On January 1, 2013, all public safety and business industrial land mobile radio systems operating in the 150-512 MHz radio bands must cease operating using 25 kHz efficiency technology, and begin operating using at least 12.5 kHz efficiency technology. This deadline is the result of an FCC effort that began almost two decades ago to ensure more efficient use of the spectrum and greater spectrum access for public safety and non-public safety users. Migration to 12.5 kHz efficiency technology (once referred to as Refarming, but now referred to as Narrowbanding) will allow the creation of additional channel capacity within the same radio spectrum, and support more users.
After January 1, 2013, licensees not operating at 12.5 KHz efficiency will be in violation of the Commission's rules and could be subject to FCC enforcement action, which may include admonishment, monetary fines, or loss of license.
SC Communications is here to help you prepare for a smooth and cost-effective transition. While Motorola radios purchased in the last ten years are likely dual-mode 25/12.5 kHz, older equipment may need to be replaced. Please contact us today for assistance.
Narrowbanding FCC Mandate
In an effort to promote greater spectrum efficiency, the FCC is requiring all Public Safety and Industrial/Business licensees using 25 kHz VHF and UHF radios systems migrate to minimum 12.5 kHz efficiency by January 1, 2013
Increase Capacity or TDMA Efficiency
Increase capacity and meet the Narrowbanding mandate without applying for a second channel. Motorola is shipping two complete product families; ASTRO 25 APX radios for mission critical applications and the MOTOTRBO series for business critical applications that provide greater than 12.5 kHz efficiency.
Transition at Your Own Pace
Motorola radios are backwards compatible so they can operate in dual mode (12.5 kHz or 25 kHz), allowing your organization to transition to 12.5 kHz at your own pace up to the FCC deadline.
