Last Saturday, February 7th 2015, team Highland Wireless took a chance to enjoy some great weather, get some cardio, but most importantly give back to a worthy cause!

Sheridan House Ministries is a charity that Highland Wireless frequently partners with year round with financial and communication contributions. This year, the team got excited to participate in their yearly 5K to raise money for the needs of children and families in the South florida area. Each Highland Wireless employee who participated helped contribute to our fundraising goal. Through ours and many other organizations contributions, Sheridan House Ministries was able to raise $134,086.00 for their cause!

Highland Wireless will continue to to support Sheridan House Ministries and many other charitable organizations in the future! Our goal is to be a leader and an example to the local business in South Florida to give back to the community we serve!

If you would like more information about Sheridan House and their work with children and families in the South Florida area, visit their website at: http://www.sheridanhouse.org/

A base station, also known as a repeater, is a device used for communicating with or without hand-held radios, but most often with. A base station produces a much greater wattage output than a single two-way radio, meaning it grants coverage over a much broader area. Transmissions from portable two-way radios are sent to the base station where they can then be transmitted through a higher wattage to other frequencies. Base stations rely on external antennas to provide a great deal of transmission power, although because they are not mobile they can only be utilized in a fixed location.

As a stationary transceiver, a base station connects to a number of portable radio devices. In other words, it is the base hub for all lines of communication. There are a few ways that base stations are used in wireless communication including push-to-talk two-way radios, wireless telephone systems, and terrestrial trunked radio. In this blog we will explain the different uses and types of base stations for two-way radios to help you decide if your two-way radio system needs a base station.

Professional Base Stations

In a professional setting where two-way radios are used to keep everyone connected, a base station works as a main point of connectivity. While the base station stands in as the stationary end of the communication link, the other links are the portable hand-held devices that are out in the field.

Businesses that need to relay information back to one spot can greatly benefit from a base station for two-way radios. Industries that commonly use base stations include tow truck companies and taxicab services.

Amateur Base Stations

Amateur radio users can also use a base station for mobile rigs, hobby, or family communications. These systems are often crucial to helping in an emergency, such as for search and rescue purposes.

Types Of Base Stations

The US Federal Communications Commission licensing defines base stations, also referred to as control or fixed stations, in Part 90 of the commissions regulations. According to these regulations base stations are defined as one of the following:

• A fixed station is a base station set up in order to communicate strictly with other base stations. In some cases, a fixed station is used as a radio link that operates another station through remote control. Either way, there are no hand-held radios used in a fixed station system.
• A control station is a base station that relies on a repeater for communication.
• A repeater is a base station that connects to all hand-held and mobile radio devices.
• A temporary base is any base station that is used for one year or less.

How Many Base Stations Do You Need?

Oftentimes, a base station radio only offers one channel of communication, but is not limited to this. When needed, a multi-channel unit is accessible. If heavy usage and many channels are necessary, multiple base stations can be installed to represent individual channels.

Dispatching centers commonly have as many as eight or more radio base stations all connected to the same dispatching console. In other cases, a number of base stations may be located in different areas, but all connect to the same host of two-way radios. For example, a cab company might have a base station in one city and another base station in a neighboring city operating on a different channel. This allows taxi drivers to connect to the channel they need to send a message to.

When a call comes in at the dispatcher center the receiving end can tell whom the message comes from in a number of different ways, either through specific unit identifiers, volume settings, busy indicator lights, as well as local protocol.

Remote Control Vs. Local Controlled Base Stations

A base station may be operated locally or remotely. If a base station is locally controlled the front panel operational controls are located on the base station cabinet. Remote control base stations operate using DC-remote circuits, which are connected through private telephone circuits or radio links. In some remote system configurations four wire audio paths are used to connect the base station to the console. Other systems only need a two-wire link.

