Just came up with some additional DEA UHF channels that had been previously unheard.
First, I received a report of DEA activity in the Boston area using 413.9750 MHz as an input to a 419.4250 MHz repeater. Both frequencies were using a NAC of N156. This would not only be reversed from other reports of a repeater on the 413 frequency with an input of 419, but it does not conform to the federal 9 MHz repeater offset.
Secondly, I was able to confirm that the DEA in El Paso, Texas is using 409.8250, 409.9500 and 410.8125 MHz, all with a NAC of N156. The 410.8125 MHz frequency had not been reported before.
Here then is my current list of "new" P-25 digital DEA channels in use in some areas of the country:
409.6250 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F1
409.6750 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F6
409.8125 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F7
409.8250 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F8
409.9000 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F9
409.9500 MHz, N156 - Repeater, Possible F10
410.4125 MHz, N156 - Repeater/simplex, Possible F11
410.8125 MHz, N156 - Repeater
411.1250 MHz, N156 - Simplex (SPLX 1)
411.1500 MHz, N156 - Repeater/simplex?
412.2000 MHz, N156 - Simplex (SPLX 2?)
412.5250 MHz, N156 - Simplex
413.9750 MHz, N156 - Repeater/Simplex (SPLX 3)
414.2000 MHz, N156 - Simplex (SPLX 4)
414.4500 MHz, N156 - Simplex (SPLX 5)
418.3250 MHz, N156 - Simplex or possible input to 409.3250 repeater (not heard)
418.6250 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.6250 repeater
418.6750 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.6750 repeater
418.8125 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.8125 repeater
418.8250 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.8250 repeater
418.9000 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.9000 repeater
418.9500 MHz, N156 - Input to 409.9500 repeater
419.4250 MHz, N156 - Input to 413.9750 repeater
419.9750 MHz, N156 - Input to 413.9750 repeater?
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
New Radio Systems for RNC in Tampa
While not specifically federal, this article describes the new radio systems that will be installed to support the Republican National Convention in Tampa this summer;
http://mccmag.com/onlyonline.cfm?OnlyOnlineID=318
There was this line in the article;
"Additionally the subcommittee is adding components to support federal agencies in the VHF band."
http://mccmag.com/onlyonline.cfm?OnlyOnlineID=318
There was this line in the article;
"Additionally the subcommittee is adding components to support federal agencies in the VHF band."
Sunday, June 03, 2012
Des Moines, IA Area Logs
While working in the Des Moines, IA area I logged a few active federal frequencies.
165.2875, N650 - BATFE NET 1
167.8625, CSQ - VAMC Paging (Nationwide assignment)
170.8000, N293
172.9000, N001 - TSA at Des Moines International Airport
407.8375, N293 - VA Medical Center Police
416.1375, N482 - US Postal Inspectors, input to 407.1375 (GREEN Repeater)
419.0375 - Sounded like TRBO digital mode
There also appears to be quite a few channels at a major Postal Service sorting & bulk mail center:
406.3750, D065
407.3375, 103.5 pl
408.0000, 67.0 pl
409.7375, 114.8 pl
410.2000, D065
414.7250, D306
The busiest appear to the from the Iowa Air National Guard base at the Des Moines airport (KDSM). Since my last visit to the area, the frequencies have gone from analog to P25 with full time encryption! Here is what was found:
163.4625, N300 - Base Security
163.4875
163.5125, N200 - Base Fire & Crash Response
163.5375, N850
163.5875, N100 - Civil Engineering
165.0375, N450
165.1125, NA00 - POL Trucks
165.1375
165.1625
173.4125, N350
173.4375, N250 - Munitions
173.5375, N400 - Maintenance
173.5625
165.2875, N650 - BATFE NET 1
167.8625, CSQ - VAMC Paging (Nationwide assignment)
170.8000, N293
172.9000, N001 - TSA at Des Moines International Airport
407.8375, N293 - VA Medical Center Police
416.1375, N482 - US Postal Inspectors, input to 407.1375 (GREEN Repeater)
419.0375 - Sounded like TRBO digital mode
There also appears to be quite a few channels at a major Postal Service sorting & bulk mail center:
406.3750, D065
407.3375, 103.5 pl
408.0000, 67.0 pl
409.7375, 114.8 pl
410.2000, D065
414.7250, D306
The busiest appear to the from the Iowa Air National Guard base at the Des Moines airport (KDSM). Since my last visit to the area, the frequencies have gone from analog to P25 with full time encryption! Here is what was found:
163.4625, N300 - Base Security
163.4875
163.5125, N200 - Base Fire & Crash Response
163.5375, N850
163.5875, N100 - Civil Engineering
165.0375, N450
165.1125, NA00 - POL Trucks
165.1375
165.1625
173.4125, N350
173.4375, N250 - Munitions
173.5375, N400 - Maintenance
173.5625
Friday, June 01, 2012
Federal Lands Fire Management Plans
After what seemed like a long drought, with virtually no federal fire information found on-line, many federal fire planning documents are starting to be posted publicly on various Internet sites. Some have been compiled and posted on the Radio reference Federal Monitoring forum.
