HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES 09-214 RESOLUTION NO. 09-214
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF BEAUMONT:
THAT the City Manager be and he is hereby authorized to execute a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Texas Department of Public Safety establishing permissions and
guidelines for the use of mutual-aid radio channels.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL of the City of Beaumont this the 28th day of July,
2009.
6 i� l� Mayor Becky Ames -
g
Texas Statewide
Interoperabilit y Channel
Plan
For FCC Designated Public Safety Interoperability Channels 150 MHz—800 MHz Bands
Developed By
Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC)
Revised April 20, 2009 (Change #11)
RECORD OF CHANGES
Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan
DATE
CHANGE# OF CHANGE CHANGE DATE ENTERED
Issued 04-1-2005 Initial Issue 04-1-2005
1 4-6-2005 Deleted"narrowband"from phrase 4$-2005
"narrowband 800", pg. 14.
2 4-6-2005 Frequencies transposed in Figure 5, 4-0-2005
pgs. 15&30.
Deleted word "refarming"from
3 4-6-2005 "refarming order", pgs. 15&30. 4-6-2005
4 9-7-2006 Corrected error in 700 MHz channel 9-7-2005
frequencies, pgs. 13-14, &29.
General edit; simplify provision for
5 6-10-2007 encryption; add new/changed channel 6-10-2007
labels clarify 1/1/2013 deadlines
Name of plan changed to add the word
"Statewide". General edit; Modified
background note and text to require 10-20-2007
6 9 25-2007 P25 NLT 1/1/2013; added tactical
repeaters; dropped 700 MHz channels
1 MHz;changed 800 MHz NPSPAC
channels by 15 MHz.
Corrected order of frequencies used in
8TAC95D and 8TAC96D. Extended
7 01-22-2008 transition date for P25 CAI digital until 01-22-2008
1-1-2015. Changed VTAC17 and
VTAC19 availability date to 7/1/2008.
Removed Texas Government Code
8 06-09-2008 Chapter 411.0105(Public Safety 06-09-2008
Radio Communications Council
9 06-24-2008 Changed marine channel date due 06-24-2008
to FCC delay
10 11-05-2008 Removed Marine channels from 11-05-2008
plan due to FCC rule amendments
11 04-20-2009 Updated narrowbanding 04-20-2009
requirements for 1/1/2013
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Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan
For FCC Designated Public Safety Interoperability Channels 150 MHz —800 MHz
Table of Contents
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING............................................................................................4
Purpose..........................................................................................................................................4
Authority.........................................................................................................................................4
Applicability................................................................................................................. ...................4
TSICP Incorporated into this MOU...................................................................................................7
MOUAgreement................................................................................................................................8
Background Note to Users of the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan ........................9
1. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................... 11
2. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR USE OF DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY LICENSED
INTEROPERABILITY CHANNELS............................................................................................ 11
Operational...................................................................................................................................11
Co-Channel and Adjacent Channel Interference............................................................................13
CallingChannels...........................................................................................................................13
CTCSS and NAC Coded Squelch..................................................................................................14
Modulationand Encryption............................................................................................................15
Temporary Base and Repeater/Mobile Relay Stations...................................................................16
3. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES VHF 150 MHz Wideband Channels................................................. 17
4. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Channels............................................. 19
5. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES UHF 450 MHz Wideband Channels.................................................21
6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Channels.............................................21
7. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES 700 MHz Channels.........................................................................23
8. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES- 800 MHz Channels.........................................................................29
9. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES- INTEROPERABILITY CROSS-BAND SYSTEMS............................30
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (TSICP)
Original issue,April 1, 2005
Texas Department of Public Safety
And
(Federal Agency, State, or Local Jurisdiction, Emergency Organization)
Purpose
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes permissions and guidelines for use of
interoperability or mutual-aid radio channels by
• Local government jurisdictions and their associated emergency response agencies
• State agencies in Texas and their associated emergency response organizations
• Federal agency local units in Texas and their associated emergency response organizations
• Private sector emergency response organizations licensed or otherwise entitled to operate
in the Public Safety Pool as defined in Part 90 of the FCC Rules (47CFR subpart B
paragraphs 90.15-90.20).
It imposes certain protocols, procedures, and obligations upon jurisdictions hereby authorized to
use state-licensed radio channels held by the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS).
This agreement supersedes the MOU associated with the Immediate Radio Communications
Interoperability Plan (IRC1P) of January, 2003. The IRCIP shall continue in force until this
agreement is executed by the jurisdiction, or until December 31, 2005, whichever comes first.
Authority
Execution of this agreement by state and local entities is authorized by Texas Government Code
Chapter 791 (local governments), Chapter 771 (state agencies). This MOU satisfies Federal
Communications Commission Part 90 rules for extending license privileges to others by agreement.
Federal agencies are permitted access to interoperability channels as authorized by 47 CFR 2.102
(c) & 2.103 and Part 7.12 of the NTIA Manual. Federal agencies may execute this MOU and shall
adhere to the attached guidelines.
Applicability
This MOU authorizes the use of certain radio frequencies by emergency response organizations as
defined by Department of Homeland Security (Office of Domestic Preparedness) and the
Governor's Division of Emergency Management. Generally, this includes organizations in the
following governmental disciplines:
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Emergency Management Public Safety Communications
Law Enforcement Public Health
Fire Service Health Care
Emergency Medical Services Hazardous Materials
Public Works I Transportation Governmental Administration
This MOU authorizes use of state-licensed frequencies for the purpose of coordination between
emergency response agencies and resources. Such coordination may occur during interagency
operations, en-route travel, or on-incident communications in accordance with an Incident
Communications Plan.
Background
The 77`h Legislature, in an effort to provide for effective emergency radio communications by state
agencies, called for an Interagency Radio Work Group (IRWG) to develop a state agency
communications network. That group developed a preliminary plan that was accepted by the state
IRWG and the Sheriffs Association of Texas on March 27, 2001.
Subsequently, the IRWG determined that the state agency communications network should be
expanded to include all public safety agencies in the state. This was accomplished by IRWG's
development of the Immediate Radio Communications Interoperability Plan (IRCIP) of January,
2003. The IRCIP addressed radio communications interoperability between state and local
jurisdictions using VHF wideband radio equipment for dispatch, en-route, and on-incident
communications. Approximately 300 local government jurisdictions have accepted the IRCIP and
submitted an executed Memorandum of Understanding to TxDPS.
In response to a Federal Communications Commission requirement for establishment of
state/regional advisory committees, the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee
(TSIEC)was formally established as an advisory committee to TxDPS.
The Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan, developed by TSIEC and included in this MOU,
provides essential guidance for interoperable radio communications using VHF. UHF. 700 MHz.
and 800 MHz radio equipment for interagency coordination, en-route travel, or on-incident
communications.
