A WORD ABOUT TRUNKING
You will recall an earlier mention of LTR trunking. Although we do not feel that it is necessary to incorporate this capability currently, we thought you might like to know how simple and inexpensively it can be added later.
Trunking is the concept of combining two or more repeaters such as the GR1225 to function together for dynamic channel assignment. This is a fancy way of saying that the Police Department is not limited to just one repeater. They could have automatic access to the Fire Department and Street Department repeaters depending on which one was available when they wanted to communicate. Each radio in the system has a coded ID with scanning capability. When a user wishes to make a call, the ID code is sent when they push the transmit button. They are then connected to the first available repeater station that in turn connects them to their dispatch fleet or group (i.e. fire, police, DPW etc.).
How does trunking make your system more efficient? Simple! If you only have access to three stations instead of only one, your chances of immediate contact increase by as much as 300%! Or, putting it another way, the chances are 3 to 1 in favor of the trunked radio system user. In public safety communications, this can be very important!
A trunking system requires one antenna for all connected transmitter stations and one antenna for all station receivers. All transmitters are fed through a device called a Combiner and all receivers fed through a Multicoupler. These devices allow multiple transmitters or receivers to share a common antenna. Each repeater also requires a device known as a Controller.
The Controller mounts externally to each repeater station. In essence, this device is a computerized interface to network each station.
The price of combiners and multicouplers will vary depending on the number of repeater stations associated with the trunked network.
Standard radios can be used on a trunked radio system but the full benefits in instant channel availability, user ID and privacy would not be applicable. If you are considering a trunked radio system, it is generally advisable to plan for new hand held radio and/or mobile radio equipment. The Motorola LS Series is one of the better choices.
If you need assistance in applying for a grant, submission for FCC licenses, preparation of bid specifications, special financing, or service on existing communications equipment, just give us a call or drop us an email.
