ChiComm Blog

Faster Hospital Response: The Essential Communication Tool for Mass Casualty Events

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Tuesday, April 14, 2026

If you handle emergency communications for a hospital, you already know that rapid communication is crucial during a crisis. However, most hospital communication systems were developed gradually over time by different vendors, so they are not built to work together quickly. The solution?

Motorola WAVE PTX allows you to connect existing devices into one seamless ecosystem. This broadband push-to-talk platform instantly links radios, smartphones, and computers, both on-site and off-site. It makes the difference between being well-coordinated and being caught off guard.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Safety Solutions, Healthcare, Digital Two-Way Radios

Why Do I Need an FCC License for My Two‑Way Radio?

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Two‑way radios are a dependable way to keep people connected, especially when communication needs to be instant and reliable. Because radio spectrum is regulated, some two-way radios require a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license to operate legally, while others can be used without an individual license when operated under specific rules.

This guide explains when an FCC license is required, when it is not, how to identify what you are using, and what it means to be FCC-compliant.

Tags: Two Way Radios, FCC

Two-Way Radio & Safety Tech in 2026: Improving Reliability and Coverage

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Monday, December 8, 2025

Budgets are tight, so the goal is simple: use the right technologies (and the right upgrades) to improve reliability, coverage, and interoperability.

Let’s walk through what delivers the most value in 2026 and how to match each option to the problems you actually need to solve.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Motorola Solutions, Wireless Communication, Radio System, Technology, Safety Solutions, Product Spotlight

Battery Care Tips for Motorola Two-Way Radios

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Reliable batteries keep your team talking. The fastest way to extend Motorola two-way radio battery life is to use Motorola-approved chargers, follow a steady daily charge routine, store spares correctly, and replace aging packs before capacity drops.

This guide provides clear steps to reduce downtime and help your batteries last longer, based on our extensive service experience.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Motorola Solutions, Two Way Radio Accessories, Maintenance/Installation/Service

Understanding Two-Way Radio Systems: Types and Uses

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Wednesday, October 8, 2025

When communication matters, two-way radio systems keep teams connected instantly and reliably. Whether you’re coordinating staff in a school, directing crews in the field, or managing public safety operations, two-way radios offer dependable coverage where cell service can’t.

This guide explains what a two-way radio system is, the main types available, and how to choose the right setup for your organization.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, Radio System

Two-Way Radio Repair Services: Keeping Your Team Connected

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Two-way radios are built for reliability, but like any essential technology, they sometimes need repair. For public safety agencies, schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses, a radio failure can disrupt operations and compromise safety.

The good news? A malfunction doesn’t always mean it’s time for a replacement.

Repairs are often the faster, more cost-effective way to extend the life of your equipment and keep your team talking. At Chicago Communications, we specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining Motorola radios with certified expertise you can trust.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Two Way Radio Accessories, Technology, Customer Service, Digital Two-Way Radios, Maintenance/Installation/Service

School staff member uses a two-way radio near a school bus to coordinate student transportation and ensure safety.

How Two-Way Radios Improve School Bus Safety in 2025

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Regarding school safety, the spotlight is often on what happens inside the building. However, for many students, their day starts and ends on the bus, and ensuring safety during that time is just as critical.

Two-way radios remain one of the most effective tools to support secure and efficient student transportation. Here’s how today’s radio systems are helping school districts improve communication and safety on and around school buses.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Education

An In-Depth Look at the APX 8000: The Best Radio for Public Safety

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Every moment matters when you’re in public safety, and having reliable, versatile communication tools is essential. The Motorola APX 8000 is built with public safety in mind, providing the features you need to stay connected, secure, and ready to respond in any situation. This radio combines unmatched interoperability, ruggedness, and a host of advanced features designed to meet the demands of critical environments. Here’s what sets it apart in 2025.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Public Safety Communications

Understanding Warranty Coverage for Two-Way Radios and Communication Equipment

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Monday, March 10, 2025

Investing in two-way radios, dispatch consoles, and other communication technology is a critical decision for businesses, public safety agencies, schools, healthcare facilities, and industrial operations. Ensuring these devices are covered under the right warranty can mean the difference between long-term reliability and unexpected costs.

However, not all warranties offer the same level of coverage. Understanding the terms, limitations, and benefits of equipment warranties is essential for making informed purchasing and maintenance decisions, no matter what your industry.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Chicago Communications, FAQ, Customer Service, Maintenance/Installation/Service

Can Two‑Way Radios Be Hacked? Protecting Public Safety Communication

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Tuesday, February 18, 2025

When it comes to secure communications, two-way radios remain the trusted standard for public safety agencies. But can they be hacked?

The short answer: Yes, but only if security measures are weak or outdated.

While cellphones and internet-based communication tools are far more frequent targets of cyberattacks, two-way radios are not immune. Hackers can intercept unsecured transmissions, disrupt emergency operations, and even impersonate first responders on radio channels. Fortunately, modern encryption and advanced security measures make hacking nearly impossible—when the right safeguards are in place.

Tags: Two Way Radios, Digital Two-Way Radios