Category: Uncategorized

  • A New Era of School Safety: The Power of Panic Buttons and Integrated Security

    Written by Peter Ollodart, President, Puget Sound InstrumentJune 20, 2025 School safety is not just a priority—it’s a mission. At Puget Sound Instrument (PSI), we’ve redefined how school districts approach emergency response with a simple yet robust solution: non-verbal emergency alerts via panic buttons integrated with cutting-edge Motorola and Avigilon technologies. Instant Alerts, Immediate Action […]

  • Why Low-Band TPL Systèmes: A Leading Manufacturer of Low Band Infrastructure for the US Market

    Low band radios offer unmatched range and coverage. Discover how PSI provides hard-to-source TPL Systèmes low band products for public safety, utilities, and remote industries.

  • What is ”noise floor” and how does it effect LMR system performance?

    In Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems, the noise floor is the level of background radio frequency (RF) noise present in the environment without any intentional transmission. It’s the baseline level of interference that a receiver must overcome to detect and process a signal. LMR-Specific Definition of Noise Floor:   How Noise Floor Affects System Performance: […]

  • What is SNR (signal to noise ratio) and how does it affect a radio call?

    SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) is a measure of signal quality. It compares the level of the desired signal (your voice or data) to the level of background noise in the system. Definition: SNR = Signal Power / Noise Power It’s typically expressed in decibels (dB): How SNR Affects Radio Calls: 1.  Voice Clarity 2.  Digital Radios […]

  • What is VSWR and why is it important for land mobile radio systems?

    VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) is a measurement that reflects how efficiently radio frequency (RF) power is transmitted from a power source (like a transmitter) through a transmission line (like coaxial cable) into a load (like an antenna). In simpler terms: VSWR indicates how well the antenna system is matched to the transmitter. A mismatch […]

  • FCC for Beginners

    FCC Licensing for Part 90 Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Systems The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates and licenses use of the radio spectrum in the United States, including Land Mobile Radio (LMR) services. This guide explains how Part 90 Private Land Mobile Radio Services licensing works—from frequency coordination through renewal—and outlines best-practice steps Puget Sound Instrument […]

  • What Happens When You Hit the Panic Button on a Trunked Radio System?

    In mission-critical communications, every second counts—and that’s where the panic button (also known as the emergency button) on your radio becomes a lifesaver. But what really happens under the hood when a user presses it on a trunked system? Let’s demystify how this feature works from a system configuration and operational standpoint. Emergency Transmit: The […]

  • Understanding MOTOTRBO: Deploying Professional-Grade Radio Systems with Linked Capacity Plus

    Introduction to MOTOTRBO MOTOTRBO is the professional-grade digital radio line from Motorola Solutions—not to be confused with Motorola Mobility, the consumer cell phone division sold to Lenovo (a Chinese company) over a decade ago. Motorola Solutions retained the company’s original mission, focusing on critical communications infrastructure such as two-way radio systems for public safety, education, […]

  • Solving for Safe: A New Era of Integrated Security

    Solving for Safe: A New Era of Integrated Security In today’s increasingly interconnected world, safety isn’t just a goal—it’s a dynamic, evolving necessity. With rising threats both physical and digital, organizations are shifting from reactive to proactive approaches in securing people, assets, and information. “Solving for Safe” is not just a tagline; it’s a comprehensive […]

  • Understanding MOTOTRBO: Deploying Professional-Grade Radio Systems with Linked Capacity Plus

    MOTOTRBO is the professional-grade digital radio line from Motorola Solutions—not to be confused with Motorola Mobility, the consumer cell phone division sold to Lenovo (a Chinese company) over a decade ago. Motorola Solutions retained the company’s original mission, focusing on critical communications infrastructure such as two-way radio systems for public safety, education, utilities, and enterprise. […]