Reports released on the tragic April 12 fire

The Houston Fire Department has released a 20-page report on a fatal fire last April that killed two of its officers. Capt. James A. Harlow and rookie firefighter Damion Hobbs ran into an empty house to fight flames ignited by a loose electrical connection in a light fixture. Winds of 30 mph contributed to the intensity of the accident as well as the collapse of a large glass wall. The report claims the use of two-way radios could have prevented the tragedy.

According to the HFD report and the fire marshal’s report, the commander of the Houston Fire Department tried to contact Harlow and Hobbs via two-way radio. Unfortunately, one radio was found left in the truck and the other was turned off and tuned to the wrong channel. The use of radios is stressed again and again throughout the report. It is important for firefighters to train and practice using two-way radios at fire scenes to increase communication and the chances for survival.

To read the state fire marshal’s report, visit http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/reports/fire/documents/fmloddhouston09.pdf.

Twowayradiosfor has radios designed to meet the needs of firefighters. The VX-354F is recommended for a volunteer firefighter and the VX-424F is recommended for a chief firefighter.

Our condolences go out to the family, friends and students of the female teacher at Birney Elementary School in Tacoma, Washington who was shot and killed this morning. The shooting occurred at 7:35 a.m. as the woman arrived at the school. No children had arrived at the school at that time. The teacher was shot in the head and chest by a man police described as an acquaintance.

Shootings are becoming far too common in our schools and universities. Violence is hard to predict and thus it is important to be prepared in the event of a crisis. Investing in two-way radios is an affordable solution for the safety and security of your schools. Give us a call or browse twowayradiosfor.com to learn more about the radios that are right for you.

If you’re looking to invest in high-quality two-way radios for your business or organization, Radio Rebate Days will save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars. Two Way Radios For is offering rebates of up to $2,000 when you purchase five or more eligible Motorola two-way radios. Included in this promotion are our DTR 410 two-way radios and two-way radios from our CLS Series and RDX Series.

Here’s how Two-Way Radios For’s Radio Rebate Days promotion works:

• For every five Motorola CLS Series two-way radios (Motorola CLS1110 or Motorola CLS1410) you buy, we’ll give you a $100 rebate, up to $1,000.
• For every five Motorola RDX Series two-way radios (Motorola RDV2020, Motorola RDV2080d, Motorola RDV5100, Motorola RDU2020, Motorola RDU1080d, Motorola RDU4100 and Motorola RDU4160d) you buy, we’ll give you a $150 rebate up to $1,500.
• And for every five DRT 410 you buy, we’ll give you a $200 rebate up to $2,000.

Up to ten sets of five two-way radios per customer, per company are allowed in the promotion. Two Way Radios For’s Radio Rebate Days is a great way to boost your team’s communications, which can lead to more productive employees, more satisfied customers, less confusion and higher precision service, money and time saved and higher revenues. Whether you’re planning to introduce a new communications system or upgrade your existing two-way radios, now is the time! Radio Rebate Days runs from March 1 through June 30, 2010. For more information, visit our website or contact a Two-Way Radios For representative at 888-560-0758.

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More than 150,000 deaths have been reported in Haiti since the earthquake hit.  Family members have been lost in the rubble and hundreds of thousands of people have no food, water or home and need medical attention. Foreign security and volunteers struggle to build stability in the midst of despair while violence and looting plague the streets.

In an effort to support communication among emergency relief groups, the Motorola Foundation has contributed $100,000 of Talkabout® two-way radios to CHF International. Two way radios will drastically increase efficiency in bringing people together and delivering medical supplies and will also help to suppress violence. Ease of communication is invaluable; families can be reconnected and lives can potentially be saved by faster response times. Reconstruction is a long process, but two way radios are an excellent solution to limit the chaos.

Motorola announced yesterday that it will split into two independent publicly traded companies in the first quarter of next year. One entity will provide mobile devices and home businesses, and the other will be responsible for the wireless infrastructure, providing two-way radios and public safety systems.

Motorola’s Mobile Devices and Home businesses will be led by Dr. Sanjay Jha, co-chief executive officer of Motorola, Inc. Motorola’s Enterprise Mobility Solutions and Networks businesses will be led by Greg Brown, co-chief executive officer of Motorola, Inc.

Why the split?

According to David Dorman, chairman of Motorola’s Board of Directors, the new structure “provides significant operational and strategic flexibility for both companies, positions them for future success, and enhances long-term shareholder value.” The split is an attempt to refocus and revive its divisions, giving each an opportunity to have a distinct dire­ction. Critics have mixed opinions on whether or not the split will bring success. Some think restructuring is a gutsy move that Motorola needs to make to increase its market value, and others think it will diminish its iconic name. As for us, we are optimistic about the Enterprise Mobility Solutions and Networks business.    

Speaking of two-way radios and success, businesses benefit significantly by using the Motorola and Vertex Standard products.  Two-way radios increase profitability, efficiency, and productivity by facilitating communication between employees. Find the radio that is right for you or give us a call today to learn more about how two way radios can help your business become more profitable.

