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Looks like with the 800 MHz rebanding, we 'll need to upgrade the firmware in our trunktrackers. Since the FCC is moving the NPSPAC band to the 806 portion of the spectrum, the channel assignments will be changing. What used to be a valid channel, may now fall in between channels. It looks like Motorola will be changing the control channels streams to compensate for the new channel layout. It is my understanding that we will have to upgrade our subscriber equipment firmware to read the new assignments. Also, anyone using a spectra, STX or anything older than the Jedi will have their radios go silent. NexTel (Sprint(SexTel)) will be paying for all of the work to move incumbent users. Doesn't look like anyone cared about the hobbyist.

But, then again, I could be wrong.

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I generate Board Warnings

I have always admired the radio repair techs that do the hard work. In this case -- even more so. Until all parties agree to a plan and that plan written, its diificult to tell the top from the bottom. The fact that Canada must be a part of any plan and change in frequency -- just makes the whole thing more difficult, but not impossible. I have been harping about how the scanner makers needing to get off their tuffs and produce a NEW version 700 - 900 Mhz scanner NOW. The members of the local Regional Frequency Co-ordination Groups should get a pat on the back for even trying to make it happen. What a job. Until we know "Who's on Fisrt", the techs can't do their jobs. The Frequency Co-ordinators will need the wisdom of Solomon to make it all work.

Just a quick question because I am not technically oriented. Based on Sean's comments will this have an effect on all but the most expensive type scanners. Will radios such as the BC245xlt and the PRO-95 be used only for paper weights or for scanning the lower band channels but no trunking. How would new software be loaded into these radios? Just thought I would ask.

My department has all Spectra mobiles and MTS2000's for portables. Does this change mean my department will have to purchase new mobiles--like MCS2000's or the like?

This could be very expensive....

Let me know.

Thanks,

CAR

It appears that as part of the "settlement" between NexTel and the FCC is that all incumbents must be made whole for time, equipment, and effort. If your department has spectras, NexTel would have to replace them, at their cost. Looks like it would be either the XTL5000 or the new XTL2500. They also would get to pay for the install, the reprogrammings that we'll have to go through as well as any costs with the system.

But until it happens.......

Don't hold your breathe.

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I generate Board Warnings

I work for a Public Safety Department at a local University and I would like to know where I can find any information about 800MHz rebanding and what the time frame is for the changes. We have equipment we use for the sole purpose of keeping in contact with Seattle and would need to know what the process is for the possibility of equipment replacement etc. may be.

Sincerely,

Collin Dvorak
K7AAB