Quick answer: Weak coverage on two-way radios usually comes down to distance, terrain or building materials. Work out which it is, then pick the matching fix: a better-suited frequency band, a better antenna and position, a repeater, higher-power vehicle or base radios, digital mode, or SIM-card radios where mobile coverage is good.
Ways to fix dead zones
- Check the frequency band. UHF (400-470 MHz) generally copes better inside buildings and built-up areas. VHF (136-174 MHz) tends to travel farther over open ground.
- Improve the antenna and its position. Use the correct antenna for your band, keep it upright, and mount base or vehicle antennas as high and as clear of obstructions as possible.
- Add a repeater. A repeater receives a signal and re-transmits it from a good location, extending range and covering dead spots. See our repeaters.
- Use higher-power radios where needed. Vehicle-mounted (mobile) and base radios with external antennas usually reach farther than handhelds.
- Consider digital. Digital radios keep audio clear towards the edge of coverage. See digital vs analogue radios.
- Consider SIM-card radios. Where mobile coverage is good, SIM-card radios are not limited by radio range.
Test before you commit
Stated ranges are a guide. For example, the Motorola R7 is listed with a portable-to-portable range of 3-5 km. Real range depends on buildings, terrain and interference, so walk-test the areas where your team works before you roll radios out.
Next step
Request a quotation or talk to SATLEC about your site. SATLEC is based in Krugersdorp, Gauteng. Call 011 660 2237 or email sales@satlectwowayradios.co.za.
