By Jan. 1, 2013, all non-federal FCC licensees operating on the VHF and UHF bands must use 12.5 kHz (11.25 kHz occupied bandwidth) or narrower channels or use technology that achieves the narrowband equivalent of one voice channel per 12.5 kHz of channel bandwidth or a data rate of at least 4,800 bits per second per 6.25 kHz. Failure to meet the deadline can get you fined or knocked off the air.

This compendium explores what you need to know to plan for and implement narrowbanding in your system. It addresses lessons learned and best practices, licensing, funding and frequently asked questions about the mandate. If you haven’t yet started, this is the place to begin.

On Your Watch
Like It or Not, Narrowbanding Is Just Around the Corner
By Ron Haraseth
This article introduces the FCC’s narrowbanding mandate, including the key dates, implementation tips, license modification information, and describes the consequences of failing to act.

Check Your License
Operating a Radio with an Expired  License Can Get You Fined or Knocked Off the Air
By Chris Kindelspire
Operating a radio with an expired  license can get you fined or knocked off the air, and your FCC license must be modified to reflect the narrowband changes in your system. Learn how to comply in this article.

‘Unfunded Mandate’
How to Fund Your Narrowbanding Project
By Charles Taylor & Keri Losavio
The long implementation timeline originally set by the FCC was intended to allow narrowbanding to take place during regularly scheduled upgrades. However, many agencies are now facing the task of compliance without funding. This article offers tips for finding grants and loans that can be used to cover narrowbanding costs.

Narrowband Migration
Lessons Learned & Best Practices
By Keri Losavio, with additional reporting by Teresa McCallion
Budgeting, planning, logistics and reduced coverage are just some of the issues agencies are facing with narrowbanding. Learn what others are doing to mitigate the pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I get two channels after narrowbanding? Learn the answer to this and other questions in our FAQ.

A supplement to APCO International’s Public Safety Communications, sponsored by Aeroflex Inc., Kenwood USA Corp., Motorola & Simulcast Solutions LLC.

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Originally published July 2011 as a supplement to APCO International’s Public Safety Communications.