The land mobile radio (LMR) system has been widely used as the “go to” communications system for wireless users. This system utilizes wireless two-way radios for communications. Even federal agencies and the U.S. military have used LMR systems for communications in addition to many U.S. businesses that have used this communication system as well – especially large fleets or companies that provide dispatched services.
The times are changing, though, and the advancing technology and features available for push to talk over cellular (POC) users are turning the tides in favor of a newer technology for more effective communication.
Benefits of POC over LMR
For most businesses and agencies, the problem with LMR is that the model is no longer future-proof. PTT over cellular offers too many bells and whistles to ignore, including the following that are not available on LMR systems:
- Automated pairing.
- Ad hoc group calls.
- API for third-party apps.
- Greatly improved security future.
- Wider selection of accessories.
- The ability to signal availability (available, do not disturb, unavailable, etc.)
Other benefits POC displays over traditional LMR are notable as well. One of the most important ones for modern businesses is the ability to integrate text and multimedia messaging as well as GPS location services. While some LMR systems allow one or more of these, the capabilities are extremely limited.
Counting the Costs
The primary difference for most businesses and some government agencies, when it comes to choosing POC over LMR come down to the dollars and cents of the decision. Startup costs alone for a complete LMR system can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars (if not millions) of dollars depending on the size of the organization and the equipment used.
POC solutions cost very little to initiate, with fees as low as $25 per device to begin and $10 per month to operate. The other considerable different between the two is the equipment involved.
LMR requires the use of two-way, handheld radios to communicate. POC operates via 4G LTE cellular signals allowing users to download apps onto their Android or iOS phones. No new equipment or major purchases necessary. This also means that when when cell networks turn-down their 3G bands (2021 for one major carrier), your equipment will work for many years to come.
That doesn’t even count the costs of dispatch equipment for communications with LMR vs POC, which is no comparison. The dispatch software for Peak PTT customers is $25 and it can be used on any Windows PC whereas many LMR dispatch systems cost businesses thousands of dollars to purchase.
Savvy business owners today understand that LMR is a dinosaur that may turn into a financial albatross. Now is the time to make the shift to POC. Contact Peak PTT at 855-600-6161 to learn more about how we can help your business save big by making the switch.