Understandings
Texas Department of Public Safety will:
• Manage and maintain proper licenses for the use of the interoperability frequencies
identified herein.
• Manage and maintain an accurate database of federal and state agencies and local
government jurisdictions that have accepted and signed this MOU.
• Issue updates and revisions to the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan contained
herein upon request by the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC)
and the Executive Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Jurisdiction will:
• Participate in regional communications planning (generally arranged by regional Council of
Governments)that provides for regional radio communications interoperability.
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• Manage use of the interoperability frequencies by its employees, ensuring compliance with
the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (TSICP) and federal/state/local laws,
ordinances, and rules.
• Use the interoperability frequencies authorized hereby for their intended purpose of
coordination between emergency response agencies and resources. Such coordination
may occur during interagency operations, en-route travel, or on-incident.
• Use the interoperability frequencies for operational and en-route communications in
accordance with local and regional policies and procedures.
• Use the interoperability frequencies for on-incident communications in accordance with the
Incident Communications Plan established by the on-scene Incident Commander.
• Prioritize use of the interoperability frequencies:
1. Emergency or urgent operation involving imminent danger to life or property
2. Disaster or extreme emergency operation requiring extensive interoperability and
inter-agency communications.
3. Special event, generally of a pre-planned nature
4. Joint training exercises
5. Inter-agency and en-route communications
• Implement radio communications procedures consistent with the National Incident
Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) including:
• Use"plain language" without 10-codes or agency-specific codes/jargon.
• Use the calling protocol: "Agency-Unit #, this is Agency-Unit #", rather than "Unit #
to Unit#".
Examples: "Bryan EMS 1605, this is Tyler Fire 2102"or 'Incident Command, this is DPS 508'
• Ensure that mobile, portable, and temporary base radios intended for use by agency
leadership (officers) are configured with the appropriate in-band interoperability frequencies
as found in the TSICP. This means that, as a minimum, the interoperable frequencies
would be added to the day-today frequencies used by that entity.
• Texas Law 1: analog wideband VHF coordination channel for mobile-to-mobile use
by emergency personnel on a scene or incident
• Texas Law 2: analog wideband VHF calling channel for mobile-to-base use by
transient or en-route emergency personnel
• Texas Law 3: National analog wideband VHF channel for coordination of law
enforcement activities
• Texas Fire 1, Texas Fire 2, Texas Fire 3, analog wideband VHF frequencies
primarily for fire service use or for use as dictated by Incident Commander on
incidents
• Texas Medical 1, analog wideband VHF frequency primarily for use by EMS agency
personnel on incidents
• Texas Air 2, analog wideband VHF frequency for air-to-ground use with state or
federal aircraft only at direction of Incident Commander on incidents.
6
i
• Ensure that appropriate interoperability calling channels are monitored by communications
operators at dispatch centers identified in a regional communications plan. As an example,
monitoring may include, at a minimum:
o Texas Law 2, analog wideband VHF calling channel (this channel, formerly
designated "Intercity", is implemented at most dispatch points in Texas). This
channel should be available until January 1, 2013.
VCALL analog narrowband VHF calling channel, implemented not later than January
1, 2008, in accordance with regional interoperability plans developed by regional
Councils of Government.
• Ensure that interoperability calling channels are monitored at the Incident Command Post on
major incidents requiring significant aid from agencies beyond routine local interoperability.
Monitoring shall include one or more of the following:
• Texas Law 2, analog wideband VHF calling channel
• VCALL, analog narrowband VHF calling channel [implement by January 1, 2008]
• UCALL, analog narrowband UHF calling channel
[implement by January 1, 2006]
• 7CALL, digital narrowband P25 700 MHz calling Channel [implement by January 1,
2008]
• 8CALL, analog national calling channel [implement by January 1, 2006]
Incident Command Post monitoring may be implemented using cross-band repeaters,
communications operator console patching, or VHF/UHF/700/800 MHz fixed or mobile
gateway.
The parties mutually agree:
• Jurisdiction and TxDPS agree that their mutual interests will be furthered by continued
coordination between the jurisdiction and the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive
Committee (TSIEC).
• Jurisdiction and TxDPS agree that this Memorandum of Understanding may be cancelled at
any time, by written notice to the other party, or by subsequent agreements.
TSICP Incorporated into this MOU
The attached Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (TSICP--Original Issue March 25,
2005) is incorporated into this MOU in its entirety. The TSICP may be revised by TSIEC and TxDPS
from time to time, and revisions will be provided to Jurisdictions by TxDPS.
Should Jurisdiction elect to withdraw from this MOU because of TSICP revisions, notice shall be
given by mail to Texas Department of Public Safety, Box 4087, attn.. RF Unit, Austin TX 78773-
0250.
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08/03/2809 11: 17 4098803712 CITY OF BE404ONT TS PAGE
MOU Agreement
This MeTrprandurn of Understanding was agreed o this lj�day of
Return WO copies of anty this signature p" to 166 ad Iress biF
JURISD(CTION
Jurisdiction Narne-
Authotized Signature;
Print Name: WO A
Title:
Jurisdiction Address VA s 1&4
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Number of mobile, portable, andjor tern oraLry, base radios to be oDeratet under OPS
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450 MHz Narrowbanci
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(Thlo Ink--b-Is rowit#4 by TxOPS M A tdAdnkyn of do 6osiise3 from thp)FCo,)
TEXAS UePARTMIEW CW PUBLIC SAFL=rf
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Authorized Signature:
-0�6i tkt Executive Di ctor
DanW Stang,Wirele;s RF& Interoperability Cootdinatcr
Texas DP$Bureau c f Law Enforcement
Communications an Technology
5805 North Lamar, ly SC 0259
Austin, Texas 7Ma 0250
Tel. 512-424-53017 rAX 512424-5320
Background Note to Users of the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan
Nation-wide, public safety communication is in a period of great change driven by FCC regulatory
changes, by new technology, and by federal grant funding requirements.
Specifically:
• Long-used VHF and UHF wideband radio channels with 15 / 25 kHz spacing are being
augmented by and ultimately will be replaced with narrowband radio channels. This will
create more communications channels for public safety users. Unfortunately, the new
narrowband channels are fitted within and between the old wideband channels which will
result in interference between wideband and narrowband users.
• Generally, radios manufactured after 2000 are capable of operation on both wideband and
narrowband channels. Due to interference, narrowband channels cannot be used effectively
if a wideband co-channel or a wideband adjacent channel is being used within the
operational range of either user.
