Applies To: Departments Transitioning to Digital, Trunked, MotoTRBO, or NXDN Radio Systems
When transitioning from an analog radio system to a digital or trunked radio system, follow these hardware and programming guidelines to ensure uninterrupted eDispatches audio alerts.
Key Transition Requirements
- Pager Tones Required: eDispatches still requires audio pager tones to trigger alerts. Notify eDispatches immediately if tone frequencies change.
- Single Talkgroup Focus: Monitor only your primary dispatch talkgroup to prevent secondary radio traffic from interfering with tone detection.
- Hardware Upgrade: Existing analog VHF/UHF scanners must be replaced with digital-compatible equipment or connected directly to a digital radio source.
Radio System Comparison
| System Type | Monitored Data | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Frequency | A single fixed radio frequency (MHz) for continuous communication. | 853.2125 MHz |
| Trunked | Talkgroup ID (TGID) | A virtual channel code dynamically assigned to active frequencies. | TGID 38032 ("Fire Network") |
Locating Your Talkgroup ID (TGID)
- Radio Technician / Administrator: Request the master list of System IDs, Control Frequencies, and dispatch TGIDs from your system manager.
- Public Databases: Reference verified radio enthusiast databases such as RadioReference.com for public agency TGIDs.
Equipment Provisioning Options
Option 1: eDispatches Pre-Programmed Digital Scanner
eDispatches can supply a digital/trunking scanner for a one-time setup fee and program it at no additional cost. Required parameters by system type include:
- Digital/Analog Trunked: System ID, Site ID (hex/decimal), Talk Group ID, State, County
- Digital Conventional: Frequency, NAC
- MotoTRBO / DMR: Frequency, Color Code, Group (TGID), Slot (TDMA)
- NXDN (NEXEDGE): Frequency, RAN (Radio Access Number)
Option 2: Direct Console / Radio Connection
Connect eDispatches equipment directly to your agency's radio console, base station, or existing digital receiver. See our Console Connection Guide for wiring specifications.
Note: Unication users can utilize the amplified charger base audio output or program custom audio files for tone dispatching.
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