NCJ Number
116243
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 37 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1989) Pages: 37-44
Date Published
1989
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article describes the development and purchase of a state-of-the-art communication system for the Tempe, Arizona police department.
Abstract
The problem of crowded communications channels was studied by the Associated Public Safety Communications Officers (APCO) who recommended assigning new channels in the UHF 800 Megaherz band. This band came on line five years ago. In 1985, the Tempe police planners, proposed to procure a new communications system that assigned radios to each officer. The communications package included a Motorola SMARTNET 800-mhz trunking radio, each with its own transmitter. The system also contained Computer-Assisted Dispatch (CAD) equipment that allowed ease of access to information. The package included a computerized Hazard File, containing information relating to officer hazards at particular addresses. The article outlines several methods to save money on procuring such a system, such as fire protection and proper flooring. Hardware and security concerns are also discussed. It is reported that the administrator making the decision on a system must answer both technical and administrative questions.