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The Advantages of a Radio Repeater

Portable and mobile two-way radios are limited by distance, local terrain and nearby buildings. One of the best ways to overcome these shortcomings is with a radio repeater system. These receive signals on one frequency and retransmit them on another, usually with a higher location and better equipment. While a repeater can be a portable system, it is usually a specialized radio system installed on higher ground or a tall building. Modern repeaters have additional digital advantages.

Added Value
- Radio repeaters help provide a clear signal wherever it's needed.
  
  Before mobile phones, repeaters were often the only way to communicate over large areas. They use larger antennas, more sensitive receivers and more powerful transmitters than most individual radios. Newer repeaters provide access to digital technologies and networks. Public agencies such as fire, police and public works are top users of repeaters, and cell phone systems make use of the radio repeater concept.
Portable Advantages
- "Walkie talkies" have limited range in cities and varying terrain.
  
  Portable radio use is subject to varying reception and interference. Repeaters help provide a reliable two-way signal in most locations where portable users might need it. Some buildings and remote locations might make use of a fixed repeater less reliable, but mobile repeaters can be added nearby to fill in the gaps.
Mobile Use
- Mobile users can travel a large area using repeater communications.
  
  Vehicles in motion can use the broad coverage of repeaters to keep in touch with base operations and each other. Mobile users use vehicle power and bigger antennas for even more reliable access than portable users have. They also may use digital repeater systems for data access from the vehicle.
Digital Modes
- Digital repeaters can provide live access to data resources.
  
  Digital systems combine channels with voice, data, control and other uses on one or more radio signals. Public service systems can assign channels, with optional encryption, to police, fire, municipal and medical services. Repeaters can also be linked over wired or satellite networks so that users in different areas can communicate. Another advantage is that digital repeater systems can provide live access to data networks for laptop use.

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