| The "V-Tac" and "U-Tac" frequencies are
new nationwide VHF and UHF interoperability channels to join the
existing 800MHz I-Tacs. They are narrowband only and
interoperability is the primary use for these channels. They
specifically are not to be used for communications internal to
one agency but rather for multiple agencies, be they neighboring
towns or from different parts of the country to talk to each
other even if they don't have any other common channels.
Agencies make contact on the calling frequency and then switch
to a "Tac" channel to communicate. Many of the VHF and UHF
channels are already licensed and in use by agencies in
Massachusetts. Click on the Frequency to see the current
licensees. Prior to Jan. 1, 2005, interoperability on
these channels will be secondary to incumbents.
After Jan. 1, 2005, the situation reverses, and
the incumbents become secondary to
interoperability use.
Individual licenses are still required for fixed
base-station operation on these channels.
Mobile operation is permitted on these channels on
a blanket basis, without an individual
license similar to the 800 MHz interoperability
channels. |
