TECH SPEAK ARTICLES

When measurements aren't feasible 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Computer models are the next best thing for predicting radio wave propagation...

Not your father's radio network 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Managing broadband capacity in a packet-based world requires a new mindset...

A losing proposition 

By: By Harold Kinley

How RF attenuation on the transmission line affects the transmitter...

Time is money 

By: By Rob Barden

Effective testing to isolate problems can save you both...

Why isn't my walkie working? 

By: By Ira Wiesenfeld, P.E.

The answer often is simple - and usually involves the antenna...

Connecting on a personal level 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Inexpensive, low-power wireless devices let computer users "plug" into peripherals...

Keeping secrets 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

The need for privacy spurs widespread use of cryptography in radio systems...

Every toolbox needs one of these 

By: By Harold Kinley

The RF sampler is an important test accessory for any field technician...

Solving intermodulation interference 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Common problems, real-world examples and solutions...

Giving rebanding a head start 

By: By Rodrigo Oliveira

Long-term RF filtering strategies are integral to the reconfiguration of 800 MHz spectrum...

Tackling interference at the site 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Transmitter, receiver and passive intermodulation are the primary culprits...

The next level of intermodulation 

By: By Harold Kinley

Here's what to do when dealing with amplifier signals that are unequal...

The next phase of modulation 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

OFDM is emerging as the choice for high-bit-rate services...

Well-grounded principles 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Follow these guidelines to eliminate lighting damage...

The key to RF signal amplifier specs 

A primer on using one of the radio shop’s most useful and versatile tools...

The value of ferrite RF isolators 

By: By Harold Kinley

Proper use at crowded communications sites can reduce intermodulation effects...

Truly a watershed event 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

In the U.S., radio spectrum regulated by the FCC falls into two broad categories: licensed and non-licensed. Non-licensed spectrum is more popularly referred...

An introduction to 4.9 GHz 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Starting in 2003, the federal government has made available 50 MHz of new radio spectrum between 4.940 MHz and 4.990 MHz for public-safety use. This spectrum...

Deciphering RF units of measure 

By: By Harold Kinley

It is imperative that wireless communication technicians understand the various units of measurement used to quantify the level or amplitude of a radio...

Creating codes for indoor wireless 

By: By Jay M. Jacobsmeyer, P.E.

Public-safety agencies face poor indoor radio coverage, especially at 800 MHz. Poor coverage is caused by both building losses and by interference from...

Understanding standing wave ratios 

By: By Harold Kinley

The term standing wave ratio, or SWR sometimes called voltage standing wave ratio, or VSWR frequently is a subject of discussions/arguments among communication...

The ins and outs of traffic engineering 

By: By Jay M. Jaconsmeyer, P.E.

Let's start with a little quiz: Rocky Mountain Radio Co. operates three community repeaters, one for each of its three customers: Poudre Plumbing, Monument...

Essential Reading

When silence isn't golden

Radio vendors hear public safety's cry

A long way to go

A word to the wise

700 MHz auction isn't time for greed

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