Here are a few that you can check out and see if the documents are still there!
Big Cypress National Preserve:
http://www.nps.gov/bicy/naturescience/upload/FMP_2010_BigCypressNationalPreserve.pdf
Grand Teton National Park:
http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/documents/local-operations/teton-area/2012_Orientation_Guide_Visiting_Resources.pdf
The Jefferson County, Colorado Airtanker Base Operations Plan:
http://gacc.nifc.gov/rmcc/dispatch_centers/r2ftc/documents/JeffcoOpsPlan2012.pdf
A notice of changes to some frequencies used by the US Forest Service Region 5 in California:
http://www.wildlandfire.com/docs/2012/safe/cwcg-safety-alert-frequencies.pdf
Information on the Klamath Falls, Oregon Airtanker Base:
http://scofmp.org/kfifc/airtank/OpsPlan.pdf
A very large map of Western US dispatching boundaries:
http://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references/Western_US_Federal_Dispatch_Boundaries/Dispatching_Boundaries_West.pdf
The South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership Channel Plan can be found here:
http://www.scofmp.org/channelplan.pdf
The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest frequency guide is here:
http://bmidc.org/files/wwradioguide.pdf
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Wallowa-Whitman%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
Fire frequency information for Malheur National Forest:
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Malheur%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
And Umatilla National Forest:
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Umatilla%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
More as I find them...
Here are a few that you can check out and see if the documents are still there!
Big Cypress National Preserve:
http://www.nps.gov/bicy/naturescience/upload/FMP_2010_BigCypressNationalPreserve.pdf
Grand Teton National Park:
http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/documents/local-operations/teton-area/2012_Orientation_Guide_Visiting_Resources.pdf
The Jefferson County, Colorado Airtanker Base Operations Plan:
http://gacc.nifc.gov/rmcc/dispatch_centers/r2ftc/documents/JeffcoOpsPlan2012.pdf
A notice of changes to some frequencies used by the US Forest Service Region 5 in California:
http://www.wildlandfire.com/docs/2012/safe/cwcg-safety-alert-frequencies.pdf
Information on the Klamath Falls, Oregon Airtanker Base:
http://scofmp.org/kfifc/airtank/OpsPlan.pdf
A very large map of Western US dispatching boundaries:
http://www.nifc.gov/nicc/logistics/references/Western_US_Federal_Dispatch_Boundaries/Dispatching_Boundaries_West.pdf
The South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership Channel Plan can be found here:
http://www.scofmp.org/channelplan.pdf
The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest frequency guide is here:
http://bmidc.org/files/wwradioguide.pdf
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Wallowa-Whitman%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
Fire frequency information for Malheur National Forest:
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Malheur%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
And Umatilla National Forest:
http://bmidc.org/files/2012%20Umatilla%20National%20Forest%20Radio%20Guide.pdf
More as I find them...
Sunday, May 20, 2012
New UHF Trunked System - Las Vegas
I'm spending a little time searching the airwaves in the Southern Nevada region. I seem to have stumbled upon yet another 400 MHz trunking system in or near the Las Vegas area.
Tonight I came across a P-25 control channel on 408.2375 MHz, showing a NAC of N490, a System ID of 49D, Site 001 and a WACN of BEE00. The two voice channels seen are 407.8375 MHz and 409.5125 MHz. The system is currently showing that it is in "Site Trunking", so no other sites are displayed.
