ATCOMM PTT

FAQs

• 1. What is Push-to-Talk (PTT) radios?

  A PTT radio is a communication device that allows users to speak instantly with a single button press. Unlike a mobile phone, there is no waiting time—just press and talk. Often called a walkie-talkie for unlicensed radios, a PTT radio lets your message be heard by one person or by everyone in a group at the same time. PTT radios use either radio frequencies (VHF/UHF) or broadband networks (4G/5G/Wi-Fi).

• 2. What is the difference between DMR and Broadband radios?

  DMR radios operate on licensed radio frequencies, suitable for single-site or multiple-site deployments. Broadband radios, on the other hand, use cellular data and Wi-Fi, allowing communication wherever there is network coverage—even across borders.

• 3. Which brand does ATCOMM offer?

  ATCOMM offers professional radios from Motorola Solutions, the world’s leading brand in mission-critical radio communications.

• 4. Is ATCOMM an authorised reseller of Motorola Solutions?

  Yes. ATCOMM is the only Platinum Partner for the region, the highest level of recognition from Motorola Solutions. This status reflects our expertise, proven track record, and ability to provide the best support and solutions for Motorola radios.

• 5. My team already uses mobile phones. Why should we use radios?

  Radios provide instant communication at the push of a button, even if the cellular network is down during natural disasters or outages. They allow group communication, so everyone in the team—10, 100, or 1000+ members—can hear the message simultaneously. Built for tough environments, radios are water-resistant, drop-proof, and dust-proof, and include features like GPS, emergency alerts- ensuring your team stay connected in any situation.

• 6. What is the coverage distance of DMRPTT radios?

  Coverage depends on factors such as radio model, antenna power, frequency, topography, terrain, and whether the environment is indoors or outdoors. In clear line of sight, the radio signals can reach several kilometres. No matter the environment, repeaters/relay stations can be installed to extend coverage over larger areas or across multiple sites, including nationwide deployments.

• 7. How rugged and durable are your radios?

  Motorola Solutions radios undergo rigorous testing to simulate harsh field usage. They are dropped from various heights onto concrete, subjected to steel ball impact tests, extreme temperatures, vibration, and rain spray. All radios meet MIL-STD-810 military standards, certified to withstand dust, heat, shock, drops and water immersion.

   

• 8. What is the coverage distance of BroadbandPTT?

  Broadband PTT operates over cellular or Wi-Fi networks, so its range depends on network availability. Communication can be maintained nationwide or even globally, wherever your network reaches.

• 9. Can DMR radios work across different locations?

  Yes. We can deploy a multi-site DMR system to provide reliable coverage across multiple locations. This is achieved by installing repeater stations to extend the signal. By linking multiple repeater sites through IP, radio communication can cover entire regions or even operate nationwide.

   

• 10. Can radio communications be intercepted?

  No. Two-way radios use advanced encryption standards to protect all communications, ensuring that voice and data transmissions remain private and secure.

• 11. Are radios used for voice communications only?

  No. Radios, depending on the model, offer several features beyond voice communication, including GPS tracking, emergency alerts, messaging, multimedia sharing, and safety features such as man-down and lone worker monitoring. For instance, they can detect if a user has fallen or remained motionless and automatically send alerts to supervisors.

• 12. What is the lifetime of a radio?

  The lifetime depends on usage, maintenance and proper handling, but typically, professional radios have an average lifespan of around 7 years and more.

• 13. How many people can you connect with instantly on a radio?

  By simply pressing a button, radios let everyone within the talk group hear your message instantly and simultaneously, connecting dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of people at the same time—enabling fast and reliable communication across teams like no other form of communication.

• 14. Do I need a radio licence?

  Yes. Radio usage in Mauritius is regulated by the ICTA (Information and Communication Technologies Authority). It is illegal to use radios without a valid license, and unlicensed radios are not permitted in Mauritius. ATCOMM can guide you through the licensing process.

• 15. Can different radio models communicate with each other?

  Yes, normally radios need to operate on the same frequency and standard—for example, different DMR models can communicate with each other, while broadband cannot talk to DMR and UHF cannot communicate with VHF. However, at ATCOMM, we provide solutions like gateways to bridge different standards. For instance, a DMR radio can communicate seamlessly with a broadband device through our bridging solution, ensuring teams on different systems stay connected.

• 16. Can radios integrate with smartphones?

  Yes. Solutions like Motorola Solutions WAVE PTX allow smartphones and tablets via a dedicated app to join radio groups, effectively turning your device into a radio and enabling full interoperability with your radio network.

• 17. What is the warranty of Motorola Solutions radios?

  Motorola Solutions radios come with a 2-year warranty.

• 18. Do you provide repair and maintenance service?

  Yes. ATCOMM has a fully equipped workshop and a highly trained technical team. We provide repair services as well as preventive maintenance to ensure your devices stay in optimal condition. We also stock genuine spare parts, so any repairs use original components, keeping your radios fully operational and reliable.

• 19. Can radios be used in potentially explosive environments?

  Yes, but only radios certified for Hazardous Location (HazLoc) where flammable gases, vapors, liquids, dust, or other ignitable materials may be present, creating a risk of explosion. In these environments, HazLoc-certified radios are the only reliable communication tools.

   

  ATCOMM offers a range of radios that meet globally recognized standards, such as ATEX, an EU directive for hazardous locations; IECEx, an international certification; and UL/TIA-4950, a North American-based, globally recognized standard. These certified radios safeguard personnel working in hazardous locations, ensuring safe and reliable communication even in high-risk environments.

• 20. Can I rent radio for an event?

  Yes. We offer flexible rental terms—from one day and upwards—depending on your requirements. Technical assistance can also be provided during your event for peace of mind.

• 21. What are the advantages of renting radios instead of buying?

  Rentals provide backup equipment in case of failure, flexible service agreements including 24/7 support, and no need for ICTA license applications, as all radios and services are provided and managed by ATCOMM.

• 22. What is WAVE PTX?

  Push-to-Talk is no longer limited to two-way radios. WAVE PTX is a subscription-based service that allows smartphones, tablets, computers, and radios to communicate instantly at the push of a button over cellular or Wi-Fi networks. With WAVE PTX, teams can join group or individual calls, send messages, share images or locations and stay connected regardless of distance—locally, regionally, or even globally.