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Chicomm Blog

For those currently using Intrinsically Safe two-way radios approved to the FM3610_88 standard, there are some changes being made by Motorola Solutions that will directly impact you.

The FM3610_88 may only be manufactured through the end of December 2015 - at which point the switch from FM to UL will begin. To help you understand this transition and what it means for you, here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the change.

What does “Intrinsically Safe” actually mean?

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), “intrinsically safe” is an equipment design protection method for Division 1 which encompasses hazards that may be present under normal operating conditions - or,  frequently present during repair or standard maintenance work.

This term is especially relevant for those who operate in what are known as “hazardous locations.” These locations are areas where fire or explosion hazards may exist “due to flammable liquids, combustible dust, or ignitable fibers or flyings,” according to the NEC.

Tags: Two Way Radios, FAQ, Two Way Radio Accessories, Digital Two-Way Radios

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Police officers on bicycles have become incredibly popular in urban environments across the country. They are seen at local festivals and events, but also maintain a presence throughout the city for a large portion of the year. This is due to the flexibility and efficiency of being on a bicycle – officers can maneuver through busy streets and traffic far easier than those in a car could, and also save a lot of money in the process (no gas needed for a bike!).

With the influx of two-wheel officers in our communities, it is essential to equip them with the proper communication tools needed to be just as responsive as they would be in a vehicle. The best solution for this is often two-way radio headsets.

Tags: Public Safety Communications, Two Way Radio Accessories

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Whether you are renting radios for your next summer event or you are a long-time owner of some Motorola digital two-way radios, you should know that the radio is actually just the first piece of the communications puzzle. What does that mean? Accessories.

Radio accessories are important to the experience you have with your radios, because they help enhance and customize your communications to your exact need. For example, those renting radios for a festival will be using their radios differently than workers in a manufacturing plant, and accessories help tailor that experience. While some users' top priority is a hands-free experience (that's where earpieces/headsets come in) others may place an emphasis on battery life.  

Tags: Two Way Radio Accessories

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What To Consider When Renting Two Way Radios

Posted by Kendra Newlon on Thursday, March 27, 2014
If you’re looking for a price savvy communication product, without the full commitment of a purchase – renting radios is definitely one of the best options out there. You get the quality and control that you would normally get when purchasing a two way radio system, but without the upkeep and price tag associated with it. This is a perfect option for those who would only use a radio system a few times a year for special events. Batteries and antennas are automatically included with each rental; each customer receives one spare battery and charger for every two radios rented. By choosing to rent radios, you can rest easy knowing that the programming, licensing, and even delivery of your communication equipment is being taken care of.

But first, here are some things to keep in mind after you’ve decided on the wise choice to rent two way radio equipment.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Two Way Radio Accessories, Rental Equipment

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You’ve got your two way radios…now what?

Posted by Kendra Newlon on Friday, January 24, 2014

We all know that two way radios are highly beneficial in keeping everyone connected when it comes to communication. They’re reliable, and much more cost efficient than cell phones.

But do you know how to optimize your radios for even more benefits, features, and connectivity? Simply having a two way radio is a start to great communication, but there are a few ways to get the most of your radio.

Apps, for example. I know your mind shoots to the Angry Birds game on your smart phone you probably have in your pocket or purse.  Even for two way radios…there’s an app for that.

With a little more importance than that of Angry Birds, applications that are added to your two way radio enhance the capabilities and performance of said two way radio . MOTOTRBO radios have applications to augment fleet management, dispatch consoles, work order management, system management, alarm management, personal tracking, email/text gateway, and interoperability. Whew! So many ways to use a two way radio for more than just communicating.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Two Way Radio Accessories, MOTOTRBO

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Turkeys & Two-Way Radios

Posted by Kendra Newlon on Thursday, December 26, 2013

Thanksgiving has come and gone, and in just a few short days the year will also come to an end. But Chicago Communication’s rental department acted as a catalyst for the city of Elmhurst into the holiday season this past November with the 30th Annual Dan Gibbons ‘Turkey Trot’.

Held on Thanksgiving morning, runners of all ages joined at the starting line to raise money to help feed local families who were in need of a meal, not only on thanksgiving but every day; something that we may take for granted on a regular basis.

However, in order to have such a successful long running fundraising event, communication amongst staff and volunteers must be a top priority. Not only does in ensure that all of those involved in the execution of the Turkey Trot are where they are supposed to be, but also keeps runners safe.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Motorola Solutions, Wireless Communication, Two Way Radio Accessories, Rental Equipment

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Are you ready for some…MOTOTRBO?!

Posted by Kendra Newlon on Thursday, December 5, 2013

What are the first things you think of when given the slogan ‘Are you ready for some football?!” Many ideas such as food, tailgating, friends and team rivalries are the first to pop into our minds. But what if we didn’t have our Sunday afternoon/nights of football, or what would we have to look forward to on Monday nights after a day at work if the NFL ceased to exist? Fault proof communication is one of the silent, yet very important aspects of running not only a successful game, but a stellar season.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Motorola Solutions, Two Way Radio Accessories, Technology, MOTOTRBO, Safety Solutions

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Our rental department at Chicago Communications is one of the services that often times goes overlooked when prepping for an event. However, if utilized correctly, having a communicationsystem in place for your event, no matter how big or small, really determines whether or not it goes off without a hitch. Ask Justin Thaler from STEVE HARVEY on NBC .

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Two Way Radio Accessories, Rental Equipment, Customer Service

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Summertime Means...Radios Everywhere?

Posted by Jill McNamara on Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Summer in Chicago! Festivals, Beaches, Parades, Markets and ………Two Way Radio?

 Yes, Two Way Radio. It’s everywhere, just think about it.

 You’re at the beach, the Life Guard talks with another Life Guard down the beach, does he yell? No, it’s a two way radio used to speed up response times.

 You’re at your favorite parade. Thousands of people, float after float, bands marching-- how do they keep it moving? How are they keeping the path secure? Two Way Radio!

 How about the ball game? Security staff keeps the crowds in check with two way radios.

Tags: Two Way Radio Accessories, Rental Equipment, FREQ Squad

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The Ultimate Power Source for Wireless Is...

Batteries! Can’t live without them in today’s world. Their importance lies in connecting us to our fellow man through walkie-talkies, cellular devices, tablets, and even to grounding Boeings newest 787 Dreamliner. And battery technology has come a long way. When I first started as a technician, the NiCd (Nickel Cadmium) was the battery of choice for our two way radios. Back then charging allowed two speeds: Standard Charge and Rapid Charge. Standard charge ran a low stream of current into the battery that took about 8 hours to get the battery to full capacity. Rapid charge ran a high stream of current into the battery. This speed would typically recharge in 3 hours.

Tags: Motorola Solutions, Two Way Radio Accessories

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