WAVE PTX provides an optional broadband connection to the RNRC communications environment, allowing compatible smartphones and broadband devices to communicate using an internet connection.
WAVE PTX is Motorola Solutions' broadband push-to-talk platform. RNRC can use it as an optional extension of the radio network for members who need communications beyond conventional radio coverage.
Instead of reaching RNRC through a VHF repeater, a WAVE PTX user communicates through an available broadband internet connection.
Depending on the device, that connection may come from cellular data, Wi-Fi, or another compatible internet connection.
A standard RNRC subscriber radio does not need cellular service, Wi-Fi, or an internet connection to communicate through the RNRC VHF repeater network.
WAVE PTX is an additional service for members who want broadband access in addition to their normal radio communications.
RNRC's VHF radio network and WAVE PTX provide two different ways of reaching the communications system.
Traditional radio access
A subscriber radio communicates directly by radio frequency with an RNRC repeater site.
Optional broadband access
A compatible WAVE PTX device communicates using broadband connectivity instead of directly reaching an RNRC repeater by RF.
WAVE PTX provides another path into the communications environment. That allows broadband-connected users and radio users to communicate across different types of devices.
Broadband access is particularly useful when some members of an organization need to remain connected without being physically located inside the radio network's coverage area.
Staff working away from the field can stay connected with radio-equipped personnel using a compatible broadband device.
A broadband-equipped vehicle can maintain push-to-talk communications where compatible cellular or other broadband service is available.
Personnel who do not need to carry a dedicated radio at all times can use a compatible smartphone with WAVE PTX.
Authorized users may remain connected even when traveling well outside the geographic footprint of the RNRC radio network, provided compatible broadband service is available.
Field crews can continue using traditional radios while other personnel use broadband-connected devices appropriate for their location and role.
Locations with suitable internet connectivity can potentially provide another way for authorized personnel to access communications without being within direct VHF coverage.
RNRC can support different broadband device types depending on the member's operational needs and approved configuration.
The TLK 150 provides a familiar mobile-radio-style push-to-talk device while communicating through broadband rather than directly through a VHF repeater.
Compatible smartphones can use the WAVE PTX application to provide authorized users with push-to-talk access through their broadband connection.
RNRC is fundamentally a radio communications network. WAVE PTX adds flexibility, but broadband communications depend on infrastructure outside the user's radio.
Communicates directly with an RNRC repeater when the subscriber is within usable RF coverage.
Depends on compatible broadband connectivity between the user and the WAVE PTX service.
Members can use traditional radios for field operations while adding broadband access where it provides operational value.
A WAVE PTX device needs compatible broadband connectivity to reach the service. If that connection is unavailable, broadband push-to-talk service may also be unavailable.
This is one reason WAVE PTX should be viewed as an extension of the RNRC radio system rather than a replacement for traditional radio communications.
A standard RNRC VHF subscriber radio does not depend on the user's cellular carrier, smartphone data plan, or local Wi-Fi connection to reach an RNRC repeater.
If the radio can reach an operational RNRC site by RF, it can use the radio network without the subscriber having an internet connection.
Members who need broadband access can work with RNRC to determine which devices and services make sense for their operation.
Determine which personnel or vehicles need communications beyond normal RNRC radio coverage.
Select an appropriate supported option, such as a compatible smartphone application or broadband vehicle device.
RNRC establishes the appropriate account and communications access for the authorized user or device.
The authorized user can access communications wherever compatible broadband service is available.
Not necessarily. Many RNRC members may never need broadband push-to-talk.
If your personnel operate primarily within the RNRC radio coverage area and conventional VHF radios meet your needs, standard radio access may be all you need.
RNRC can help determine whether WAVE PTX, a TLK 150, smartphone access, or traditional VHF radio is the right fit for each part of your operation.