To avoid voice clipping, how long should you hesitate between pressing the PTT button and speaking?

To avoid voice clipping when using a push-to-talk (PTT) system, it is generally recommended to wait for two seconds between pressing the PTT button and beginning to speak. This duration allows the system to fully engage and ensures that your initial words are captured clearly without being cut off.

Voice clipping occurs when the transmission starts before the system is ready, leading to the loss of the beginning part of your message. By adopting a two-second pause, you create a buffer that minimizes this risk, promoting clearer communication over the radio. This technique is crucial for effective and professional radio communication, especially in emergency or critical situations where clarity is paramount.

In environments where clear and uninterrupted transmission is essential, such as during police dispatch or emergency response, this two-second hesitation can vastly improve the quality of information being shared.