Relm Wireless - BK Technologies

Importance of Phase Two P25 Radios for Public Safety

bktech — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:56:32 +0000

The job of a police officer can be a dangerous one, especially for an officer that works alone. In the 80 years since the invention of two-way radios, police officers have come to rely heavily on both their in-car radio and their portable radio. With phase two P25, this important communication is becoming easier.

Whenever an officer is on a call, he needs his radio for communication. Contact with dispatchers to receive critical information about the people they may be coming into contact can be lifesaving. Using their radios to call for backup in dangerous situations can also be a lifesaving decision.

In 1989, the FCC asked public safety two-way radio users for recommendations on how to improve public safety radio systems. They took these recommendations and created a new standard for the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials-International, which was dubbed Project 25.

The first phase of P25 systems was an important step to providing the type of communication needed for public safety officials. Now manufacturers like Relm Wireless are producing state-of-the-art digital portable radios using P25 phase two technology.

Phase two of the P25 standard is for narrow band communications. This type of communication is an important next step in emergency communication because it means that an agency can use less of its allotted bandwidth allowing for more agencies to use the availability. This offers a greater ability for interoperability with different agencies and from different jurisdictions. If there’s an emergency where agencies from other jurisdictions are required to support, this makes the communication between the agencies much easier.

As more and more products become available using this continuously updating technology, it’s important that our public safety officials have the use of these technologies both for their own safety and that of those they have sworn to protect.

The post Importance of Phase Two P25 Radios for Public Safety first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post Importance of Phase Two P25 Radios for Public Safety appeared first on BK Technologies.

The Origin of Two-Way Police Radio Communication

bktech — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 13:45:56 +0000

In March of 1933, the Bayonne Police Department of Bayonne, New Jersey initiated the first regular two-way police radio communication in patrol cars. The advancement would have an impact on emergency communication that is still felt today.

On April 7, 1928, Detroit Police Department Patrolman Kenneth Cox and engineering student Robert L. Batts developed a system for police to receive calls in their patrol cars. It was the one-way AM mobile-radio system.

Less than five years after this accomplishment, it was topped by radio engineer Frank A. Gunther and a station operator for the Bayonne Police, Lieutenant Vincent J. Doyle.

The one-way AM mobile-radio system allowed the Detroit police to receive calls in their patrol vehicles but they weren’t able to communicate the other way. The Bayonne system was revolutionary in that now those in the patrol cars could communicate back with headquarters as well as other patrol cars. The advancement was done through a combined transmitter and receiver in each patrol car.

Soon the Bayonne system became commonplace throughout the country so that emergency responders could communicate with home base as well as other responders in their department.

The first police units to use wireless communication were the Victoria Police Department in Australia, which began doing so in 1923. However, the equipment used in Victoria was much bigger taking up the entire back seat. The Bayonne Police Department took wireless communication further by becoming the first department to successfully use two-way radios between a fixed location and transceivers that were installed in police cars. This enabled them to respond quicker to emergency situations.

Today technology has advanced to the point where those radios used in 1933 are antique. With the P25 standards, now departments from different areas around the country can communicate so long as they use the same type of equipment. But it all started in the spring of 1933 in New Jersey.

The post The Origin of Two-Way Police Radio Communication first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post The Origin of Two-Way Police Radio Communication appeared first on BK Technologies.

Thank You to Our Clients of 2015!

bktech — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 20:40:17 +0000

As 2015 draws to a close, Relm Wireless would like to take a moment to thank all of the agencies, departments, and organizations that have allowed us to be a part of fulfilling their mission in the past year. We know that reliable two-way radio communication is an integral part of your operations, and we’re proud to supply the equipment that supports this vital function.

We’ve also seen growth in the acquisition of a variety of new public and private sector clients. These partnerships have even expanded the scope of Relm’s presence to an international scale, with new partnerships forged in both Canada and Australia. Relm also continues to be a competitive option for government and public safety agencies looking for the latest in two way radio technology. In the past year, we received orders from entities including the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Forest Service, as well as state-level public safety departments.

With another year before us, we look forward to continued success and safety for our clients in all aspects of their business and operations.

The post Thank You to Our Clients of 2015! first appeared on BK Technologies.

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The First Atlantic Wireless Transmission

bktech — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 17:23:03 +0000

December 12^th marked 114 years since one of the early pioneers of radio – Guglielmo Marconi – successfully sent the first transatlantic message. Early skeptics believed that the curvature of the Earth would limit radio transmission to distances of only 200 miles, but Marconi’s simple message (the Morse-code signal for ‘s’) proved those skeptics wrong.

Now over a century later, radio waves have been used to transmit messages of much more importance and in greater length than a single Morse-code letter. Everything from radio dramas to top-secret messages and life-saving public safety announcements have been delivered by means of radio communications. One of the most enduring mediums in this field of communication has been the two-way radio.