All communications so far have been clear. I did hear CONTROL do a roll call of units NH-1, through NH-5. Lots of first names as call signs and mentions of new furniture going in the pharmacy. My first thought might be the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, (Nellis AFB and the Department of Energy maintain medical facilities as well).
The federal UHF band is pretty saturated with multiple trunked systems and conventional channels. There are already 3 wide-area UHF trunked systems covering Nellis Air Force Base and their associated ranges (P-25), the National Nuclear Security Administration and their associated ranges (Motorola Type II) and the Nevada Test & Training Range (EDACS). The frequencies associated with this new system have not been logged by myself in the past.
UPDATE: It appears that this is the new radio system for the new Las Vegas VA Hospital on Pecos Road, scheduled to open in August of 2012. I was able to confirm that the control channel for this new trunked system was emanating from here.
Tonight I came across a P-25 control channel on 408.2375 MHz, showing a NAC of N490, a System ID of 49D, Site 001 and a WACN of BEE00. The two voice channels seen are 407.8375 MHz and 409.5125 MHz. The system is currently showing that it is in "Site Trunking", so no other sites are displayed.
All communications so far have been clear. I did hear CONTROL do a roll call of units NH-1, through NH-5. Lots of first names as call signs and mentions of new furniture going in the pharmacy. My first thought might be the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, (Nellis AFB and the Department of Energy maintain medical facilities as well).
The federal UHF band is pretty saturated with multiple trunked systems and conventional channels. There are already 3 wide-area UHF trunked systems covering Nellis Air Force Base and their associated ranges (P-25), the National Nuclear Security Administration and their associated ranges (Motorola Type II) and the Nevada Test & Training Range (EDACS). The frequencies associated with this new system have not been logged by myself in the past.
UPDATE: It appears that this is the new radio system for the new Las Vegas VA Hospital on Pecos Road, scheduled to open in August of 2012. I was able to confirm that the control channel for this new trunked system was emanating from here.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
414.5625 Mhz Continued
Over the last few years I've seen reports of, and heard myself, some encrypted P-25 transmissions on 414.5625 MHz. Reports have come from Houston, Boston and Charlotte, NC of the same type traffic. The agency is unknown and traffic is, so far, entirely secure.
Initially the traffic reports had a P-25 NAC of N168 being heard, but lately the same frequency has been seen until N169 as well. Also have seen reports of what might be the same agency using 414.7500 MHz, also with a NAC of N169. 414.7500 MHz has traditionally been known as a US Postal Inspectors frequency and it is assigned to them nationwide. However, it is not an exclusive assignment. The various branches of the Department of Defense have some limited allocations of the same frequency, as well as the Bureau of Prisons.
My initial guess it might be one of the DoD Special Investigative agencies, or a DoD security detail of some sort. I have run into various DoD security details on various UHF channels over the years.
UPDATE:
I have been told by reliable sources that the frequency of 414.5625 does show some allocations to the US Postal Service in the Government Master File, but nothing else. So this could be some new assignment or some sort of special use by the Postal Inspectors. More as we find it!
Initially the traffic reports had a P-25 NAC of N168 being heard, but lately the same frequency has been seen until N169 as well. Also have seen reports of what might be the same agency using 414.7500 MHz, also with a NAC of N169. 414.7500 MHz has traditionally been known as a US Postal Inspectors frequency and it is assigned to them nationwide. However, it is not an exclusive assignment. The various branches of the Department of Defense have some limited allocations of the same frequency, as well as the Bureau of Prisons.
My initial guess it might be one of the DoD Special Investigative agencies, or a DoD security detail of some sort. I have run into various DoD security details on various UHF channels over the years.
UPDATE:
I have been told by reliable sources that the frequency of 414.5625 does show some allocations to the US Postal Service in the Government Master File, but nothing else. So this could be some new assignment or some sort of special use by the Postal Inspectors. More as we find it!
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Chicago NATO Summit
The NATO Summit is getting cranked up this week in Chicago. The Summit occurs on May 20 & 21, but preparations are already underway. It should provide some interesting listening for those in the area. I have already started to receive some reports of testing on known Secret Service and other federal frequencies.
