Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What’s the difference between portable and mobile radios?

A. Portable, or handheld radios, are designed to be held or worn in a holster on the hip. They are ideal for when the wearer needs to move around on foot and communicate, and can be used with a variety of accessories such as earpieces, microphones or headsets.

Mobile radios are used either fixed on a desk as a base station, or in a vehicle as truly mobile communications. Accessories can be added to the mobile radio such as a desk microphone to a base station or a hands-free kit to an in-vehicle radio. Mobile radios are ideal for service vehicles and other fleet communications. 

Q. Why are commercial two-way radios more expensive than the CB’s I see at the major electronics stores?

A.  Bearcom sell Motorola commercial two-way radios, which are made of the highest quality components and stringently tested to Military standards. They are designed to stand up to rigorous use in commercial situations. Whilst this quality costs more than a cheaper radio the user will be rewarded with longer radio life and more reliable communications. 

Radios sold through the major electronics stores usually have a much shorter life, fewer features and are unlikely to stand continued use in a commercial environment. 

Q. How far does a radio transmit?

A. Many factors affect how far a radio will transmit including power of the radio and the environment in which it’s used (e.g. are there many buildings around? Is the area mountainous or have lots of trees?).

Whilst many radio manufacturers will give an estimated maximum range under ideal conditions, it is impossible to guess a true distance. Thus when Bearcom recommend a radio product if it’s to be used in an area we’re not sure about we’ll always suggest a site test first, to ensure you get an accurate picture of the coverage you’re going to get.

Q. What sort of after-sales support do you offer?

A. Bearcom are an accredited Motorola repairer so we offer extensive after-sales support on everything we sell. 

Q. What is the difference between UHF and VHF?

A. UHF, or Ultra High Frequencies, are better able to penetrate man-made obstacles such as steel and concrete. VHF, or Very High Frequencies, are more suited to distance or open-area operations.

Q. What is a Repeater?

A. A Repeater is a Radio Relay Station. It is used when the radio signal needs to be magnified to get the desired distance coverage. It works by receiving a radio signal from one unit, magnifying it and retransmitting the signal another radio unit. It would be used in an area where coverage was hampered by terrain, buildings or other environmental conditions. 

Q. What is CTCSS?

A. CTCSS, or Continuous Tone Coded Squelching System, is an option that allows your radio(s) to only pick up radio signals preceded by a "code". This option helps to cut down on unwanted radio chatter. This is also known as PL, Private Line, Channel Guard, etc.

Q. Can Bearcom assist me with ACA licensing?

A. Yes. Bearcom can assist customers with radio frequency licensing applications. 

Q. What is an Itinerant frequency?

A. There are two types of frequencies you can purchase – Fixed or Itinerant. An Itinerant frequency is a frequency primarily used for commercial activity at unspecified job locations, whereas a fixed licence allows use in a predetermined location. Bearcom can advise which type is best suited to your needs and the costs associated with both.

Q. We don’t have the budget to buy enough radios. What alternatives are there?

A. We can tailor a purchasing option to suit your budget and business. It might be ongoing rental from our large fleet of modern radios, rental – leasing or outright purchase.

Q. We don’t need radios all year, just during our busy time. What options are there?

A. Renting is a good option when you need radios only occasionally, or for set periods. It can also assist when you have an unexpected busy period or need to temporarily increase staffing levels. Bearcom are Australia’s most experienced.

Q. We’ve outgrown our existing radio system but don’t know what the best option is. Where can we find information?

A. Bearcom has experienced sales & engineering team who can talk to you, learn what your business needs and recommend a solution that best suits your needs and budget.