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County hears LMR feasibility briefing; consultants to scope tower sites and encryption needs
Summary
Commissioners heard a technical briefing on options and costs for a Land Mobile Radio system; consultants will complete a phased feasibility study and recommend options tailored to Bourbon County's terrain and public-safety needs.
Bourbon County commissioners heard an extended briefing Aug. 25 on options and next steps for a new Land Mobile Radio (LMR) system intended to support law enforcement, fire and emergency services.
Technical background and choices
Chris Martin, information technology director for Linn County, described differences among frequencies and digital radio technologies and summarized Linn County's experience transitioning to a digital radio system. He emphasized the distinction between frequency bands (VHF, UHF, 700/800 MHz) and digital technologies (NXDN, DMR, P25). Martin and commissioners noted that VHF frequencies propagate better in hilly, tree-covered terrain common in the region; higher 700/800 MHz bands require denser infrastructure to achieve equivalent coverage.
Martin said his county chose NXDN for its environment after testing P25 (800 MHz), DMR and NXDN. He cautioned that P25 trunked 800 MHz systems can require multiple new towers and carry large price tags; a…
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