Keeping an edge over the competition for many industries requires mobile communications so that an instant transfer of information can always take place. Mobile and wireless radio has been an invaluable tool used by law enforcement and public safety officials for years. While still used in these lines of work, other industries are finding value in communication radios when personal conversations are preferable to e-mail or texting.

There have been major technological improvements over the years in communications radios including devices like the mobile radio, wireless radio and mobile CB radio. Stronger antennas, batteries with a longer lifespan and even wireless headsets have all contributed to the growing popularity of mobile radios. This article will provide an overview guide to mobile communications basics with regard to radios. Ask yourself the following when searching for mobile radios for your business:

1. Does your business require a portable radio that is programmable or customizable?

2. Is a handheld mobile radio preferable to one that is permanently installed?

3. Would your business benefit from purchasing accessories for mobile communication devices?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider programmable or customizable portable radio devices

Many portable radio devices come equipped with radio service software that allows you to program channels and codes for squelching. You can choose a variety of capabilities from scrambling to signaling, or even toggle between the two.

I recommend: Mobile Communications offers a handful of portable two-way radios on a rental basis. Office World sells the popular two-channel business radio with programmable scrambling features.

Compare handheld wireless radio devices to those that are permanently installed.

Knowing how you will use your radio will determine if a handheld is preferable to a more permanent, hard wired installation. The advantage of an installed device is that you can talk hands-free, while a mobile radio has the advantage of portability.

I recommend: Mobile Radio Communications sells handheld and mobile radios for permanent installation. Com-Tech Electronics sells two-way radios from a variety of different manufacturers.

Purchase communication radios accessories to maximize usage

Consider purchasing accessories to maximize your mobile radio communications usage. Devices that will enhance or make using your radios easier include headsets, antennas, microphones, and radio batteries.

I recommend: Ion's 123radios website sells a variety of radio accessories. Blinkwave's website allows you to click on your brand or model to get a listing of the appropriate radio accessories.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Save money on communication radios by purchasing pre-owned or refurbished units. They are slightly older, but usually in perfectly good working order at a much more affordable price. Only purchase these from a reputable dealer. Not sure you want to commit to purchasing mobile radio equipment just yet? Consider renting the equipment for a while to see if it makes good business sense for your organization.

Today there is almost no way around incorporating mobile communications into your company. Even well-known dining restaurants such as Red Lobster and Chili’s are using mobile radios and several other communication radios to stay in touch across the floor.

Business owners and staff are in need more today than ever for wireless radio gurus. Consider the following when looking for mobile communication devices:

1. You can incorporate communication radios, mobile radios and other portable radio devices in sea to land travel, within towns and cities, on campuses, and within buildings. This is convenient in government, corporate and personal-life America.

2. Two-way mobile communications radios have proven to be a success. They are cheaper and faster than cellular service. As long as you stay within your range and have proper conditions, these are a great buy.

3. The type of mobile radio your business needs depends on the range of distance you need it to cover.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose from providers with a large selection of mobile communications

The more brands or models you have to choose from, the higher the chance that you'll find the perfect fit for your mobile communication needs.

I recommend: Check out service providers such as Global Sources. They offer a variety of communication radios. Purchase Motorola 2-Way Radios or check out their featured business radios. Browse the selection at Pronto, Inc.

Purchase mobile radios for business vehicles

A mobile radio mounts in your business automobiles for employee communication during travel.

I recommend: Radiophone Engineering, Inc. sells a selection of Motorola portable radios. Visit Teal Communications, Inc. to find a mobile CB radio.

Get help picking the right communication radios for your business

Some websites have tools to help you decide which communication radios you need.

I recommend: Filter communication radios by desired price, model and features at Buy Two Way Radios. Check out comparisons at Central Communications Corp. to find a mobile radio that fits your industry and applications.

Become a mobile communications dealer

If you're interested in becoming a land mobile radio supplier, you'll want to carry the top selling brands.

I recommend: Submit your information to Midland. They'll contact you within two business days about becoming a distributor. Learn more about becoming a Motorola reseller.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't forget to inquire about installation costs for mobile radios in your company vehicles.

Mobile communications is a fast growing industry and has opened the door to a lot of opportunities. Every company, organization and institute, and even private citizens reap the great benefits of using various devices of mobile communications. The wireless radio is one device that allows people to talk with others across the country, overseas or even on the space shuttle. Mobile communications education and training includes a broad range of subjects. It’s best to focus on a particular means of communication such as the portable radio.

The wireless radio has great implications for all types of businesses because of the convenience they provide. Amateur radio, also know as ham radio, land mobile radio system and citizen band (CB) radio are used as backups for emergency services and in industrial and business services. The type of training and license you need depends on the wireless radio. Organizations that specialize in mobile radio communication will:

1. Train users how to operate these communication radios.

2. Provide assistance in applying for a license.

3. Instruct you on the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) rules and regulations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Gather useful mobile ham radio information through training courses

Amateur radio or ham radio organizations provide training for people who want to learn about the mobile radio. A license is needed to utilize an amateur radio as the FCC uses this form of mobile communication as a backup in emergency situations.

I recommend: American Radio Relay League (ARRL) is your main source for everything you need to know about amateur radios. They have a continuing education program for those who wish to prepare for the amateur radio license exam and general information about ham radios. RadioExam.org has information about the ham radio exam including steps to obtain a license and exam sessions.

Consult the FCC about land mobile radio and take operation training classes

Land mobile radio is a two-way radio system widely used by emergency first response and public works. Various radio service licenses are needed to operate the land mobile radio system. The FCC is the regulator for operating communication devices and lists any licenses needed to operate a land mobile radio on a certain frequency.

I recommend: The FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS) provides a list of land mobile private and land mobile commercial radios service codes with corresponding links to more information and required licenses. Sign up on Training-Classes.com for a class titled, “Intro to Two Way” which covers the fundamental of two-way radio communication systems or land mobile radio systems.

Understand mobile CB radio fundamentals through training and research

A citizen band or CB radio is primarily used to communicate short distances. It's used mainly by truck drivers and doesn't require a license to operate, but there are still rules and regulations that must be followed.

I recommend: Right Channel Radios offer free email training on selecting a CB radio, installation and troubleshooting. CBTricks.com has CB radio maintenance information including manuals, a new product showcase section and radio information by manufacturer and model.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many cities have mobile radio clubs that offer training courses. These training courses are offered locally as opposed to online and are great for people who want to meet other operators.