If you're in the communication industry or searching for radios for group communication, you might have heard the term PoC being widely talked about. But what is it?
PoC stands for push to talk over cellular. So, a PoC radio is just a walkie-talkie radio that uses cellular such as LTE and 5G. It operates using a cellular SIM card and works wherever there is cell service.
How does it work? How's it different than a traditional two-way radio?
POC radios work by using the cellular networks around you to transmit communications, unlike two-way radios that use radio frequencies (RF).
When you press the PTT (Push to Talk) button on the radio it sends signals across cellular networks and sends the signal to the other radios or the radio/person you want to talk to. Instead of using radio frequencies like tradition two-way radios POC radios utilize cellular networks to communicate.
Advantages of POC Radios
Now you may be thinking, why not just use your cell phone? Or why not use a traditional radio? A PoC radio has advantages over cell phones and traditional two-way radios which includes but is not limited to:
- Durability - Cell phones are known to break more easily making PoC radios a more rugged choice.
- Talk Groups-Unlike cell phones POC radios use talk groups where you can communicate with multiple users simultaneously.
- Lower Cost – Cell phones and high-quality two-way radios can cost your group thousands of dollars.
- Easy to use – POC radios are simple and straightforward to help keep you distraction-free. No unnecessary and complicated apps.
- Communicate faster – with PoC radios everyone can quickly communicate with just a push of a button.
- Distance – Most traditional two-way radios only reach a mile depending on where you are and if there are any obstructions. Without the knowledge and money to build out expensive repeater systems, radio frequencies won’t allow you to communicate that far.
- Do Not Require Infrastructure: Traditional two-way radios run on radio systems. These systems require repeaters, gateways, and controllers to provide subscribers coverage.
Disadvantages of POC Radios
With everything, there are some disadvantages to using PoC. These drawbacks include,
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Network Dependent – PoC devices rely on cell service to work. This can be an issue if you are trying to communicate in areas where cell service is limited such as back country or in deep valleys.
- Security – POC radios are can be susceptible to hackers or eavesdroppers. Before purchasing, you want to make sure your device has encryption, which keeps your communication secure from those wanting to listen in. Quality POC providers use LTE providers that have protocols in place to prevent any type of hacking. This includes the diameter protocol, which is used to exchange authentication, authorization, and accounting. Also 4G networks use 128-bit AES encryption so it is extremely unlikely unauthorized users are able to listen to your conversation.
PoC Radio Solutions
Xpresscomm LTE Nationwide Walkie Talkie is a push to talk over cellular radio that runs on multi-network sim giving you coverage both nationwide or globally. If you manage a construction company with multiple locations or need to communicate over longer distances with your team, this radio is a great solution.
Works Cited:
https://www.f5.com/glossary/diameter-protocol
https://www.rcrwireless.com/20230508/private-networks/how-secure-are-private-4g-5g-wireless-networks-reader-forum
https://www.emciwireless.com/our-blog/radio-infrastructure-systems-repeaters/
