PoC radio

A PoC radio (short for push to talk over cellular radio^[2]), also known as PTToC radio,^[3] is an instant communication device that is based on the cellular network.^[4] It is a radio device that incorporates push-to-talk technology into a cellular radio handset.^[5] It allows users to communicate with one or more receivers instantly, ^[6] in a half-duplex mode.^[7]

PoC radio

Other name	PTToC radio
Type	PoC device
Core function	Push-to-talk[1]
Introduced by	TYT
Communication mode	half-duplex

Although a PoC radio is a walkie-talkie-like device, ^[8] there are substantial differences between them.^[9] Compared to the latter, the former has a wider range of channels, covers a wider area, and does not require a license to transmit.^[9] In addition, a PoC radio supports advanced functions, such as, video calls, multimedia messages, GPS location tracking, and emergency notifications. ^[10]

PoC radios are widely used in the industries of private security, logistics, hospitality, and rescue. The representative manufacturers of such equipments include Hytera^[11] and ToooAir.^[12] Mission-Critical PTToC (MCPTT) is also starting to be employed in sectors such as public safety, transportation, and utilities.^[13]

History

The concept of PoC was introduced by U.S. telecommunications company Nextel in 1987.^[14] The first commercial use of PoC radios was also started by the company in 2002.^[15]

In June 2005, the Open Mobile Alliance rolled out an approved standard called "PoC 1.0".^[16] In April 2020, Hytera presented a PoC radio named PNC550, equipped with a 5-inch touchscreen that supports full operation using gloves.^[17]