Radio squelch is often touted as a solution to interference on two-way radios. This feature is meant to reduce background noise and static, but it’s not always as effective as it seems. In certain instances, radio squelch can block the signals you’re trying to send. In other instances, it may still allow unwanted sound to get through.
While squelch is one of the most common methods for eliminating and filtering unwanted background noise in radio communication, it can cause many other problems — and we have a solution for clear communication that doesn’t involve radio squelch at all.
Relay communication devices leverage cellular and WiFi connectivity, eliminating the need for interference solutions. If you’re currently experiencing issues with radio squelch on your communication device and are looking for a better way to connect with your team, keep reading to find out about the problems with radio squelch and how Relay provides the solutions you need.
What Is Squelch?
Radio interference is a common issue with two-way radios. There are a lot of possible causes, but it often comes down to crowded networks or multiple devices using the same radio frequency. One of the solutions to radio interference is a radio squelch system — but does this really solve the problem?
Squelch is a type of function that aims to suppress weak radio signals, eliminating unwanted noise and static. Some of the most common types of squelch include carrier squelch, noise squelch, tone squelch, and digital squelch.
The benefits of using a squelch system, such as Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System (CTCSS), or Digital-Coded Squelch (DCS), are that it can reduce the amount of unwanted noise coming through your radios. However, the problem with squelch systems is that they don’t actually eliminate the sound — they simply filter it out. After filtering, the noise is still in the background.
What this means for communication is that sometimes, static or background noise can still come through if the function isn’t set properly. There are also inconsistencies in communication because this system could prevent necessary signals from getting through.
The Dangers of Improper Communication
For frontline workers and other teams that use two-way radios or walkie-talkies, there’s a lot of awareness around the need for clear communication. Background noise and other radio interference aren’t just an inconvenience — they can also put employees at risk when emergency signals are missed.
The way a squelch system works is by muting the radio until there’s a valid signal coming through the channel. Unfortunately, this can lead to the system muting the wrong signal if it’s set incorrectly.
When important signals can’t get through, this can be costly, especially in the event of an emergency. Effective communication is the key to having a safe workplace and an environment where employees feel safe.
According to surveys, 86% of employees state a lack of effective collaboration and communication as the main cause of workplace failures. 55% of workers also said that effective communication increased their confidence on the job. Clear communication is the key to helping employees feel safe — no matter the industry, employees want to know that they can reach someone immediately if they need assistance.
Your Radio Squelch Solution
While radio squelch systems can eliminate unnecessary communication when they’re used properly, there are still ways for unwanted noise to get through. There are also ways that these systems can unintentionally mute the signals you’re trying to send to your team.
The way to avoid the issues that come with radio squelch is to eliminate the need for it. Whether you’re managing a team in healthcare, hospitality or beyond, Relay is your all-in-one radio solution. As a communication device without the typical radio static and interference, there’s no need for squelch systems to eliminate unwanted noise.
Relay devices combine hardware, cloud software, and mobile connectivity to provide you with a simple way to communicate with your team. By connecting with a nationwide range, Relay offers seamless communication on any connected device without any interference.
Two-Way Radios vs Smart Radios
When it comes to radio squelch and interference issues, it’s important to understand the distinctions between two-way radios and smart radios. While traditional two-way radios or walkie-talkies use radio frequencies for short-range communication, smart radios integrate WiFi, cellular networks, and cloud-based tools to provide clear communication without any interruption or delays.
Smart radios eliminate the need for functions such as radio squelch because they switch between different networks when the signal is unclear or the WiFi is spotty. This type of radio works effectively in loud environments due to the audio quality and ability to cancel background noise.
How Relay Works Differently
When you’re dealing with the inconvenience and frustration of background noise, static, and radio interference, it can be challenging to communicate effectively with your team. RelayX’s three advanced digital microphones with noise canceling technology and dual 2.0W loudspeakers with a peak loudness of 110dB SPL make every conversation crisp and uninterrupted.
Relay also eliminates the need for radio squelch by using a layered, redundant connectivity framework designed to make communication clear even in loud environments with spotty WiFi. With simultaneous cell and WiFi coverage, Relay devices offer the most reliable connectivity, creating a higher quality voice stream than what standard two-way radios offer.
Get Rid of the Need for Squelch With Relay
When you switch to Relay, you can get rid of the need for radio squelch for good. While many issues and interruptions can happen with the use of two-way radios, Relay communication devices eliminate the need for features such as squelch or shielding to prevent radio interference.
Smart radios like Relay are a simple way to upgrade your communication system. These devices have stronger connectivity and more available channels, so you never have to deal with radio interference, static, or other background noise again.
Relay is the all-in-one solution you need for radio noise and interference. No more complicated squelch systems, no more unreliable networks. Simply a network and connection you can trust for all your team communications.
If you’re ready to see how Relay devices can eliminate the need for costly features and additions to your two-way radios, book a one-on-one demo with our team today!
