Full-duplex, fully explained

What does it mean?
Andrew Stone
  • 8 Jan 2022
  • Insight

A lot of our blogs focus on the overall impact of the VoCoVo system. Whether it’s saving money or reducing walking distance, our products work together to create some truly remarkable results.

However, we’re also keen to highlight some of the specific benefits of our devices. Along with a strong signal and a long-lasting battery, our headsets are equipped with full-duplex technology. This may be a small feature, but it makes a significant difference. Let’s take a closer look.

What is full-duplex?

In simple terms, a full-duplex device is one that can send and receive data simultaneously. This is in contrast to a half-duplex device, which can only send and receive data one at a time. A telephone is an example of a full-duplex device, while a walkie-talkie is an example of a half-duplex device.

In the case of our headsets, full-duplex technology means that colleagues can speak and listen at the same time. This creates a more natural flow to conversations, allowing colleagues to relax and communicate with ease.

It may not seem like much at first, but it has significant implications for the shop floor. From enhancing training to tackling crime, here’s how full-duplex can help you achieve your full potential.

Better Training

With a possible resurgence of COVID-19 and a tough winter flu season on the horizon, colleague shortages are likely in the coming months. This can make it difficult to train new recruits. Asking a colleague to leave the shop floor for a training session can be a big ask when staffing levels are already stretched. Fortunately, there’s a better way.

Our headsets allow new recruits to shadow experienced colleagues while they work. Colleagues can explain each task without needing to pause their work. If a trainee requires further clarification, they simply need to ask.

This is where full-duplex makes a significant difference. Being able to speak and listen at the same time means these sessions feel more like a conversation than a lecture. New colleagues can relax and ask questions without feeling like they are imposing.

Studies show that 87% of companies see an improvement in proficiency when they use collaborative training. Turning training into a conversation also gives new recruits the opportunity to offer feedback on your methods. You can use this information to enhance your training even further.

Safer Stores

Full-duplex is all about conveying information as easily as possible. This is especially crucial when it comes to tackling crime. Time is of the essence when apprehending shoplifters, and full-duplex can significantly reduce response times.

When an incident occurs, colleagues can contact security via their headsets. Full-duplex enables floor colleagues and security teams to stay in touch as security approaches the scene. If the situation changes, colleagues can update the security team in real-time. This means that security colleagues arrive faster and better informed than they would if responding to a tannoy announcement or a walkie-talkie alert.

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that there’s no substitute for face-to-face conversation. Even when this isn’t possible, full-duplex ensures that talking with colleagues feels as close to the real thing as possible.

Get in touch today to find out more.