Here is a links to some information regarding the NATO Summit:
http://securechicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/NATOSecurityTransportationPlan.pdf
And a thread on Radio Reference that contains some good information:
http://forums.radioreference.com/chicago-metro-area-discussion/239345-up-coming-nato-communications-where-listen.html
UPDATE:
Just passing through Chicago today (5/15), changing planes @ ORD today and heard some testing on a couple of Secret Service channels in the clear. Person testing mentioned that it was a "Matrix test, 1, 2...".
5/17 - Hearing reports of "NATO" units on 166.7125 MHz. The frequency has been logged previously in Chicago as the North Chicago VAMC police.
Monday, April 23, 2012
DHS Annouces Multi-Billion $ Radio Contract
Watch for continued changes in DHS radio systems in the near future:
http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20120413_8705.php?oref=rss
This contact may have been spurred on by the ending of the DHS involvement with the federal IWN radio system. The DHS is now free to develop and expand existing radio systems, including the continuing upgrade from analog to APCO P-25 digital.
http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20120413_8705.php?oref=rss
This contact may have been spurred on by the ending of the DHS involvement with the federal IWN radio system. The DHS is now free to develop and expand existing radio systems, including the continuing upgrade from analog to APCO P-25 digital.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
National Guard "Operation Phalanx" Along Border
Here is an item regarding National Guard troops being used for border protection:
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/26129?c=border_security
The ongoing program called "Operation Phalanx" will be shifting from ground based National Guard troops to airborne border observation and support with CBP. National Guard personnel will include about 200 troops who will provide mobile aerial detection and monitoring across all four southwest border states, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.
The article also mentions that the CBP Office of Air & Marine is attempting to upgrade their Blackhawk helicopters to newer UH-60L models.
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/26129?c=border_security
The ongoing program called "Operation Phalanx" will be shifting from ground based National Guard troops to airborne border observation and support with CBP. National Guard personnel will include about 200 troops who will provide mobile aerial detection and monitoring across all four southwest border states, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.
The article also mentions that the CBP Office of Air & Marine is attempting to upgrade their Blackhawk helicopters to newer UH-60L models.
North Carolina / South Carolina Logs
I recently made some driving trips in the Asheville and Raleigh, NC areas, as well as driving south to Augusta, GA though South Carolina. Here is what I logged while traveling:
166.2250, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
162.6125, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
164.3750, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
164.7625, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
165.2875, N650 - BATFE NET 1
166.0000, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
166.8875, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
167.8625, CSQ - VAMC paging in Asheville & Augusta
167.9250, CSQ - Paging from DoE Savannah
168.6750, 131.8 pl - USFS "COLUMBIA" Dispatch, Greenville, SC area
169.5500, N4C5 - GREAT SMOKEY MTN National Park "CLINGMANS DOME"
169.7375, D031 - Security patrols, ROMEO units, Raleigh - Durham area
169.9750, weak near Augusta area
170.5625, 71.9 pl - Security patrols, Raleigh - Durham area
170.9125, N130 - Near Columbia, SC on I-26
172.1875, N130
172.5000, N4C5 - GREAT SMOKEY MTN National Park "MT. STERLING"
172.7250, D051 - Blue Ridge Parkway "MT. MITCHELL", analog
172.7250, N120 - Blue Ridge Parkway "MT. MITCHELL", digital
172.7500, N130 - Blue Ridge Parkway "DOUGHTON MTN"
173.5875, N130 - US Army Corps of Engineers
173.6875, N130
173.7625, N130 - Blue Ridge Parkway "RICH MTN"
173.8125, 151.4 pl
406.1125, N010, P-25 TRS 01C
406.1375, Winston - Salem area
406.2750, N293
406.8125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
407.0125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
407.0500, Motorola Control Channel, TRS C514, Raleigh - Durham area
408.1250, N010
408.2500, Motorola Control Channel, TRS E721, Columbia, SC?