No small business is too small for a little chaos, so keep your employees connected with our Motorola CLS1110 or Motorola CLS1410 two way radios. For businesses that have a relatively small footprint and light duties, such as churches, schools, retailers and restaurants, our CLS1110 and CLS1410 models offer crisp, clear communication via lightweight but durable wireless handheld units. Add a belt clip and 56517 earpiece with microphone for easy, hands-free communication.

The Motorola CLS1110 two-way radio works on a single channel with your choice of 56 UHF frequencies set aside specifically for business use, affording you excellent voice quality, privacy and reliability. The Motorola CLS1410 can operate on four channels, allowing for narrowed or private communication between specified employees or team members. Both models offer more than 120 privacy codes (also known as interference eliminator codes) for confidential, uninterrupted communication between you and your team. And each boasts a coverage area of up to 200,000 square feet, 15 floors or five miles under favorable conditions.

Both the Motorola CLS1110 and Motorola CLS1410 two-way radios are powered either via rechargeable lithium ion batteries or standard alkaline AAA batteries and come complete with drop-in battery chargers. Both feature three call alert tones and the Motorola CLS1410 offers and additional vibrating alert, great for use in noisy areas where it may be difficult to hear a tone (such as on school playgrounds), or in environments that must be kept quiet (in workplaces like movie theatres, libraries or spas). The Motorola CLS1410 also features the Voice Activated Transmit, known as “VOX” mode, which allows a user to operate the radio entirely hands-free. VOX-enabled units automatically begin transmitting when you speak. Each also comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Businesses and organizations that regularly and successfully use either the Motorola CLS1110 or Motorola CLS1410 two-way radio include elementary schools, movie theatres and grocery stores. Employees are able to communicate messages quickly, without having to leave their posts or leave a customer waiting. In environments where an emergency situation might arise, such as in a nursing home or on a school playground where a child is hurt, quick, clear communication can be critical. Restaurants use two-way radios to notify wait staff when orders are ready and tables are available, and speed to speed up cleaning and setting of tables.

All this means happier customers, more productive employees and boosted revenues. In fact, if each employee using a two-way radio saves just five minutes per hour each workday, it’s estimated that annual savings for a company with staff of 10 people making average of $12 an hour can hit $21,000 – $42,000 with a staff making an average $18 per person.

To find out how the Motorola CLS1110 or Motorola CLS1410 two-way radio can improve your business operations, contact us at 1-888-317-4912 or via our convenient online email form.

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Motorola CLS1110

Motorola CLS1410

Motorola and Chad Ochocinco have partnered to form the Ochocinco News Network powered by MOTOBLUR, Motorola’s new smart phone. The network will cover Super Bowl week with live Twitter updates from Ochocinco and colleagues Ray Rice, Chris Cooley and Darnell Dockett.

OCNN, the first athlete-driven social news network, will cover the Super Bowl in a unique way, with tweets, pictures, videos, and commentary that will be posted to Ochocinco’s social media sites. The network is complete with a news van and will go all-access to the hottest parties of Super Bowl week.

Between their anticipated Super Bowl commercial, the launch of OCNN and the new MOTOBLUR, Motorola is making strides in social media. For more information on Motorola and OCNN, visit Motorola.com/ocnn. For information on two-way radios, visit twowayradiosfor.com or follow twowayradiosfor on twitter.

Check out Motorola’s two-way radios on twowayradiosfor: 

Motorola DTR Radios

Motorola CLS Radios

Motorola RDX Radios 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Narrowbanding?

Simplified, Narrowbanding is an effort by the FCC to more efficiently use the Frequency Spectrum used by two way radios.  By being more efficient, more types of devices can utilize the frequency spectrum. 

 Do I have to replace all of my radios by January 1, 2011?

No, you are not required to replace any of your radios before 2011.  The FCC has mandated new licenses and new equipment only operate at 12.5-kilohertz spacing on January 1, 2011.  Existing equipment has until January 1, 2013 to comply with the new guidelines.   

 Do I have to reprogram all of my radios before January 1, 2011?

No, you do not have to reprogram any of your radios before January 1, 2011.  Should your company be using radios operating at 25-kilohertz spacing, all of your radios will need to be reprogrammed before January 1, 2013. 

 I have been told I need to purchase radios with the capability of operating at 6.25-kilohertz.  Is this true?

The FCC has not made any mandates regarding 6.25-kilohertz spacing.  From a historical perspective, the FCC mandated 12.5-kilohertz technology be included in all radios manufactured after January 1, 1997 and is disallowing the use of 25-kilohertz spacing on January 1, 2013 some 15 years later.  The FCC has said it will set a transition date to migrate to 6.25-kilohertz spacing when “technology matures to the point that sufficient equipment is available.”[i]     

 Can www.twowayradiosfor.com help you reprogram your radios? 

We have the ability to reprogram most Motorola and Vertex Standard branded two way radios.  A modest fee may apply, contact us for details. 

 I’ve been told my equipment doesn’t have the ability to be reprogrammed to 12.5-kilohertz. 

