FAQs

Two Way Radios

Q: How do I determine the best solution for my business?
A: Partnering with DFW Communications is an important first step. We spend time learning about your business and how your specific operation works. Then we use this knowledge to develop customized solutions. It may be as simple as spending five minutes discussing application and results desired, or it may require a site audit to determine the best, cost-effective system. In any case, we will design a system that provides the results you need now and prepares you for the future.

Q: How should I charge my portable radio?
A: All portables require a battery to supply power to the unit. If the batteries are charged correctly, the units will provide a longer period of operation. Plus the life of the battery will be increased. It is always best to turn off the radio prior to charging and, when possible, drain the battery prior to charge. Never transmit when the portable is in the charger. Charge the battery for a full cycle, typically meaning a normal charge time of 10 hours for standard charger and one hour for rapid chargers. Never leave the battery in a charger for extended periods.

Q: Is an FCC license required to operate two-way radios?
A: Yes. All business frequencies require an FCC license. We provide our customers with all details necessary for a valid FCC license. We can assist in obtaining a license and will help determine which frequency to use and which service best suits your operation of two-way radios. Systems that are operated as SMRs or wide area trunking may be licensed by the system owner and do not require the end user to apply for a license.

Q: How much do portable radios cost?

A: The cost of portables range from $300 - $1300 depending on such variables as: Quality, Durability, Battery Type, Frequency, and Features.

Q: What is the range of portable radios and what’s the difference between UHF and VHF?
A: Coverage is reliant on power, antenna height and terrain. On-site portable radios will typically cover from 1 –3 miles in radius, while wide-area radios can offer coverage up to a 30-mile radius from the repeater site.

Due to the characteristics of radio waves, UHF radios generally offer better building penetration and therefore are ideally suited for indoors as well as for areas of high building density (cities). VHF radios are better suited for areas where there is vegetation, where the signal can pass through objects. For this reason VHF radios are ideal for outdoor use. Where the application requires a combination of indoor and outdoor use, a UHF radio is preferable.

Your DFW Communications sales consultant will know by your specific application which radio will best fit your needs.

Q: What are the benefits of a two-way radio versus a cell phone?
A: The two biggest are Cost and Dispatch Capabilities. Push a button and be connected to one or one hundred individuals. Two-way radios are easy to use with a push-to-talk feature, which enables the user to communicate instantly with anyone on the network. Two-way radios are designed to be utilized in extreme conditions and offer rugged features. Flat monthly fee with no per minute airtime cost, unlike cellular phones. Low monthly costs, which include unlimited talk-times. Ask a DFW Communications representative about MOTOROLA PRO2WAY, Dallas/Ft. Worth’s premier wide-area communications solution.

Two Way Rental Radios

Q. How do I place a rental order and what sort of information is needed?

A. Simply contact DFW Communications and ask for the Rental Dept. The dates, quantity and location of your rental will be confirmed to ensure that your radios are available when you need them. Your DFW Communications Rental Representative will also review with you how you intend to use your radios so that we make sure you have the right equipment for the job.

Q. What is the talk range of the radio signals?
A. 2-way radio coverage range is approximately 1-2 miles outdoors. Indoor coverage varies based on construction of the building where the equipment is being used. To insure that your coverage needs are met a site-walk may be necessary. Your DFW Communications Rental Representative will come to your site and test your coverage at no charge.

Q. How many channels do your radios have?
A. We own and rent hundreds of radios during any given week. Over 75% of our equipment consists of at least 8-channel radios. DFW Communications offers you the choice of either programming in channels you are already using in your organization or programming in our own FCC- licensed channels.

Q. Do you rent LTR radios?
A. Yes. We now offer Motorola LTR radios with or without Passport feature

Q. What kind of accessories do you offer with your radios?
A. For 2-way radios we offer Audio Accessories including: Speaker Microphones, Lightweight Headsets and Surveillance Kits.

Q. How long do batteries last?
A. On average Motorola radio batteries last about 8 hours. Transmitting requires more power than monitoring. A radio that is transmitting much of the time will probably require extra batteries.

Q. How many batteries do I get with an order?
A. We always include a minimum of an additional 25% of the order size (e.g. 12 radios = 3 spare batteries). Additional batteries are available if needed.

Q. Do I need a FCC license to rent from you?
A. No. We have National FCC Frequencies that are programmed into your radios. Additionally we can program/match radios to your frequencies should you request that option.

Q. What radio brands do you have?
A. Motorola.

Q. What is a Repeater?
A. A repeater is installed in a fixed location with the intent of coverage enhancement. Multi-story buildings are covered more thoroughly and dead spots are removed. The building’s construction, number of floors and the presence of steel and concrete determine actual range.