They started to gain popularity in the late 1980s when Nextel created a system to send voice messages across cellular networks. Today, push to talk over cellular radios are much more advanced, and they have features such as instant group calls, text messaging, GPS tracking and emergency alerts. Unlike old-style radios that only work within a limited area, these radios can connect teams across the entire country wherever there’s cell service. They’re also known as Radio over IP (RoIP) devices as they can access cloud-based services through cellular networks, just as your smartphone connects to the internet.
How Are PoC Radios Different from Regular Two-Way Radios?
The main difference between push to talk over cellular radios and traditional two-way radios is in how they connect. Regular two-way radios work on specific radio frequencies and need repeaters to extend their range. They usually cover limited areas, and they often need to have FCC (Federal Communication Commission) licenses. In comparison to this, push to talk over cellular radios use existing cellular networks and work anywhere with cell coverage. They don’t need special infrastructure such as towers or repeaters. LTE radios include smartphone-like features but also keep the simple push-button operation that makes radios so efficient for work teams. Traditional radios do have advantages in areas with no cell service, but push to talk devices have much more flexibility and range for most businesses.
Benefits of Using PoC Radios
Talk Anywhere: With push to talk radios, your team can communicate across town or across the country. Provided that there is cell service, they stay connected. This nationwide coverage is great for businesses with multiple locations or mobile workers.
Save Money on Equipment: You don’t need to buy expensive radio towers or repeaters. PoC radios use cell networks that already exist, which can reduce your setup costs significantly. There’s also no need for FCC licensing, which can also save both money and paperwork.
Easy to Set Up: LTE radios work straightaway without needing to be set up. Just insert a SIM card and your team is ready to communicate. This makes them a great solution for businesses that need quick solutions without a complex installation process.
Track Your Team: Most PoC radios include GPS tracking. This can help you to see where everyone is in real-time which makes it easier to coordinate work and ensure everyone is safe. For businesses that have field workers, this feature alone can justify putting these radios in place.
Share More Than Just Voice
Unlike traditional radios, push to talk over cellular radios can send photos and videos. This is very helpful if words can’t describe a situation, and it also helps people with problem-solving and coordination.
By using push to talk radios, you can solve common workplace problems by breaking down distance barriers. Teams that are spread across large areas or multiple locations can talk instantly without phone delays. The GPS tracking helps locate staff members who might need assistance, and group calls make it easy to update everyone at once about changing situations. Unlike phones, these radios connect instantly with no dialing or waiting for someone to answer. Furthermore, the ability to share images helps teams document issues and confirm completed work more efficiently. This immediate communication can lead to faster problem-solving and better customer service.
Who Uses PoC Radios?
Delivery and Transportation: Drivers use push to talk radios to stay in touch with dispatch centres while covering large areas. The GPS feature helps managers to track vehicles and use the best routes. Taxi companies and delivery services also find these radios useful for coordinating quick pickups and deliveries.
Security Teams: Security personnel rely on PoC radios for clear, instant communication during patrols or emergencies. The ability to share photos of suspicious activity also makes these radios very useful for maintaining safety and responding to incidents.
Event Management: Event teams use these radios to coordinate activities across large venues in situations including concerts or sports games. Golf tournaments, festivals and conventions can also benefit from the instant communication you gain from using these radios.
Construction Sites: Construction managers use these devices to communicate with workers across large job sites, which can help improve safety and efficiency. Push to talk radios are also very durable, which makes them ideal for tough work environments.
Retail Chains: Store managers use PoC radios to coordinate staff activities and respond quickly to customer needs. Multi-location retailers also find them particularly useful for communication between stores and headquarters.
Campus Environments: Schools and colleges use push to talk over cellular radios to coordinate security, maintenance, and administrative staff across large campus areas, which can improve safety and operational efficiency.
How to Choose the Right PoC Radios
If you need push to talk over cellular radios for your business, work with experienced NRC Radio. We have over 20 years in the business and we understand which solutions work best for different industries. At NRC Radio, we also offer free on-site testing so you can try before you buy, and we stock leading brands including Motorola, Kenwood and Hytera, alongside our own DigiX range.
Our services include complete system design, installation and ongoing maintenance. We pride ourselves on providing a personalised service, and our team will visit your location, understand your needs and recommend the right equipment for your specific situation. We also offer competitive pricing, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
Looking to the Future
As cellular networks continue to improve with 5G technology, LTE radios will gain even more capabilities. We’re already seeing integration with other business systems, advanced location services and improved battery life. Push to talk radios are becoming essential tools for businesses that need reliable, instant communication across distances. Whether you manage a delivery fleet, security team or multi-location business, these devices offer a simple way to keep everyone connected.
By partnering with us, you’ll get expert guidance on selecting the right PoC radios for the specific needs of your team. Our hands-on approach will make sure that you’ll receive a communication solution that truly works for your business, not just a box of equipment. Remember, effective communication is the foundation of efficient operations. With the right push to talk over cellular system, your team can stay connected no matter where their work takes them.
