Tuesday, 31 January 2017

The arrival of 5G, cognitive radio and the future of connectivity

We are very excited about 5G, we have already reported on how the UK emergency services are moving over to a LTE network, and inevitably 5G is the next step for better, faster and more capable communications. Â Not planned to be deployed until the next decade, we believe that 5G will allow us to communicate better with our Walkie talkies. The original article can be found here.

With faster and more reliable connections, we look at what the next generation of communications could mean for business

From smart cities to the internet of things (IoT), virtually every aspect of the modern world is becoming closely connected.

The extent to which we rely on our devices and the exchange of information means new systems are needed that not only handle far greater bandwidth, but that are capable of being deployed to cover areas that were previously unreachable.

The potential benefits for business are huge, with faster and more reliable connectivity not only enhancing how firms interact with customers and each other, but also lending itself to greater flexible working among staff.

The arrival of 5G

One development that many industry observers believe could be revolutionary is 5G. Following on from 4G, the fifth-generation mobile network is in its early stages of development and is expected to be rolled out between 2020â€"25.

Any tech that contributes towards the next phase of mobile connectivity is covered by the term 5G. And although there are still no set standards or specifications, theÂ GSMAÂ â€" a trade body that represents global mobile operators â€" has outlined eight key criteria, stipulating minimum requirements for speed, capacity and energy in order for something to be considered 5G.

According to Ofcom, once operational 5G could provide between 10â€"50 Gbps (gigabit per seconds) in download speeds (as compared to the 5â€"12 Gbps of 4G), and although most experts expect it to be at the lower end of the range, that would still mean you could download an HD movie in seconds.

But rather than simply being faster than the current 4G, it will also allow more devices to access the web â€" an essential requirement if the IoT is to take off â€" meaning it could be transformative for business.

Raj Sivalingam, executive director of telecoms forÂ techUK, the trade association for the tech sector, says: â€œThe potential of the IoT, particularly in the enterprise environment, has been hugely debated but its impact is almost certainly still undervalued.

â€œMass deployment across sectors will boost efficiency and safety with pre-emptive fault correction; enable automatic reporting of accidents and allow real-time asset tracking, reducing crime and increasing productivity, to name just a few benefits.â€

One potential bottleneck for 5G is spectrum availability â€" or lack of it. Radio frequencies for both 3G and 4G are already overcrowded. The provision of a new bandwidth will require widespread cooperation between operators, manufacturers and governments.

Infrastructure is also an issue, says Sivalingam. â€œMaking the leap to 5G mobile services and getting more fibre into the fixed telecommunications networks will require substantial amounts of investment.

â€œWe need the government and industry stakeholders to work to shift the UK from good levels of connectivity to great levels so that we continue to attract investors and startups, and to foster innovation from within the UK.â€

Cognitive radio

One possible solution is cognitive radio. An adaptive radio and network technology, it can sense and respond to its operating environment and automatically tune itself to the best available frequencies, this makes it more reliable in extreme locations where signals are weak, potentially providing dependable, robust connections that are not hampered by interference or geography.

Finland-based KNL Networks has developed a system using the technology that uses short wave radio to transmit internet access to sites in remote locations ranging from oil rigs to polar research stations. KNL Networks CEO Toni Linden says: â€œWe can provide similar connectivity to those from satellites but with a terrestrial radio system. Our radios receive the whole spectrum all the time, so rather than scanning, real-time broadband receiving is going on. Thus we can see and measure everything thatâ€™s going on in the spectrum and we can maintain the network connectivity that way.â€

The tech opens up the possibility of providing seamless connectivity anywhere, giving business reliable online access to markets in parts of the world that have otherwise been unreachable. It could also enable media and other companies to broadcast without the need for expensive satellites.

Quantum key distribution

Itâ€™s not just data transmission, speeds and connectivity that pose challenges in the future, but the safety of that data too. Cybercrime is ranked alongside terrorism as among theÂ most serious threats to the UKÂ [pdf], and with data now the lifeblood of modern business, securing that data is of paramount concern. One technology that could provide the answer is quantum communications.

Conventional encryption relies on sending a decryption key alongside your secret data. The receiver then uses that key to decode your secret information. But problems arise because hackers can also copy this key and steal your data.

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is different because it encodes this key on light particles called photons, and an underlying principle of quantum mechanics means that a hacker trying to read or copy such a key would automatically alter its state, effectively leaving a hacker fingerprint so the sender and receiver know their information security had been breached.

China recently launched a quantum satellite to further research into this technology, with the hope of developing anÂ uncrackable communications network.

