NCJ Number
87017
Date Published
1979
Length
44 pages
Annotation
This analysis of the radio communications system for Rhode Island's Division of Drug Control finds the present system to have inadequate base station facilities, outdated mobile units, and various deficient options, and recommendations for improving the system are offered.
Abstract
The administration and enforcement programs of Rhode Island's Division of Drug Control require a reliable statewide communications system, which should be able to contact and provide fixed base support to the field agents. Further, the system should provide car-to-car communications for coordinated activities such as stakeouts, raids, and escorts. The present communications radio channel can provide the required coverage. The Division currently has several late model portable units and a late model base station, and an additional base station is on order. Basic system improvements can use the existing new equipment. All new equipment should include tone squelch option, which is a coding system where each transmitter is keyed into the system. To provide proper statewide coverage, a properly sited base station network is required (ideally located in the northern and southern portions of the State). The use of 72 MHz or 960 MHz control link systems should be investigated, and any remote equipment should provide for a battery-reverting standby power system. The present mobile units must be replaced, and a 'mobile only' channel should be added to cars and portables for use during stakeouts, raids, and surveillances. The Division should also investigate the purchase of a voice-operated recording system for recording radio and telephone traffic. Upon licensing the local and remote transceivers and the mobile units, application should be made to the Federal Communications Commission for a system license that permits all base stations and mobiles to be included under one call sign and license. Appendixes provide information on equipment and system licensing.