• The Federal Communications Commission has (in effect) established a deadline for
wideband system conversion to narrowband by January 1, 2013, even though many
wideband licenses expire after this date. Prior to 2013 an existing license must be modified
to show a narrowband emission that is at or below 11K3. In addition, the licensee must file
a certification that the system has been converted to this new bandwidth. If both of these
are not completed by 2013, the license will automatically cancel. There is no provision to
operate secondary in a continued wideband mode. It is narrowband or nothing after
12/31/2012. This plan addresses these problems by allowing use of wideband mutual aid
channels only until January 1, 2013.
• Both wideband and narrowband communications radios have traditionally used analog
modulation to convey the voice. Beginning in 2005, equipment capable of either analog or
digital modulation began to become widely available, most built to be compliant with the
APCO Project 25 specifications (often designated "P25").
• As of this release date, there is currently no regulatory requirement or deadline to
change from analog modulation to digital modulation on VHF, UHF, and 800 MHz bands.
Therefore, this plan presumes that some public safety users may not immediately
purchase digital-capable radio equipment and, for that reason, all mutual aid channels
are defined to use analog modulation until January 1, 2015. Beginning January 1, 2015
all communications using interoperability channels in Texas must utilize compliant P25
Phase 1 (CAI) digital modulation. Jurisdictions are urged to plan accordingly.
• The Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee anticipates that all federal grants
will soon require that grant funds be spent only for P25 compliant digital-capable equipment
and advises all jurisdictions to purchase P25 compliant equipment.
• Hurricane Katrina re-emphasized the need for common mutual aid / interoperability
channels in public safety radios. Also highlighted was the need for all public safety radio
users to have common labels for these channels. In response to the U.S. Congress and to
Federal Homeland Security, a national common naming plan has been established for use
in all jurisdictions within the United States. These names are reflected in this document.
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• This Channel Plan is consistent with current regulatory requirements, technical standards,
and grant guidelines as they are understood at the time of issue.
10
Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan
For FCC Designated Public Safety Interoperability Channels 150 MHz —800 MHz
1. INTRODUCTION
This Channel Plan describes conditions and guidelines for use of state-licensed interoperability or
mutual-aid radio channels by:
• Local government jurisdictions and their associated emergency response agencies
• Federal agency offices in Texas and their associated emergency response organizations
• Private emergency response organizations licensed or eligible to operate in the Public
Safety Pool as defined in Part 90 of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Rules
(47CFR subpart B paragraphs 90.15-90.20). For further information on FCC public safety
radio pool eligibility for statewide use of interoperability channels within Texas, see
http://wireless.fcc.gov/publicsafetv/pspool.html .
License privileges are extended to organizations that have executed an acceptable Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU)with the Texas Department of Public Safety. These licenses provide for:
• Operation of VHF, UHF, 700 MHz band, and 800 MHz band radio equipment on
interoperability or mutual aid channels within the boundaries of Texas
• Operation of mobile, portable, temporary base, temporary repeater and temporary control
station radios only. Fixed-base stations, such as dispatch points, PSAP's, etc., must be
separately licensed by the jurisdiction, agency, or private emergency response organization
• Permanently-installed standby repeaters must be separately licensed
By executing an acceptable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) associated with this Texas
Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan, public safety entities may operate under existing Texas
Department of Public Safety(TxDPS) state licenses:
Channel Band FCC License
150 MHz Wideband WPY1930
150 &450 MHz Narrowband WQBC290
700MHz WPTZ776
800 MHz NPSPAC WPGV572
800 MHz Mutual Aid WQDW771
2. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR USE OF DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY LICENSED
INTEROPERABILITY CHANNELS
By executing the MOU associated with this Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan,
signatories agree to abide by the following general conditions:
Operational
• Interoperability calling channel and tactical channels should be programmed into all mobile,
portable, and temporary base radios operated by signatory agencies and organizations. At
a minimum, the channels should be programmed into all radios that can reasonably be
expected to be operated by agency or organization leadership (officers, incident
commanders, etc.)
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• Use of the interoperability channels shall be limited to their designated purpose of
coordination between emergency response agencies, dispatchers, and resources in the
field. Such coordination may occur during en-route travel,during exercises, or on-incident.
• The interoperability channels are not be used for routine dispatch operations, but may be
used by dispatchers for communications with personnel in the field, in accordance with local
and regional policies and procedures. The interoperability tactical channels may be used for
day-to-day emergency operations in the absence of higher priority events.
• Use of the interoperability channels shall be prioritized as follows:
1. Emergency or urgent operation involving imminent danger to life or property
2. Disaster or extreme emergency operation requiring extensive interoperability and
inter-agency communications
3. Special event, generally of a pre-planned nature
4. Joint training exercises
5. Inter-agency and en-route communications in accordance with local and regional
policies and procedures.
6. Day-to-day tactical communications on scene
• Use of the interoperability channels for on-incident communications shall be in accordance
with an Incident Communications Plan established by the on-scene incident commander.
The controlling agency for an incident shall, through its Incident Commander, assign and\or
reassign interoperability channels for each operational period as required to support incident
operations.
• Radio communications procedures on the interoperability channels must be consistent with
the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS)
shall be implemented, specifically including:
• Use "plain or commonly understood language" without 10-codes or agency-specific
codes/jargon
• Use the calling order, "Agency-Unit #, this is Agency-Unit #" calling order, rather
than "Unit#to Unit#"
Example: "Bryan 1605 this is Tyler 2102" or"Incident Command this is DPS 505
• Interoperability channels may be used only for voice traffic with the exception of specifically
identified data-only channels (see Figure 4). Paging, alert tones, and SCADA operations
are not permitted on interoperability calling or tactical channels. Mobile data operations may
be conducted on 700 MHz channels labeled for data in the tables. User-initiated telephone
interconnect, e.g, phone patch, is not permitted on the interoperability channels.
• All mobile and portable radio equipment should employ a time-out timer set to limit
transmission duration to a period of no greater than 120 seconds (2 minutes).
• To alleviate confusion, the standard channel names listed in this plan should be used in all
equipment to refer to individual channels. Previously used mutual-aid channel designations
("Intercity, VTAC1, etc.), are no longer valid, and should be removed from equipment in the
field.
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• Radios not capable of displaying alphanumeric channel labels should be placarded to
indicate the channel names and their corresponding positions on the radio's channel
selector switch.
Co-Channel and Adjacent Channel Interference
The statewide interoperability channels, Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS)
tones and Network Access Codes(NAC) are designated statewide under this plan and thus co-
channel interference by/with other simultaneous incidents is possible. Given adequate
geographic separation, coordinated co-channel operations at separate incidents and venues
may be conducted if effective radiated power (ERP) is limited to the minimum level required to
maintain reliable communications at each incident.
Because the FCC has established new narrowband channels within and adjacent to existing
wideband channels below 512 MHz, interference to and with these properly-licensed wideband
channel users is expected to occur. If interference to the interoperability channels (either
wideband or narrowband) from licensed users who are signatory to this plan occurs during an
incident, those users should consider their communications to be secondary to emergency
interoperability traffic on the interoperability channels.
