Since 1930, when push-to-talk communications were first introduced as a means of communicating with dispatch and other mobile workers, it has been a critical component of communication for businesses and industries of all shapes and sizes.
Initially, the only option available was two-way radio communication via land mobile radio (LMR) systems. While this type of system offered the opportunity for critical communication, it was not without its limitations and drawbacks, including those listed below.
Limited Coverage Area for Communication
Perhaps one of the biggest limitations standard LMR systems is the requirement that users be within a certain proximity to one another to communicate effectively. This is because they utilize short-range frequencies. The costs of upgrading systems to provide greater coverage or range for communication are sufficiently prohibitive that most organizations find it unappealing.
Governmental Licensing Requirements
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires users of Land Mobile Radio systems to obtain licensing to do so. While some businesses find the costs of doing so negligible, large scale operations may find it not only cost-prohibitive, but cumbersome – especially if there is high turnover within the organization.
Startup Costs of LMR
LMR systems have notoriously high startup costs. In some instances, the startup costs do not even include the cost of equipment and simply involve the use of the service. Once you add equipment costs on top of that, the prices can really soar. Especially in light of more affordable options on the market today.
Requires Purchase of Specific Equipment
In many cases, this leaves your workers carrying around two pieces of equipment.
- Mobile phones
- Two-way radio devices
This not only adds to the burdens of workers, but also leads to accidents, like dropped and broken equipment and mobile devices. Those costs can add up quickly.
Many workers complain that the two-way radios used for LMR systems are bulky and not at as user-friendly as they’d like them to be only adding to the discontentment many feel about working with LMRs.
Shorter Battery Life
Believe it or not, this is a concern with traditional LMRs that isn’t as much of one for workers who use PTT two-way radios over cellular via their mobile phones and other devices in the field.
These are just a few of the drawbacks and limitations traditional LMR systems present that PTT helps businesses and workers overcome all the time. Keep them in mind when weighing your communication options and contact us here at Peak PTT with any questions or concerns you may have. Call: 855-600-6161