MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS
There was once a time when a mobile radio had a simple function to provide two-way voice communications to a dispatcher. Then things got complicated with a need to talk directly to other mobiles within the users own fleet, and later with agencies in adjoining communities. All mobiles operated in an analog mode at typical power levels of 40 watts within a frequency range of 150-160 MHz on standard 25 kHz channels. UHF, 800 MHz, 700 MHz and 220 MHz were rarely used (With the exception of the UHF 450-470 MHz band, these other bands are still rarely used).
Now we are talking about multi-tasking mobiles that can communicate on either 12.5 or 25 kHz channels (known as dual mode a very practical feature). Some mobiles can communicate in both the analog and digital modes (APCO Project 25 is the best known technology of this type). Only larger agencies can afford the reduced range and high system cost of APCO 25 compliant equipment.
Today, there is a significant benefit in being able to talk across the entire 136 to 174 MHz VHF band. With this capability a mobile user can talk directly to Amateur Radio Operators (Storm Spotters), CAP (Civil Air Patrol) for search and rescue operations, both of which are below 150 MHz. Above 160 MHz, we have the weather channels as well as marine channels (very helpful for those near major waterways). Federal agencies also use frequencies above 160 MHz. Coordination with these agencies could be very beneficial in times of common emergencies or mass disasters.
In short, any mobile radio being considered today should be dual mode capable, with a minimum of 40 watts and full range capability from 136 to 174 MHz with both voice and data capability. A good quality mobile radio can now handle data when connected to a compatible terminal at speeds of up to 9600 baud. While not specifically designed for use as a mobile data transceiver, it is possible to perform a variety of function using slow speed secure data. One of the more popular applications is an optional status messaging module that allows a field officer to report status with using voice communications.
A digital compatible radio also allows the use of high security rolling code encryption modules to provide secure voice communications, an increasingly attractive function for maintaining private communications.
A maintenance program that provides factory exchange service should be available at reasonable cost to assure peak performance when needed. Ideally, the supplier should provide some type of rapid exchange service for defective equipment and periodic maintenance inspections. A recent inspection of mobiles in use at a local police department disclosed that five out of six mobiles tested had defective antennas. One of the vehicles was operating into an antenna that was completely shorted out!
Lastly, mobile radios can now be equipped with GPS tracking systems. There are a number of different technologies available, but the most affordable, and technically efficient is one that automatically provides shift travel reports to administrative personnel. . When you are ready to review pricing, please send an email to sales@falconwireless.net and request Front-Line US pricing. In your email, tell us your name, title, organization, location, phone number, and email address. When we have this information, we will provide access to additional information with pricing.
