Frequently asked questions
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Service
- Our batteries discharge quickly; what can I do about this?
Batteries may become flat quickly due to different reasons. Every NiCad and NiMh battery will be affected by the so-called 'memory effect' at a given moment. This happens when the battery is recharged multiple times. The life span of a battery will be the maximum one when the battery is regularly completely discharged and again goes through the full charging cycle. If this does not take place, the 'memory effect' will occur. Flash can recondition different batteries through a fixed discharging/charging pattern that is prescribed by the supplier. This process takes approximately 24 hours. As a minimum limit for usable batteries we use 70 and/or 80% of the maximum capacity depending on working conditions. More information about the operation of batteries can be found on the website of Battery University. Each battery only has a limited life span and the age of the battery can also simply be the cause of it discharging quickly.
- How should I provide information to Flash about my faulty equipment?
Under Technical Support you can download a repair form that you can send to us with the faulty equipment.
- What is the lead time for repairs?
When you have a service contract, our aim is to repair faulty equipment within 5 working days. A lead time of 5 to 10 working days will apply for repairs that fall outside the scope of a contract.
- Does Flash also come to site?
Yes, Flash will also resolve equipment faults and failures on site. Even when you have not concluded a service contract with us. You can also have a range test performed on location. We can in this way provide better advice with regard to faults and failures or when purchasing new equipment. And make the best possible offer.
Technical
- What area does a radio cover?
The range of a radio will depend on the construction on the terrain or site where the radio is being used. It will, however, be no more than 2 kilometres in an open field.
- Can the area covered by a radio be increased?
Yes, you can do this by setting up a network. This can be a conventional repeater network but also a personal analogue or digital trunking network.
- What is the difference between VHF, UHF and MB?
VHF means Very High Frequency. VHF equipment operates in the 146 - 175 MHz bandwidth. UHF means Ultra High Frequency. UHF equipment operates in the 380 - 470 MHz bandwidth. MB means midband. Midband equipment operates in the 68 - 88 MHz bandwidth. Midband equipment is mainly used in Penitentiary Institutions (prisons). The other equipment is used in different sectors and the choice between VHF and UHF will depend on the distance and the construction.
- Can you ensure that radio equipment does not interfere with equipment at the factory or controlroom?
Yes, you can do this by setting up a base station with an external antenna and sometimes by using a different frequency. You can, for example, start to use UHF equipment if you are currently using VHF equipment. It is, however, the case that interference is not caused because the radio equipment is transmitting with too much power but because somewhat older equipment is used at the factory that has not been screened off during the production process.
- Can you get your own (private) channel on a radio?
No, this is not possible. You can, however, ensure that other users cannot be heard by implementing special programming features (private line/PL/CTCSS). If a network is set up, for example, a trunking network, it is possible and you will automatically use your own channel.