Preventing Radio Interference

When using two-way radios to communicate interference includes any instance of hearing a different radio signal that is not within your network. If there are strong signals nearby this can occur, or if other users are trying to use the same channel as you to communicate. A professional base station helps prevent this interference in a number of ways:

• Receiver filtering and specifications are minimalized
• An overview of nearby frequencies in use is provided
• Better coordination of any shared frequencies
• Interfering signals are blocked through equipment location
• Unwanted signals are reduced through directional antennas

If you are looking to improve the strength of your two-way radio system contact Highland Wireless today to learn more about all of your options!

When looking for the best two-way radio there are a number of brand names to check out and consider. One of the larger companies offering reliable two-way radios is Kenwood Corporation. As an authorized Kenwood two-way radio dealer, we are clearly fans of the company’s products. Perhaps Kenwood offers the right radio communication system for you and your business. Learn more about Kenwood two-radios, including who the company is and all that they have to offer.

The History Of Kenwood Corporation

Kenwood is a worldwide company that offers a large variety of technology, including car audio, home and personal audio, amateur HAM radio equipment and two-way radios. The company was originally established back in 1946, at which time it was called the Kasuga Radio Co. Ltd. In 1960, the brand was renamed as the “Trio Corporation.”

In 1963, just three short years after their original name change, the company expanded to the US, opening its first overseas office in Los Angeles, California. This move proved rather beneficial for the company as they continued to expand and grow partnerships within the industry.

Success in the US sparked the idea to create a more American-sounding name, which is how the brand became known as Kenwood Corporation. The name derives from two different things. First, “Ken” was chosen because it represents a name accepted in both Japan and America, plus “Kenmore Appliances” had already proved to be a successful name and they too utilized the root “Ken.” Secondly, “Wood” comes from a reference to both a durable, reliable substance and Hollywood, a famous location near the company’s first American office.

It didn’t take much time for the name Kenwood to surpass the name Trio in popularity. And so in 1986, the brand changed their name worldwide from Trio Corporation to Kenwood Corporation.

It was in 1978 that Kenwood released their first analogue two-way radio, and in 1999 they released Pro-Talk license free two-way radio. In 2008, Kenwood globally launched NXDN digital two-way radio system. Since then the brand has remained busy creating the latest in two-way radio systems, and much more.

Kenwood Two-Way Radio Options, From Simple To High Tech

Kenwood has developed a large fan base with their cutting edge two-way radios. There are many different industries that rely on this brand to successfully communicate, including construction sites and cross state fleet drivers.

The two-way radio options offered by Kenwood are varied; some include many fancy bells and whistles while others stick to the basics.

If simplicity is what you are seeking, the Kenwood PKT-23K is small, light weight and very dependable. This radio is capable of lasting 15 hours on the same charge, plus it comes with a Micro USB port perfect for all of your programing needs. There is also a 3.5 mm audio jack, granting more options when it comes to using this two-way radio with compatible accessories.

If you are looking for a two-way radio that offers more high tech options, the Kenwood NX-300 UHF is a pretty big deal. This radio includes a larger screen than most comparable models, allowing you to see twice as many characters at once. The NX-300 offers a lot of programmable options for more personalization. It also comes packing a lot of internal memory, allowing this device to handle numerous channels and frequencies.

What Do People Love About Kenwood Two-Way Radios?

There are a few things about Kenwood our customers love, causing them to continually stick with this brand time and time again. According to real customers, some of the best features associated with Kenwood model radios include:

-Durability

Kenwood radios are meant to stand up to a lot of challenges, including dusty construction sites, and distracted drops. Some models even offer waterproof features that make destruction close to impossible.

-Price

Kenwood strives to keep competitive pricing as a top importance, granting customers with a great radio for a fair price.

-Comfortable To Use

Kenwood radios are made with the user in mind. When working at a job site or out driving the roads you don’t want a big, bulky radio getting in your way.  Kenwood radios are made small and lightweight with easy grip for increased comfort. Plus, there are a number of accessory attachments to make two-way radios even more accessible and easy to use.

