This could go in several categories, but it relates to surveying, at least indirectly!
The FCC a few years back mandated that ALL radio frequencies (at least those typically used in the business world) follow narrow band rules. Bottom line, by 01-01-2013 all of your radios must be broadcasting on 12.5 kHz channel spacing instead of the older 25 kHz spacing. There are two components, a FCC license for the new frequencies and hardware that supports 12.5 kHz spacing. For me, this means the VHF communications radios and the UHF RTK radio. I believe my Pacific Crest PDL hardware is fine, my Motorola communications radios are old enough that they don't support 12.5 kHz cannel spacing so ALL new hardware will be required.
This is likely to run in the 100's of dollars up to the 1000's depending on how much hardware needs to be replaced. I kind of want to start early since 2013 will sneak up on us and I can spread the costs over two years. If you have all newer hardware, you might just need the FCC license change, maybe not even that if you license is fairly new.
Anyone gone through the process yet and/or have any pointers?
SHG
I did buy one new radio this year (voice) that is compliant, actually it can be programmed either way. My two old motorolas will most likely need to be replaced, they are late 90's vintage.
I believe that the internal RTK radios we have (Trimble R8) are 12.5 spacing. We also have an OLD Trimble base, Trimark III, that I rarely (never?) use anymore, mainly due to VRS. I use RTK onboard radios for small sites, VRS if we need to go longer (very rare).
I think it is good that you brought it up, most probably are not aware.
I just had two Motorola P1224's and two Motorola GP300's completely refurbished for about $160 - and the fella that worked on them pointed out that they wouldn't be compliant with this FCC Mandate come 2013. I figured that was out far enough that it was worth that amount now to have enough radios for two additional crews (hoping I'll need two more crews). Didn't ask the guy then, but does anyone know if these radios will simply "quit" working come 2013, or become "illegal"?
I think they will work (just a guess, but I don't think radios have a built in calendar, LOL), you will just be in violation of FCC rules.
SHG
I have never heard of a P1224 but if you meant P1225, they can be reprogrammed to 12.5 spacing. the GP300 cannot.
Is this your radio?
http://www.2wayradios.com/p1225.htm
James
Shelby, John - great to see you guys!!
i remember - sorta - sometime back talking with Atlas about this for RTK, but can't recall the details. Guess i'd better call them and get it straight.
i have one of their subscription contracts to keep current for RTK. Do these 2013 requirements effect data, voice, or both?
Will our older TrimMark IIe become illegal or stop functioning in 2013?
thanks,
david in Winamac
ps: oh ya...forgot about the internal radios in the 4700 and 4800!
- may not have to wait for the 20(18?) new bird deadline to be out 🙁
David...we can help with that problem! 🙂
