"How can a transceiver be smart?" - is the question you might ask when reading the title, because the most you can do with an average transceiver is voice communication.
The TLK25 Wi-Fi business transceiver belongs to the Motorola Wave series, so it also incorporates some smart features into a device that resembles the Motorola CLP model. The TLK25 is already part of the modern POC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) group, meaning network-based (internet-based) transceivers. It is recommended for users who are looking for an easy-to-use handheld transceiver but want to take advantage of the unlimited range provided by internet technology, which the analog Motorola CLP transceiver cannot offer.
Exterior & design
Its exterior appearance can be described as stylish, as it can be worn with confidence in a work environment that requires casual or elegant dressing. There's no display, just a few discreet hidden LED strips to indicate important functions, whether it's battery charge level or volume.
The design doesn't compromise on durability, as the device has an IP67 rating, so it's dust and water resistant even in industrial environment. The main element of the casing is the front panel, which is also the PTT button responsible for starting transmission. It's extremely convenient to start transmitting wherever you wear the transmitter, just press the front panel and you're ready to talk. Even without looking at the device, it's easy to find this huge button.
The Motorola Wave TLK25 Wi-Fi business transceiver does not have its own microphone or speaker, so it can only be used with the factory headsets or Bluetooth audio earsets. Of course, there are several audio accessories in Motorola's portfolio.
Smart features
After connecting the headset, the voice menu function is immediately activated, and it doesn't just simply read out the names of the menu items. The Motorola Wave TLK25's intuitive smart speech feature can recognise verbal commands (speech recognition) such as volume changes, channel changes and retrieve the status of various functions, so you don't have to touch the headset to change settings.
The unique capabilities don't end here, as the device is also equipped with a VOX function for hands-free use. Additionally, it features noise cancellation that specifically focuses on human speech. So even machine noise or strong wind noise won't unintentionally trigger the Motorola Wave TLK25 Wi-Fi business transceiver's PTT function while using VOX. These features can be a huge help for workers who need both hands while performing their tasks.
Licences, programming
The basic transceiver functions can be extended by purchasing a separate licence. There are 2 different licences available for the TLK25:
- Motorola WAVE PTX basic license for TLK25 transceivers
- Motorola WAVE Safeguard license for TLK25 transceivers
Without this license the transceiver is inoperable, by purchasing and activating this license the TLK25 can connect to Wave servers operated by Motorola. The Safeguard option offers several security and convenient features for TLK25 radios.
For example, Man Down and Lone Worker are additional features within the Safeguard license that can be easily activated on the transceiver through the Wave system's administration interface.
Speaking of licences, let's talk a little about programming. As with any Wave transceiver or application POC terminal, you can change the settings remotely at any time. With the Motorola Wave TLK25 device, the administrator can conveniently personalize the desired talk groups and all other necessary functions for the job via the web interface, providing support to the user. This remote manager system can greatly reduce the time needed to configure a large transceiver fleet.
The TLK25 Wi-Fi business transceiver is a POC device, but it can only use Wi-Fi connection for data communication, you can't put a SIM card in it like most POC transceivers, but it can easily be used on a well-established corporate wireless internet network. Its Wi-Fi connection can use 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
Advantages that make it stand out in the transceiver market:
- Wide coverage: it uses the Wi-Fi network, so it is not limited to the coverage of traditional radio stations. This allows cross-border or remote communication in virtually any area.
- Instant communication: the Push-to-Talk (PTT) feature provides a fast, instant connection, making it particularly useful in urgent or time-sensitive situations.
- Easy to use: no need for a dedicated infrastructure: no radio towers or base stations are required because it uses existing Wi-Fi networks, reducing maintenance costs.
- Excellent sound quality: provides clear, intelligible sound in noisy environments, even when the network is busy.
- Flexibility: can be integrated with multiple devices, such as computers or smartphones, so it can be used as part of an existing corporate communications system.
- Security: the TLK25 provides data protection and encrypted communication, making it ideal for workplaces where security is a priority.
- Long battery life: thanks to its long battery life, the device reliably operates all day without the need for frequent recharging.
- Lightweight, portable design: compact and durable, it is comfortable to carry and can withstand the rigours of everyday use.
Key features:
- Ultra-modern design with a sleek, lightweight, compact shape
- Ultra-lightweight
- Compatibility with WAVE PTX systems
- Dual LED status display
- Dedicated emergency button
- Lone worker and mandown alarm (requires Wave Safeguard license)
- IP67 dust and water resistance rating
- Built-in Bluetooth 5.0 LE
- No external microphone/speaker, voice communication only through the earpiece
- Built-in battery with long battery life
- Lockable PTT button (function requires Wave Safeguard license)
- Remote configuration software: software for managing the TLK 25, accessible via PC, smartphone and tablet. Access from any internet connection, set up and manage accounts, add and remove users, manage talk groups, drag and drop users to talk groups
- The Motorola WAVE TLK25 transceiver can only be used with the purchase of the annual Wave license fee.
All in all, we can say that a niche small size POC transceiver has been added to the Wave transceiver range. The TLK25 combines the simplicity of a traditional transceiver with the benefits of modern Wi-Fi networks, making it suitable for use over a wide area, even across national borders. The use of Wi-Fi networks means that no additional infrastructure (such as a radio tower) is required, so coverage is virtually nationwide.
The TLK25 offers a simple, user-friendly design, making it easy to use for those who are not familiar with technology. It can also be used with any smartphone-controlled app, making it easy to integrate into existing communication systems. It provides excellent voice quality and a stable connection, even on crowded networks, as well as encrypted communication, which is particularly important in security or critical situations. So we can now not only serve the larger, industrial transceiver market with Wave transceivers, but also offer a suitable alternative for small and elegant areas - with unlimited range.