Narrowbanding Compliance
In an effort to promote more efficient use of spectrum, the FCC mandated all VHF and UHF Industrial/Business licensees using 25 kHz Land mobile radio (portables) migrate to narrowband 12.5 kHz efficiency technology by January 1, 2013.
WHAT IS SPECTRUM EFFICIENCY?
Currently the UHF and VHF frequency bands are congested and often there is not enough spectrum available for licensees to expand their existing systems or implement new systems. This mandate requires licensees to operate more efficiently, either on narrower channel bandwidths or increased voice paths on existing channels. This will allow creation of additional channels within the same spectrum, thereby supporting more users.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2011 VERSUS JANUARY 1, 2013?
After January 1, 2011, users who apply for a new license or modify their existing license must specify 12.5 kHz efficiency. If you need to expand your service area for your existing 25 kHz efficiency system, you will need to submit an application before January 1, 2011.
Manufacturers can no longer certify new product or import equipment capable of operating at 25 kHz efficiency after January 1, 2011. While providers can still sell 25 kHz equipment after that date, if it was manufactured/imported prior to January 1, 2011, it may be increasingly difficult to match your existing radios. You should consider either purchasing additional 25 kHz radios before 2011, or accelerate your system migration to 12.5 kHz efficiency. By January 1, 2013 all licensees must convert to and operate in at least 12.5 kHz efficiency. You must ensure that the 25 kHz is disabled on your dual mode 25/12.5 kHz radios. And you must replace all radios only capable of operating at 25 kHz efficiency.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY KENWOOD EQUIPMENT IS 12.5 KHZ CAPABLE?HOW DO I UPGRADE MY EXISTING 12.5 KHZ CAPABLE EQUIPMENT?
Depending on the model, reprogramming the radios to operate on 12.5 kHz can be accomplished via front radio programming or from your distributor or dealer.
DOES NARROWBANDING REQUIRE ME TO CHANGE FREQUENCIES?
This depends on which frequencies you are currently operating on. Contact us to assist you in determining if you need to reprogram your radios.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE FCC NARROWBANDING MANDATE? CAN I CONTINUE TO OPERATE AT 25 KHZ EFFICIENCY AFTER JANUARY 1, 2013?
No. The FCC will prohibit licensees from operating 25 kHz efficiency equipment. Non-compliance will be considered a violation subject to FCC Enforcement Bureau action, which may include admonishment, monetary fines and loss of license.
WILL MIGRATION TO 12.5 KHZ CHANGE MY SYSTEM COVERAGE AREA?
Maybe. Conduct tests during conversion to ensure your radios continue to provide similar coverage
HOW CAN I DETERMINE IF I HAVE A VALID FCC LICENSE?
Contact your preferred certified frequency coordinator. Refer to the FCC website for listing of frequency coordinators at: www.FCC.gov