How to Fix Walkie Talkies

As with any piece of electronic/digital equipment damage can happen in several forms and on several levels, from minor trauma to more complex and technical issues. In some cases the fault may be so severe that the handset is actually beyond economical repair. Typically this relates to equipment taking in liquid or where it is an older model where the specific parts are now unavailable.

In most cases replacement parts, such as circuit boards, are available to address the problem once diagnosis has been confirmed.

How They Work

Walkie-talkies are battery-powered transceivers that operate on the same channel allowing for the sending and receiving of radio messages. Handsets are designed to transmit directly to each other over short range distances, usually a few miles and allow small teams to stay in contact at all times.

No network coverage is required and they are designed so that the volume of vocal messages is loud enough for anyone nearby to hear the messages.

How to Use a Walkie-Talkie

Walkie-Talkies are operated by the user pressing a button to speak and releasing the button to hear the other party responding. They allow for swift communication bypassing any need to dial a number or falling victim to the fragility of phone signals. This makes them a popular choice for trekkers and those working in emergency services, often in remote locations where a phone signal is not available.

How to Make a Walkie Talkie

It’s possible to make walkie-talkies from the most simple of items but for a reliable electronic pair of handsets you will need two FM receivers and transmitters that are tuned into each other appropriately. Each pair is then set to their own frequency to allow discreet communication.  The other basic components are a decent microphone to talk into, a speaker to hear the incoming message and an antenna to be able to receive the other handset.

Walkie Talkie Frequencies

There are a near infinite number of available frequencies in which a walkie-talkie may operate. The standard unit used is the Hertz and frequencies are shown as either KiloHertz (Khz) or MegaHertz (MHz)

The individual bands are VHF (Very High Frequency), UHF (Ultra High Frequency) and licence free PRM446.

Walkie Talkie Code Language

To further facilitate rapid communication with clarity various codes are often used. The widely recognised “10” code is one to be familiar with and was popular on older CB networks.

Language used in walkie-talkie communication tries to make statements as recognisable as possible such as saying “Negative” for No and “Roger” for message received etc.

It is not possible to detail all the various codes and terms here as part of this FAQ but any users are advised to get together and decide how they will implement and particular coded language to assist in their communications.

Where to buy

At Twoway-radio.co.uk we have a full range of handsets to choose from. These cover leisure, business and digital radios alongside individual accessories such as earpieces and batteries. Handsets are also available for hire for both short and long term rental.

We are a leading stockist for all major manufacturers and handsets come with full warranties with next day delivery as an option within the United Kingdom.