Changes are coming for people that operate radios and emergency workers and others are scrambling to comply. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) first announced their narrow banding notice 12-23-04. However, they gave an extension until January 1, 2013, which they say this time is a hard deadline.
Compliance will have a direct bearing on the status of licenses being issued.
Technically what this means is that all existing Part 90 radio systems operating on frequencies between 150-512 MHz have to convert those systems either to 12.5 kHz bandwidth or to a technology that provides one voice path per 12.5 kHz of bandwidth or provides a data rate of 4800 bps/6.25 kHz.
Licensees will be required to certify to the FCC that they have made the technical necessary changes and are using narrowband equipment. They are playing hardball here. The FCC could fine or cancel licensees that do not meet this deadline, and re-licensing of cancelled systems will become very difficult.
This is especially tough on smaller areas. For example, Ron Little, Chief of the Coello Volunteer Fire Department, said they are working hard to comply. Their problems as first responders are similar to others in the area.
For more on this story, pick up a print copy of the Thursday edition of the Daily American.
