Vehicular mounted repeater in emergency medical services (EMS) communications

The operation of vehicular mounted repeaters as used in emergency medical services (EMS) on the UHF MED channels is discussed. Advantages and disadvantages are examined critically as well as the compromises. The effect of this concept on the shared use of MED channels and mutual aid is explored in detail. Both one-way and two-way repeat concepts are covered. The intent of the FCC rules affected by vehicular mounted repeaters is carefully considered. The author demonstrates that the vehicular mounted repeater is not merely a piece of equipment but a very different system concept, and therefore must be considered a major decision by the system designers.