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Home My WebLink AboutContract 44464 (2)� . i i . � , , �l ��f- % . . `� _ ��_ F . J' ��^`- . �.�`,�C�� l�� _% ��T} � i� �`'�,�. ... �� ,� , ��'� �a�� ,; '� �._ � � - `� }-( � ; , k,, �a 3 � „'��, �_ t�° � � • � I I � • • � . • . ' � � For FCC Designated Public Safety Interoperability Channels 150 MHz - 800 MHz Bands Developed By Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC), the Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition (TxICC), and the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) Revised March 22, 2012 (Change #14) C�FFICIAL RECORD �ITY SECRETARY �'�'a 1NORTH, �( � ' RECEIVED MAY 2 � �� RECEIVED APR � � ��j RECORD OF CHANGES Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan CHANGE #� DATE OF CHANGE DATE ENTERED CHANGE Issued 04-1-2005 Initiallssue 04-1-2005 1 4-6-2005 Deleted "narrowband" from phrase 4-6-2005 narrowband 800 , pg. 14. 2 4-6-2005 Frequencies transposed in Figure 5, 4-6-2005 pgs. 15 & 30. Deleted word "refarming" from 4-6-2005 3 4-6-2005 "refarming order", pgs. 15 & 30. 4 9-7-2006 Corrected error in 700 MHz channel g_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, clarif 1/1/2013 deadlines Name of plan changed to add the word "Statewide". General edit; Modified background note and text to require 6 9-25-2007 P25 NLT 1/1/2013; added tactical 10-20-2007 repeaters; dropped 700 MHz channels 1 MHz; changed 800 MHz NPSPAC channels b 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 availabilit 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 12 08-31-11 Updated MOU language 08-31-11 Updated Modulation requirements, removed Digital P25 13 03-06-12 Requirements, Added Fed VHF 03-06-2012 Repeaters, Changed Channel Coordination to IC, U dated SWIC 14 03-22-12 • Changed Texas Law 1 to 03-22-12 TXCALL1 D and Texas Law 2 to � TXCALL2D • Added `Office of the Texas SWIC or `TxICC to SIEC references • Removed references to P25 compliance by 2015 • Added reference to compelling reason exception for P25 • Clarified wideband and narrowband for modulation and encryption • Added footnote about how to access additional VHF Repeater Channels in an emergency • Updated tables to ensure headings were consistent throughout • Created separator line for Repeater Base Configuration in Tables 2 and 5 • Separated Table 3 into two tables, changing the Tactical Repeater Configuration to Table 4 • Created a new Table 6 for Use within Border Area for Rebanding Border communications • Changed Emission Designator to 20KOF3E for 800 NPSPAC Intero erabilit Channels �3 Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan For FCC Designated Public Safety Interoperability Channels 150 MHz — 800 MHz Table of Contents Purpose........................................................................................................................................ 5 Authority....................................................................................................................................... 5 Background Note to Users of the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan ........................11 1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................12 2. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR USE OF TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY LICENSED INTEROPERABILITYCHANNELS .................................................................................................12 Operational................................................................................................................................. 13 Co-Channel and Adjacent Channel Interference ....................................................................... 14 CallingChannels ........................................................................................................................ 14 CTCSS Coded Squelch .............................................................................................................. 15 Modulationand Encryption ......................................................................................................... 16 Temporary Base and Repeater/Mobile Relay Stations .............................................................. 16 3. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Channels ................................................17 4. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Channels ................................................21 5. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- 700 MHz Channels .............................................................................23 6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- 800 MHz Channels .............................................................................30 7. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- INTEROPERABILITY CROSS-BAND SYSTEMS ..............................32 � MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (TSICP) Original issue, April 1, 2005 Texas Department of Public Safety _�: (Federal Agency, State, Local Jurisdiction, or Emergency Service 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, and; • Private sector emergency response organizations licensed or otherwise entitled to operate in the Public Safety Pool as defined in FCC Rules, Part 90 (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 (IRCIP) of January, 2003. Authority Execution of this agreement by state and local entities is authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter 791 (local governments), Chapter 771 (state agencies), and Texas Government Code Chapter 411.0105 (Public Safety Radio Communications Council). 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 the NTA Manual, 47 CFR, Parts 2.102(c), 2.103; and 7.12. Federal agencies may execute this MOU and shall adhere to the attached guidelines. 