What Are The Pitfalls and Advantages?
If you’ve read all the information we’ve shared so far on two-way radios, you probably have a good understanding of how they work and why a radio system is used! But the ‘techy’ stuff? That’s the next one to cover…
Radios are either analogue or digital. We’re sure you’ve heard of both. But what’s the difference, and what are the advantages of each? Let us explain…
Analogue Radio
Analogue is the ‘old-fashioned’ and robust system that most of us (regardless of our field of work) have encountered at some point. An analogue system picks up an audio signal from the transmission site along radio frequency waves called ‘carriers.’
Using an analogue system normally means only one conversation can happen at a time. Analogue signals become poor when you get closer to the maximum range, and at this point, you may hear white static noise, crackling sounds, lower voice tones, and the signal may drop out altogether.
Digital Radio
A digital radio (or digital radio system/DMR) is much more reliable than analogue, and the sound quality is hugely superior. Even at maximum range, the sound will be clear if you choose digital.
Digital radio can distinguish between background noise and choose not to transmit it, making the overall conversation quality much better. Digital radios have many extra features, and because of the nature of digital, these features continue to develop, ensuring the system is future-proof and not easily outdated in terms of functionality or features.
Analogue vs. Digital – A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Analogue | Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Easy to use | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reliable and robust hardware | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sound quality over long range | Variable | High |
| Sound quality over short range | High | High |
| General sound quality | Variable | High |
| Ability to block out background noise during transmission | ✖ | ✓ |
| Multiple conversations able to take place at once | ✖ | ✓ |
| Additional features such as GPS, emergency features, and text and data messaging | ✖ | ✓ |
| Likelihood of obsolescence by 2031 | ✓ | ✖ |
| Product availability in the current market | ✓ | ✓ |
Find Out More
Contact us today to find out more about digital vs. analogue, and to find the right solution for you.
