Ofcom Business Radio Licence
An OfcomOfcom (Office of Communications) is the UK's communications regulator. For two-way radio users, Ofcom manages and regulates access to radio spectrum and the use of radio frequencies in the UK. Business Radio LicenceA Business Radio Licence is an Ofcom authorisation allowing professional two-way radios to use specified frequencies and operating conditions for business communications in the UK. is an authorisation issued by Ofcom that allows businesses and organisations in the UK to use specified radio frequencies for professional two-way radio communication.
Business radioBusiness Radio refers to professional two-way radio systems used by businesses and organisations for instant communication, often using licensed frequencies and equipment designed for commercial use. licences are used for systems such as handheld radios, mobile radios, base stations and repeaters. The type of licence required depends on the area of operation, frequencies needed and the type of radio systemA Radio System is a complete communication solution comprising two-way radios and, where required, equipment such as repeaters, antennas, base stations, mobile radios and network infrastructure. being used.
What is an Ofcom Business Radio Licence?
An Ofcom Business Radio Licence gives an organisation permission to operate radio equipment under defined conditions.
The licence can specify requirements such as:
- Frequencies
- Locations
- Transmitter powerAn antenna transmits and receives radio-frequency signals, allowing a two-way radio to communicate. Antenna type, frequency, height and location can all affect radio performance and coverage.
- ChannelA two-way radio channel is a programmed set of communication settings, typically including frequency and signalling, that allows compatible radios to communicate with one another. bandwidth
- Number and type of base stations
- Operating conditions
The radio equipment must be operated in accordance with the conditions of the relevant licence.
Who needs an Ofcom Business Radio Licence?
Businesses and organisations may require a business radio licence when they want to operate professional two-way radios using licensed radioA Licensed Radio is a two-way radio operated under an appropriate radio licence. Licensed systems can provide greater control over frequencies, coverage and infrastructure than licence-free radio services such as PMR446. frequencies.
Typical users include:
- Construction companies
- Security companies
- Transport operators
- Warehouses
- Hotels
- Farms
- Manufacturing businesses
- Utilities
- Facilities-management companies
- Event organisers
Whether a licence is required depends on the radio service and equipment being used.
Business radio licence vs licence-free radio
Not all two-way radios require an individual licence.
PMR446 is an example of a licence-free radioA Licence-Free Radio is a two-way radio that can be used without an individual radio licence when it complies with the applicable licence-exempt rules. In the UK, PMR446 is the main licence-free radio service. service, provided the equipment and its use comply with the relevant requirements.
Licensed business radio can provide access to a wider range of frequencies and system configurations.
Licensed systems can therefore be more suitable where organisations need greater coverageRadio Coverage is the geographical area in which a two-way radio system can provide reliable communication. Coverage depends on the radios, antennas, frequency, terrain, buildings and system infrastructure., more channels or a professionally designed radio networkA Network is a connected system of radios, equipment and infrastructure that allows users to communicate across a defined area. Radio networks can range from simple radio-to-radio systems to large multi-site networks..
Types of Ofcom Business Radio Licence
Ofcom provides different business radio licensing options.
The appropriate licence depends on how and where the radio system will be used.
Broadly, business radio licensing can cover systems intended for:
- Local or defined areas
- Wider-area operation
- Multiple locations
- Specialist radio applications
The exact licence category and conditions should be checked with Ofcom for the proposed system.
Simple business radio systems
A small business may use a licensed radio system consisting of several handheld radios.
For example:
Handheld Radio ↔ Handheld Radio
This can provide communication between employees operating within the coverage of the selected frequencyAn antenna transmits and receives radio-frequency signals, allowing a two-way radio to communicate. Antenna type, frequency, height and location can all affect radio performance and coverage..
Business radio with a repeater
Larger sites may require a RepeaterA Repeater receives a two-way radio transmission and retransmits it, usually from an elevated location, to extend the coverage and reliability of a radio communication system..
A repeater receives a transmissionTransmission is the process of sending voice, data or signalling from a radio using a radio-frequency signal to another radio, repeater or communication system. and retransmits it, extending the effective coverage of the radio system.
For example:
Handheld Radio → Repeater → Handheld Radio
The repeater and associated frequencyFrequency is the number of cycles a radio wave completes each second, measured in Hertz. In two-way radio, frequency determines where a transmission operates within the radio spectrum. arrangements must comply with the applicable licence.
Business radio networks
A business radio licence can form the basis of a larger professional radio network.
A system may include:
- Handheld radios
- Mobile radios
- Base stations
- Repeaters
- Antennas
- Dispatch systems
- Network infrastructureRadio infrastructure is the equipment and supporting systems behind a professional two-way radio network, including repeaters, antennas, base stations, network connections, power systems and dispatch equipment.
The permitted configuration depends on the licence.
Business radio frequencies
The licence determines the frequencies that may be used by the radio system.
Businesses should not simply select a frequency themselves and begin transmitting.
