Introduction to Narrowbanding for Two-Way Radios
Here at Chicago Communications LLC, we strive to improve the operational efficiency of our customers through innovative technology and information solutions. Check out our blog for the latest information about Chicago Communications, products and services, and industry news. You'll find new articles posted weekly.
This year one of our biggest focuses is Narrowbanding. As some of you might know, the FCC is requiring that by January 1, 2013 all current wideband-system users convert their existing equipment to those capable of functioning on narrowband channels. This means that all public safety and industrial licensees that are utilizing VHF and UHF 25 kHz land mobile radio systems will need to switch to narrowband, 12.5 kHz technology over the next two years. (the picture below may give you a better idea)
The purpose of the mandate is to improve the efficiency of the VHF and UHF mobile bands, giving more licensees an opportunity to expand their systems or utilize new ones.
Keep in mind that narrowbanding is not optional. Be advised that you cannot narrowband half your equipment now and half later; this has to be completed as one process to reduce user complaints and issues that arise out of different audio levels. The radio equipment sold today is capable of doing both wide and narrowband, however you should only convert when the entire system is ready to implement.
To learn more about narrowbanding, check out our website here.
