The term “walkie talkie” originates as far back as 1939 when it was first used for communications during World War II. The term emerged because those that used them could walk and talk to someone in a different location at the same time.

They began life as a military tool and were one of the first devices to use two-way radio frequencies.

Today, two way-radio frequency is used in many other areas including retail, sports, and large-scale events.

Like to learn more? Read on to learn how two-way radio frequencies work and the various uses they have today.

Two-Way Radio Frequencies Explained

Two-way radio uses radio waves as a form of communication. Waves are communicated between two people via a device that uses radio waves to send messages.

Put simply, a two-way radio frequency occurs when two radios connect. These two radio receivers can be used by two people who could be miles apart.

When they are in use, the radio waves travel via an analog signal or a digital one. Nowadays, the latter is more common as the process moves towards a more digital method.

When two-way radio occurs, the communication first starts in an audio format. It is then converted to radio waves to travel to its destination. When it gets to its chosen location, the other radio device receives it and converts the radio waves into audio. The person holding the receiver can then listen and understand the message.

Using digital two-way radio scanner frequencies allows users to transmit other forms of communication as well as voice. Things like text messages can be transmitted.

Two-way radio frequency devices can improve the management and safety of large-scale events. Large sites like conferences, universities, shopping centers, and sports grounds utilize two-way radio devices regularly. They use them to communicate messages about crowd control, security issues, and emergencies.

Using the devices can also improve team communication and co-operation.

How They Operate

The distance a two-way radio system covers depends on the equipment you have and the area in which you want to cover.

The system can be set up to extend across your required area of coverage. The radio receivers can link together if you have members of your team working across a sports ground or at a festival and they need to be able to communicate with each other.

A checklist of your needs will help you decide what system best suits your needs. A checklist could include the following:

  • The distance you want the two-way frequency to cover
  • How many people will need to use it
  • Do you want them to be able to send messages as well as communicate in real-time
  • If you need the receivers to be rainproof

The demand for two-way radio devices is set to grow. It looks set to reach 11.7 billion dollars in 2025, according to the Two-Way Radio Equipment Market Growth Analysis Report.

Two-Way Radio Frequencies List

Two-way radio operates between a range of frequencies. Devices work between 30 MHz and 1,000 MHz.

This is a list of ranges and their categories:

  • If the range is between 30 MHz and 300 MHz: this is considered a very high frequency
  • If the range is between 300 MHz and 1 GHz (Gigahertz): this is considered an ultra-high frequency

When people broadcast between these frequencies, they use a handheld set or device to pick up and receive communications. Those using two-way communication must first check that they are on the same bandwidth. When one person talks, that device is doing the broadcasting while the other is receiving the information via radio waves.

To talk, a person holds down a push-to-talk button and the microphone element of the handset activates and broadcasts the audio. When neither person is speaking, the device will broadcast static.

Both handsets are battery-powered and have a period of use before they require recharging. Many have long-lasting battery time like the KNG2 portable range.

Is A Two-Way Radio License Required?

This is a complex topic but to give a simple answer, this depends on what you are using the two-way system for.

Are you using it to communicate within a small team or over a small location? Then you may be able to use an unlicensed two-way system.

However, if you are using it over a larger area and if you want secure communications, it is advisable to purchase equipment that is licensed.

It is advisable to check country-specific ranges and categories as there are differences. Every country has an organization or department that assigns licenses to devices operating within certain ranges.

Yet, some two-way radio devices are designated license-free. Check what your country’s specific guidelines are so you are compliant with any rules.

Also, it is important to take note of your responsibilities regarding data protection and privacy. It is possible to encrypt data that is being transmitted digitally. This protects the privacy of the information and blocks people who don’t have your permission from using your network.

We can help you decide what system you need and its related compliance requirements.

Growth of Two-Way Radio Frequencies

The market for two-way radio frequencies is predicted to grow. 82.6% of those asked in this survey said that they would like to learn more, in particular, about its use as a modern communication tool.

If you, like these survey respondents, would like to learn more or invest in this area, get in touch with us here at BK Fire Radios. We are a family-run business and have been providing this service since 1983.

As well as new products, we stock a range of used radios. All of our radios have a 60-day warranty.

We offer discount packages and can put together a custom price quote for your needs. We can also offer demonstrations so you can get your device up and running quickly.