# Walkie channels

Source: https://storiara.com/glossary/walkie-channels
Last updated: 2026-09-14
Author: Spencer Kaufman, Storiara

> Walkie channels are the radio frequencies a production assigns to departments so conversations don't crowd each other. Channel 1 is almost always production, where the ADs and PAs run the set. Other channels go to departments like locations, transportation, camera, grip, and electric. The assignments are set in prep and usually printed on the call sheet.

## A sample channel plan

Assignments vary by show and region, and big productions may run more than one repeater. Here's one plan a mid-size feature might print in the notes section of its [call sheet](https://storiara.com/glossary/call-sheet):

| Channel | Department |
|---|---|
| 1 | Production (ADs, set PAs) |
| 2 | Open, for private conversations off channel 1 |
| 3 | Locations |
| 4 | Transportation |
| 5 | Camera |
| 6 | Electric |
| 7 | Grip |
| 8 | Art, props, set dressing |

The [key set PA](https://storiara.com/roles/key-set-production-assistant) usually hands out radios, surveillance earpieces, and batteries from a walkie cart each morning and tracks them on a sign-out sheet. Missing walkies at wrap come out of the production's rental deposit.

## How channel 1 sounds

Radio traffic on channel 1 is short and uses the same few phrases:

- "Go for Dana." (Answering when called by name.)
- "Copy." or "Copy that." (Heard and understood.)
- "Flying in." (On the way with the thing you asked for.)
- "What's your 20?" (Where are you?)
- "Stand by." (Wait, or I'm busy.)
- "Rolling." "Cut." (Relayed by every PA holding a lockup so the perimeter goes quiet or can move.)
- "Eyes on Maya?" (Does anyone see this actor?)

A normal exchange: "Dana for Chris." "Go for Chris." "Can you bring first team from base camp? We're ten minutes out." "Copy, walking them over."

## Etiquette that keeps a set working

Press the button, wait half a second, then talk, or your first word gets cut off. Don't talk while the camera is rolling unless it's safety or a lockup break. Take personal conversations to channel 2, and remember that anyone scanning channels can still hear you on 2. Wear the earpiece on set; a speaker squawking during a take ruins it.

## Common mistakes

Stepping on the 1st AD. Keying up while the AD is calling [rolling](https://storiara.com/glossary/rolling) blocks the call for everyone.

Department heads staying on channel 1 all day. The gaffer needs channel 6 for their crew, so they either scan both or wear a second radio.

Channels that clash with another production nearby. When two shoots work the same city block, crews sometimes hear each other. The [2nd AD](https://storiara.com/roles/second-assistant-director) or walkie vendor can switch privacy codes.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is channel 1 on a film set?

Production. The 1st AD, 2nd AD, 2nd 2nd, and set PAs use it to run the set: calling rolling and cut, moving cast, and coordinating lockups. Keep it clear of side conversations.

### What does 'go to two' mean?

It means switch to channel 2 to talk privately, so a longer back-and-forth doesn't tie up channel 1. You say "Going to two," switch, and switch back when you're done.

### What is 10-1 on a walkie?

It's crew shorthand for a bathroom break. People say it so the ADs know where they are. Some crews use 10-100 instead.