Co-channel and adjacent channel interference issues during an incident or event must be
resolved by the on-scene incident commander. The Texas Department of Public Safety should
immediately be notified of interference to the interoperability channels in order to assist in
resolution of the problem.
Calling Channels
Initial radio contact during travel to or arrival at an emergency incident may be established on an
appropriate interoperability calling channel.
• Calling channels designated as TEXAS LAW 2, VCALL10, UCALL40, 7CALL50, and
8CALL90 are intended to provide for local and itinerant-user communications with local
public safety dispatchers.
Additionally, the calling channels may be used by en-route emergency resources seeking to
make contact with the Incident Command Post or staging area(s)at a large-scale incident.
• Calling channel communications shall use non-encrypted analog FM emissions until
January 1, 2015. Exception: All 700 MHz interoperability channels must utilize Project 25
Phase 1 Common Air Interface CAI digital modulation. Beginning January 1, 2015 all
communications using interoperability channels in Texas must utilize compliant P25 Phase 1
CAI digital modulation.
• If a region (or an adjacent region) has wideband VHF users, Texas Law 2 should be
continually monitored by public safety dispatch points within the affected regions until
January 1, 2013.
• At a time to be identified in the regional interoperability plan, Texas Law 2 monitoring should
be augmented by monitoring of the narrowband VHF channel VCALL10. Note the VCALL10
implementation date of January 1, 2008 that is identified in the MOU and associated with
this channel plan.
• If a region (or an adjacent region)has wideband UHF users, a regionally-identified wideband
UHF channel should be continually monitored by appropriate dispatch points within the
affected region(s) until those users substantially complete conversion to either narrowband
UHF or another channel band. These wideband UHF channels must be licensed separately
13
and are not covered by this plan. At a time to be identified in the regional interoperability
plan but not later than January 1, 2013, wideband UHF monitoring should be augmented by
or converted to the narrowband UHF channel UCALL40.
• If a region, or an adjacent region, has jurisdictions that use 700 MHz band equipment, the
channel 7CALL50 should be continually monitored by appropriate dispatch points within the
affected regions.
• At a time to be identified in the regional interoperability plan, any existing interoperability
channel monitoring should be augmented by the channel 7CALL50 within the affected
regions.
• If a region, or an adjacent region, has 800 MHz band users, the 800 MHz channel 8CALL90
should be continually monitored by appropriate dispatch points within the affected regions.
Monitoring of VHF wideband channel Texas Law 2 is wide-spread throughout the state and
should continue until January 1, 2013. Monitoring of the 800 MHz NPSPAC channels is
common in the metro areas as well. Regional interoperable communication plans should
recognize and address the monitoring capabilities that will be needed within their jurisdictions in
order to assure interoperability among public safety users. For some regions, monitoring VHF
and 800 MHz calling channels may be adequate. Other regions may need to monitor additional
interoperability channels in order to assure that interoperability is achieved.
CTCSS and NAC Coded Squelch
Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and/or digital Network Access Code (NAC)
shall be used on the interoperability calling and tactical channels to mask interference, in
accordance with the figures and dates listed in this plan. Wideband VHF interoperability
channels are included in only the CTCSS requirement (see Section 3 for specific details).
• The CTCSS tone of 156.7 shall be used for all analog operation on interoperability channels
with the exception of the wideband VHF channels (see Section 3 for specific deta icy
• All fixed, temporary, mobile and portable analog transmitters will encode 156.7 Hz
• Receivers should be set for carrier squelch operation unless conditions in the area
require the use of tone protection to mitigate adjacent channel interference, or
interference from intermodulation products. In these cases receivers shall be set to
decode 156.7 Hz.
• Subject to approval from applicable regional planning committees, mobile relay
stations that are part of a local, regional or statewide interoperability plan may be
equipped with a second receive CTCSS tone to provide local (in cabinet) relay
operation, provided:
■ The relay transmitter continues to transmit the CTCSS tone of 156.7 Hz
so that all users within range of the station are aware the station is in use; and
• The relay will accept the CTCSS tone of 156.7 Hz and present the audio
accompanying the 156.7 Hz-encoded transmission to either the associated
network or a live operator at the appropriate controlling dispatch facility; and
• The operational configuration of the mobile relay station is published in
the applicable regional interoperability resource tracking documents (Texas
Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan, regional Interoperable Radio
Communication Plan, and/or FCC approved Regional Planning Committee plans)
and databases (CAPRAD and/or CASM).
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• The Network Access Code (NAC) $293 hex (659 decimal) is required for all P25 digital
operations on the interoperability channels
o Subject to approval from applicable regional planning committees, mobile relay
stations that are part of a local, regional or statewide interoperability plan may be
equipped with a second receive NAC to provide local (in cabinet) relay operation,
provided:
• The relay transmitter continues to transmit the$293 hex or 659 decimal NAC so
that all users within range of the station are aware the station is in use;
• The relay will accept the $293 hex (659 decimal) NAC and present the audio to
either the associated network or a live operator at the appropriate controlling
dispatch facility; and
• The operational configuration of the mobile relay station is published in the
applicable regional interoperability resource tracking documents (Texas
Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan, regional Interoperable Radio
Communication Plan, and/or FCC approved Regional Planning Committee plans)
and databases (CAPRAD and/or CASM).
Only the CTCSS tones and NAC Codes identified in this channel plan are allowed on the
interoperability channels within the state except as noted above. These tones and codes shall
not be changed nor others added by an individual agency, communications vendor, or
maintenance service provider.
Responding agencies from outside of Texas, and some in-state agencies with legacy
equipment, may not have the CTCSS transmit tones installed on analog VHF wideband
interoperability channels. All analog mobile, portable, and temporary base VHF wide band radio
receivers should have the ability to operate in a carrier squelch (monitor) mode.
Modulation and Encryption
This plan identifies allowable modulation and encryption on calling and tactical channels:
• Calling Channels: Until January 1, 2015, analog modulation is mandato JaL on all calling
channels to facilitate interoperability with legacy radio equipment in the field. Exception:
Communications on 700 MHz interoperability channels must always use P25 Phase 1 CAI
digital modulation.
• Tactical Channels: Until January 1, 2015, analog modulation is preferred on all
interoperability tactical channels to facilitate interoperability with legacy radio equipment in
the field. Exception: Communications on 700 MHz interoperability channels must always
use P25 Phase 1 CAI digital modulation.
Local agencies may use interoperability tactical channels for day-today emergency related
purposes not requiring communications with emergency resources from other jurisdictions.
