically don’t feature this tech.
Charging the radio batteries overnight can cause overheating and affect the batteries’ overall lifespan. You’ll find yourself replacing all the batteries more frequently than expected.
Be sure to charge the batteries long enough to get a full charge. Unplug them once charging is complete.
Experiencing Communication Delays
Users on the receiving end might notice delays in communication. This issue could stem from a simple user error that’s easy to fix!
Remember to press the push-to-talk (PTT) button for at least five seconds before speaking after you hear the tone. Continue holding the button as you talk. This measure will prevent the connection from lagging or cutting out as you convey information.
Assuming All Conversations Are Private
Any employee using the same frequency can hear all transmissions made. It’s important to avoid communicating confidential information across the radios that you don’t want the entire team to be aware of. Instead, use the radio to communicate that you want to schedule a private conversation.
Communicating Across Too Large of an Area
If sounds aren’t stretching the distance of the area, perhaps you’re trying to cover too large of an area. You might need to consider an additional piece of equipment, such as a radio repeater. The higher antenna and stronger frequency will reinforce precise communication across the entire area.
Companies that benefit from two-way radios include construction sites and security companies. No matter the industry, it’s important to avoid the above-listed mistakes made when using two-way radios to always guarantee clear communication.
