Some cool Radios

[classictruckman]

These radio headsets are something else, they would be a great addition to any crane operation:

http://tufftronix.com/productssolutions/tt4x1000solution.html

They are a little different than traditional 2 way radios, instead of a PTT button or VOX system all of the radios are xmitting and receiving all the time so its like a conference call on a telephone.

[Arabhacks]

Hello.

Actually they are full duplex, nothing new there.
You can set up VHF or UHF radios to be full duplex but battery life will suffer.
It takes a bit of programming to do, but a Nextel can be configured for half+full duplex operation, where everyone on channel is in monitor mode but anyone and everyone can transmit at any time, and listen.
Very much like a conference call.
And if you have ever worked a construction site where this is set up, and have 5 or so people on channel, you quickly understand why it does not work very well.
Prior to 2 way radio, the telephone would be used.
20 or 30 stations on a site, everyone calling everyone else, all the while you are trying to operate a crane.
Full duplex.
Common in Mexico right up to the mid 1980's.

[Lashlander]

These radio set ups work terrific in certain situations. We use them all the time when we are working on the water. I'm able to talk to anyone at anytime during barge moves in tight spots. We move our Barges around with Power Skiffs so I can be on deck or in the Crane and control each skiff while both hands are busy. The crew can answer back and not miss a step in what they're doing. The radios we use are manufactured by Eartec. Battery life is around 8-9 hours. It's nice being able to talk over someone if something comes up.

[KevD815]

It's nice being able to talk over someone if something comes up.

Yeah, last time we had two guys key up at the same time on the two ways the operator slammed a truss into the side of a building....