A trunking radio is a simple two-way communications system, which utilize a single control channel to quickly assign frequency channels to pre-determined groups of users, and also allows for easy re-assignment of such frequency channels with the push of a button. In a nutshell, a trunking radio is a type of walkie-talkie. The difference lies in the fact that a walkie-talkie has a built-in transmitter, and a trunking radio does not. The difference is that walkie-talkies are able to communicate much farther than a trunking radio. They can even reach distances as far as a few hundred feet, while a trunking radio will only work if there is an available connection to the local network or cell towers.
A trunking radio works much like its smaller counterpart, the two-way talkie. A pair of transceivers connected together will dial into their respective control channels, from which they will be able to send and receive data. This is why a trunking radio is used to control multiple communication outlets; each outlet can be connected to a different talk group and each of them will have its own control channel. All this, however, requires that there is an available source of power or an RF signal.
The simplest of all radio systems, also known as a “bundle” or “buzzer” radios, functions in much the same way. Just like a set of headphones, these radios operate on a single channel, dialing through one control code at a time. In other words, when a user presses the buzzer designated lever, the channel is opened up and the radio gathers enough data to enable it to emit an alert, just like an mp3 player.
These early types of radios are not very durable. However, newer versions of these systems have been designed to be more durable and are often powered by rechargeable batteries. When the battery dies, it is very easy to replace it and the stored data is just as easily retrieved. Another improvement that has been made over the years is the addition of more than one channel. If there are two or more users on the same system, each can control several channels without interference to each other. This allows for a system to handle a wide variety of traffic, such as communications between two or more sites or offices, or it can work as a repeater to handle a wide range of frequencies, covering nearly every type of communication situation.
Trunked systems can be assigned different channels for different purposes, such as commercial and residential purposes. A commercial channel could be assigned to the location of a business, giving customers the ease of connection when they are near the business. Public safety authorities also use them to contact local law enforcement agencies when a situation becomes urgent, which can help keep people out of dangerous situations. Some even use these devices as a means of communication in other parts of the country, covering all federal, state and local areas in the case of an emergency.
There are many uses for trunking systems, and they have been instrumental in improving the quality of communications systems throughout the public sector. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that more improvements will be made to this type of radio communication system. As time goes on, trunking systems may become even more essential in helping to make sure that the most basic needs of public sector workers are met. This is especially true with emergencies that can occur at any time and require rapid information sharing. It would help if all employees had access to clear and reliable transmissions to get everyone picked up.
This content is contributed by Guestomatic