In the UK, the Quantum Communications Hub is part of a national network of four hubs led by the universities of Birmingham, Glasgow, Oxford and York. Director Tim Spiller says: â€œWe are developing quantum communications technologies along a number of different directions, notably short-range free space QKD, where the transmitter could be in future mobile phones, and chip-to-chip QKD through optical fibre, where the chips could be in future computers and other devices.â€

WithÂ two thirds of British business falling victim to cybercrimeÂ in the past year the need for better encryption is clear.

Several companies currently offer commercial quantum key distribution systems include ID Quantique, MagiQ Technologies, QuintessenceLabs, SeQureNet and Toshiba, although its high cost and limited range means mainly banks and governments are its main users, with mainstream adoption still some way off.

Spiller added: â€œCertainly it would be desirable to improve the size, weight, power and cost points of current technologies and our work in the hub and elsewhere is addressing all these factors.â€

Paul Lee, head of technology, media, and telecommunications research at Deloitte, highlighted a number of improvements which he expected to see coming down the line, including improved mobile antennae and base stations, as well as improvements to fixed networks such asÂ G.fastÂ that would enable copper cable to operate at much higher speeds.

â€œAs they get steadily faster, new services emerge to exploit these greater speeds, which then requires the deployment of even faster networks. This tail chasing has been going on for decades and wonâ€™t stop in 2017.â€

How Headsets Changed The Planet


How headphones have changed over time

Early headphones were mainly used for communication purposes. The birth of headphones in early 19th century was purely for communication and professional uses. It is strange how the creator of headphones Nathaniel Baldwin didnâ€™t have the musical concept in mind. The uses of headphones at this time were purely for professional uses by people in the army and also church coordination.




Benefits of headphones in the modern world





Who uses headphones?




You can find a whole ton of two way radio headsets at this amazing store headsetonline.co.uk

Thursday, 19 January 2017

Motorola Solutionsâ€™ digital two-way radio technology enhances mission-critical communications at Munich airport



The newly modernized communications infrastructure ensures greater connectivity, interoperability and collaboration between various business and operational functions at Germanyâ€™s second largest airport. Motorola Solutions will also provide services for ensuring smooth operations.


Alongside the improvements to the TETRA system, the airport has started a pilot project for the potential introduction of Motorola Solutionsâ€™ broadband push-to-talk (PTT) platform WAVE. The goal of the installation is to ensure that airport staff can communicate, no matter which device or infrastructure is being used. The powerful PTT solution WAVEâ„¢ Work Group Communications provides airport authorities with secure and reliable communications beyond TETRA radio â€" including broadband devices and networks â€" to enable greater workforce connectivity, interoperability and collaboration. WAVE connects the TETRA system used by administrative staff with service management employees who join the broadband platform via smartphones, computers, other radios or telephones, meaning that staff across the airport can communicate with one another from virtually any location.

â€œWe have been working with Motorola Solutionsâ€™ TETRA two-way digital radio system since 2007,â€ said Michael Zaddach, head of the IT service division at Flughafen MÃ¼nchen GmbH. â€œThe update of our TETRA infrastructure enables us to further improve our communications in airport operations and make our processes even more efficient.â€

â€œWe are collaborating closely with Munich Airport to provide a future-proof TETRA digital two-way radio network,â€ said Klaus-Dieter Drossel, sales director for key accounts, Motorola Solutions Germany GmbH. â€œWe are also pleased that Munich Airport is testing our broadband push-to-talk platform WAVE, and we are certain that it will enable airport staff to work together more closely, no matter which device or network they use.â€

Wednesday, 4 January 2017

Tamron 17-50Mm F/2.8 Vc Review - Sharp, Light And Inexpensive Professional Lens

Many people are too concerned with the main PA and put the monitors as secondary in importance. Depending on the music and the budget the monitor system can be quite extensive. Most major concert artists use in-ear monitoring systems now days. A solo artist or a duo can often get by with a single monitor mix. Bands do also get by with a single mix, but it requires experience and co-operation.


This condition can also be contributed to working midnight shift, travelers jet lag, pilot language translator such as weeks of cloudy and rainy days. People who suffer from SAD have trouble remembering things, fatigue, sleep disturbances along with a severe lack of concentration and mental fogginess.

This is a pretty simple concept to understand. The older you get, the typically worse your hearing becomes. Hearing loss occurs over time so that is why you typically see older people with hearing difficulties. As we age, so do our ears. Taking care of your ears throughout your life can help you avoid more drastic hearing loss as you grow older.