In such events, non-encrypted digital modulation is authorized on tactical interoperability
channels in all bands. When used, digital modulation for interoperability channels shall be
P-25 Phase 1 CAI compliant and shall use the following configuration criteria:
• Network access code shall be $293 hex (659 decimal)
• Talk group ID shall be 0001 (hex or decimal)
• Manufacturer's ID shall be 00 (hex or decimal)
• Message ID shall be 00000000000000000000 (20 zero's, hex or decimal)
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• For occasional pre-planned events where communications security is an issue, encrypted P-
25 Phase 1 CAI modes are authorized on tactical channels. Specific encryption algorithms
and encryption keys shall be as defined by the event incident commander.
• Beginning January 1, 2015, all equipment operating on interoperability channels identified in
this plan must be compliant with and use P25 Phase 1 CAI digital modulation.
Temporary Base and Repeater/Mobile Relay Stations
Temporary base stations and repeater/mobile relay stations are permitted by the MOU
associated with this channel plan, with the following conditions or restrictions:
• Temporary base stations and temporary repeater/mobile relays antennas may not exceed
13.3 meters (40 feet)above terrain or structure.
• Temporary base stations and temporary repeater/mobile relays that are deployed under this
plan may not exceed FCC licensed limitations:
Transmitter Power Effective Radiated Power(ERP)
o VHF Wideband: 50 100
o VHF Narrowband: 50 100
o UHF narrowband: 100 200
0 700 MHz P-25 35 35
0 800 MHz Temp Base: 35 35
0 800 MHz Repeater: 75 75
• Temporary base stations and repeater/mobile relay stations must incorporate automatic
station identification, using the appropriate call sign(s)per Part 90 of the FCC rules.
• Temporary base and repeater/mobile relay stations shall have a time-out timer limiting
transmit duration to no greater than 120 seconds (2 minutes).
• Temporary base and repeater/mobile relay stations when operating in the repeater mode
shall be configured to immediately drop transmit carrier upon cessation of input signal (no
"hang time"). Reasonable squelch hang time for weak received signals or signals that have
achieved a critical bit error rate (BER) is permitted.
• Temporary base stations, repeaters or mobile relays must utilize manual switching or
dedicated RF control links, wireline, microwave, fiber or satellite circuits as a means of
primary control. Interoperability channels shall not be enabled, disabled or muted by any
over-the-air signaling device (selective or DTMF signaling, etc) as a primary means of
control.
• Temporary base and repeater/mobile relay stations shall not be left in permanent operation
and must be disabled upon conclusion of an incident or exercise. Permanently installed
Standby Repeaters, if identified in regional interoperability plans, must be separately
licensed. Contact the Texas DPS RF Unit 512-424-2104 for assistance.
• End-of-transmission "courtesy tones" or "beeps" are not allowed on any interoperability
channel.
16
3. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --VHF 150 MHz Wideband Channels
(This section to be removed 1-1-2013)
The eight wideband VHF interoperability channels described in Figure 1 may be used until January
1, 2013, in accordance with regional interoperability planning.
Note the following:
• The channels Texas Law 1 and Texas Law 2 are designated as multi-discipline, multi-
agency public safety interoperability channels for all public safety agencies and other
signatories to the MOU associated with this channel plan. Texas Law 1 and Texas Law 2
should not be used for routine day-to-day dispatch operations. [previously designated as
"intercity" channels.]
• Texas Law 1 is designated as the primary on-incident calling and coordination channel for
mobile and portable units. Note that mobile and portable units in the field will hear nearby
transmissions directed to dispatch centers on Texas Law 2 but will not hear dispatch center
responses.
• Texas Law 2 is designated as the primary transient/en-route calling channel for
interoperable VHF wideband channel communications between mobile/portable units and
fixed or temporary dispatch, incident base, and repeater stations. Note: the Texas Law 2
channel is no longer designated as an "Intercity" channel.
• Texas Law 3 is designated as a tactical frequency primarily for law enforcement-related
incidents/events, but can be used as determined by the incident commander for any
discipline.
• Texas Fire 1, 2 and 3 are designated as tactical channels primarily for fire agencies, but can
be used as determined by the incident commander for any discipline. Texas Fire 1 is widely
used as a Command channel on wild fire incidents.
• Texas Med 1 is designated as a tactical channel primarily for medical agencies, but can be
used as determined by the incident commander for any discipline. Texas Med 1 is
recommended for landing zone communications with EMS helicopters.
• Texas Air 2 is designated for Ground-to-Air communications with State and Federal Aircraft
ONLY that may be assigned to an incident or event. It is to be used with only state and
federal aircraft and is not designated for use with local aircraft, including local EMS aircraft.
Other frequencies associated with the VHF wideband frequencies can be used with local
EMS aircraft, such as Texas Med 1.
• Mobile Command Posts should be equipped with temporary base station radios as follows:
• Texas Law 2 Base, dedicated to monitoring at all times (station class FBT)
• Other interoperability simplex channels (station class FBT)
• TXRPT A or B control station (station class FX1T)
17
Figure 1
VHF 150 MHz Wideband Interoperability Channels
Valid Until January 1. 2013
Emission Designator 20KOF3E
NP
Ss
t
TXLAW 1 154.950 154.950 BT/ CSQ Only Tactical Channel
MO
TXLAW2 155.370 154.950 FBT/ 127.3 TX Calling Channel
(Mobile) MO Only (Mobile&Portable)
TXLAW3 155.475 155.475 BTO/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
TXFIRE1 154.280 154.280 BT/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
MO
TXFIRE2 154.265 154.265 FBT/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
MO
TXFIRE3 154.295 154.295 BT/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
MO
TXMED1 155.340 155.340 BT/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
MO
TXAIR2 151.385 151.385 BT/ 127.3 Tactical Channel
MO
11T
l CT� x alp xr ,
S$ ` ' f Mass TrU
3112012
TXLAW2 155.370 154.950 FBT 127.3 Hz For temporary on scene use(typically
trailer or command vehicle mounted)
• The VHF wideband interoperability channels are also licensed by many agencies for routine
public safety operations. As such, these channels are being used for day-today operations
throughout the state and are therefore available for interoperability only on a shared basis
with existing license holders. Localized, non-emergency traffic has traditionally taken place
on Texas Law 1 and Texas Law 2. Local agency licensees are strongly encouraged to keep
such traffic to a minimum and to curtail that activity during ongoing incidents.
• This channel plan establishes specific labels for VHF wideband interoperability channels to
assure consistent use throughout the state. These labels are listed below and all
18
participating agencies should use these labels if possible. Alphanumeric displays should be
consistent with the examples listed below depending on each radio's capability. Any
reference to previous identifiers (for example "Intercity") should be removed from the radio
display.
