How do TETRA handsets compare with the old analogue radios used by the police?
The power used by a TETRA handset is typically around 1 watt, about the same as that of a torch bulb. This is lower than the power used by the analogue radios that preceded the TETRA-based system. In practice the power used by a TETRA radio can be much lower; if the handset is being used close to a base station adaptive power control can reduce the power to around a thirtieth of a watt. The power consumption is highest if the handset is being used inside a vehicle or a building. See also the section of FAQs on Handsets and Devices.
