A two-way radio allows instant voice communication between users without relying on cellular service. This makes it ideal for teams that need fast, reliable coordination in real time.

Press the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button to transmit your voice and release it to listen. Radios communicate over dedicated frequencies, making them independent of cellular networks.

Use radios when you need:

• Instant communication
• Group coordination
• Reliability without cell coverage
• Durable equipment

Radios are especially useful in environments where delays or dropped calls are not acceptable.

Follow the user guide and instructions for your specific radio, but generally getting started can be as simple as the following.

1. Charge the radio
2. Power it on
3. Set volume
4. Select a channel
5. Test communication

For radios that require programming, Astra can configure them for you. Contact us for support and details.

No—two-way radios are designed to be simple and intuitive. With minimal training, most users become comfortable using radios within minutes.

Consider the following factors:

• Environment (land vs water, obstructions, industry, etc)
• Coverage needs
• Durability requirements
• Portability
• Safety features
• Budget

Contact us to help guide you through this process to ensure the best fit for your team. You can also use our Product Finder and Radio Comparison tools for guidance.

Yes – identify your industry and visit that industry page on our website for recommended radios and other safety, security, and communications products for that industry.

Astra primarily offers land-mobile radios from Motorola Solutions. These radios are designed for durability, reliability, and clear communication in demanding business and industrial environments.

Astra also offers marine radios from Standard Horizon. A marine radio is designed for communication on the water using marine-specific channels. It allows communication between recreational and commercial boats, marinas, and emergency services.

Communication range depends on the radio model, terrain, buildings, equipment, and other factors and obstructions. However, it is reasonable to expect thousands of square feet in coverage using the right radio for your environment. Additionally, coverage can be expanded using repeaters and extenders where applicable.

A channel is a shared communication line that allows multiple users to talk to each other. All users must be on the same channel to communicate effectively.

UHF (Ultra High Frequency) and VHF (Very High Frequency) refer to two different radio frequency bands that affect how your radio signal travels. Choosing the right frequency ensures better signal performance in your environment.

• UHF: Best for indoor use or dense environments
• VHF: Best for open outdoor areas with fewer obstructions

Analog and Digital refer to how your radio transmits voice signals. Both provide reliable two-way communication, but they differ in performance and capabilities.

Analog radios are simple, cost-effective, and ideal for basic communication or compatibility with existing equipment, though audio quality can decline with distance.

Digital radios offer clearer sound, better range performance, and advanced features like GPS and messaging, making them a better choice for larger or growing operations.

Different two-way radios will work together only if they match frequency, channel, and technology type. Mixing incompatible radios may limit or prevent communication. Astra can provide guidance on which radios are compatible.

Yes—many, not all, radios include safety features such as emergency alerts, lone worker features, and priority channels. These features help improve worker safety and response times in the event of an emergency. Astra can provide guidance on which radios are best for your needs. Contact us for support and details.

Astra offers relevant accessories for the technology within our product line up. Accessories may include, but not limited to:

• Batteries and chargers
• Earpieces and headsets
• Speaker microphones
• Mounts and cases
• Antennas and more

Many of our products come with the appropriate accessories included in the box to get started. Most users benefit from spare batteries, chargers, and audio accessories. The right accessories depend on your work environment and communication style. You can find key accessories on each of the product detail pages. If an accessory is not listed on our website, contact us.

Repeaters and extenders enhance two-way radio coverage by receiving and retransmitting signals, allowing communication across larger areas or difficult terrain.

Consider a repeater or extender when you have large areas, multi-story buildings, or signal dead zones. Repeaters and extenders may be able to provide consistent communication across an entire operation. Keep in mind that not all two-way radios are repeater compatible. Astra can provide guidance on how to extend radio coverage when applicable. Contact us for support and details.

Call buttons, body cameras, and HALO Smart Sensors. These tools help detect and respond to incidents quickly, operate more efficiently, and in some cases, provide visibility, accountability, and documentation.

Astra can provide guidance or program radios for you before or after your purchase. Contact us for support and details.

Software and firmware updates improve performance, fix issues, and add features. Keeping applicable radios updated ensures reliability, compatibility, and functionality.

You can access software updates through an authorized reseller or on our “Software” page. Support is available to ensure updates are done correctly.

Keep them clean, charged, and regularly inspected. Routine maintenance helps extend lifespan and performance.

On Astra’s product pages. These may include user guides, spec sheets, and brochures. Additional tools can be found on our Resources page.

Authorized resellers can order from Astra through our Reseller Portal.

We offer a full range of freight and shipping services designed to support your business with speed, flexibility, and reliability.

Drop Ship – Direct-to-customer shipping

Blind Ship – Neutral packaging to keep your brand front and center

Expedited Shipping – Faster delivery for urgent orders

LTL Freight – Cost-effective shipping for mid- to large-sized orders

Will Call – Local order pickup at our Burbank, California and Carrollton, Texas offices for speed and convenience

Astra’s customers are authorized resellers who serve end users across a wide range of industries — including construction, industrial, energy, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and healthcare.

Contact us to inquire about becoming an Authorized Reseller for Astra Communications.

Yes—Astra offers product demonstrations, which can help you evaluate product performance before purchasing. Contact us for support and details.

Visit Astra’s Resources on our website.

Visit Astra’s News on our website.

Contact us for support or questions.

• Email: sales@astracomm.com
• Phone: 800-422-7133 (California)
• Phone: 877-301-3211 (Texas)