At Relm Wireless, we have been in the radio communications field for over 65 years. Our two-way radios are used in both the public and private sector. Our public sector clients include police and fire departments from across the U.S., the U.S. Forest Department, U.S. Department of Defense, and U.S. Department of Homeland Security. These clients rely on the reliable transmission and interoperability that Relm products have become known for. Private sector clients of Relm also appreciate the reliability of our products, and use them in a variety of settings, including the healthcare field.

With more than 100 years since the first Atlantic wireless transmission behind us, many advancements have been made in radio. Relm Wireless looks forward to another century of innovation and the opportunity to continue to provide both private and public sector clients with the radio equipment and technology necessary to stay connected in the 21^st century.

The post The First Atlantic Wireless Transmission first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post The First Atlantic Wireless Transmission appeared first on BK Technologies.

The Latest in Two-Way Radio Features and Technology

bktech — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 17:38:20 +0000

Speaking of technology and two-way radios may seem contradictory to some, but in fact radio capabilities and features have advanced in several key areas. At Relm Wireless, we supply two-way radios to government entities, public safety agencies, and business clients alike. Each of these sectors has a different set of needs and priorities, but each one depends on having the most reliable and efficient equipment to support communication needs.

Some of the increasingly common two-way radio features include:

-Digital Displays: Information such as date, time, network, battery status, and menu options are presented on digital displays that make important information stand out with a quick glance. Some two-way radios also feature LCD color displays for enhanced readability.

-Bluetooth Technology: With Bluetooth-equipped handsets, your two-way radio can communicate wirelessly with many types of wireless earpieces. This provides hands-free communication abilities, which can be especially useful for first responders.

-Text Messaging: Combining audio and messaging communications in one portable device means twice the communication power for two-way radio users.

If your agency or department is evaluating new two-way radios, look into the features and functions of any devices you are considering. With technology changing, radios today come with many options and benefits. Relm Wireless has the technology that is right for you.

The post The Latest in Two-Way Radio Features and Technology first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post The Latest in Two-Way Radio Features and Technology appeared first on BK Technologies.

Identifying and Overcoming Perceived Obstacles to P25 Radio Systems

bktech — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:18:02 +0000

Though P25 radios are becoming the premier standard in land-mobile radio communications, several perceived obstacles persist. Two of these obstacles are cost and implementation. However, with hundreds of thousands of these radios in use- and many more department or agencies looking to add this equipment to their communications plan, it’s important to take a closer look at the reality of overcoming these obstacles.

Obstacle: The cost of P25 radios is prohibitive.

Reality: While it is true that making the switch to a P25 radio system may involve an investment, the payoff is a reliable communication system that is interoperable with the P25 radio systems of other public safety departments. Having the ability to function efficiently in times of disaster or distress is peace of mind that you can afford.

Obstacle: It’s a lot of hassle and planning to experience the benefits of P25 radios – including full compliance and interoperability.

Reality: A successful transition to P25 radios does require coordination and planning to be most efficient. But as the industry moves toward P25 as a standard, the resources and tools available to make the migration become increasingly available. And once the planning and transition phases are complete, your system will function more efficiently, with increased reliability and ability to serve your department under all circumstances.

If your department is considering upgrading to a P25 land-mobile radio system, don’t let the obstacles steer you away from making a wise choice. Investigate all the factors involved and don’t choose short-term convenience at the expense of long-term success.

The post Identifying and Overcoming Perceived Obstacles to P25 Radio Systems first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post Identifying and Overcoming Perceived Obstacles to P25 Radio Systems appeared first on BK Technologies.

On the Job: 3 Reasons to Choose Two-Way Radios for Worksite Communication

bktech — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 13:44:56 +0000

Communication on a job site is an important part of keeping the project running smoothly and efficiently. Coordinating equipment, materials, and people requires a reliable mode of communication. Two-way radios have long been relied upon in the construction environment, but in recent years smartphones have become an option also. But are they really a better, more reliable form of worksite communication? Consider these top three points:

Built to Last: Smartphones are designed to look sleek and appeal to the average consumer – not to withstand the dirt, debris, and drops that are inherent in a construction environment. Two-way radios, on the other hand, are built to meet the demands of heavy-duty applications, including military and public safety functions. As a result, they are more durable and long lasting.
Cost-Effective: Cell service is an ongoing monthly expense. Relying on smartphones for jobsite communication means committing to a monthly plan, contract terms, and limits on data or minutes. Two-way radios offer the freedom to use radio signals whenever with no term commitments. After the initial purchase, usage is free and minutes are never limited.
Clear Communication: Though you might think a smartphone would offer crisper, clearer communication, that’s not always the case. Modern two-way radios are designed to compensate for environmental interference (including wind, rain, etc.) and deliver clear, understandable speech.

Keep your worksite running smoothly and efficiently – and choose the right means of communication to facilitate it. Two-way radios beat out smartphones in a number of key categories. Investigate your options today and keep your team connected!

The post On the Job: 3 Reasons to Choose Two-Way Radios for Worksite Communication first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post On the Job: 3 Reasons to Choose Two-Way Radios for Worksite Communication appeared first on BK Technologies.