• 3-Digit—TI-1 /TF1 /TM1 /TA2
• 6-Digit—TEX L1 /TEX F1 /TEX M1 /TEX A2
• 8-Digit—TEX LAW1 /TEXFIRE1 /TEX MED1 /TEX AIR2
• 8-digit Alternative: TL1TAC, TL2Call, TL3TAC, TF1TAC, TF2TAC, TF3TAC,
TM1TAC, TA2AIR
• 10-Digit —TEXAS LAW1 /TEXASFIRE1 /TEXAS MED1 /TEXAS AIR2
4. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Channels
The fifteen VHF narrowband channels described in Figure 2 are licensed for simplex operation and
may be used in accordance with regional interoperability plans. However, users should recognize
that in-coming resources from out-of-region may not yet be equipped with these channels.
All channels may be used in conjunction with a temporary patch or temporary gateway connection
provided that they do not cause interference. None of the interoperability channels may be used for
routine dispatch operations.
19
Figure 2
VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz)
Emission Designators 11 K2F3E, 11 K3F3E, 11 K2G2E
_ r x
-
x
1 �J
VCALL10 155.7525 155.7525 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Calling Channel
VTAC11 151.1375 151.1375 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VTAC12 154.4525 154.4525 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VTAC13 158.7375 158.7375 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VTAC14 159.4725 159.4725 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE21 154.2800 154.2800 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE22 154.2650 154.2650 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE23 154.2950 154.2950 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE24 154.2725 154.2725 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE25 1542875 154.2875 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VFIRE26 154.3025 154.3025 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VMED28 155.3400 155.3400 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
(for ground to air use)
VMED29 155.3475 155.3475 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VLAW31 155.4750 155.4750 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
VLAW32 155.4825 155.4825 FBT/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
Note the following:
• The narrowband VHF interoperability channels VCALL10 through VLAW32 are identified for
interoperability use within Texas. The channel VCALL10 is designated by this plan as a
multi-discipline, multi-agency public safety interoperability calling channel for all public safety
agencies and other signatories to the MOU associated with this channel plan.
20
• The tactical channels VTAC11 through VLAW32 are identified by this plan as multi-
discipline, multi-agency public safety interoperability tactical channels for all public safety
agencies and other signatories to the MOU associated with this channel plan. The tactical
channels may be used for day-today agency operations, secondary to users at higher
priority incidents requiring interoperability.
• At large incidents, all of the tactical channels including those that are identified by discipline
(Law, Fire, and Med) may be assigned by the on-incident commander as needed without
regard to discipline.
• VMED28 is designated for Ground-to-Air communications with EMS helicopters and other
aircraft that may be assigned to an incident or event.
• Mobile Command Posts should be equipped with temporary base station radios as follows:
• VCALL10 Base, dedicated to monitoring at all times (station class FBT)
• Interoperability simplex channels base stations (station class FBT)
• Interoperability repeater control stations (station class FX1T)
• National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names have been undertaken to
ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. In accordance
with these efforts, the labels shown are to be implemented by as soon as possible, but no
later than January 1, 2009. These labels are listed in the Figure 2 and all participating
agencies must use these labels.
5. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --UHF 450 MHz Wideband Channels
This section will become invalid and will be removed from this plan on January 1, 2013.
Wideband UHF interoperability channels present challenges to the state. The FCC has not
identified specific UHF wideband channels for use in interoperability situations. Although a
substantial amount of UHF radio equipment is being used throughout the state, in many cases
these UHF users are geographically dispersed. Many EMS responders utilize UHF wideband
equipment to communicate with hospitals and this equipment should be accounted for in regional
interoperability solutions. Some public safety agencies using UHF equipment have deployable
systems to provide an interface with other users and for on-incident commanders.
Regionally based interoperability solutions must consider how to incorporate wideband UHF users
into their respective regional interoperability plans. The General Conditions in section B of this
MOU should be included in such plans. If a deployable UHF gateway or a console patch is used
with the interoperability channels identified in this MOU, this interconnected equipment should
conform to the Conditions and Guidelines set out in this MOU.
6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Channels
The eight UHF narrowband channels described in Figure 3 may be used in accordance with
regional interoperability plans. However, users should recognize that in-coming resources from out-
of-region may not yet be equipped with these channels.
All channels may be used in conjunction with a temporary patch or temporary gateway connection
provided that they do not cause interference. None of the interoperability channels may be used for
routine dispatch operations. For narrowband UHF interoperability, the four narrowband repeater
channels (with direct) described in Figure 3 below will be used.
21
i
Figure 3
UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz)
Emission Designators 11 K2F3E, 11 K3F3E, 11 K2G2E
�� 5IAD
Lab4t41�re1 11
F�r1� `I � � AgUjd 54
UCALL40 453.2125 458.2125 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Calling Channel
(Repeater)
UCALL40D 453.2125 453.2125 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Calling Channel
(Direct)
UTAC41_ 453.4625 458.4625 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
Channel'
UTAC41 D 453.4625 453.4625 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
(Direct)
UTAC42 453.7125 458.7125 FX1T/'MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
Channel
UTAC42D 453.7125 453.7125 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
(Direct)
UTAC43" 453.8625 458.8625 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
Channel
UTAC43D 453.8625 453.8625 FX1T/MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Repeater
(Direct)
"ernptil�ary II(1f �+ I� Cxi ;iealt�r Cdr>figui�t� i
y
3 --77T777
Ctec U's
Ex.
UCALL40 458.2125 453.2125 FB2T 156.7 $293/659 Mobile Command Post
Calling Channel Base
UTAC41 458.4625 453.4625 F62T 156.7 $293/659
UTAC42 458.7125 453.7125 FB2T 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
Repeater Channels
UTAC43 458.8625 453.8625 FB2T 156.7 $293/659
Note the following:
• The narrowband UHF interoperability channels UCALL40 through UTAC43 are identified for
interoperability use within Texas. The channel UCALL40 is designated by this plan as a
22
multi-discipline, multi-agency public safety interoperability calling channel for all public safety
agencies and other signatories to the MOU associated with this channel plan.
• The tactical channels UTAC41 through UTAC43 are identified by this plan as multi-
discipline, multi-agency public safety interoperability tactical channels for all public safety
agencies and other signatories to the MOU associated with this channel plan. The tactical
channels may be used as day-to-day emergency operations channels, secondary to users
at higher priority incidents requiring interoperability.
• At large incidents, all of the tactical channels may be assigned by the on-incident
commander as needed without regard to discipline.
• The channels UCALL and UCALLD are designated as multi-discipline, multi-agency public
safety interoperability calling channels for all public safety agencies and other signatories to
the MOU associated with this channel plan.
• The UCALL channels are designated for interoperable UHF narrowband communications
between mobile/portable radios and base stations, temporary base stations and incident
commander.
