All About Walkie Talkies
These infamous devices, more officially known as a two-way personal transceiver, are a hands-free, miniature, handheld radio communication device that allows two or more people to communicate in real-time. The name comes from the two words walk and talk being put together, as this is exactly what the device allows you to do. It was also highly important during the Second World War and was used by the American army. It is widely used around the world for military, fire fighting, in hospitals, recreation and other intra-departmental communication matters.
How do they work?
This radio device generally operates by sending radio signals between two or more stations. The signals are in wave format, much like sound. A transmitter on one end receives these radio signals and decodes them into the appropriate voice frequency for communication. The sounds are emitted and the receiver can then respond in a similar fashion.
Some of the most popular brands include RCA, Interco, Kenwood, MRC, and Motorola. These generally have a lot of built-in accessories and functions, including battery packs, earpieces, and USB cords. Some are used for professional use, while others are geared towards recreational use. Recreational devices tend to be cheaper to buy.
Batteries
One factor to consider when selecting this radio device for any particular application is how long the device will stay charged. Each unit is powered either by rechargeable batteries such as an AA battery, or other battery power including lithium, such as that of a mobile phone. Although rechargeable batteries are the most common power source, some devices now come standard with either AC or DC adapters so that they can be used in cars or other power-saving devices.
Models
In addition to the two-way option, some of these radios are equipped with a three-way option that allows transmission and reception of two ways, as well as voice and data. These walkie talkies, however, are often more expensive than their two-way counterparts. The cost is affected by the model, type of equipment and channel capabilities. Some of these units allow two-way communication with a landline, while others can work with mobile phones, which tend to be far more powerful and receive stronger radio frequencies. This feature is commonly used in conjunction with a marine or outdoor radio.
Distance
Some of these radio communication devices are equipped with what is known as ultra-high frequency (UHF) capabilities. These are able to transmit at a rate of forty kilobits per second (Kbps), which is far more than the thirty to forty kbps that is commonly used for general communications. This type of transmission is ideal for use in areas where cellular service may be sparse.
Although these devices will work well within fifty to one hundred meters of their nearest physical partner, they are much less efficient when transmitting over greater distances. This is particularly true for the more basic devices. One reason for this is put down to the sensitivity of the aerial used to send and receive information over distances.
There are also some devices that combine the benefits of both technologies for a much higher maximum range. Some devices are equipped with a combined control unit that allows them to transmit and receive information over a longer range. These long-range devices tend to require a license and can be expensive as a result.
All in all, these radio devices are probably most commonly thought of as a toy for children, or as a largely recreational device used in sport and other pursuits. But in reality, they have been a long standing key instrument, paving the way for modern communicative technology to come about, such as mobile phones. Additionally, they continue to be used as an integral medium for communication in industries where instantaneous communication is vital such as hospitals and police services. Because of this, there is still plenty of value found to be found in this seemingly dated technology.