5 Applicability This MOU authorizes the use of certain radio frequencies defined by Department of Homeland Security (Office of Division of Emergency Management. Generally, this governmental disciplines: Emergency Management Law Enforcement Fire Service Emergency Medical Services Public Works / Transportation This MOU authorizes emergency response operations, en route Communications Plan. Background by emergency response organizations as Emergency Communications) and Texas includes organizations in the following Public Safety Communications Public Health Health Care Hazardous Materials Governmental Administration use of state-licensed frequencies for the purpose of coordination between agencies and resources. Such coordination may occur during interagency travel, or on-incident communications in accordance with an Incident The 77`h Legislature, in an effort to provide for effective emergency radio agencies, called for an Interagency Radio Work Group (IRWG) to communications network. That group developed a preliminary plan that v IRWG and the Sheriffs' Association of Texas on March 27, 2001. communications by state develop a state agency ias accepted by the state 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 lnteroperability Plan (/RC/P) of January, 2003. The IRCIP addressed radio communications interoperability between state and local jurisdictions usina VHF wideband radio eauipment for dispatch, en route, and on-incident communications. In response to a Federal Communications Commission requirement for establishment of state/regional advisory committees, the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC) and the Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition (TxICC) were formally established as advisory committees to TxDPS. The Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan, developed by TSIEC and TxICC and included in this MOU, provides essential guidance for interoperable radio communications using VHF, UHF, 700 MHz, and 800 MHz radio eauipment for interagency coordination, en route travel, or on-incident communications. Understandings Texas Department of Public Safetv 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, and; 0 • Issue updates and revisions to the Texas Statewide Interopera,bility Channel Plan contained herein, upon request by the Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (TSIEC), the Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition (TxICC), and the 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; • 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; Joint training exercises, and Inter-agency and en route communications. • Implement radio communications procedures consistent with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) including: o Use "plain language" without 10-codes or agency-specific codes/jargon; o 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 "lncident Command, this is DPS 505" • 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 TSCIP. This means that, as a minimum, the interoperable frequencies would be added to the day-to-day frequencies used by that entity. 7 • The following VHF wideband interoperable channels, which are unique to Texas, will not be used after 12/31/2012, to comply with the FCC narrowbanding mandate. See Table 1 for the migration of these channels. o Texas Law 1: analog wideband VHF coordination channel for mobile-to-mobile use by emergency personnel on a scene or incident; o Texas Law 2: analog wideband VHF calling channel for mobile-to-base use by transient or en route emergency personnel; o Texas Law 3: National analog wideband VHF channel for coordination of law enforcement activities; o 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; and o Texas Medical 1, analog wideband VHF frequency primarily for use by EMS agency personnel on incidents. • 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: Texas Law 1, analog wideband VHF, will be used until December 31, 2012, at which time it will be licensed by the state of Texas as a narrowband interoperable channel, shall be labeled "TXCALL1 D" and will have the sub-audible tone of 156.7. This will be used as a Mobile-to-Mobile Calling Channel. 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 used until December 31, 2012, at which time it will be licensed by the state of Texas as a narrowband interoperable channel, shall be labeled "TXCALL2D" and will have the sub- audible tone of 156.7 on both transmit and receive. TXCALL2D will be used as a Primary Aircraft Calling Channel between state/federal aircraft and a base station. It also will serve as a backup to VCALL10 as a calling channel. The national narrowband interoperable channel, VCALL10, will be primary over TXCALL2D as a calling channel. • 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: o Texas Law 2, analog wideband VHF calling channel, until 12/31/2012; o VCALL10, analog narrowband VHF calling channel; o UCALL40, analog narrowband UHF calling channel; 0 7CALL50, digital narrowband P25 700 MHz calling Channel, and/or 0 8CALL90, analog national calling channel. 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. 0 The parties mutuallv aqree: • 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) / Office of the Texas�Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). • 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. ;� ., • Only one MOU per Jurisdiction�or Governing Body is required to cover the departments and/or sub-agencies of each jurisdiction, as long as each department or sub-agency is listed on an accompanying attachment. The attached Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (TSICP--Original /ssue 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, Public Safety Communications Service, 5805 N. Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78752. 