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What is the history of BK/RELM Radios?

What is the history of BK/RELM Radios?

When it comes to reliable and innovative communication solutions, BK Technologies Inc, RELM Wireless Corp, BK Radio, Honeywell, and BendixKing have been at the forefront of the industry for decades. These companies have a rich history of producing high-quality radios that have revolutionized the way we communicate, each playing a significant role in shaping the industry. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between these companies and take a journey through time to discover the timeline of their radio releases.

An Overview of the Companies:

  • RELM Wireless Corp, now known as BK Technologies Inc, was established in the mid 1900's. The company initially specialized in manufacturing high-quality two-way radios for the public safety sector. Over the years, RELM Wireless Corporation expanded its product line and became a trusted name in the industry.

  • BK Radio, a division of BK Technologies Inc, is dedicated to providing advanced radio communication solutions for mission-critical applications. The company's radios are designed to withstand harsh environments and deliver clear and reliable communication in the most demanding situations. BK Radio has a long history of innovation and has introduced several groundbreaking technologies to the market.

  • BendixKing, now a part of Honeywell, has a legacy of delivering reliable and innovative communication solutions for the aviation industry. The company's radios are known for their durability, ease of use, and advanced features. BendixKing continue to be a popular choice among pilots worldwide.

  • Honeywell, a global technology company, has been involved in the radio industry through its acquisition of BendixKing. BendixKing, originally founded in the mid 1900's, has a rich history in aviation communication. The company has been a trusted provider of avionics systems, including radios, for general aviation and military aircraft.

  • BK Technologies Inc, formerly known as RELM Communications Inc, is a leading provider of two-way radio communications equipment. The company took over in 2018 and has since been at the forefront of radio technology. With a focus on public safety, government, and commercial markets, BK Technologies Inc has consistently delivered reliable and durable radios that meet the highest standards.

  • Bendixkingradios.com The best website to purchase your land mobile equipment since the 1990's! We have the newest line of BKR5000 Radios and BKR9000 handhelds. With numerous items kept in stock the KNG-M mobile radios are the trusted choice for USFS and most state agencies.

 

Now, let's dive into the timeline of radio releases and rebrands from these esteemed companies:

1940s - The Birth of RELM Wireless Corp

In the mid1940s, RELM Wireless Corp was founded, marking the beginning of a legacy in radio communications. The company introduced its first line of portable radios, setting the stage for future innovations in the industry. The LPH handheld radio was one of the earliest handheld radios to gain widespread popularity. It was known for its compact size, lightweight design, and user-friendly interface. The LPH radio paved the way for the development of more advanced models in the years to come.

1950s & 1960's- The Start of 2 Way Radios

The second rounds of portable radios were released to the public as technology advanced. The MPH (metal version of the LPH radio) handheld radio, and later on the EPH handheld radio were taking the world by storm. The EPH radio hit the market, offering enhanced durability and ruggedness. It was designed to withstand harsh environments and extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for professionals working in challenging settings.

The world was also introduced to mobile two way radios. The EMH and EMU mobile radios were used by police across the nation for easy communication before cellphones. 

1970s - The Emergence of BK Radio

In the 1970s, BK Radio emerged as a division of RELM Wireless Corp. The company focused on developing advanced two-way radios for public safety agencies, military organizations, and other demanding applications. BK Radio quickly gained recognition for its rugged and reliable products.

The GPH handheld radios were also released in this decade. The GPH radio brought further improvements to handheld communication. It introduced features such as GPS capabilities, allowing users to track their location in real-time. The GPH radio was particularly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and professionals in remote areas. These showed more durability and programming options than the previous EPH, LPH and MPH handheld radios. Click here to view the GPH radio.

1980s - BendixKing Takes Flight

In the 1980s, BendixKing was formed from combining the Bendix Corporation and King radio. The company expanded its product line to include aviation communication solutions, catering to the unique needs of pilots and aviation professionals. BendixKings' radios were known for their exceptional performance and durability.

BK Radio introduces the DPH series, a line of rugged and reliable radios for mission-critical applications. The DPH radio was a game-changer in the world of handheld radios. It was one of the first models to incorporate digital technology, providing clearer audio and better signal quality. The DPH radio set the stage for future advancements in the industry. Click here to view the DPH Radio or Click here to view the DPH-CMD Command Radio.

1990s - Honeywell acquires BendixKing

Expanding its portfolio of aviation communication solutions Honeywell acquired the aviation subsidiary Bendixking. BendixKing releases the KX series, featuring advanced avionics technology for improved communication in the aviation industry. 

Mobile radios have come a long way since their inception. The GMH mobile radios were also released bosting a new dash mount or remote mount configurations. GMH stands for General Mobile Handheld, and these radios were designed to provide reliable and efficient communication in mobile environments.

