Push-to-Talk over Cellular Radios Frequently Asked Questions

January 5, 2025
by Frank
Consulting

Don’t be FOOLED by POC Marketing!

As with many things in today’s society, you have to be careful about what you are told when it comes to product marketing.

Many companies will market their services in ways that emphasize these points without disclosing the underlying costs or conditions that could apply.
The old adage of “nothing is free” and “it’s too good to be true” really does apply here.

I have seen POC advertisements claiming no service fees, no contracts, and no hidden costs. However, reading the fine print often reveals that these claims come with qualifications that can be misleading.

Although this is possible, it is somewhat a play on words. Moreover, we’ll also clarify how these terms can vary between providers. Let’s break these down and gain some transparency behind POC marketing.

1. Let’s explore each of these claims in detail.
NO SERVICE FEES.

Unlike traditional cell phones, there really are no extra service fees associated UPFRONT with setup.

The expenses would be the device cost, SIM plan cost, and PTT management platform cost.
However, keep in mind that your ongoing costs may accrue from monthly service fees.
Somewhere along these lines, the dealership from which you are getting the POC has to make their money.

2. While appealing, this is typically not as straightforward as it sounds.
NO CONTRACT.

This sounds nice, but POCs come with a built-in contract. In effect, this means that while you may not have a formal contract, your commitment lies in your ongoing payment for the SIM card.
Once you pay for the device upfront, you have a recurring SIM expense to recharge monthly.
Hence, it’s crucial to factor this recurring cost into your budget when considering a POC.
The SIM expense may not be huge, but without an active SIM, your radio is effectively a paperweight.

3. This claim can sometimes be deceiving.NO HIDDEN FEES.

To an extent, this is true, but to use features such as GPS tracking, emergency alerts, group calling features, and admin access to the PTT management platform, there may be extra fees associated with your device.

POC radios are an awesome tool, and I recommend them for almost any application.

However, it is essential to inquire about what specific services may incur additional charges before making a purchase.
Check out our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for POCs on the right.

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For further information, feel free to reach out to our customer service team for personalized assistance.

Check Out our White Papers on POC and DMR Radios HERE!

PoC Radios FAQ

How does a POC Radio work?

The PoC radios operate similarly to the old Nextel PTT phone/radios, providing the distinct advantages of always-connected mobile service and the near-instantaneous functionality of a traditional two-way radio system. These PoC Radios utilize existing cellular networks, which not only allows for seamless communication but also ensures they are integrated into a robust and reliable infrastructure during critical emergency situations. This capability is particularly beneficial in scenarios where immediate coordination and communication are essential for safety and response effectiveness.

How much does a POC Radio cost?

Compared to cellular plans, POC radios are not only significantly more affordable but also offer various features that make them a worthwhile investment for many users. Depending on your specific plan, the type of device you select, and any additional platform features you may choose to include, the cost of using POC radios could be as low as $20 a month. This pricing structure represents a fantastic deal when compared to the expensive costs associated with purchasing a new smartphone and maintaining a traditional cell phone plan, which often come with higher monthly fees and additional hidden charges.

Can I call others on their cellphone?

No, a PoC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) radio cannot directly call a standard cellphone. However, it can effectively communicate with any phone that has a compatible app installed. This functionality allows users to engage in voice communication through their cellular network, essentially providing "push-to-talk" capabilities over the cellular network. In this way, it acts similarly to a two-way radio call on a smartphone, enabling users to connect swiftly and efficiently, making it a valuable tool for those who need instant communication on the go. By leveraging this technology, the PoC radio serves to bridge the gap between traditional radio communication and modern smartphone capabilities, ensuring effective connectivity and interaction.

What is a POC Radio used for?

A POC radio is much more than just a basic tool for managing large or small business fleets and personnel; it is an essential communication device that enhances operational efficiency and coordination. These radios also perform exceptionally well in the public safety sector, providing reliable communication during emergencies and critical situations, as well as in various residential settings where seamless connectivity is crucial. A POC radio network serves as a fantastic resource for staying connected with team members, employees, Family and stakeholders, all while ensuring you do not strain your budget, making it a practical choice for any organization looking to improve their communication strategies without overspending.

Does Cogent Radios Group sell POC Radios?

Yes, Cogent Radios Group proudly offers a diverse range of high-quality POC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) devices that come with an impressive array of features and applications. These devices are meticulously designed to cater to both your personal requirements and the specific needs of various industries. Whether you are looking for reliable communication in challenging environments or advanced technology for seamless connectivity, our POC devices are tailored to ensure you have everything you need to stay connected and effective in your endeavors.

