Kinds of water-resistant walkie-talkie
A walkie talkie is a portable two-way radio that uses radio frequencies to communicate. The water resistant walkie talkie is specifically made for use in wet or extreme weather conditions. It has properties that prevent water from getting inside the walkie talkie and damaging the internal parts. This can be achieved either by using seals or in some cases in in IP67 and IP68 models, pressurizing the device.
According to the level of water resistance, their water resistance is classified in levels:
- Walkie talkies classified under IPX4: This means that the water resistant walkie talkie is resistant to water splashes from rain or a shower from any direction. It is not suitable for immersion, heavy spray, or direct water pressure.
- IPX5 model: This model can withstand water resistance from a five-minute spray of water under conditions of limited pressure and at a specified distance from the walkie-talkie. The water talkie can still work, but the walkie talkie cannot be used underwater.
- IPX6 Water Resistant Walkie-Talkie: It is resistant to powerful water sprays from any direction, but like the IPX4 and IPX5 models, it can only work in one way: it cannot be immersed in water.
- IPX7 Water Resistant Walkie-Talkie: This type can now be immersed in water up to 1 male for up to 30 mins without damage. Many marine grade walkie talkie models are IPX7 rated.
- IPX8 Water Resistant Walkie-Talkie: walkie talkies in this model can be subjected to submersion in water under conditions agreed upon by both the manufacturer and the customer. These conditions must be agreed upon in writing. The walkie talkie can be submerged in water, and generally, the manufacturer specifies how long and how far it can go without it getting damaged.
Functions and features of water-resistant walkie talkies
- Communication: The primary purpose of any walkie-talkie, including water-resistant models, is to enable instant communication over long distances without using a telephone or the internet. This is accomplished by pressing a button to talk (Push to Talk or PTT) and releasing it to listen. Many two-way radios have a side button to engage the speaker so the conversation may be continued without removing it from the mouth.
- Durability: A water-resistant walkie talkie is robust and can withstand drops, impacts, and rough handling. It usually has a rugged, shock-absorbing construction or casing. Reinforced corners, high-impact plastics, rubberized bezels, and toughened glass are common features of durable walkie-talkies. They are built to last and can withstand wear and tear from outdoor and industrial use. Some models may also have a MIL-STD-810G certification, indicating compliance with U.S. military standards for durability and toughness.
- Battery Life: Walkie-talkies have good battery life and can communicate for long periods without frequent recharging. Some models have energy-saving features such as automatic power-off after a certain period of inactivity to extend battery life. Rechargeable batteries or disposable alkaline batteries are typically used, depending on the model.
- Range: This refers to the distance that a signal can travel before it becomes unreadable. The range of a waterproof walkie talkie varies depending on the terrain, weather conditions, and interference. It is usually measured in miles or kilometers and can range from a few hundred meters for short-range models to several tens of kilometers for long-range models.
- Water and Dust Resistance: Besides being able to withstand exposure to water, a waterproof walkie-talkie is designed to keep out dust and prevent damage. It has seals, gaskets, and covers that close off openings when the radio is not in use. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates the level of water and dust resistance of a walkie-talkie, ranging from IPX7 (water-resistant) to IP67 (water and dustproof).
- Explosion Protection: Some water-resistant walkie-talkies are rated Explosion-Proof or Intrinsically Safe (IS). They are designed for use in hazardous or explosive environments and have undergone testing to ensure they won't cause an explosion. These walkie-talkies have certifications such as ATEX and IECEx.
Uses of water resistant walkie talkies
Water-resistant walkie-talkies boast features beyond basic communication. These devices offer convenience and peace of mind. In addition to communication, water-resistant walkie-talkies offer numerous benefits, which include;
- Adventure: Water-resistant walkie-talkies are ideal for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, camping, traveling, and extreme sports. They keep adventurers connected in remote areas or during activities. The device enables users to communicate with others about their location, plans, and emergencies.
- Military Operations: Military operations use water-resistant walkie-talkies for communication in diverse environments and weather conditions. They signal troop movements, coordinate missions, and provide situational awareness. It's an essential gear for effective operations in the field.
- Marine Environment: Masts, sailors, boaters, and offshore workers depend on water-resistant walkie-talkies for communication on the high seas. These devices keep users in touch with crewmates, ship stations, and other vessels. They enhance safety and reduce rescue operations.
- Construction Sites: In construction sites, water-resistant walkie-talkies serve as a communication tool among workers, supervisors, and coordinators. They optimize personnel and project management. Their durability makes them suitable for use in construction sites.
