If you have heard about P25 radios, you have probably heard about the two different systems; conventional P25 radios and trunked P25 radios. There is a misconception that these two systems of P25 radios are quite different when it comes to their functionality. However, they are actually quite alike. Knowing the difference between conventional and trunked P25 radios will help you decide which type is best for you.
With radio channels that are specifically selected by the user, conventional P25 radios offer instantaneous channel access. There is no switching needed for conventional P25 radios which are best suited for a smaller group of users.
Trunked P25 radios differ from conventional P25 radios in that the radio channels are assigned to the user automatically. Rather than instantaneous channel access, the channel access for trunked P25 radios depend greatly on the technology they utilize. Core switching is essential for the operation of these radios which are better used by large groups numbering around 300 or more.
While there are key differences between these two P25 radio systems, there are even more similarities. Some of the key similarities between these two systems include the fact that they both utilize native digital control signaling and that they have the ability to support analog and digital consoles. And like all P25 radios, they both have the main advantage of offering interoperability to users which is paramount for the public safety personnel that use these radios to communicate while protecting citizens.
After deciding whether or not to switch to P25 radios, the decision must be made about which system to use; conventional or trunked. Depending on the number of users that will be utilizing these tools and other factors, one of these systems will stand out as the one for you to use. RELM Wireless is a proud supplier of P25 radios that provide the interoperability needed allowing public safety personnel to protect their communities.