Union County Public Safety Agencies Switched to Digital Radios in 2019 Using SPLOST Funds

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. — Union County public safety organizations switched from analog to digital radio systems in 2019 using Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funding, according to a release from Union County Fire & Rescue.

The change was driven largely by Federal Communications Commission requirements that narrowed radio bandwidths from 25 kHz to 12.5 kHz. Officials said the narrower channels reduced the range and clarity of the older analog system, which transmitted signals as continuous waves. In some areas of the county, radio contact became limited or nonexistent after the change.

Digital systems transmit information as binary code — ones and zeros — similar to a computer. A user’s voice is converted to a digital signal, sent over the frequency, received by another radio and converted back to audible speech. The result, the release said, is clearer audio with no static and improved range, including coverage in locations that previously lacked reliable communications.

“The radio equipment and the digital format provides clearer communications with greater range,” the release stated. “This improves the safety and job capabilities of the public safety personnel who serve our community.”

Union County 911 Dispatch and field units now operate with the upgraded digital equipment.

Officials described the move as the most significant advancement in local radio communications since radios were first adopted and called it another example of SPLOST funding enhancing public safety.