---
title: Factors to Consider When Looking at Radio Coverage
description: There are many different factors that come into play. Here are a few basic things to look at when trying to assess coverage
---

[Radio Resource Inc. ](https://blog.radioresource.com)

# [Factors to Consider When Looking at Radio Coverage](https://blog.radioresource.com/radio-coverage)

 Written by [Radio Resource Inc.](https://blog.radioresource.com/author/radio-resource-inc) | Jun 11, 2021 4:33:22 PM

Factors to Consider When Looking at Radio Coverage

There are many different factors that come into play when trying to get adequate radio coverage for your facility. Here are a few basic things to look at when trying to assess coverage:

- What type of frequency are you using?- Most commonly in licensed business band, companies will either go for VHF or UHF frequencies. VHF frequencies are better for line-of-sight operation like farming and some outdoor use (depending on topography). UHF frequencies are better for indoor applications because they can penetrate walls, steel, concrete, etc. better.

- What size antenna are you using?- When it comes to handheld radios you most likely are given the option of a stubby or a whip (longer) antenna. In most situations, the whip antenna will give you 5%-20% better coverage. Results will vary based on facility size.

- Are you using a [repeater](https://www.radioresource.com/motorola/mototrbo/index.htm)?- Handheld radios typically run anywhere from 2-5W. Wattage equates to power, or coverage that the radios will give you. A repeater unit helps "repeat" the signal at a higher power, giving you greater coverage. Most standard repeaters run around 40-50W. 

- Analog or Digital?- Most all radios that are produced in 2021 can be ran in either analog or digital. By running your [radios](https://www.radioresource.com/motorola/mototrbo/index.htm) in digital, you'll more than likely find better voice quality and enhanced coverage.

[View full post](https://blog.radioresource.com/radio-coverage)

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