408.8125, N210 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
408.8125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
409.5625
409.7375, 107.2 pl - Winston - Salem area
410.0125
410.2125
410.3250, N352 - Raleigh - Durham area
410.5625, N010 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
410.8125, N142 - Raleigh - Durham area
410.8500, 127.3 pl
416.8750, 118.8 pl
166.2250, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
162.6125, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
164.3750, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
164.7625, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
165.2875, N650 - BATFE NET 1
166.0000, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
166.8875, N085 - Savannah DoE TRS
167.8625, CSQ - VAMC paging in Asheville & Augusta
167.9250, CSQ - Paging from DoE Savannah
168.6750, 131.8 pl - USFS "COLUMBIA" Dispatch, Greenville, SC area
169.5500, N4C5 - GREAT SMOKEY MTN National Park "CLINGMANS DOME"
169.7375, D031 - Security patrols, ROMEO units, Raleigh - Durham area
169.9750, weak near Augusta area
170.5625, 71.9 pl - Security patrols, Raleigh - Durham area
170.9125, N130 - Near Columbia, SC on I-26
172.1875, N130
172.5000, N4C5 - GREAT SMOKEY MTN National Park "MT. STERLING"
172.7250, D051 - Blue Ridge Parkway "MT. MITCHELL", analog
172.7250, N120 - Blue Ridge Parkway "MT. MITCHELL", digital
172.7500, N130 - Blue Ridge Parkway "DOUGHTON MTN"
173.5875, N130 - US Army Corps of Engineers
173.6875, N130
173.7625, N130 - Blue Ridge Parkway "RICH MTN"
173.8125, 151.4 pl
406.1125, N010, P-25 TRS 01C
406.1375, Winston - Salem area
406.2750, N293
406.8125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
407.0125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
407.0500, Motorola Control Channel, TRS C514, Raleigh - Durham area
408.1250, N010
408.2500, Motorola Control Channel, TRS E721, Columbia, SC?
408.8125, N210 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
408.8125, N216 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
409.5625
409.7375, 107.2 pl - Winston - Salem area
410.0125
410.2125
410.3250, N352 - Raleigh - Durham area
410.5625, N010 - Augusta area, Ft. Gordon TRS?
410.8125, N142 - Raleigh - Durham area
410.8500, 127.3 pl
416.8750, 118.8 pl
166.5125 MHz Mysteries
For those who have been into federal monitoring for a while, the frequency of 166.5125 MHz should appear familiar. It has been long known as the White House Communications Agency SIERRA channel, (inside info seems to indicate this now may be known as ALPHA). It always seemed to be used by the WHCA advance teams when they were in town getting ready for a visit from the VP or POTUS.
However, some reports have this channel active in areas and times when no VIP visits were planned or ever occurred. As I mentioned in my logs of Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis, local listeners heard encrypted traffic on this frequency several weeks prior to the Super Bowl. While I guessed that they have have been scouting locations for a possible Super Bowl visit from POTUS, I have heard a couple reports from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area of traffic on this frequency with more activity and longer operations that might be expected from the WHCA. One report heard some clear activity with what sounded like airborne surveillance operations, highly unlikely for the WHCA.
As far as I can tell, the frequency is an exclusive allocation to the WHCA and I've not logged any other agencies operations on this channel. But there might be a possibility that this frequency is in some Secret Service radios and they may just have decided to use it for some of their operations. There has long been an assumption that the Secret Service has some WHCA channels in their radios, as they two agencies often interact on many Executive Protection details.
Clearly, more information is needed. But keep an ear on 166.5125 MHz and see if it gets busy in your area.
However, some reports have this channel active in areas and times when no VIP visits were planned or ever occurred. As I mentioned in my logs of Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis, local listeners heard encrypted traffic on this frequency several weeks prior to the Super Bowl. While I guessed that they have have been scouting locations for a possible Super Bowl visit from POTUS, I have heard a couple reports from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area of traffic on this frequency with more activity and longer operations that might be expected from the WHCA. One report heard some clear activity with what sounded like airborne surveillance operations, highly unlikely for the WHCA.
As far as I can tell, the frequency is an exclusive allocation to the WHCA and I've not logged any other agencies operations on this channel. But there might be a possibility that this frequency is in some Secret Service radios and they may just have decided to use it for some of their operations. There has long been an assumption that the Secret Service has some WHCA channels in their radios, as they two agencies often interact on many Executive Protection details.
Clearly, more information is needed. But keep an ear on 166.5125 MHz and see if it gets busy in your area.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Super Bowl XLVI Monitoring Logs
In the May issue of Monitoring Times, the Fed Files column contains my scanning logs from Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis this past February. I figured I'd post it here and see if anyone had anything to add or identify some of the unknowns I picked up while in Indy!
