NCJ Number
87016
Date Published
1979
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This technical assistance report identifies operational and acceptance problems for Bristol, Connecticut's new 800 MHz police radio system, and recommendations are offered for remedying the deficiencies.
Abstract
The new 800 MHz radio system has had operational difficulties and a number of equipment failures, including base repeater failures that have caused the loss of the entire system. There is currently no backup power capability; however, a backup repeater is on order. This should solve the repeater reliability problem. Further, most of the failures are being repaired in a timely fashion by the vendor, Motorola. The police union has filed suit against the city, citing a number of problems concerning the system, its procurement, and its operation. Because of the equipment's reliable operational history in other areas, it should remain in service, and accurate and complete failure logs should be made. Currently, foot patrol officers are still assigned low-band portables. This should be remedied by assigning them VHF high-band portables. Further, when a vehicle is in the repeat mode, there is no in-car communication capability. The in-vehicle monitor SP option or another method of having in-car communications when the assigned portable is out of the car should be implemented. Another method would be to assign another VHF portable to the car. Adequate officer training in the use of the system could improve equipment operation and system level performance, particularly in multiple on-scene car situations.