9 Agreement �, This Memorandum of Understanding was agreed to t,�day of � � , (Please complete, sign, scan, and then email TH/S PAGE ONLY as attached file o txswic(c�dps.texas.pov; NOTE: Each jurisdiction must individually sign fhis agreement — Example: an aufhorized represenfafive of a city may sign for all public safety agencies in that city; a county may sign for volunteer fire departments (VFD) if the VFD is recognized in the county emergency manage . qwever, a county cannot sign for all cities or other public safety agencies in the counfy thaf are n�'� � overnment since they are separate legal entities; a COG CANNOT sign for all jurisdiction$ ��+ e �o�iough if is recommended that COGs do execute fhis agreement; this document is an ap" �t t tat' ��'q� Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP), and compliance with the SClPs is req $� "�l��e f deral and state granf funds. All jurisdictions must, therefore, execute this MOU.J � � b31. � � a a ;� �� % FOR JURISDICTION ��O��On..___..n0pp�b`�.-��✓��_`' ,� ```�%�'�--- - Jurisdiction Name: Authorized Signature: Print Name: Title: Jurisdiction Address: �-� F ��: �,lQ �� d. �a�S��ra. G1xY.�ecretarY .--- s��-� � _ � 11PPR6i' � . a..� l�ll [,�,f4l�I,I'C`l: . ;� p i--� - � �''' �~`' - q `'r Phone: ":� � �1.-� �j��,`s�.-m �� 1_� C, e-maiL• .-3; Ii Number of mobile, portable, temporary base, and/or mobile relay radios to be operated under TxDPS licenses: Mobile 150 MHz Wideband 150 MHz Narrowband 450 MHz Narrowband 700 MHz 800 MHz NPSPAC �S 2S ► , �d v Portable r. 3a 3a 3,50� 1912s1�- ; ��-�,-i�'x.e�f;< c��= �° � �-�- , Temporary Base- Mobile Relay .� i �, . l� F�o v 3, soD 2 (This information is required by TxDPS as a conc�itton of its licenses from the FCC.) FOR TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC S�4FETY r,. ,�. Authorized Signature:� �� '_��:_�� ~ ' ��fi� APR 1 S 2013 Pusuc s��ry COMMUNICATIONS SERVIC=.. ��: �� . Todd M. Early, Deputy Assistant Director, Public Safety Communications Service Texas DPS Law Enforcement Support Division P. O. Box 4087, MSC 0259 Austin, TX 78773 Phone: (512) 424-2121 Fax: (512) 424-2899 Todd. Early@dps.texas.gov �FPICIAL RECORD' 10 �T'. YMORTH, TX �ITIf SECRIE'TARIf 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; w«leband�_� radiQ:� ciiannels with 15/25 kHz spacing are being augmented by and ultimately:will be repla�e'd 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 11 K3. There is no provision to operate secondary in a continued wideband mode. It is narrowband or nothing after December 31, 2012. This plan addresses these problems by allowing use of wideband mutual aid channels only until January 1, 2013. • The Texas Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee / Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition 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. For bands below 512 MHz, a compelling reason exception may be granted by the Office of the Texas SWIC for jurisdictions who have a need to meet narrowband and operability requirements before they can meet the P25 standard. • 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. • This Channel Plan is consistent with current regulatory requirements, technical standards, and grant guidelines as they are understood at the time of issue. 11 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, and; • Private emergency response organizations licensed or eligible to operate in the Public Safety Pool as defined in the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Rules, Part 90, (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.qov/publicsafetv/pspool. htm I . 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, and • Permanently-installed standby repeaters must be licensed separately. 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 WPYI930 150 & 450 MHz Narrowband WQBC290 700MHz WPTZ776 800 MHz NPSPAC WPGV572 800 MHz Mutual Aid WQDW771 2. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR USE OF TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY LICENSED INTEROPERABILITY CHANNELS By executing the MOU associated with this Texas Statewide lnteroperability Channel Plan, signatories agree to abide by the following general conditions: � Operational • Interoperability calling channels 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 an agency or organization leadership (officers, incident commanders, etc.). • 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 to 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; and 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) and shall be implemented, specifically including: o Use "plain or commonly understood language" without 10-codes or agency-specific codes/jargon, and o 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 Table 3). Paging, alert tones, and SCADA operations are 13 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. • 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 designated COM-L. 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 VCALL10, UCALL40, 7CALL50, and 8CALL90 are intended to provide for local and itinerant-user communications with local public safety dispatchers. TXCALL2D is designated as a Calling Channel for State and Federal Aircraft to/from a Base Station. It also will serve as a backup to VCALL10 for other applications. TXCALL1 D is designated as a mobile-to-mobile Calling Channel. 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. 14 • Texas Law 2 monitoring should be augmented by monitoring of the narrowband VHF channel VCALL10. After January 1, 2013 Texas Law 2 will be simplex, have sub-audible tones, will be labeled as TXCALL2D, and will be narrowband use only. (See Table 1) • If a region (or an adjacent region) has UHF users, UHF channel UCALL40 should be continually monitored by appropriate dispatch points within the affected regions. • 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. • 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. CTCSS Coded Squelch Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) shall be used on the interoperability calling and tactical channels to mask interference, in accordance with the figures and dates listed in this plan. The CTCSS tone of 156.7 shall be used for all analog operation on interoperability channels. o All fixed, temporary, mobile and portable analog transmitters will encode 156.7 Hz o 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. 