123.0250 AM Area helicopter multicom channel
123.0500 AM Area helicopter multicom channel
136.3750 AM CBF OAM VHF "COMPANY"
148.0000 CSQ Unknown agency
162.3250 Unknown
162.5875 Unknown
162.7625 N293 Unknown agency
162.8750 N023 DHS Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), input to 170.1
162.8750 N293 Unknown agency
162.9125 N069 DHS ICE, input to 171.2500
162.9750 N293 Unknown agency
163.1000 N167 FBI
163.1125 N496 Unknown agency, input to 170.7875
163.1250 N301 CBP
163.1875 N167 FBI
163.2000 N023 Unknown agency
163.2375 Unknown
163.7000 N169 ICE TAC 1
163.7250 N169 ICE tactical channel
163.8625 N167 FBI, input to 167.5375
163.9000 N167 FBI, input to 170.9375
163.9375 N167 FBI A6 input
164.1000 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
164.3500 NE03 Possible Department of Energy
164.4500 Possible EPA using DES encryption?
164.6500 N001 USSS TANGO
164.7875 N169 ICE TAC 4
165.2375 100.0 CBP NET 1 analog
165.2375 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
165.2875 N650 BATFE NET 1
165.3750 N001 USSS CHARLIE
165.5125 N301 CBP
165.6875 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
165.7250 N293 Unknown agency
165.8000 CSQ Unknown agency
166.4375 N325 CBP DNET 1 input
166.4625 103.5 Possible TSA use at stadium, analog
166.5125 P-25 WHCA ALPHA, reported weeks prior but nothing heard during.
166.5875 100.0 Unknown
166.5875 N301 CBP DNET 12
166.6750 141.3 Unknown
167.0000 N100 Unknown agency
167.0250 N169 Possible ICE tactical channel
167.2125 N167 FBI
167.2125 N167 FBI A1
167.2875 167.9 FBI
167.3125 167.9 FBI
167.3875 N167 FBI
167.4125 167.9 FBI
167.5375 N167 FBI D6
167.5625 N167 FBI
167.7625 N167 FBI
167.7625 N167 FBI A6
168.0000 141.3 Related to the 166.675 MHz?
168.1125 N68F Federal Interoperability LE-4
168.5875 N169 ICE TAC 2
168.8375 N293 CBP AIR 1
168.9625 N293 Unknown agency
169.2625 N293 Unknown agency
169.5500 N325 CBP DNET 12 input
169.5625 Unknown
169.7250 N167 FBI
170.1000 N023 DHS ICE
170.4375 N167 FBI
170.4875 N167 FBI
170.7500 N293 US Marshals Service, Indianapolis Federal Courthouse
170.7875 N496 Unknown agency
170.9125 N167 FBI
170.9375 N167 FBI, A5
171.2000 NE03 Possible Department of Energy use
171.2000 N293 Unknown agency
171.2500 N069 ICE NET 1, repeater
171.3875 CSQ USPS Bulk Mail Center, Truck Operations
171.6875 N293 Unknown agency
171.7750 N167 FBI
171.9500 N293 Unknown agency
172.1750 Unknown, possible data bursts
172.9000 N001 TSA at Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
228.9000 AM Combat Air Patrol
238.2000 AM Combat Air Patrol, TAC channel
260.9000 AM Combat Air Patrol
350.0250 AM CBP OAM UHF "3"
380.7875 NFM Possible DoD land mobile use
383.4750 NFM Possible DoD land mobile use
406.1375 127.3 Possible US Postal Service
406.2000 N201 Federal Protective Service, Region V
407.7250 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service
407.7750 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service
407.8375 N174 VAMC Maintenance
408.0375 N263 VAMC Police
408.9375 D162 Unknown
409.0750 D364 Unknown
409.2750 127.3 Possible US Postal Service
410.2000 127.3 USPS Bulk Mail Center, downtown Indianapolis
410.3000 156.7 Unknown
410.8750 146.2 Unknown
411.5250 127.3 Probably USPS operations
411.5500 127.3 Probably USPS operations
414.7250 Unknown
414.7375 D074 Unknown
415.0750 91.5 Unknown
416.7250 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service, input to 407.7250