-Long Battery Life

It’s never good if the battery on your two-way radio doesn’t hold a charge throughout the day. Kenwood battery life tends to be very good, lasting around 13-15 hours per charge.

-Compatible Models

There are many two-way radio accessory options that can make any job easier and more convenient, thus increasing productivity. Yet, not all two-way radios are compatible with the latest accessories. Most Kenwood models come with features that make them compatible with most phone cables and accessories.

Contact Highland Wireless today to learn more about your options with Kenwood two-way radios. We look forward to helping you find the best radio for your needs.

How tough is your two-way radio? Can it stand up to dirt, dust, water, and impact damage? Depending on your job site, the durability of a two-way radio may or may not be of significant importance. Still, accidents happen and it’s always nice to have a strong radio you can rely on, no matter what life throws your way.

While most cell phones break easily, with only one good drop on the ground or in water, two-way radios are built with far more attention to detail in regards to durability. Still, some two-way radios offer many awesome features but lack the sturdiness required around certain job sites.

Two-way radios are used to prevent calamities, and are often needed most during times of emergency. A radio that is not durable and built to stand up to these challenges just might let you down when you need it most. Don’t end up with a two-way radio that breaks and lets you down. Learn what makes the most durable two-way radios on the market today, as well as some super strong options worth checking out.

Is Your Two-Way Radio Tough Enough?

Two-way radios come with a variety of options and upgrades, and some are built tougher than others. If you work in an indoor environment where exposure to dust, water and impact are limited, durability is not nearly as important. On the other hand, if you work in construction, or other industries where elemental exposures can be harsh, a durable radio is of utmost importance.

When shopping around for a solid two-way radio make sure to ask about the durability features regarding a particular model before making a purchase. Knowing what features the most durable radios on the market offer can help you select a model that truly stands up to the competition. Some important features to look out for include:

–Waterproof. Some two-way radios come with water resistant technology. If water is a common factor around a job site you don’t want to risk a walk-talkie ending up soaked and unusable. With a waterproof two-way radio you can avoid this issue altogether.

–Dust resistant. Many job sites come with a fair share of dust and debris, and some include far more than others. Try as hard as you will to keep a radio free of dirt, but within due time the dirt will find a way in those cracks. If dusty conditions are a part of your industry, you need a two-way radio that isn’t going to tear up due to exposure to dust.

-Long Lasting Battery. When you think of durable you might not think of battery life, but if a two-way radio can’t hold a charge for a good amount of time it doesn’t matter how durable it is, it will eventually let you down.

-Impact resistant. A two-way radio that breaks the first time it is dropped is not going to do you any good at all. While out working on a job site it’s way too easy to become distracted and drop your radio. A durable model should be able to withstand a number of nicks and dings without breaking down.

Kenwood’s Most Durable Two-Way Radios

Kenwood offers a wide range of awesome two-way radios, some offering more durability than others. A couple of the most durable Kenwood two-radios include:

The Kenwood TK-2400

The TK-2400 is a simple but powerful radio built with a tough outer shell made to withstand some of the toughest work environments.

The Kenwood NX-300

The NX-300 is one of Kenwood’s fancier two-way radios, offering everything from superb sound quality to a large color screen. This radio is also considered one of the most durable options on the market. It is waterproof and resistant to dust and debris, making it the perfect choice for marine and construction related industries.

Motorola’s Most Durable Two-Way Radios

A couple of the most durable Motorola two-radios include:

The Motorola XPR-7550

The XPR-7550 includes the latest and greatest features offered by Motorola, including reliable durability. This walkie-talkie is made to operate something like a smartphone, with a color screen and added perks like Bluetooth and GPS tracking. You will also enjoy added battery life thanks to the technology of IMPRES.

This radio might seem fancy with data integration and a lovely outer appearance, but go ahead and drop this beauty a few times, no need to worry considering the tough design is meant to withstand plenty of wear and tear. This model is also waterproof, making it excellent for any sites where water damage is a possibility. You won’t have to worry about dust interfering with this device either, meaning the XPR-7550 is virtually perfect for every environment.

