Push-to-talk communications equipment improves business efficiency by providing instant, reliable communication. Unlike emails or phone calls, instant push-to-talk options can reach multiple team members simultaneously, eliminating communication delays.
Popular forms of instant push-to-talk communication include two-way radios and push-to-talk over cellular radios. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the differences between two-way radio communication and push-to-talk over cellular communication. Topics that we will cover include:
- Comparison of features
- Infrastructure requirements
- FCC licensing requirements
- Cost of devices
- Cost of coverage and infrastructure maintenance.
Comparison of features
One of the big differences between POC radios and traditional two-way radios is how they are encrypted. ; Radios manufactured by companies like Motorola, L3 Harris, and Kenwood, often use AES 256-bit encryption. ; Keep in mind the encryption feature is typically sold as an "option" when you buy the radio at an additional cost.
Push to talk over cellular radios rely on 4G networks which use 128-bit AES encryption so it is doubtful unauthorized users can listen to your conversation. Another key difference between POC radios and two-way radios is the size of the device, which is typically smaller for the push-to-talk over cellular option.
Finally push to talk over cellular radios come with a USB plug that you can charge with any USB power adapter unlike two-way radios that require model-specific chargers.
Infrastructure requirements
Two-way radios typically will only work for up to one mile unless you incorporate the use of a repeater. Depending on the placement of the repeater the extended range can be several miles to a few hundred miles.
If you need nationwide coverage, you will need to build a radio system that would require additional repeaters, controllers, and antennas. Unlike two-way radios push-to-talk over cellular radios do not require any infrastructure since they utilize 4GLTE cellular infrastructure.
FCC license requirements
The FCC requires any two-way radio that operates at 5 watts or higher to obtain and maintain a license. Typically, a license costs a few hundred dollars. The price of the FCC license is influenced by the type of license required and if you do the paperwork yourself, or if you hire a specialized contractor to do it for you. Unlike two-way radios push to talk over cellular radios do not require an FCC license.
Cost of devices
Two-way radios can range anywhere between $100 to $7,500 each depending on the features and options selected when buying. POC devices typically range between $500-$1,000.
Cost of coverage and infrastructure maintenance
Two-way radio systems are managed by an RF engineer who oversees ensuring the system is running properly. Tasks include but are not limited to maintaining licenses with the FCC, ensuring system coverage does not have any dead zones, and managing additional staff like radio technicians, and administrative personnel.
Conversely, push-to-talk over cellular radios does not require any additional staff to maintain. However, PTT radios typically cost around fifty dollars per radio per year to cover the sim card cost of the carriers.
Conclusion
We hope this article provides the details and information necessary to determine what communication solution is best for your organization.