• The tactical repeater channels UTAC1 — UTAC3 and talk-around channels UTAC1D-
UTAC31D should be assigned by the incident commander.
• National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names have been undertaken to
ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. In accordance
with these efforts, the labels shown are to be implemented by as soon as possible, but no
later than January 1, 2009. These labels are listed in the Figure 3 and all participating
agencies must use these labels.
7. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --700 MHz Channels
For narrowband 700 MHz interoperability, the 32 narrowband repeater channels, with their
associated 32 direct channels, are described in Figure 4 below.
23
Figure 4
700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz)
Emission Designator 11 K2G2E
SO
aGM s. ..,., .
E has k;
'��'�'o r ,d
Q
°�^�k°ar � e Y� �� A 6iEp
7CALL50 769.24375 799.24375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Calling Channel
7CALL50D 769.24375 769.24375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Calling Channel(Direct)
7TAC51 769.14375 799.14375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC51D 769.14375 769.14375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC52 769.64375 :799.64375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC52D 769.64375 769.64375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC53 770.14375 800.14375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC53D 770.14375 770.14375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC54 770.64375 800.64375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC54D 770.64375 770.64375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC55 769.74375 799.74375 FX1 T/MO', $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC55D 769.74375 769.74375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC56: 770.24375 800.24375 FX1T7 MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC56D 770.24375 770.24375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7GTAC57 770.99375 800.99375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7GTAC57D 770.99375 770.99375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7MOB59 770.89375 800.89375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MOB59D 770.89375 770.89375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7LAW61 770.39375 800.39375 FX1 T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
24
7LAW61 D 770.39375 770.39375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7LAW62 770.49375 800.49375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7LAW62D 770.49375 770.49375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7FIRE63 769.89375 799.89375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel'
7FIRE63D 769.89375 769.89375 FX1T 1 MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7FIRE64 769.99375 799.99375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7FIRE64D 769.99375 769.99375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7MED65 769:39375 799.39375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MED65D 769.39375 769.39375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7MED66 769.49375 799.49375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MED66D 769.49375 769.49375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7DATA69 770.74375 800.74375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7DATA69D 770.74375 770.74375 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC71 773.10625 803.10625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC71 D 773.10625 773.10625 FX1T/MO $2931659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC72 773.60625 803.60625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC72D 773.60625 773.60625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC73 774.10625 804.10625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC73D 774.10625 774.10625 FX1T!MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC74 774.60625 804.60625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC74D 774.60625 774.60625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC75 773.75625 803.75625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC75D 773.75625 773.75625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7TAC76 774.25625 804.25625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7TAC76D 774.25625 774.25625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7GTAC77 774.85625 804.85625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
25
7GTAC77D 774.85625 774.85625 FX1 T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7MOB79 774.50625 804.50625 FX1T I MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MOB79D 774.50625 774.50625 FX1T/MO $2931659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7LAW81 774.00625 804.00625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7LAW81 D 774.00625 774.00625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7LAW82 774.35625 804.35625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel'
7LAW82D 774.35625 774.35625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7171RE83 773.50625 803.50625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7FIRE83D 773.50625 773.50625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7FIRE84 r 773.85625 "803.85625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7FIRE84D 773.85625 773.85625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7M'ED86 773.00625 803.00625 FX1T/MO $2931659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MED86D 773.00625 773.00625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7MED87 773.35625 803.35625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7MED87D 773.35625 773.35625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
7DATA89 774.75625 804.75625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Repeater Channel
7DATA89D 774.75625 774.75625 FX1T/MO $293/659 Tactical Channel(Direct)
26
Teiperarall�ng`Channel f Tactrcai Repeate �t�firicn
9 s x ,OR
m
Station R25 I 1.Label Ta�smi4 Receive .- iaes Me>lc .,. use
5 � h
7CALL50 769.24375 799.24375 F62T $2931659 Temporary Calling Channel Repeater
7TAC51 769.14375 799.14375 F132T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC52 769.64375 799,64375 F132T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC53 770.14375 800.14375 F82T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC54 770.64375 800.64375 F62T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC55 769.74375 799.74375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC56 770.24375 800.24375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7GTAC57 770.99375 800.99375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary'Tactical Repeater
7MOB59 770.89375 800.89375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7LAW61 770.39375 800.39375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7LAW62 770.49375 800.49375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7FIRE63 769.89375 799.89375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7FIRE64 769.99375 799.99375 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7MED65 769.39375 799.39375 FB2T $2931659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7MED66 769.49375 799.49375 FB2T $2931659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7DATA69 770.74375 800.74375 F62T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC71 773.10625 803.10625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC72 773.60625 803.60625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical'Repeater
7TAC73 774.10625 804.10625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC74 774.60625 804.60625 F62T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC75 773.75625 803.75625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7TAC76 774.25625 804.25625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
27
7GTAC77 774.85625 804.85625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7MOB79 774.50625'' 804.50625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7LAW81 774.00625 804A0625 FB2T' $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7LAW82 774.35625 804.35625 FB2T rr $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7FIRE83 773.50625 803.50625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7FIRE84_ 773.85625 803.85625 F132T $293/659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7MED86 773.00625 803.00625 FB2T $2931659 Temporary Tactical Repeater
7MED87 773.35625' 803.35625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical'Repeater
7DATA89 774.75625" 804.75625 FB2T $293/659 Temporary Tactical'Repeater
Note the following:
• Narrowband 700 MHz interoperability channels are identified by the FCC for interoperability
use within Texas. All fixed 700 MHz interoperable channel locations must be reviewed by
the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC) prior to implantation.
Some of these interoperable channels may already be licensed by multiple agencies for
interoperability use throughout the state.
• All 700 MHz interoperability channels are to be used as multidiscipline, multi-agency public
safety interoperability calling channels for all public safety agencies and other signatories to
the MOU associated with this channel plan. These channels are designated for
interoperable 700 MHz narrowband communications between mobile/portable radios and
base stations, temporary base stations and on-incident incident commander.
• The tactical repeater channels and direct channels identified in Figure 4 should be assigned
on-incident by the incident commander.
• Wide implementation of 700 MHz radio systems is not anticipated until after 2008 (Some
equipment is presently capable of 700/800 MHz operation). Users of this channel plan
should anticipate development of additional guidance prior to that time.
• National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names have been undertaken to
ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. In accordance
with these efforts, the labels shown are to be implemented by as soon as possible, but no
later than January 1, 2009. These labels are listed in the Figure 4 and all participating
agencies must use these labels.
28
8. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES --800 MHz Channels
For 800 MHz interoperability, the five repeater channels (with direct) described in Figure 5 below
will be used.
