Most industrial two-way radios communicate over very high frequency (VHF) or ultra-high frequency (UHF). These frequency bands determine how well the sound waves from specific radios will travel, either across wide open spaces or through physical barriers like wood, concrete, and steel. That said, both bands have their limits where radio coverage begins to degrade into static. That’s why push-to-talk over cellular (PoC) radios were developed. They come with 3G and 4G compatibility so that anyone connected to their secure network can communicate instantly and effortlessly, regardless of their location.

If you’re wondering how much of a difference that means for your daily operations, here are five (5) reasons why you should consider purchasing PoC radios — and what models we recommend to get the job done.

Reason #1: Get Instant Communication Over Any Distance

As long as your radio users are on the same PoC network, they’ll be able to communicate. It doesn’t matter if the person you’re talking with is nearby, across town, in another city, or on the road — you’ll still get crystal-clear audio with the press of a single button!

Reason #2: No Changes to Your Current Network Are Required

Connecting to PoC systems doesn’t require any additional hardware purchases on your end, which makes them more cost effective. Whereas traditional two-way radio networks may require the installation of repeaters to widen your coverage and eliminate dead zones, PoC radios access a cellular network that has broader coverage for a small monthly fee.

Reason #3: Multiple Users Can Communicate Simultaneously

Push-to-talk over cellular devices utilize full-duplex mode, which allows groups of people to participate in telephone-style conversations. If you need quick responses while coordinating a team of several individuals, these radios help you manage that communication.

Reason #4: No More Missed Calls, Voicemails, or Unanswered Texts

From delivery and school bus drivers to crews working in the field, there are plenty of situations where people need two-way radios outside of a normal office setting. PoC radios provide that flexibility and guaranteed connectivity so that you aren’t dealing with missed calls, voicemails, unanswered texts, or other delays when communicating with your team. Plus, these radios are road legal, making them ideal for public safety and the safety of your users.

Reason #5: GPS Tracking Is Available

Like other two-way radios, PoC models include GPS tracking so that you’re always aware of where your team members are at all times. While this is also important for safety, it promotes accountability from your workers to stay on schedule and protect their radios from damage, loss, and theft.

DTWR’s Radio Recommendations for Push-to-Talk Over Cellular

Here at Discount Two-Way Radio, we are big promoters of the Icom IP501H (handheld) and IP501M (mobile). Both of these models offer exceptional performance on Icom’s LTE-CONNECT solution, which provides private and secure access across 3G and 4G networks. 

These radios can also connect to a company’s wireless local area network (WLAN), making it easy to integrate with an established communications system. Users can be added to Wi Fi as groups or individuals, and have access to a maps feature that allows them to locate one another. 

Both the IP501H and the IP501M come with built-in Bluetooth capabilities, making them easy to operate hands-free. They also prioritize interrupt calling so that a user can send one of the following emergency alerts to get their team’s attention:

• General alert, which can be used as a generic warning.
• Man Down, which indicates when a user may have fallen (available on the handheld model).
• Lone Worker, which notifies team members when a user has not checked in.

Would You Like To Order PoC Radios For Your Team?

If you’d like to see how versatile and effective these Icom radios are, let us know! Our two-way radio specialists are ready to answer any questions you may have about PoC devices and radio systems, and determine whether push-to-talk over cellular radios are the best long-term solution for your business needs. We can also advise on any accessories that would make the use of those radios even better. Call today at (888) 299-6340.

A Note About DTWR

We’re a big proponent of instant communication. While this may seem evident in the Icom radios we promote above, it’s the same mentality we have when it comes to answering our customers in a timely manner. If you’re tired of getting stuck navigating phone trees or being put on hold when calling other radio vendors, we know how you feel — and we won’t do that. Our DTWR promise is to make sure you get the best radio quality at the best available prices for what your business requires — all without having to wait. See why we’re different, starting with how we’ll answer your phone call on the very first ring. No matter what your question is, we’re here to answer it. That’s why we like to say, “We Know Radios So You Don’t Have To.”