These headphones are also called as DJ headphones. It offers a great listening experience for the users. The one big major point which makes them one of the top four over the verging on extreme conditions crossword is the comfort. Even though you use it for a longer amount of time you can assure that you would still feel comfortable even after continued using. They are very economical too and a protective pouch is also included in the package.

If your dad is into gadgets, then there are a lot of options ear plugs boots unique Fathers Day gifts. A USB beverage chiller or warmer is a great gift for dads stuck behind a desk all day. He can keep his coffee hot or his soda cold with these nifty gadgets.

Mastering French offers you a chance to begin a new job or further build up your job just by working abroad. Additionally, you will enhance your trips in the French speaking nations. Learning another language will be a rewarding achievement. It is easy to learn French online right now by going to Rocket French.

Tuesday, 3 January 2017

How To Look After Your 2 Way Radio

Buying two way radio equipment is a very beneficial investment, but in order for you to get the most out of your money you should ensure that the equipment is well cared for. If you use and maintain your 2 way radios with proper care, they will function at their optimum capacity and you can expect them to last for many years. While no two way radio can last forever, there are some simple practices which can help extend the life expectancy of your two way radios and ensure they function at their very best. In this article, we are going to take a look at some of the top care tips for your 2 way radios;


You should always store your radio(s) correctly so as to keep it in a tip top condition. The ideal environment for storing your radio involves a cool and dry (ideally at room temperature, which should be about 72 degrees Fahrenheit) with limited exposure to the extreme weather conditions like excessive cold or heat, and such other elements of water and sunlight. Excessive temperatures can easily damage the batteries; the moisture may end up corroding the batteries. Also, when storing your two way radio, you should make sure that it's turned off and batteries are removed.

Charging Your 2 way Radio

First of all, you should know that two way radios are usually slightly different , so you need to familiarize yourself with the specific charging instructions of your radio. That being so, it is important to note that nearly all of the manufacturers will advise that you to turn off your radio while itâ€™s charging. If you do not, your radio will be drawing current and also charging at the same time, and this can end up shortening the lifespan of the battery.

Overcharging your radio batteries can also cause numerous problems and will have a negative impact on its' overall battery life, so you should make sure that when it's charged fully you unplug its' charger; do not leave it charging all through the night if its' likely to remain fully charged for a long period of time while its' still being charged. When you buy new batteries its' the only time you can leave the radio charging overnight before you start using them for the 1st time; it'll help you get the maximum battery capacity.

Day to Day Use

Every 2 way radios user should be very mindful of their daily use. Although there are some 2 way radios which are designed to be quite robust, like the explosion proof and waterproof radios, they should still be treated with great care, always. Even if you have a waterproof or explosion proof radio, do not subject it to extreme temperatures.

You should also avoid grabbing your two way radio by its' antenna, as this will eventually have a negative impact on your radio's reception and transmission quality. In addition, you should also avoid drops so as to maximize the long term functionality of your radio; consider using 2 way radio belt clips so as to reduce the chances of your radio getting dropped and subsequently getting damaged. Protecting the exterior of your radio helps protect its' interior, thus minimizing the repairs and the replacing of the equipment.

Another important tip to note when it comes to the day to day use of 2 way radios, is you should never expose your radio to any solvents (unless it has been designed to be used in the harsh conditions); this includes any cleaning fluids and alcohol. Also, try and stick with the accessories which are designed specifically for your particular type of radio; this is especially important when it comes to your radio battery, charger and adapter. Using an incompatible accessory can end up shortening your radio's lifespan and can even destroy it.

Cleaning Your two way Radio

You should regularly clean your radio to keep it in good working condition. The most effective and efficient way of cleaning your 2 way radio also happens to be one of the easiest ways as well; strong chemicals or intensive cleaning isnâ€™t necessary. The only supplies you'll need include some water and a microfiber cloth. The microfiber cloth will effectively wipe away the smudges and dirt without causing any damage to your radio. As for the more stubborn marks and stains, you can use a damp cloth and then wipe until the radio is clean. Remember, never immerse your 2 way radio in water to clean it.


2 way radios are among the most versatile and toughest communication solutions, often lasting for many years before needing any repairs or replacement. However, in order to extend the lifespan of your 2 way radio even further, it is best to employ the above tips for 2 way radio care to fully secure your investment. Protecting your two way radio will not only increase its' longevity, but it also ensures that you will always have reliable communications. Well, as you can see above, taking care of two way radio is relatively easy, and the amount of maintenance required is minimal. A simple cleaning now and then, proper handling, maintenance and storage is all you need in order to extend the lifespan of your 2 way radio and keep it in a great working condition.