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FCC Narrowbanding Compliance Mandate FAQs1. What is Narrowbanding?
1. What is Narrowbanding?In an effort to promote more efficient use of spectrum, the FCC mandated all VHF and UHF Industrial/Business licensees using 25 kHz Land mobile radio (portables) migrate to narrowband 12.5 kHz efficiency technology by January 1, 2013.
2. What is spectrum efficiency?Currently the UHF and VHF frequency bands are congested and often there is not enough spectrum available for licensees to expand their existing systems or implement new systems. This mandate requires licensees to operate more efficiently, either on narrower channel bandwidths or increased voice paths on existing channels. This will allow creation of additional channels within the same spectrum, thereby supporting more users.
3. What do I need to do before January 1, 2011 versus January 1, 2013?After January 1, 2011, users who apply for a new license or modify their existing license must specify 12.5 kHz efficiency. If you need to expand your service area for your existing 25 kHz efficiency system, you will need to submit an application before January 1, 2011. Manufacturers can no longer certify new product or import equipment capable of operating at 25 kHz efficiency after January 1, 2011. While providers can still sell 25 kHz equipment after that date, if it was manufactured/imported prior to January 1, 2011, it may be increasingly difficult to match your existing radios. You should consider either purchasing additional 25 kHz radios before 2011, or accelerate your system migration to 12.5 kHz efficiency. By January 1, 2013 all licensees must convert to and operate in at least 12.5 kHz efficiency. You must ensure that the 25 kHz is disabled on your dual mode 25/12.5 kHz radios. And you must replace all radios only capable of operating at 25 kHz efficiency.
4. How can I tell if my Kenwood equipment is 12.5 kHz capable?All current Kenwood BRS ProTalk® radio equipment certified by the FCC is 12.5 kHz efficiency capable. To review the list of Motorola 12.5 kHz capable products please see the following BRS models. Quick List of Dual Mode (25/12.5 kHz): ProTalk Series: TK-2300V4P, TK-2300V16P, TK-3300U4P, TK-3300U16P, TK-2302V16P, TK-3302U16P – need to change or verify all frequencies to FCC licensed 12.5 kHz frequencies. Note: Use the latest version of the KPG-108D ver. 1.10 which has narrowband capabilities on all preprogrammed frequencies. Quick List of 12.5 kHz Only: ProTalk XLS Series: TK-3230–no action required.
5. How do I upgrade my existing 12.5 kHz capable equipment?Depending on the model, reprogramming the radios to operate on 12.5 kHz can be accomplished via front radio programming or from your distributor or dealer.
6. Does Narrowbanding require me to change frequencies?This depends on which frequencies you are currently operating on. Below is a quick chart to assist you in determining if you need to reprogram your radios:
7. What will happen if I fail to comply with the FCC Narrowbanding mandate? |
