Walkie-talkie is a two-way radio that provides quick voice communication over short distances. Many people use walkie-talkies, including firefighters, construction workers, and military personnel. Unlike many other two-way communication devices, a walkie-talkie cannot transmit (send) and receive signals at the same time.
Walkie-talkies include handheld models and citizens band (CB) radios. Most handheld models can transmit and receive any of 14 channels. Their transmitter signal strength provides a maximum range of about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers). Inexpensive handheld models sold as toys operate on only one channel. Their maximum range is about 1,200 feet (370 meters). CB radios can transmit and receive any of 40 channels. They can transmit up to about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers). See Citizens band radio.
Some types of walkie-talkies require a license to operate. They can transmit greater distances than other types of walkie-talkies. Police and emergency personnel use walkie-talkies that transmit over the private land mobile radio service. Ordinary citizens can obtain a license to operate over the general mobile radio service.
Development of walkie-talkies took place in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s. Backpack and handheld models were used extensively by U.S. military forces during World War II (1939-1945).
See also Radio (Two-way communication).
