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Why can't I find any channels?
- Well, often you can with -
Frequency Availability Studies
One of the most important, if not THE
most important parts of building a two-way radio system is the frequencies
available to you. The system to license frequencies isn't always very
user-friendly when it comes to giving a positive answer when you ask "Is
there anything available?" because, in truth, it is not in anyone's
interest in the system to grant you channels, no matter what their job
description says. As a matter of fact, they'd just as soon you shut
up, and go away.
Well, not all of them, but many of them
anyway.
Over the years, it has become a very
technically challenging, and rules intensive process to find available
frequencies in many markets. Most coordinators (especially Public
Safety coordinators) don't have the time, or the abilities to really "find"
you channels any more. For the state-level coordinators, it's a
part-time, unpaid, additional duty - why would you expect them to make much
of an effort? It's easier for them to glance at an area download and
tell you "Nope. Nothing available."
Which doesn't make it true. Which
is were PROS Ltd's frequency availability studies come in. We find
channels, if there are any there at all. And if there isn't,
we'll offer you possibilities to still build your radio system.
Types of Frequency Availability
Studies
We basically have three levels of
analysis that we do to determine if channels are available to build a
specific radio system: An "Appreciation", a "Tentative"
analysis, and a full blown "Detailed" frequency availability
analysis.
1. An Appreciation is the least detailed, and is given when a
client isn't sure about many details about the possible system. Often times,
it is early enough in the process where even the frequency band is
uncertain. It is an opinion based on our knowledge of the area, the
coordinators for the area, current FCC rules and a look at the currently
licensed systems in the area. It could be a verbal report.
2. A Tentative analysis is more detailed, and is usually given
when the preferred frequency band is known, and where possible sites and
current licenses may be involved. It generally includes a "what if" look at
all available channels in the frequency band, and common radio system
parameters for ERP, antenna height and locations. Current licenses and
frequencies are looked at to see if they can be used, and technical spot
checks for interference to other co-channel users are performed using both
contour analysis and TSB-88 interference studies. Specific channels may be
listed with a level of reliability attached as to their ability to be
licensed, based on the assumptions used in the analysis.
3. A Detailed frequency availability analysis is an accurate
answer to the question "What frequencies can be licensed for this
system?" It is based on the actual sites proposed for the system, and
the most probable power levels. In effect, the majority of the work required
to license channels is already performed, and can be submitted to the
coordinator or the FCC upon payment, and a valid signature page. Each and
every possible channel is evaluated, and the costs and caveats needed to
proceed are included.
Most frequency availability studies fall somewhere between a "Tentative"
study and a full "Detailed " study, because of the planning required
prior to designing and constructing a radio system.
Our costs to do either a Tentative or Detailed study are the same, and
generally we can make the changes from a Tentative study in order to license
a system.
For a trunked VHF, UHF or 800 MHz system, the cost is $600 a site. Multiple sites or
particularly difficult systems may change this cost, so ask for a quote.
For other systems and configurations, it is variable. Call or email for a
quote.
For current clients who we handle most or all of their licensing needs, we
may provide a frequency availability study as part of our general services
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