Using an unauthorised frequency can cause interferenceRadio interference occurs when unwanted radio-frequency signals or electrical noise disrupt two-way radio communications, causing distorted audio, broken transmissions, reduced coverage or loss of communication. to other radio users and may breach UK radio regulations.
Business radio channel bandwidth
The licence and frequency allocation can determine the permitted channel characteristics.
Professional systems commonly use NarrowbandNarrowband describes a radio communication system that uses a relatively small amount of frequency spectrum to transmit information. It is widely used in professional two-way radio to make efficient use of available radio channels. channel arrangements to make efficient use of available radio spectrumSpectrum is the range of radio frequencies used for wireless communication. Two-way radios operate within specific parts of the radio spectrum, subject to frequency allocation and licensing requirements..
Digital technologies such as DMR (Digital Mobile RadioA Mobile Radio is a two-way radio designed to be installed in a vehicle. It normally uses the vehicle's power supply and an external antenna to provide reliable communication while travelling or working in the field.) are designed to operate within defined channel bandwidths.
Business radio transmit power
A business radio licence can specify technical conditions relating to transmitter operation.
Transmit power is important because increasing power can affect both coverage and interference.
Users should operate equipment within the permitted technical limits rather than increasing power beyond the authorised conditions.
Business radio coverage
An Ofcom licence does not automatically guarantee a particular level of radio coverage.
Coverage depends on the design of the radio system.
Factors include:
- Frequency
- Transmitter power
- AntennaAn antenna transmits and receives radio-frequency signals, allowing a two-way radio to communicate. Antenna type, frequency, height and location can all affect radio performance and coverage.
- Antenna height
- Terrain
- BuildingsAn antenna transmits and receives radio-frequency signals, allowing a two-way radio to communicate. Antenna type, frequency, height and location can all affect radio performance and coverage.
- Repeater location
- Radio equipment
A professional Site SurveyA Site Survey is an assessment of a location to determine whether a two-way radio system will provide the required coverage, reliability and performance. may be recommended where reliable coverage is required.
Business radio repeaters
Repeaters can be used to extend coverage for professional radio systems.
A repeater can be positioned at a suitable location, such as a high building or communications mast.
The resulting system might be:
Radio Users → Repeater → Radio Users
Repeaters are particularly useful on:
- Large construction sites
- Farms
- Industrial facilities
- Large events
- Warehouses
- Multiple-building sites
Business radio and DMR
DMR is a digital radio standard widely used for professional communication.
DMR radios can be used under suitable Ofcom business radio licensing arrangements.
The licence determines the frequencies and operating conditions; the DMR standard determines how the compatible equipment communicates.
Business radio and MOTOTRBO™
MOTOTRBO™MOTOTRBO™ is Motorola Solutions' professional digital two-way radio platform, based on the DMR standard. It supports business communication ranging from simple radio systems to multi-site networks. is a professional digital radio platform based on DMR technology.
Compatible MOTOTRBO™ equipment can be used as part of licensed business radio systems in the UK.
Depending on the system, features can include:
- Group calls
- Individual calls
- GPS
- Emergency functions
- EncryptionEncryption protects two-way radio communications by converting voice or data into a secure form that can only be understood by authorised radios with the correct encryption capability and keys.
- Data
- Dispatch
- Multi-site communication
Business radio and radio hire
Professional Radio HireRadio Hire is the temporary rental of two-way radios and related communication equipment for events, projects and operational requirements, providing professional communication without purchasing the equipment. companies can supply equipment for temporary use.
A hire system may already be configured for the frequencies and operating conditions required for the particular application.
For example:
Handheld Radios + Repeater + Accessories
can provide a temporary radio network for an event or construction project.
Customers should follow the licensing and operating instructions provided by the hire company.
Business radio for events
Event organisers may use licensed business radio systems to coordinate:
- Security
- Stewards
- Event management
- Production
- Medical teams
- Site operations
Temporary radio systems can be designed around the size and requirements of the event.
Business radio for construction
Construction companies can use professional licensed radios for communication between:
- Site managers
- Plant operators
- Ground teams
- Security
- Contractors
Repeaters can provide additional coverage on large or complex sites.
Business radio for security
Security companies can use licensed business radio systems to coordinate officers, supervisors and control rooms.
Features such as emergency alerts, GPS and group calling can be available on compatible systems.
Business radio for transport
Transport companies can use business radio systems to communicate between:
- Drivers
- Depots
- Control rooms
- Supervisors
- Maintenance teams
Vehicle-mounted Mobile Radios can operate alongside handheld equipment.
Business radio for agriculture
Farms can use licensed business radio systems across large areas where mobile-phone coverage may be limited or unreliable.
A typical farm system could include:
- Handheld radios
- Vehicle-mounted radios
- A base stationA base station is a fixed two-way radio installed at a permanent location, allowing an operator to communicate with handheld or mobile radios across a site or operating area.
- A repeater
The repeater can help provide coverage across the wider farm.
Business radio and Ofcom licensing responsibility
The organisation operating the radio system should understand its licensing responsibilities.
