The Motorola Talkabout T5SMS is a two-way radio that has a QWERTY keypad and utilizes text messaging. Very useful for deafies at Burning Man or anywhere a two-way radio comes in handy. Link: opens as PDF. Taken from here, but the site appears to be down, and I don’t see the T5SMS model on Motorola‘s web site. Odd.
Two-way radio with text messaging
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I wonder if this 2-way radio’s text function could be adapted to benefit deaf pilots? I am currently studying/training for my private pilot’s license and like all other deaf pilots, I have to fly without the use of a radio. It would really break open many obstacles and barriers if there was a way for us deaf pilots to use the radio, because without doing so, we are severely restricted as to where we are able to fly to/from.
I have been flying all my life and deaf pilot too. Raido and text messaging raido will not do any good for the mainsteam of hearing pilots however; techonolgy is improving in aviation and perhaps few years or decade down the airspace will be come all ditigal and non verbal such as modes S. Other techonolgies such as traffic advoice system-TAS are incorporate in the radar coverage it only works if all planes are equipment with current transponder that will work withthe system. Dont be suprise there are a lot new things out there developing and I am pretty sure one day deaf pilots restrictions will reduce and able to fly IFR, commerically etc. At the time being now I am ok with current restrictions to deaf pilots but if those restrictions can be accomondated by pre planning which is the way to do it to and fly legally without breaking any FAR’s. I assume you are young pilot and there is plently for you to learn so hang out the airport and talk to Pilots, read articles from AOPA andf other resorces. I would prefer to watchout for traffic as much as I could instead of relaying on raido or other tech gadgets that would possible distract your flying duty to see and avoid traffic is first rule of VFR. Keep up the good work and explore for possibities in aviation for the deaf. Good luck
Hmm, now that’s just the thing I need for my work in exploration. I’m hampered by the fact I can’t use the CB radio to communicate to base camp when I’m out doing work in the desert.
The damned shame it only do 5 miles.
We do have radios for death people can can talk pleae check out our site.
Sorry to burst your bubble guys, but this is just a concept model. It’s not actually on the market right now. Which sucks because it’s exactly what I’m looking for.
The Motorola Talkabout T5SMS two way radio sounds like a fantastic piece of kit, I have always used radio communication as it is really useful within the business. It is easier and sometimes cheaper than using mobile phones, I will definately be looking into this one.
hi can somebody PLEASE give me a phone number so i can order some kit for deaf people !!
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