Whether you are a radio technology enthusiast or not, you should be concerned about NarrowBand. But there’s no reason to panic! All you need to do is the understand the requirements of the governing body concerned with protecting communication in the country.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced the required specifications for narrowband frequency range for radio and mobile services. All Public Safety and Industrial or Business licensees in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands will be affected by this new technology. With NarrowBanding, the affected parties need to either migrate to 12.5 kHz technology or utilize a technology that achieves equivalent efficiency. According to the provision, all radios On January 13, 2013, all radio systems operating at frequencies below 512 MHz will be required to switch to NarrowBand.
What NOT To Believe
NarrowBand created panic mostly because of the myths that immediately came out following FCC’s announcement. So what are the things you should not believe? Here are some speculations that are guaranteed moot and academic.
-You must upgrade your radio to Digital by January 13, 2013 and pay for up to $800.
This is false because there is no deadline to upgrade your radio to digital. However, the deadline to switch to NarrowBand is on the said date.
-Digital radios work way better.
This is not proven. Digital radios may or may not improve your coverage. In fact, if you decide to switch to digital, you may be risking your radio to being obsolete or incompatible with future versions.
-You must upgrade your radios to fit the requirement of NarrowBand.
This is generally false. Some radios at the moment are already compatible with the requirements of NarrowBand which is 12.5 kHz. If you have a radio that already works, all you need to do is to have FCC upgrade your license.
So, What is the Truth?
The truth is that NarrowBand is not all evil. The truth is that only when you have a radio that does not work with 12.5 kHz channel bandwidths should you have no other options but to upgrade your radio or buy a new one. Thus, if your two way radio does not function with 12.5 kHz, you must then upgrade it. Buying a new one is not necessary unless you feel it’s necessary.
Meanwhile, the FCC will only be granting authorized contour of existing radio stations that use NarrowBand channels. Your current FCC license should also be switched or modified to narrowband.
How Do We Move to NarrowBand Operations?
To be able to move to narrowband operations, you must apply for new frequencies or modify your license with FCC. The NarrowBand Website has everything you need to know about these new requirements. Are you looking for two way radios compatible with NarrowBand? Contact HiTech Wireless today!
