A 2-way radio, also known as a walkie-talkie is a hand-held radio that can transmit and receive radio signals, unlike a conventional broadcast receiver that only receives audio. It’s an all-in-one unit, a transceiver and a receiver in a single unit, commonly used for walkie-talkie communication with other wireless users with similar handsets. The number of users and channels vary depending on the model. Most 2-way radios have an indicator that shows when they are switched on and off.
One way to compare two-ways radios is to use their power requirements. A two-way radio will generally require less power than a personal computer or handheld media player because it broadcasts its radio signals in large volumes, while these items only receive data. Likewise, when a user transmits a signal, this also requires a minimum level of power. However, these devices can be used to transmit as much as a hundred,000 watts of data, so they’re great for those who don’t want to limit themselves by using a mobile phone, or if they work in a business where they need to stay connected to a wider range of people.
One key feature of two-way radios is their ability to answer emergency situations. Some older two-ways didn’t have an emergency function, but newer models have added this capability. Usually, you’ll find these devices mounted on vehicles in an emergency situation such as on the trunk or console. When activated, they’ll emit an ear-piercing sound that lets everyone know there’s a problem and notifies the authorities about the situation.
To get the maximum amount of power from your radio, you should buy one with the highest wattage possible. Generally, the higher the wattage, the louder the signal. While you could choose a lower wattage version, the difference will likely be very minimal.
A common area for two-way radios is in law enforcement. Because these communication systems are often used in sensitive locations, they require a lot of power. Some manufacturers offer solutions to enhance the power requirement, making them more suitable for law enforcement applications. There are also options to increase the distance that the signal can travel, which allows two-way radios to work even in areas where cellular phones and other communication devices are banned, or in areas where Internet and computer use is limited.
A good option for those who want a two-way communication device, but don’t want to have to carry a large, heavy, mobile unit is to choose a walkie-talkie radio instead. It does not carry a large weight, and it is very easy to use. If you are a casual user of the two way radio you can keep one in your car and another in your purse or backpack. You can also keep the walkie-talkie radio in your belt so that you have another communication device if you need one.