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 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). Only the CTCSS tones 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 15 channeis. All analog mobile, portable, and temporary base VHF wideband radio receivers shall 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: • Wideband (prior to January 1, 2013): Analog Modulation on VHF and UHF @5Khz is mandatory on all calling and tactical channels to facilitate interoperability with legacy radio equipment in the field. • Narrowband (after January 1, 2013): Analog Modulation @2.5Khz is mandatory on all calling and tactical channels to facilitate interoperability with legacy radio equipment in the field. • 800 MHz Calling Channels: Analog Modulation @4Khz is mandatory on all calling and tactical channels to facilitate interoperability with legacy radio equipment in the field. � 700 MHz interoperability channels must always use P25 Phase 1 CAI digital Modulation. • 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 COM-L. 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) 0 0 0 0 0 0 VHF Wideband: VHF Narrowband: UHF narrowband: 700 MHz P-25 800 MHz Temp Base: 800 MHz Repeater: 50 50 100 35 35 75 100 100 200 35 � f��. � Temporary base stations and repeater/mobile relay stations must incorporate automatic station identification, using the appropriate call sign(s) per FCC Rules, Part 90. • Temporary base and repeater/mobile relay stations shall have a time-out timer limiting transmit duration to no greater than 120 seconds (2 minutes). 16 • 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, wire line, 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 dual-tone multi-frequency 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 at 512-424-2104 for assistance. • End-of-transmission "courtesy tones" or "beeps" are not allowed on any interoperability channel. 3. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES — VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Channels The VHF narrowband channels described in Table 1 are licensed for simplex or half-duplex operation as indicated. These may be used in accordance with regional interoperability plans. 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. Note the following: • The narrowband VHF interoperability channels VCALL10 through TXCALL2D 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. • The tactical channels, except where designed for use with state and federal aircraft ONLY, 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-to-day 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. • VFIRE26 is designated for tactical Ground-to-Air/Air-to-Ground communications with State and Federal aircraft ONLY. • VMED28, in addition to being a medical tactical and mutual aid channel, is also designated for Ground-to-Air communications with EMS helicopters and other aircraft that may be assigned to an incident or event. 17 • TXCALL1 D will be used as a calling channel for mobile-to-mobile applications. This will provide a common channel for an interagency/inter-discipline mobile to call another mobile, especially while in travel status. • Mobile Command Posts (MCPs) should monitor VCALL10 at all times when in Operation. They should have equipment to transmit and receive all VHF interoperable simplex and repeater channels. • 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, these labels are listed in the Table 1 and all participating agencies must use these labels. �E:7 Table 1 VHF 150 MHz Narrowband Interoperability Channels** (12.5 kHz) 19 Emission Designators 11 K2F3E, 11 K3F3E, 11 K2G2E ** In an emergency, additional VHF Repeater Channels (below 150.8 MHz) can be made available by coordinating with the Texas National Frequency Manager, or via the Communications Coordination Group (CCG). Please contact the CCG through your local Disaster District Committee. Alternate contact information is: ccg@dps.texas.gov and 512-424-2755. FZ7 * Sub-audible tones, matching the transmit tones of the above VHF channels, can be added to the receive side if interference is experienced during an incident. 4. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES -- UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Channels The eight UHF narrowband channels described in Table 2 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 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 Table 2 below will be used. 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 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 UCALL40 and UCALL40D 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 UCALL40 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 UTAC41 — UTAC43 and talk-around channels UTAC41 D- UTAC43D should be assigned by the incident commander. • National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names/labels have been undertaken to ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. These labels are listed in Table 2 and all participating agencies must use these labels. 21 Table 2 UHF 450 MHz Narrowband Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designators 11 K2F3E, 11 K3F3E, 11 K2G2E 22 5. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES — 700 MHz Channels For narrowband 700 MHz interoperability, the 32 narrowband repeater channels, with their associated 32 direct channels, are described in Table 3 below. Table 4 includes the corresponding Tactical Repeater Configuration. 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 Office of the Texas SWIC 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 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. 