Depending on the arrangement, the business radio licence may be held by:
- The business using the radios
- A radio system provider
- A radio-hire company
The specific arrangement should be confirmed before the equipment is used.
Business radio and radio programming
Professional radios are normally programmed with a CodeplugA Codeplug is the configuration data programmed into a two-way radio that defines its channels, frequencies, talkgroups, radio ID and other operating features. containing the settings required for the radio system.
These settings can include:
- Frequencies
- Channels
- Talkgroups
- Power settings
- Scan lists
- Radio identification
- Other system parameters
The programming should match the authorised radio system.
Business radio and interference
Licensed business radio systems are designed to operate within coordinated spectrum arrangements.
However, interference can still occur.
Potential causes include:
- Other radio systems
- Incorrect programming
- Faulty equipment
- Poor antenna installations
- Electrical interference
- Adjacent-channel interference
Persistent interference should be investigated rather than simply changing frequencies without authorisation.
Business radio and emergency functions
Compatible professional radios can provide emergency functions such as:
- Emergency ButtonAn Emergency Button is a dedicated two-way radio control that allows users to quickly send an emergency alert to a dispatcher, control room or authorised radio users.
- Emergency AlarmAn Emergency Alarm allows a two-way radio user to quickly alert a dispatcher, control room or other authorised users that assistance may be required.
- Emergency CallAn Emergency Call is a priority two-way radio function that allows a user to quickly request assistance and, on supported systems, establish an urgent voice communication with a dispatcher or control room.
- Lone WorkerA Lone Worker is someone who works without direct supervision or immediate assistance nearby. Compatible two-way radios can provide safety features such as timed check-ins, emergency alerts and GPS location.
- Man DownMan Down is a safety feature on some professional two-way radios that can detect a possible fall or unusual radio position and automatically raise an alert if the user does not respond.
These features operate through the radio system and may require compatible infrastructure or software.
Business radio and GPS
Compatible radios can transmit GPS information through a professional radio network.
This can support:
- Vehicle tracking
- Worker location
- Fleet managementFleet Management is the process of managing a two-way radio fleet, including equipment, users, programming, maintenance, firmware, security and radio system configuration.
- Dispatch
- Emergency response
GPS functionality depends on the radio, network and software.
Business radio and dispatch
A licensed radio system can be integrated with a Dispatch platform.
Dispatchers may be able to:
- Communicate with individual users
- Contact groups
- Monitor radio activity
- Receive emergency alerts
- View GPS locations
- Coordinate incidents
Business radio and encryption
Compatible digital radio systems can provide Encryption to protect communications from unauthorised listening.
The available security features depend on the radio and system configuration.
Business radio and interoperability
Professional business radio systems can be integrated with other communication technologies.
These can include:
- Other radio systems
- Push-to-Talk over Cellular
- Telephone systems
- Dispatch platforms
- Cloud communication systems
This can provide InteroperabilityInteroperability is the ability of different communication systems, devices or organisations to work together and exchange information. In two-way radio, it can connect different radio networks, technologies or users through compatible systems or gateways. between different communication networks.
Business radio licence renewal
Business radio licences have conditions relating to their duration and renewal.
Licence holders should ensure that their authorisation remains valid if the radio system continues to operate.
The current renewal requirements and fees should be checked directly with Ofcom.
Business radio licence changes
If the radio system changes significantly, the existing licence may need to be amended.
Changes can potentially include:
- Frequencies
- Locations
- Radio sites
- Coverage
- Base stations
- Repeaters
- Other technical parameters
The licence holder should check with Ofcom before making changes that could affect the authorised operation of the system.
Business radio licence and multi-site systems
Organisations operating from multiple locations may require a licensing arrangement suitable for multi-site communication.
A larger system could include:
Site A → Network → Site B → Network → Site C
The appropriate licence depends on the geographical area and system configuration.
Business radio licence and network planning
A professional radio system should be planned around both operational and licensing requirements.
Planning should consider:
- Number of users.
- Coverage area.
- Number of sites.
- Frequency requirements.
- Channel requirements.
- Repeater requirements.
- Antenna locations.
- Radio technology.
- Emergency functions.
- Future expansion.
Business radio licence and spectrum efficiency
Radio spectrum is a limited resource.
Licensed business radio systems use coordinated frequencies and channel arrangements to allow many different users to share the available spectrum.
Narrowband technologies and digital systems can improve spectrum efficiency.
Business radio licence and compliance
Radio equipment must be operated in accordance with the applicable licence conditions.
This includes using the authorised frequencies, technical parameters and locations.
A radio being technically capable of transmitting on a frequency does not mean that the user is authorised to transmit there.
Business radio licence and DCS
DCS can advise businesses on professional two-way radio systems and the licensing requirements associated with their use in the UK.
We can help determine whether a licensed radio system is appropriate and design a solution around the required coverage, number of users, operating environment and features.
Where an Ofcom Business Radio Licence is required, the licensing arrangements should be established before the system is put into operation.