- Emergency Response: Water-resistant walkie-talkies are important for emergency responders. The device facilitates coordination among rescuers. They provide information on critical situations in areas with limited or no cellular service.
- Remote Workforce: Industries with remote workforces, such as oil and gas, mining, and forestry, largely depend on water-resistant walkie-talkies. They provide communication solutions for operators, field technicians, and other personnel. This encourages efficient operations.
- Security: Water-resistant walkie-talkies are used for security patrols, monitoring perimeters, and responding to incidents in various environments. Security personnel depend on these devices for instantaneous communication.
- Construction Sites: In construction sites, water-resistant walkie-talkies serve as a communication tool among workers, supervisors, and coordinators. They optimize personnel and project management. Their durability makes them suitable for use in construction sites.
- Emergency Response: Water-resistant walkie-talkies are important for emergency responders. The device facilitates coordination among rescuers. They provide information on critical situations in areas with limited or no cellular service.
- Remote Workforce: Industries with remote workforces, such as oil and gas, mining, and forestry, largely depend on water-resistant walkie-talkies. They provide communication solutions for operators, field technicians, and other personnel. This encourages efficient operations.
- Security: Water-resistant walkie-talkies are used for security patrols, monitoring perimeters, and responding to incidents in various environments. Security personnel depend on these devices for instantaneous communication.
How to Choose Water Resistant Walkie Talkies
Waterproof walkie talkies are important tools for tactical missions and field operations. Buyers should choose models that are suitable for the intended use. The following guide will help buyers to select appropriate water-resistant talkies.
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Assess the IP Rating
IP rating is one of the first things to consider because it shows the water-resistant level of the walkie talkie. For example, a water resistant walkie talkie with an IPX5 rating can resist water from low-pressure sources. Talkies with IPX7, IPX8 ratings can withstand water damage during full immersion. On the other hand, IP67, IP68-rated talkies offer the highest level of resistance to water and dust damage. These devices can survive underwater to a maximum depth of 3 meters, and they will still function perfectly after that.
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Consider the Design
The talkie’s design will affect its performance in challenging situations. Buyers should go for compact and lightweight models that users can carry around with ease. Consider durable designs with rubber/metal housing. They come with reinforced corners that can resist impact and damage from drops.
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Look at the Controls
Buyers should choose water-resistant models with easy-to-use controls. Such devices will have intuitive control layouts that users can operate without looking at the buttons. This feature is important during emergencies or in dark environments. Also, buyers should look for models with lockable controls. These devices have a control panel that locks to prevent users from accidentally pressing buttons.
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Check the Battery Life
Battery life is an important factor to consider when choosing any walkie-talkie. Users need to replace the batteries or recharge them for long-lasting use. Buyers should choose models with battery-saving features. They come with automatic sleep mode that turns the device off after a long period of inactivity. Buyers should also select walkie-talkies that use AA and AAA alkaline batteries. These batteries are widely available and can power the talkie for long hours. Also, users can use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in walkie-talkies with non-removable batteries.
Water resistant walkie talkie Q&A
Q1: What does the water resistance grade mean?
A1: The water resistance grade indicates the level of protection against water that the walkie-talkie offers. It is determined by IP or PTS ratings. IP ratings are used to indicate the level of protection against water and other particles; for example, an IP67 rating means that the walkie-talkie is protected against water entering up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. PTS ratings, on the other hand, are used to indicate the walkie-talkie’s protection against water damage in terms of jets of water (1-3), rain (4), and submersion (5-7).
Q2: Where can buyers use water resistant walkie talkies?
A2: Water resistant walkie talkies can be used in many indoor and outdoor environments. Some common applications include construction sites, manufacturing plants, outdoor adventures, hiking, military operations, emergency services, marines, and security.
Q3: Can someone charge a water resistant walkie talkie when it’s wet?
A3: No. Even though the walkie talkie is water resistant, the charging port is not. Water or liquid getting into the charging port or battery compartment can damage the walkie talkie. To avoid this, users should only expose the walkie talkie to water when it is safe and dry to do so. Additionally, using a walkie talkie with a wet hand is also dangerous because water can get into the device.
Q4: Are water resistant walkie talkies more expensive?
A4: In some cases, yes. Water resistant walkie talkies can cost more than regular ones due to their specialized parts and features. However, the final cost will depend on various factors, such as the manufacturer, additional features, and model.
Q5: Do water resistant walkie talkies need special maintenance?
A5: Yes. Water resistant walkie talkies will need some special care to make sure they do not get damaged. Users should clean all the parts with mild soap and water after it has been exposed to salt water. Also, make sure to rinse it with fresh water. Avoid using the walkie talkie while it is wet.