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 Table 4 should be assigned on-incident by the incident commander. • National efforts to standardize interoperability channel names/labels have been undertaken to ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. These labels are listed in Tables 3 and 4 and all participating agencies must use these labels. 23 Table 3 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E 24 Table 3 (cont.) 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E 25 Table 3 (cont.) 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E 26 Tabie 3 (cont.) 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E The remainder of this paqe is intentionallv blank m Table 4 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E �3 Table 4 (cont.) 700 MHz Interoperability Channels (12.5 kHz) Emission Designator 11 K2G2E 29 6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES — 800 MHz Channels For 800 MHz interoperability, the repeater channels (with direct) described in Table 5 below will be used. Table 6 includes descriptions for use within the Border Area (rebanding). 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/labels have been undertaken to ensure that public safety equipment uses a common naming convention. These labels are listed in Tables 5 and 6, and all participating agencies must use these labels. The remainder of this paqe is intentionallv blank � Table 5 800 NPSPAC Interoperability Channels (20 kHz) Emission Designator 20KOF3E *** 8TAC95D, 8TAC96D and 8TAC97D are presently used throughout the state by many jurisdictions, primarily fire departments. These low-power mobile/portabie channels mav not be used in a repeater confiquration nor patched with other channels throuqh a qatewav or patchinq device. ERP is limited to 20 watts and only mobile and portable operation is allowed. Base stations are not permitted. 31 Table 6 800 NPSPAC Interoperability Channels (20 kHz) For Use within Border Area for Rebanding *TX naming convention preferred for Texas border region programming. 7. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES — INTEROPERABILITY CROSS-BAND SYSTEMS Cross-band interconnection between radio equipment operating under state-licensed channels is authorized with three conditions: 32 • 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 push-to-talk (PTT) delay. • Patching to/between interoperability tactical channels is permitted during incidents or events involving interagency personnel if so directed by the incident commander. • 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 1 AUDIO & PTT VHF Antenna 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 "footprinY' of the cross-band repeater and antennas. Some PTT delay should be expected. In this example, two tactical channels are interconnected to enable tactical communications between resources equipped with differing equipment. 33 I 800 MHz Antenna Mobile Tactical interconnect or Radio Interoperability Gateway This approach interconnects several radios "back-to-back" so 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 PTT delay should be expected. In this example, several tactical channels are interconnected to enable tactical communications between resources equipped with differing equipment. Figure 2 Mobile Tactical Interconnect or Radio Interoperability Gateway 34 TF2 AUDIO & PTT Dispatch Console Patching Console patching utilizes dispatch point base radios and the patching capability of a common console system to accomplish the same interconnections deseribed 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 PTT delay should be expected. Operationally, all channels patched by the dispatcher will seem to be one channel. Figure 3 TF2 Antenna VTA1 Antei UTA( Anter 8TAC Anter AUDIO 8 PTT / Console Patch Note that console patching at fixed-site base stations is not authorized under state licenses for interoperability channels. Such installations must be licensed separately. 35 M&C Review � � � �,., � �y I _�,�,.�w�,a�x ,� �,.yt u ��._�_ ,,._��,_��,.,��v �x_�w�a� _ 3 �,:�-,�. ��u�,z� ��r�,_�_�,��, �� _��,� ,��.�<��.�.�,��..r:�� COUNCIL ACTION: Approved on 3/19/2013 REFERENCE ** 04MOU WITH TEXAS DATE: 3/19/2013 NO ; C-26146 LOG NAME: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY CODE: C TYPE: PUBLIC CONSENT HEARING: NO SUBJECT: Authorize Execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Texas Department of Public Safety to Participate in the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan (ALL COUNCIL DISTRICTS) ��.��.��.� � _ -��:��:��:�,��.�-� ��,��. ��.�� RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Texas Department of Public Safety to participate in the Texas Statewide Interoperability Channel Plan. DISCUSSION: This Memorandum of Understanding (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. The ability to use these frequencies will enhance the City of Fort Worth's Public Safety Communication Radio System, thus providing additional communication capabilities for the City of Fort Worth public safety responders. Execution of this Agreement by state and local entities is authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter 791 (local governments), Chapter 771 (state agencies), and Texas Government Code Chapter 411.0105 (Public Safety Radio Communications Council). This MOU satisfies Federal Communications Commission Part 90 Rules for Extending License Privileges to Others by Agreement. FISCAL INFORMATION/CERTIFICATION: The Financial Management Services Director certifies that this action will have no material effect on City funds. TO Fund/Account/Centers FROM Fund/Account/Centers Submitted for City Manager's Office by� Oriqinatinq Department Head: Additional Information Contact: ATTACHMENTS Susan Alanis (8180) Peter Anderson (8781) Steve Streiffert (2221) Page 1 of 1 Officiai site of the City of �ort 1r'Ja�th, Texas http://apps.cfwnet.org/council�ackedmc_review.asp?ID=18061 &councildate=3/19/2013 5/23/2013