A radio mechanic is a professional who specializes in the repair and maintenance of radio communication equipment. These devices can be found in a variety of places, including planes, ambulances, and taxis. Radio mechanics use diagnostic tools to find broken parts in radios and repair them with new parts or wiring.
In many cases, two-way radios have been replaced by cellular phones. However, radio transceivers are still widely used in a number of industries. Both private and commercial aviation rely heavily on radio communication. Radios are also used by emergency vehicles such as police cars and ambulances. Radios are commonly used to communicate in other vehicles, such as taxis and ships.
Diagnostic tests are carried out by radio mechanics to determine the cause of a malfunctioning device. For this, a variety of tools are employed. Signal meters are used by mechanics to test a radio’s output. Electronic circuits are also tested and broken components are located using oscilloscopes and multimeters. Many modern radios are computer-controlled, and mechanics frequently use computer test software to diagnose issues with these sophisticated devices.
Mechanics must typically disassemble and repair a radio once a malfunction is discovered. When working inside the chassis of a radio, workers must exercise caution and adhere to safety procedures to avoid electric shocks or excessive radio frequency exposure. A radio mechanic must be familiar with various electrical components that can be replaced, such as resistors, transistors, and capacitors.
Individuals working in this field typically require specialized training. A trade school or technical college is a good place to start if you want to learn how to repair radios. Typically, these programs lead to a two-year associate’s degree. The military, which relies heavily on radio communication, can also provide valuable experience to workers.
Even after graduating from a vocational school, mechanics must continue their training and education. Workers can attend conferences and seminars to stay up to date on important technical changes in the industry, and new advances in radio systems are frequently developed. Manufacturers of electronics occasionally offer training on a single brand or model of radio, allowing mechanics to gain valuable repair knowledge.
There are additional requirements in some countries. In the United States, a radio mechanic who works on planes or ships must usually have a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Workers must pass exams covering electronics fundamentals, radio transmission laws, and safe maintenance procedures in order to obtain this certification. This requirement for a license helps to ensure that only qualified mechanics work on the critical systems found on airplanes and boats.