Highland Wireless is a leading authorized dealer of Kenwood and Motorola two-way radios. Contact us today to learn more about your options regarding the most durable radios on the market.

How much radio range do you need to keep in contact with friends, family, or coworkers? This question comes with a lot of different answers! Necessary range distance will vary depending on your use of two-way radios. Most likely you know someone who has purchased a two-way radio only to be disappointed by its actual range capabilities. This is a common issue that people face when comparing the advertised range to the actual range they are able to get. You don’t have to deal with this mess; here we explain how you can secure the best two-way radio range possible.

Types Of Two-Way Radios

In general, there are two types of two-way radios on the market:

Family Radio Service (FRS) includes lower-power units that can transmit via 7 FRS channels and 7 additional shared FRS/GMRS channels, granting a total of 14 different communication channels to select from.

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) include higher-power radios that can operate any GMRS or FRS bands, granting you a total of 22 channels to select from.

The average radio now comes with access to all 22 FRS and GMRS channels. In order to utilize GMRS channels you need a five-year license from the Federal Communications Commission.

Range Advertised Up To 25 Miles… But Is It True?

Many basic two-way radios come with a statement on the packaging which promises “up to 25 miles” of range. Read the reviews from dissatisfied costumers and you will quickly realize how unlikely this range really is. More realistically, in 90% of all instances this range might actually be closer to 2 miles or less… a far cry from 25 miles!

How could this be, and why hasn’t someone alerted the authorities in regards to false advertisement? In optimal conditions, in which stock two-way radios are tested, they do reach ranges near 25-miles. The issue is that in the real world ‘optimal conditions’ are hardly a reality. Instead, a number of natural and unnatural factors get in the way and interfere with connectivity.

What Causes Two-Way Radio Range To Decline?

The dependability of a two-way radio relies on a couple of different factors, such as:

• The topography of a location, lots of hills, canyons, or ridgelines can interfere with reception.
• The current weather, for instance if there are thick clouds or lightening.
• Any sort of large obstruction, including a tree-bloated forest, or a man-made building.
• Surfaces made of metal, for instance range within a vehicle is usually limited.
• The human body can even impact how well radio waves are transmitted and received. You are dense and made of water, two factors that can decrease a radios ability to communicate properly.  This is why in some cases it helps to attach your radio to something not directly connected to your body.

Higher-powered radios are capable of overcoming many of the obstacles lower-powered radios cannot.

What Improves Two-Way Radio Range?

Ideal conditions for a two-way radio result in impeccable communication across vaster distances. Several locations a two-way radio will preform best in include:

• Out on the water or along a shoreline two-way radios tend to get very good reception.
• Any setting that is flat without much, if any, obstructions.
• Height improves reception with two-way radios. If you are situated on a hill several hundred feet in elevation overlooking a flat valley you will experience ideal radio range. If you move up too high in the hills though, you can start to pick up too much range. In which case you will be able to hear communication from a number of different, and rather distant radios.

How To Have The Best Radio Range Ever

The future of radio communication is changing rapidly, and we are proud to be at the forefront of these transformations. Your business can’t rely on two-way radios unless you know for a fact they can communicate across the advertised range. That’s why a Wide Area Network provides the perfect solution to reliable two-way radio communication.

Just as the name suggests, a Wide Area Network allows you to operate your radios over a vast distance, reaching as much as 300 miles. This new technology relies on a number of radio infrastructure sites that are all connected together as one. Your two-way radio system comes with its own IP network address, which is used to identify your signals as they are sent and received. The process takes a mere second, delivering flawless results despite distance, hills or other obstructions that might otherwise get in the way of radio range.

Thanks to Wide Area Network you never have to worry about two-way radio range again. Highland Wireless offers the widest two-way radio range in Florida, stretching across Miami, West Palm, Orlando, and Tampa. Contact us today to learn more about our Wide Area Network and all that it can offer you!