Local ReconRobotics waiver applications on 70cm

Looks like Lakeland PD is one of the applicants for our 70cm band. Now, keep in mind the City of Lakeland hosts our repeater on their tower at a very desirable perch.


I do think the ARRL has made a good case in punching holes in the applicant’s waiver request along with inconsistencies with the manufacture’s marketing practices.


As I understand it the use of these devices by swat units will be very localized, in buildings, etc. This isn’t something that will be transmitting 24/7 high on a tower. This company already had this thing designed and built for other markets in the world where this part of 70cm is not used for Amateur use. It’s just disappointing the FCC didn’t make this company redesign the unit for a more appropriate frequency band. More specifically, the newly available “700MHz” that was vacated by TV broadcasters last year is being pushed for public safety video and data purposes. Obviously, ReconRobotics doesn’t want to redesign the unit if they can get it approved for use in the US as it is currently designed.


Worst case scenario if these waivers are granted I don’t think the 323mW of video is going to make 70cm unusable for us but once the barn door is open there will likely be other manufacturers pushing to use our frequency(ies) for “commercial” interests.

Petition is here.