PRIVATE BUSINESS RADIO (PBR)

A Private Business Radio System (PBR), is a self-contained radio system for the sole use of the licence holder. PBR systems can range from simple on-site handportable systems for use over a relatively small area, to large scale wide-area, multi-channel, multi-site systems.

The vast majority of PBR systems comprise a base station at a central location and a number of mobile or handheld radios for use over an area of perhaps 15 - 20 miles radius. A semi-duplex base station will provide communication from base to mobile and mobile to base. If mobile to mobile communication is a requirement a Talk-through base station will be required. This automatically re-transmits any transmissions received from the mobile equipment on the system, effectively enabling communication from mobile to mobile up to 30 - 40 miles, provided that both units are within the coverage area of the system.

A licence is required to operate a PBR system. The cost of the licence is based upon the area of use, type of usage and facilities required. Typically a licence for use in a non-congested area is £82.50 per annum.

Equipment can be hired or purchased for use on a PBR system.

Operating costs of a PBR system are limited to the licence fee and equipment maintenance in most cases.