Security executives may need to upgrade and modify wireless radio alarm based systems to meet National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) narrowband compliance standards. The standards apply to all products using radio-based wireless transmission for a variety of purposes. “Most of the systems currently in use do not meet narrowband standards and must be modified,” said Tom Kenty, general manager at AES-IntelliNet Alarms, Peabody, Mass. “It’s a call to action.” His firm, primarily serving the fire and intrusion security market with products that are narrowband compliant, has a narrowband upgrade program with additional information at www.aes-intellinet.com or e-mail alarmsales@aes-intellinet.com.

“Security executives should take a look at their current technology. Check your owner’s manual or, if that is unavailable, check your FCC-granted license,” Kenty said. The bottom line: new and existing systems must use the new 12.5 kHz channel spacing standard.

More radio licenses for a diversity of applications mandated the new standard, according to Kenty, who added that users such as the military, government, education institutions and corporate campuses should definitely look into the compliance change. “In our program, we discuss the change with end-users and help security operations audit current technology.” AES-IntelliNet Alarms provides a two-way radio frequency store and forward alarm communications network that is UL-listed and NFPA 72 compliant.