If your equipment was manufactured after January 1, 1997 it should be capable of operating at 12.5-kilohertz spacing.  Refer to your Owner’s Manual, a product Spec Sheet, or the Manufacturer’s Website for accurate information regarding your particular product needs. 

 Where can I find the FCC Mandate?

The latest information from the FCC is posted here in our knowledge base.  You can also search the FCC’s website by visiting http://www.fcc.gov/.

My current FCC License states I’m using 25-kilohertz spacing.  What should I do?

You will need to do the following before January 1, 2013.  First, verify your current equipment can operate on 12.5-kilohertz spacing.  Do so by referring to a spec sheet on the Manufacturer’s Website.  Next, you’ll need to work with an FCC Frequency Coordinator to get your FCC license amended.  Fees may apply.  Finally, you’ll need to work with www.twowayradiosfor.com or another qualified two way radio dealer to get your radios reprogrammed.    Fees may apply. 

 Are the radios I purchased from www.twowayradiosfor.com compliant with the FCC’s requirements?

All radios sold by www.twowayradiosfor.com are compliant with the FCC rule change.  That said, occasionally a customer may be using 25-kilohertz spacing due to older radios still in use.  www.twowayradiosfor.com will reprogram any radios purchased from us to 12.5-kilohertz spacing free of charge. 

 How accurate is this information?

www.twowayradiosfor.com compiled this document based on information gathered from the following sources:  Federal Communications Commission, Enterprise Wireless Alliance, and Mission Critical Communications Magazine.  We do our best to ensure the accuracy of said information but do not guarantee its accuracy.  To ensure complete accuracy, please consult with an FCC Frequency Coordinator.  Frequency Coordinators can be found on the FCC’s website.  www.twowayradiosfor.com recommends Cara Enterprises for assistance with FCC licenses.  Cara Enterprises can be contacted at 801-278-9728 or by visiting www.caraenterprises.com.

As always, www.twowayradiosfor.com is here to help answer your questions about the new Narrowbanding policy.  Join the thousands of customers who rely on us for your Motorola and Vertex Standard two way radio needs. 

[i] Mission Critical Communications Magazine, Ralph Haller, July 2008 page 12

Motorola has announced the release of a new line of two-way radios: the CLP series. The CLP was created to particularly meet the needs of the retail, restaurant and hospitality industries. Some of its advantages include:

1. It’s simple. A one-button push to talk makes response time faster– ultimately improving customer service and satisfaction.

2. It’s the size of a business card–the smallest and most lightweight two-way radio in its class.

3. It’s comfortable. The CLP offers several wear options and a comfy, unobtrusive earpiece.

4. They look cool. The CLP series’ ergonomic design is especially stylish and sleek to compliment any wardrobe or uniform.

5. More freedom. The Bluetooth technology allows you to move around without entangling wires.

6. Convenience/Versatility. The CLP can be used both indoors and outdoors.

7. No misunderstandings. The CLP’s strong audio performance makes communication effortless.

8. A one-time price. There are no monthly fees and it uses rechargeable batteries.

9. Extended battery life. The CLP’s battery can last for up to 18 hours of service.

10. You can drop it. The CLP is durable and can withstand drops, exposure to liquid spills, dust and wipe downs.

Single and four channel CLP models are expected to be available in the first quarter of 2010, and a Bluetooth model is expected in the second half of 2010.

To view the CLP Product Video, visit http://business.motorola.com/clp/tour/index.html.

Next generation of on-site two-way radios deliver new level of audio quality performance, durability and dependability for demanding business environments

The latest addition to the Motorola portfolio of two-way radios, the RDX Series is designed and built to excel in the most challenging conditions. Motorola’s RDX Series two-way radio has clear, crisp audio quality, enabling essential communication in loud workplace environments. Featuring 2000 milliwatts (mW) of audio output, speaker magnetic field reduction, and wind noise reduction, the RDX Series is 30 percent louder than previous Motorola XTN Series(TM) and AX Series(TM) models.

“The Motorola RDX Series was designed specifically to meet the rigorous demands of business users for whom two-way radios are a critical tool for day- to-day efficiency and overall profitability,” said Steve Young, director of subscriber operations, Motorola Government and Commercial Markets. “Affordable and easy to use, the new radios enable employees to maintain communications in workplace environments, keeping operations on schedule, maximizing job shift productivity.”

Motorola’s customer programming software (CPS) allows users to easily customize their radios with programming functions. The RDX Series also provides new features such as Reverse Burst to eliminate unwanted noise; Radio Reporting to manage cloning and radio profiles; Manager Lock; Power Select; PL/DPL Defeat and two additional Time-Out Timers. The RDX Series includes models such as RDU2020, RDU2080D, RDU4100, RDU4160D, RDV2020, RDV2080D, and RDV5100.

“The RDX Series builds upon the strengths of the Motorola XTN and AX models and delivers the performance customers need to drive their business success, starting with exceptional audio performance down to the durability and dependability our customers expect,” added Young.