8 Important Criteria for Evaluating a Two Way Radio System

bktech — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 15:25:50 +0000

If you’re in the market for a two way radio system, you have many criteria to meet and a wide array of options. Navigating through the sea of options can seem daunting, but letting the current and future needs of your agency or department guide the purchasing process can help to make the process simpler. It also helps to evaluate a prospective two way radio system against a standardized checklist of important criteria. Here are 8 items to check off as you make your evaluations:

Does it meet or exceed all Public Safety and P25 Standards?
Are the radios interoperable with other networks and radio equipment?
Have the radios been tested and approved by outside agencies?
Is the technology the newest available and are features readily available?
Is the equipment easy to use, with user-friendly software and navigation?
What is the battery life of the equipment?
How does the equipment rate on durability scales? Is it water and dust-tight?
Is the value competitive compared to products with similar specs?

Making the investment into a new two way radio system requires a thorough analysis and evaluation. If you’re considering equipment replacement or upgrades, use these 8 factors to determine if the system is right for your agency. To learn more about solutions available at Relm Wireless, contact your regional representative or an authorized dealer.

The post 8 Important Criteria for Evaluating a Two Way Radio System first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post 8 Important Criteria for Evaluating a Two Way Radio System appeared first on BK Technologies.

Raging Wildfires Highlight the Importance of Two-Way Radio

bktech — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 15:14:53 +0000

So far, 2015 has been a record year for wildfires in the United States. According to recent statistics from the National Interagency Fire Center, more than 8 million acres of land have been devastated by wildfire thus far. And the damage doesn’t stop there – at the beginning of September, there were 65 large fire complexes torching land across states such as California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana.

Firefighting crews are working tirelessly to contain the flames, but according to recent estimates, some fire complexes won’t be contained until mid-October or even November. The flames are ruthless – and they’ve claimed both homes and lives. Communication among the firefighters of the U.S Forest Service, first responders, and volunteer agencies is critical to achieving containment and minimizing damage. Two-way radio is relied upon in these mission-critical situations to keep personnel from all these agencies in communication with one another, and to keep fire crews safe.

Underscoring the reliance that the U.S Forest Service places on two-way radio communications, Relm Wireless recently received approximately a $1.0 million order from the department on September 9^th for KNG-Series Digital P-25 portable two-way radios and D-Series mobile radios with accessories. These two-way radios will continue to support the vital and often dangerous work that the firefighters and other agents of the U.S Forest Service often perform. We are proud to see our equipment working hard on the front lines and support the courageous efforts of the U.S Forest Service to save lives, land, and homes.

Do the firefighters of your department or first responders in your jurisdiction have the communication tools they need to stay safe and minimize loss? Two-way radios offer reliable and vital service in situations that range from everyday to catastrophic. Contact Relm today to learn more about protecting your agents and the public with advanced two-way radio capabilities.

The post Raging Wildfires Highlight the Importance of Two-Way Radio first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post Raging Wildfires Highlight the Importance of Two-Way Radio appeared first on BK Technologies.

Cellphone Vs. Two-Way Radio – Choose the Right Mode of Communication

bktech — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:01:34 +0000

Organizations with a need to equip their personnel with communications solutions may be faced with a decision: choose conventional two-way radio, or choose a cellular platform to keep everyone in the loop. It may seem that ‘smartphones’ offer more features, but the decision isn’t easily won by the bells and whistles of smartphones.

Making a decision between a two-way radio system and a cellular system may be most impacted by the answer to this question: Does your organization need one-one communication or one-many communication? Cell phones can only offer one-one communication, which is not going to support time-sensitive situations in which multiple people need to respond. It may be acceptable in more isolated or routine situations where urgency is not a factor. Two-way radios, however, instantly communicate with all connected users. This saves valuable time in critical situations where immediate response is needed from a team or department. In certain industries, response time is paramount. It could be the difference between life and death for some.

Additionally, many two-way radios have the capability to communicate on a one-one basis when the situation warrants. Cell phones do not have this flexibility in function. There are group calls, but they don’t have channels. Two-way radios also typically have longer battery life. This can be a huge deal in terms of upkeep. Two-way radios also have better security then cell phones. The durability on radios is better then with cell phones. This can also save for upkeep in terms of replacements. Radios have initial costs to set up but cell phones have a monthly coverage fee. Those with radio systems can save in the long run. Cell phones are nice for individuals but just don’t suite organizational needs typically.

What about those bells and whistles? Modern two-way radios offer many advanced features, such as color screens, touch-compatibility, and text messaging. So don’t think that a cellular communications plan is the exclusive way of the future. Two-way radio fills a vital need with one-many communication abilities and retains an important role in emergency communications.

The post Cellphone Vs. Two-Way Radio – Choose the Right Mode of Communication first appeared on BK Technologies.

The post Cellphone Vs. Two-Way Radio – Choose the Right Mode of Communication appeared first on BK Technologies.