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Radio devices are used for network-independent communication

Network-independent communication can be very important when you are on the move. Even if the cell phone network is weak or people are in a dead zone, radio devices are a good way to stay in touch.

Radios are mostly sold in pairs

Radios are often sold in pairs and are then directly connected to each other or matched to each other. After switching on, the device searches for its partner and connects with it. After pressing a button, it is possible to exchange voice messages. However, there is often also the option of "pinging" the device beforehand, ie announcing contact with a tone.

The voice message can then be heard and spoken by the person you are talking to through a loudspeaker or headphones with a built-in microphone. Some models have a display that tells you whether the person you are talking to is within range and whether they can be contacted. The battery charge level can also be read at any time.

How are radio devices assessed?

The performance of a radio is judged by its range and battery life. Especially when you are out in the field, there is usually no power connection available. For this reason, it is important that the radio has very good battery life. The battery should last several hours even with frequent use. Ideally, replacement batteries are available or, even better, normal battery types such as Mignon or Micro can be used, meaning you can always carry a replacement with you. Another equipment criterion is the range. Good radios connect to each other over a distance of several hundred meters and can therefore also be used in regions where there is no or only a poorly developed cell phone network. ASMC also offers arm holsters or other attachable holder bags so that you can have the handheld radio quickly to hand.

Expert tip: Use the radio as a baby monitor when not in use

Some radios have a special baby monitor function. This is a bonus, so to speak, which may save you having to buy a special device. The radio is then put into a permanent listening mode that "monitors" the room. Ideally, the device only transmits when the signal reaches a certain level, as only the loud crying of a baby is transmitted, not every creak of the cradle or similar.

Questions: Radios

What are the differences between high- and low-priced devices?

Be it an amateur, a Midland or a professional radio, the cheapest models start at around 60 euros. For this price you get a usable device in the pair version with functions such as the well-known "Roger" beep and 8 selectable PMR radio channels ( PMR = Private Mobile Radio) as well as a (simple) LC display that is easy to read even in the sun. In return you have to do without display lighting. The higher quality models have a lighting function as well as other features such as different "ring tones", a longer range (usually between 500 m and 5 km) and other convenience functions. A headset connection is also very practical, more about this under the following point VOX . Full-size base camp radios in a stand-alone version are available, as are small, light and practical pair radios, which can of course also be used when driving in a convoy in a car (possibly only permitted with VOX).

What does VOX mean?

A headset connection is also very practical, as it allows you to have your hands free when talking. At least if it also supports voice control or voice activation using VOX. Ideally, the VOX sensitivity should be adjustable to avoid automatic, continuous transmission in the event of loud wind noises or similar.

What is Push-to-Talk (PTT)?

Since radio technology is fundamentally different from that of mobile phones, it is not possible to send and receive at the same time (full duplex). For this reason, you have to explicitly control that you have to speak while the person you are talking to can only receive (half duplex operation). The send button required for this is often called PTT. Some models conveniently offer a button on the cable that can be attached to a motorcycle in a convenient position, for example, to make sending as easy as possible.

Are CB radios allowed to be used in cars or on motorcycles?

A useful quote from Wikipedia: "The installation of (CB) radio devices that were placed on the market on or after January 11, 2005, in motor vehicles (cars/trucks) that were first registered on or after June 17, 2003 is only permitted if the radio device is marked with an E mark or a CE mark."

Which energy supply is recommended?

Here, too, as is often the case, it depends on the intended use and personal preferences. Normal micro or mignon batteries can be replaced quickly and can also be carried in dozens as spares. However, a roughly equivalent running time can be achieved with the flatter Li-Ion batteries of some devices. The disadvantage: you have to buy them at the time of purchase - if available - otherwise they are difficult to obtain as they are device-specific. For some of these models there are also practical charging cradles, which of course can only be used at home or with a power source. Of course, the standby power can be one of the most decisive purchase criteria for this class of device.

What transmission technologies are there?

PMR on 446 MHz UHF (Private Mobile Radio) is probably the most widely used radio technology for private use. Advantages: Moderate to very good range, light and not too large devices, but still inexpensive, no proof or operating license required. Disadvantages: Only 8 channels, so there may be an uninvited radio guest. A comparable American radio standard is the Family Radio Service (FRS).

LPD (Low Power Device) on 433 MHz in the ISM band ("Industrial, Scientific and Medical Band"). Also often called SRD for Short Range Devices. Disadvantages: Short range, expiring approval.

CB radio (Citizens' Band Radio) on bands from 26.5 to 27.4 MHz: The standard for non-commercial, private radio transmission of voice and data. Advantages: Good range (but heavily dependent on the antenna used), today: no proof or operating license required (previously a so-called "frequency allocation card" was required), significantly more participants than with PMR & Co, large range (~10km depending on antenna, transmission power and line of sight). Disadvantages: Some devices are slightly larger than with PMR.

Freenet on 149 MHz: Advantages: Good range, few users, less signal interference from obstacles. Disadvantages: Expensive, few users, testing necessary.