Figure 5
800 NPSPAC Interoperability Channels (25 kHz)*
Emission Designator 11 K2G2E y
E lip
, ���,€�
8CALL90 851.0125 806.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Calling Channel
(Repeater)
8CALL90D 851.0125 851.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Calling Channel
(Direct)
8TAC91 851.5125 806.5125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
Repeater Channel
8TAC91 D 851.5125 851.5125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
(Direct)
8TAC92 852.0125 807.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
Repeater Channel
8TAC92D 852.0125 852.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
(Direct)
8TAC93 852.5125 807.5125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
Repeater Channel
8TAC93D 852.5125 852.5125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
(Direct)
8TAC94 853.0125 808.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
Repeater Channel
8TAC94D 853.0125 853.0125 FX1T-MO 156.7 $293/659 Tactical Channel
(Direct)
8TAC95D*** 851.5500 851.5500 MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Control
Channel(Direct)
8TAC96D*** 853.0500 853.0500 MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Control
Channel(Direct)
STAC97D"* 853.3500 853.3500 MO 156.7 $293/659 Incident Control
Channel(Direct)
8TAC95D, 8TAC96D &8TAC97D are presently used throughout the state by many jurisdictions, primarily
by fire departments. These low power mobile/portable channels may not be used in a repeater configuration
nor patched with other channels through a gateway or patching device. ERP is limited to 20 watts and only
mobile and portable operation is allowed. Base stations are not permitted.
29
A ksq s � P4'llt7�. .
8CALL90 806.0125 851.0125 F62T 156.7 $293/659 Mobile Command Post
«Calling Channel Base
8TAC91 806.5125 851.5125 FB2T 156.7 $293/659
BTAC92 807.0125 852.0125 F62T 156.7 $293/659 Incident Temporary
8TAC93 807.5125 852.5125 FB2T 156.7 $2931659 Repeater Channels
8TAC94 808`.0125 853.0125 FB2T 156.7 $2931659
Note the following:
• 800 MHz interoperability channels are identified by the FCC for interoperability use within
Texas. Some of these interoperable channels may already be licensed by multiple agencies
for interoperability use throughout the state.
• The channel 8CALL90 is designated as a multi-discipline, multi-agency public safety
interoperability calling channel for all public safety agencies and other signatories to the
MOU associated with this channel plan.
• The tactical repeater channels 8TAC91 - 8TAC94 and talk-around channels 8TAC91 D -
8TAC94D should be assigned on-incident by the incident commander.
• National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names have been undertaken to
ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. In accordance
with these efforts, the labels shown are to be implemented by as soon as possible, but no
later than January 1, 2009. These labels are listed in the Figure 4 and all participating
agencies must use these labels.
9. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES-- INTEROPERABILITY CROSS-BAND SYSTEMS
Cross-band interconnection between radio equipment operating under state-licensed channels
is authorized with three conditions:
• Cross-band operation is authorized as may be required to interconnect channels
identified in this channel plan, and interconnect to other channels that may be required
on a particular incident. On incidents, tactical channels and other local channels may be
interconnected at the direction of the incident commander.
• Cross-band operation should conform to planning requirements, as established in a
Regional Interoperability Plan, typically produced by a regional Council of Governments.
• 800-Mhz NPSPAC (conventional) channels may be cross-banded with other
interoperability channels. 800-Mhz trunked channels should not be used in cross-band
interconnections because of unpredictable PTT delay.
• Patching to/between interoperability tactical channels is permitted during incidents or
events involving interagency personnel if so directed by the incident commander.
30
• Supervised gateways, patching or cross-band repeating of tactical channels to tactical
channels in other bands is permitted under positive control of a trained dispatcher or on-
incident Communications Unit Leader (COML). A dispatcher or COML who establishes
such a calling channel patch must be capable of disabling the patch in the event of
unexpected or unacceptable interference on any of the patched calling channels.
Cross-band interconnections can be implemented in several ways:
Simple Cross-band Repeater
This approach interconnects two radios "back-to-back" such that received signals on either
receiver are re-transmitted by the other transmitter.
FIGURE 6
AUDIO&PTT
VHF 800 MHz
Antenna Antenna
IN IN
800 MHz NPSPAC ! J
Temoorary Base Station
nmm >,OUT
�JOUT Radio
8TAC 93
Simple Cross-Band Repeater
Operationally, the two channels selected will seem to be one channel, as long as all radio users
are within the coverage "footprint" of the cross-band repeater and antennas. Some push-to-talk
(PTT) delay should be expected. In this example, two tactical channels are interconnected to
enable tactical communications between resources equipped with differing equipment.
Mobile Tactical Interconnect or Radio Interoperability Gateway
This approach interconnects several radios "back-to-back" such that received signals on any
receiver are re-transmitted by all selected transmitters.
Operationally, all channels selected will seem to be one channel, as long as all radio users are
within the coverage "footprint" of the antennas being used. Some push-to-talk (PTT) delay
should be expected. In this example, several tactical channels are interconnected to enable
tactical communications between resources equipped with differing equipment.
31
Figure 7
TF2 AUDIO&PTT
Antenna /
VHF Wideband
Temporary Base Station
Radio
TEXAS FIRE 2 Fixed or Deployable
(no wideband channels after Gateway
12-31.2013
VTAC2
Antenna
'VHFNar�owlSart� -;.
Tempora a Sb won
s
VTAti2
Interconnect 1 Patch
`'Switch Bo),
UTAC3
Antenna
UHF Narrowband
Temporary Base Station
Radio
UTAC43
8TAC3 Received audio from
Antenna any receiver can be broadcast
on any or all transmitters
800,MHz NPSPAC
Temporary Base Station
Radio '
STAC92,
Mobile Tactical Interconnect or Radio Interoperability Gateway
Dispatch Console Patching
Console patching utilizes dispatch point base radios and the patching capability of a common
console system to accomplish the same interconnections described above. However, in the
case of console patching, all radio users must be within the coverage "footprint" of the base
station antenna at the dispatch point. Some push-to-talk (PTT) delay should be expected.
Operationally, all channels patched by the dispatcher will seem to be one channel.
32
Figure 8
TF2 AUDIO&PTT
Antenna /
VHF Wideband
Temporary Base Station Radio
TEXAS FIRE 2
(no wideband channels after Dispatch Console
12-31-2013 Patch Control
VTAC2
Antenna
VtIF N>�rttNkbar}d
Tamp W^t#}attoff 010
UTAC3
Antenna
UHF Narrowband
Temporary Base Station Radio
UTAC43
Received audio from
any receiver can be broadcast:
8TAC3 on any or all transmitters
Antenna -
806A HzNPSpAC
Temporary.BasaStationRadio
8TAC92
Console Patch
Note that console patching at fixed-site base stations is not authorized under state licenses for
interoperability channels. Such installations must be separately licensed.
33