AgdaPkt 2006-10-09 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

9C � Page 17 radias. This is significant because handheid radios transrnit at much iower power than do mobile(car)radios and must be nearer to a receiver to work satisfactorily. The present radio networks will have to change within tk�e ne�t six years to comply with che FGC decisiott to change the assignment of public safety radio channels. These channels currently are 25 kHz wide{widoband),but since the number of zadio users is increasing,the FCC plans to reduce the width of each channel to 12.5 kHz(natxowband) allawi.ng two r,onversatia�s to take pla�ce where only one previously fit. AIl law en.forcement radio users must switch to narrowband equipment by 7anuary 1,2013. Investiga+tic�r � The initial guipose of the investigation was to follow up an media reports that flie Caunty's digital radio network had experienced problcros due to software changes in 2005.As the invesiigation progressed,the focus changed to the issue of the impending shift to narrowbaud radio ec�uipmenL In the course of the investigation tlie Grand I�uy interviewed a cross-section of law enforeement personnel and radio technical specialists. Findings • .All Iaw enforcement personnel interviewed stated that the county-wide digital - , radio network does not curreutly perform as well as expected,'The initial trial of digital radios by the Redwood City PoIice Department was marred by coverage gaps and the poor performance of handheld radios inside buildings. Tbe Redwood City Police Department has subsequently switched to the digital radio network and is working with ISD#o optimize its performance in Redwood City. • Thc propvnents of the digital network in ISD believe the foliowing. a The digital system offers capabilities nat available wi�li analog equipment, e.g.,message encryption and da.ta transmission. o Analog radio equipment wi11 not perform as well as digital eQuipment with nazrowband channels. o Their current efforts to improve system performance will correct both the real and perceived shortcomings. • Most of the local police departments are reluctant to forsake their existing analag radio systems and migrate to the County's digital system because the digital. system does not perform as well as thcir existing sysfiems. , • It is critically important that handheld radios functian properly in all locations, including within buildings.Most Iocal police departments have instaited enough anaIog receivers to guarantee satisfactory performance of their current systems. 30