The GMH radios were known for their durability and long battery life, making them ideal for use in rugged conditions. They were widely used in industries such as construction, transportation, and public safety. These radios were available in both dash mount and remote mount versions, allowing users to choose the option that best suited their needs.

2000s - Advancements in Digital Technology

In the 2000s, Relm and its divisions, including BK Radio, embraced the digital revolution in radio communications. The companies introduced a range of digital radios that offered enhanced features, improved audio quality, and increased interoperability.

As technology advanced, so did the mobile radios. The next step in the evolution was the DMH radio, which stands for Digital Mobile Handheld. These radios brought significant improvements in terms of audio quality, range, and functionality.

The DMH radios utilized digital technology, which allowed for clearer and more reliable communication. They also offered enhanced features such as GPS tracking, text messaging, and encryption for secure communication. Just like their predecessors, the DMH radios were available in both dash mount and remote mount versions. Click Here to view the DMH Dash Mount Mobile Radio or Click Here to view the DMH Remote Mount Mobile Radio.

The KNG-P150 was a groundbreaking handheld radio that revolutionized communication in the public safety sector. It featured advanced features such as encryption, multiple channels, and a durable design. Its release in 2008 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of handheld radios. Click Here to view the KNG-P150 radio or Click Here to view the KNG-P150 CMD Command Radio.

2010s - The Birth of BK Technologies Inc

In the 2018 , RELM Wireless Corp underwent a transformation and rebranded itself as BK Technologies Inc. The company continued to innovate and release cutting-edge radios for various industries, solidifying its position as a leader in the communication solutions market.

The latest addition to the mobile radio family is the KNGM radio, which stands for King Mobile. These radios represent the pinnacle of mobile communication technology, offering unparalleled performance and features.

The KNGM radios combine the best of analog and digital technologies, providing exceptional audio quality and extended range. They are equipped with advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, integrated GPS, and customizable channel settings. Whether you need reliable communication for emergency services or efficient coordination in a construction site, the KNGM radios have got you covered. Click Here to view the KNG-M Remote Mount Radio or Click Here to view the KNG-M Dash Mount Radio.

Building upon the success of its predecessor, the KNG-P150s was released in 2010. This model introduced enhanced audio quality, improved battery life, and increased durability. It quickly became a popular choice among professionals in industries such as law enforcement and emergency services. Click Here to view the KNG-P150S radio.

In 2015, the KNG2-P150 was introduced, offering even more advanced features and capabilities. This model boasted a larger display, improved user interface, and enhanced audio clarity. It was designed to meet the evolving needs of professionals who rely on handheld radios for critical communication. Click Here to view the KNG2-P150 Radio.

Present Day - Continuing the Legacy

Today, BK Technologies Inc, continues to push the boundaries of radio communications. They remain committed to delivering state-of-the-art solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers, ensuring reliable and efficient communication in various industries. Their commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation has made them a trusted name in the field of communication. Whether it's for public safety, private use, or other critical applications, BK Technologies Inc continues to provide cutting-edge radio solutions that keep people connected.

As we look to the future, we can expect BK Technologies Inc and its divisions to continue leading the way in the industry, setting new standards for communication excellence. They continue to innovate and release new radio models to meet the evolving needs of their customers. These devices play a crucial role in ensuring effective communication in various industries, and the evolution of mobile radios has greatly contributed to improving efficiency and safety in the workplace.

The bkr5000 single band radio was introduced to the market, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of handhelds. This model was larger, heavier, and more powerful than its predecessors. It offered a longer range and better sound quality, making it a popular choice among professionals in various industries. One of the key features of the bkr5000 was its durability. It was designed to withstand harsh environments and extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor use. This ruggedness, combined with its advanced communication capabilities, made the bkr5000 a favorite among hikers, campers, and emergency responders. Click Here to view the BKR5000 Radio.

The Bkr9000 multiband radio has taken the world of handheld by storm. This model represents the pinnacle of technological advancements in portable communication devices. With its sleek design and state-of-the-art features, the bkr9000 offers unparalleled performance and reliability. The bkr9000 boasts an extended range, allowing users to communicate over longer distances. It also supports advanced features such as GPS tracking, voice activation, and encryption, ensuring secure and efficient communication in any situation. Click Here to view the BKR9000 Radio.

Summary

In conclusion, the history of BK Technologies Inc, RELM Wireless Corp, BK Radio, Honeywell and BendixKingRadios is intertwined, with each company playing a significant role in the evolution of radio communications. From the early days of portable radios to the advancements in digital technology, these companies have consistently delivered innovative and reliable communication solutions.

Whether you're looking for a GMH, DMH, or KNGM radio, our website offers a wide range of pages to suit your needs. Stay connected and stay ahead with the latest in mobile radio technology. Click Here to view the mobile radios.

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