This document provides an overview of basic troubleshooting techniques for two-way radios. It discusses common issues like power problems, transmission errors, audio quality issues, and reception errors. It provides tips on checking batteries, antenna connections, volume levels, and ensuring the correct frequency and code settings are used. While it does not make the reader an expert repair technician, it offers general guidance that may help identify and address basic user-created errors in the field.

2. • In this module, we
will explore basic
troubleshooting
techniques. Although
some things may
seem elementary, it
is useful to review so
you are more
prepared when you
are in a stressful
situation.

5. This module will not make you a
technical expert on two-way
radio repairs, but it will provide
general tips you may use to
correct user-created errors. We
also will cover basic corrective
actions you can take in the field.
If the suggested action fails to
correct the problem, you at least
have more information to
provide to the technical experts
who will repair the radio for you.
If you are unable to correct the
problem on your own, it’s
important to quickly replace the
radio and get the malfunctioning
unit repaired.

7. Here are some general problem
areas with radios. The only real
difference between portable and
mobile radios is that power
issues on portable radios may
stem from battery problems.
Transmission, audio quality, talk
range and receiving errors are
similar between portable and
mobile radios and will be covered
together through the rest of this
module. Also, remember that not
all agencies in North Dakota use
the same radios. For more
specific troubleshooting tips,
consult the user guide for your
particular model.

9. Like cell phones, portable
radios will provide some
indication that battery power is
running low. An audible tone,
an icon on the display or both
will alert you when it is time to
change the batteries or
recharge your unit. If nothing
suggests a problem with the
power level of the battery,
check to ensure that the
battery is mounted properly
and that the connections on
the battery and radio are in
good condition.

11. If the battery no longer has adequate
power, the speaker on your unit may
continue to function, but you will be
unable to send messages. When your
battery is no longer charged, you may
either replace it or recharge the unit.
Be sure to drain the battery all the
way down before charging. Extremely
cold or hot temperatures will decrease
the battery life and require that you
recharge or replace batteries more
often. Also, the contacts on the radio
or charger may require cleaning.
Moisture or other corrosive elements
may prevent the radio from receiving
the battery’s power. At times,
problems with the charging pin may
lead to battery problems. Make sure
pins are not missing or damaged.

13. Unlike portable radios, mobile
units do not use batteries as a
power source. Most units do not
need to be turned off when the
vehicle is not on because their
power is connected to the vehicle,
like mobile cell phone chargers.
However, some users may turn off
the radio as a habit. If the display is
blank or no audio is heard, first
check to see if the unit is turned
on. If there is still no response,
attempt to see if the connections
to the vehicle are secure and
correct.

15. Trainers: The transmission
indicator light words and photo
automatically fade in on this
slide. At times, you may feel as if
you are talking to yourself. Not
pressing the PTT button obviously
prevents the transmission of your
message to the receiver. If the
PTT is pressed but no one still
seems to be home, verify your
frequency and code settings.
Incorrect settings will not
transmit your signal to its proper
destination. If all else fails, make
sure the transmission indicator is
functioning properly. This may be
shown on the display or as a light
somewhere on the unit when the
PTT is depressed.

17. Due to the very nature of radio
communication being used, audio
problems present a huge challenge. Under
stressful situations, the obvious may
elude you. Make sure the volume is set to
a midrange level. The knob or button may
have been bumped and changed the
volume. When transmitting, those
receiving your signal may not be able to
understand your message if the
microphone is held too close or too far
from your face. Be careful not to “eat” the
microphone. Hold the mic next to your
cheek like a cell phone rather than
directly under your nose. Be sure to hold
the PTT button for 2 seconds before you
speak into the microphone and do not
release the PTT button for 2 seconds after
you have finished speaking. Buildings,
heavy foliage, steel or cement structures,
and the like also may cause a decrease in
audio quality. Find an open area that will
not disrupt the signal.

19. Those same physical
obstacles also will
reduce the range of the
radio signal. Changing
location may correct
this problem.

21. The range also may be
limited if the unit is held
too close to the body.
Holding the unit 2 inches
from the side of the mouth
may eliminate this
problem. At times, the
antenna may come loose
or be attached incorrectly.
Securing the antenna
properly will allow the
antenna to function at its
full capacity. The antenna
should be placed vertically
for optimal range.

23. Not receiving the
message is different
than transmission
problems, although the
causes may be the
same. Remember that
radios work differently
in different places,
depending upon
topography, building
structure and other
issues, for both
transmitting and
receiving.

25. As first responders, your first
priority is to serve your
community. A functioning two-
way radio is critical to your
effectiveness in fulfilling that
duty. When communication
with others is compromised, it
is important that you have the
knowledge to apply “first aid”
to your radio unit. This module
has provided you with general
information that will assist you
in troubleshooting and
correcting basic radio errors.
For more information on your
particular unit, consult your
product manual.