How tough are POC radios?

Renowned brands such as Hytera POCs are specifically designed for reliable use in harsh environments and demanding industries. These POC radios are carefully constructed to consistently endure the rigors of daily usage, as well as the occasional mishap that can occur in tough and challenging conditions. Their robust build and advanced technology ensure they operate effectively, even in the most extreme circumstances, making them an ideal choice for professionals who need dependable communication tools in the field.

Hytera is known to be Rugged MIL-STD to withstand impact and IP68 rated for waterproof and dust proof protection.

Can I take a Picture with my POC Radio?

Yes, you can absolutely utilize this feature, provided that you have a capable device that supports it and the appropriate application installed. Push-To-Talk over Cellular (PoC) Radio is specifically designed to offer comprehensive nationwide voice, video, and data services, enabling you to effectively connect and communicate with your partners. This advanced technology allows you to engage seamlessly over the robust 3G, LTE, and 5G networks, ensuring that you have the high-quality connectivity necessary for effective collaboration and communication.

Whats the not so good part about a POC Radio?

As with any communication system and network, there are always compromises.
The effectiveness of these systems often hinges on their ability to adapt to changing network conditions and prioritize critical communications.
Network dependency is significant for PoC radios that rely on cellular networks to function, which can be a disadvantage if network coverage is limited or if there is a network outage.
Furthermore, the reliance on cellular connectivity necessitates thorough planning and consideration of alternate forms of communication.
This can lead to interrupted communication and decreased productivity for users.
Thus, continuous investment and infrastructure improvements are vital to ensure reliable service for end-users.
However, realistically in today's age, major service interruptions are not nearly as frequent, and data communication with major carriers has built-in redundancy due to government clients, and we operate on some of the same networks..
Nevertheless, upcoming technologies promise to enhance resilience and minimize the impact of any potential service disruptions.

How secure is a POC Radio?

A PoC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) radio can be considered relatively secure when using a reputable provider and choosing a model with strong encryption features, as they utilize cellular networks which can be encrypted to protect communications from eavesdropping, but potential vulnerabilities remain due to reliance on the cellular network itself and the possibility of hacking if proper security measures aren't in place; always check the encryption capabilities of a PoC radio before purchasing. Although it is fairly uncommon for a POC to get hacked it is still remotely possible.

You can protect your family by not exposing them to online threats and predators with a POC Radio. Check out the link to our article here.

How To Protect Your Family From Online Threats and Predators!

Benefits Of PoC Radios

Switching to a POC system instead of, or alongside, a cellular plan comes with a bunch of fantastic benefits! Here are just a few you’ll love:

1.Flexible options that cater to various needs and budgets.
Affordable plans with no strings attached.
No hidden fees or surprise charges.

2.This means flexibility to upgrade or change your device whenever you want.
You get to own your device!

3.Designed with rugged materials for both indoor and outdoor use.
Dependable and built to last.
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with no contracts to worry about.

4.Get the latest technology without the heavy price tag.
Low-cost devices that won’t break the bank.
Enjoy seamless connectivity wherever you go.

5.This ensures that your private conversations remain confidential.
Taps into trusted large carrier networks.
Ensures that your information remains secure and accessible only to you.

6.Ideal for those who are always on the move and need reliability.
Keeps your kids safe from online dangers.
Great for businesses wanting to monitor their assets efficiently.

7.Ideal for keeping your loved ones informed of their whereabouts.
No pesky geo-tracking or geo-fencing.
Designed for both children and adults to navigate effortlessly.

8.Stay connected to a community that values privacy and efficiency.
Your data stays private—no selling it to corporations!

9.Don't miss out on discovering how a POC system can transform your communication!
Offers security that can match or exceed your cell phone.
Our team is here to assist you with any questions or concerns.

10.Long-lasting battery life for all your adventures.

11.GPS tracking available for fleet management if that's your thing.

12.Emergency alert feature for peace of mind.

13.Super easy to use—no tech skills required!

These are just some of the awesome features of POC radios.

For more about the benefits, check out our article or give us a shout at +1.931.208.0484!.

What if I don't have LTE in the building?

Rest assured, you’re in good hands with us. Some of our Hytera devices are not only equipped with state-of-the-art Wi-Fi capabilities, but they also ensure a seamless and smooth transition between LTE and Wi-Fi networks, allowing you to stay connected without any interruptions. We prioritize your connectivity and experience, so you can trust that our devices will meet your communication needs effectively.