Radio mechanics repair and maintain radio communications equipment found in various locations, including aircraft, emergency vehicles, and taxis. They use diagnostic tools to locate faulty parts and perform repairs using new components or wiring. Specialized training is required, and mechanics must continue their education to keep up with new advances in radio systems. Some countries, like the United States, require mechanics who work on aircraft or ships to hold a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license.
A radio mechanic specializes in repairing and maintaining radio communications equipment. These devices are found in a variety of locations including aircraft, emergency vehicles, and taxis. Radio mechanics use diagnostic tools to locate faulty parts in radios and repair electronic equipment using new components or wiring.
Two-way radios have been replaced by cell phones in many applications. Several industries, however, still commonly use radio transceivers. Radio communication is a vital part of commercial and private aviation. Emergency vehicles such as police cars and ambulances also have radio devices. Other vehicles, including taxis and ships, often use radios to communicate.
Radio mechanics perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of a faulty device. Various tools are used for this purpose. Mechanics use signal meters to test a radio’s output. Oscilloscopes and multimeters are also used for testing electronic circuits and locating damaged components. Many modern radios are controlled by computers, and mechanics often use test software to diagnose problems with these advanced devices.
Once a radio malfunction is detected, mechanics often have to disassemble and repair the unit. Workers should use caution when working inside a radio’s chassis and should follow safety procedures to avoid electrical shock or excessive RF exposure. A radio mechanic must have knowledge about different replaceable electrical components including resistors, transistors and capacitors.
Specialized training is usually required for people working in this field. Vocational radio repair training can usually be obtained at a trade school or technical college. These programs usually result in a two-year associate degree. Workers can also gain useful experience through the military, which relies heavily on radio communication.
Mechanics must continue their training and education even after completing a vocational school. New advances in radio systems are developed frequently, and workers can attend conferences and seminars to keep up-to-date on important technical changes in the industry. Electronics manufacturers sometimes offer training on a specific make or model of radio, which allows mechanics to gain valuable repair knowledge.
Some countries have additional requirements. A radio mechanic who works on aircraft or ships in the United States generally must hold a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license. To earn this certification, workers are required to pass exams covering electronics fundamentals, laws relating to radio transmissions, and safe maintenance procedures. This license requirement helps ensure that only qualified mechanics repair the important systems found on airplanes and boats.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
