Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Licence Free Products

What is the range of the radios?
The range of licence free radios is entirely dependant on where they are used and whether there are any obstructions like hills, buildings etc between the radios. All of the licence free radios we offer are capable of working over several miles providing there is a good line of sight between them but the range will be reduced by any obstructions. Some manufacturers do quote approximate ranges of 2, 3 or even 5Km but these distances refer to ideal operating conditions and should be regarded as only a guide and cannot be guaranteed.

How many radios can talk to one another?
The minimum number is two and there is no maximum limit, providing the radios are within range of one another and all radios are using the same channel.

Can I use radios from different manufacturers together?
Yes providing they are programmed onto the same channel and tone. There are eight standard frequencies [channels] and a standard set of tones. All the information relating to these can be found in the user manual of the product you purchase.

Can I use these radios with a base station to increase the range?
No. However we do offer a desktop unit which is ideal for an office environment. Details can be found on the website.

Can I use this type of equipment in other countries?
All unlicensed radios sold in the UK, come under the PMR446 banner which is recognised in most European countries. This type of equipment is not permitted for usage outside of Europe. The countries in Europe where PMR446 can be used are:
Austria; Belgium; Czech Republic; Cyprus; Denmark; Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Hungary; Iceland; Ireland; Italy; Latvia; Lichtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Malta; Netherlands; Norway; Poland; Portugal; Slovakia; Slovenia; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; Turkey; UK

What is the typical battery life?
Dependent on usage the typical battery life is 8 - 12 hours.

What is the delivery time?
Most items can be delivered within 48 hours. We use either Royal Mail 1st Class Recorded Delivery; Royal Mail Special Delivery or DHL.

Licensed Products

What is the difference between licence free and licensed radios?
Licensed radios [sometimes known as PMR – Private Mobile Radio] are walkie talkies for professional use. They are available in either VHF or UHF frequency bands. They are also more powerful than licence free radios [5 Watt VHF/4 Watt UHF] and have a greater range. In addition they can be used with a base station or repeater to increase the range still further. Licensed radios are available as either hand portables or vehicle radios [mobiles]. Vehicle mounted radios are significantly more powerful – upto 25Watts and also may be used with base stations and repeaters.

Prices for PMR radios start from around £150.00 per handset which is typically at the top end of licence free radios.

A wide range of accessories is available for PMR radios.
What are licences?
Licences are issued by OFCOM in order to regulate the use of two way radio in the UK. This is so that wherever possible different users will not clash with others as frequencies are a finite resource and there is considerable demand for ever more wireless services and applications.
There are essentially three types of licence. A UK General Licence allows you to operate as many two way radios as you wish, anywhere in the UK in either VHF or UHF bands [There are some geographic restrictions]. A UK General Licence currently costs £60.00 for three years. This type of licence is unprotected so if you encounter interference then OFCOM will not be able to assist.
An On Site Licence allows you to operate two way radios within 3km of a site so this kind of licence would be ideal for factories, offices, warehouses etc. Currently the cost is £75.00 per annum and offers protection from interference by other radio users.
A Wide Area Licence is the same as above but allows you to operate within 30km of a site. The cost is £75.00 per annum
How do I get a licence?
You complete an application form which we will provide you. Brabourne Communications Ltd will complete all the technical aspects of the form - all you have to do is provide names and addresses, contact numbers etc. You pay OFCOM direct and we hold a copy of your licence so that if you need further two way radios in the future we have all the details to hand.
How long does the licensing process take?
About 2-3 weeks but we can program your two way radios with what are called parking frequencies so you can start communicating immediately without having to wait for your licence
Who can have a licence?
Anyone with a bone fide business
How do I know if I need a base station?
We are here to help. If you contact us we will discuss your radio requirement with you and recommend the most cost effective solution. This may be a simple solution involving hand portable radios, it may include the need for a low cost desktop type base station or for extended area coverage the use of a base station repeater. Whatever your needs we will be happy to advise. Our service includes site visits and coverage surveys to ensure you get the best solution at the lowest cost.

How Radio Works

See the feature in our Help section.