416.8375 N174 VAMC, input to 407.8375
417.0375 N263 VAMC, input to 408.0375
418.5250 Unknown
418.6000 136.5 Unknown
418.7750 100.0 Unknown
123.0250 AM Area helicopter multicom channel
123.0500 AM Area helicopter multicom channel
136.3750 AM CBF OAM VHF "COMPANY"
148.0000 CSQ Unknown agency
162.3250 Unknown
162.5875 Unknown
162.7625 N293 Unknown agency
162.8750 N023 DHS Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), input to 170.1
162.8750 N293 Unknown agency
162.9125 N069 DHS ICE, input to 171.2500
162.9750 N293 Unknown agency
163.1000 N167 FBI
163.1125 N496 Unknown agency, input to 170.7875
163.1250 N301 CBP
163.1875 N167 FBI
163.2000 N023 Unknown agency
163.2375 Unknown
163.7000 N169 ICE TAC 1
163.7250 N169 ICE tactical channel
163.8625 N167 FBI, input to 167.5375
163.9000 N167 FBI, input to 170.9375
163.9375 N167 FBI A6 input
164.1000 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
164.3500 NE03 Possible Department of Energy
164.4500 Possible EPA using DES encryption?
164.6500 N001 USSS TANGO
164.7875 N169 ICE TAC 4
165.2375 100.0 CBP NET 1 analog
165.2375 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
165.2875 N650 BATFE NET 1
165.3750 N001 USSS CHARLIE
165.5125 N301 CBP
165.6875 N301 CBP VACIS Operations
165.7250 N293 Unknown agency
165.8000 CSQ Unknown agency
166.4375 N325 CBP DNET 1 input
166.4625 103.5 Possible TSA use at stadium, analog
166.5125 P-25 WHCA ALPHA, reported weeks prior but nothing heard during.
166.5875 100.0 Unknown
166.5875 N301 CBP DNET 12
166.6750 141.3 Unknown
167.0000 N100 Unknown agency
167.0250 N169 Possible ICE tactical channel
167.2125 N167 FBI
167.2125 N167 FBI A1
167.2875 167.9 FBI
167.3125 167.9 FBI
167.3875 N167 FBI
167.4125 167.9 FBI
167.5375 N167 FBI D6
167.5625 N167 FBI
167.7625 N167 FBI
167.7625 N167 FBI A6
168.0000 141.3 Related to the 166.675 MHz?
168.1125 N68F Federal Interoperability LE-4
168.5875 N169 ICE TAC 2
168.8375 N293 CBP AIR 1
168.9625 N293 Unknown agency
169.2625 N293 Unknown agency
169.5500 N325 CBP DNET 12 input
169.5625 Unknown
169.7250 N167 FBI
170.1000 N023 DHS ICE
170.4375 N167 FBI
170.4875 N167 FBI
170.7500 N293 US Marshals Service, Indianapolis Federal Courthouse
170.7875 N496 Unknown agency
170.9125 N167 FBI
170.9375 N167 FBI, A5
171.2000 NE03 Possible Department of Energy use
171.2000 N293 Unknown agency
171.2500 N069 ICE NET 1, repeater
171.3875 CSQ USPS Bulk Mail Center, Truck Operations
171.6875 N293 Unknown agency
171.7750 N167 FBI
171.9500 N293 Unknown agency
172.1750 Unknown, possible data bursts
172.9000 N001 TSA at Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
228.9000 AM Combat Air Patrol
238.2000 AM Combat Air Patrol, TAC channel
260.9000 AM Combat Air Patrol
350.0250 AM CBP OAM UHF "3"
380.7875 NFM Possible DoD land mobile use
383.4750 NFM Possible DoD land mobile use
406.1375 127.3 Possible US Postal Service
406.2000 N201 Federal Protective Service, Region V
407.7250 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service
407.7750 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service
407.8375 N174 VAMC Maintenance
408.0375 N263 VAMC Police
408.9375 D162 Unknown
409.0750 D364 Unknown
409.2750 127.3 Possible US Postal Service
410.2000 127.3 USPS Bulk Mail Center, downtown Indianapolis
410.3000 156.7 Unknown
410.8750 146.2 Unknown
411.5250 127.3 Probably USPS operations
411.5500 127.3 Probably USPS operations
414.7250 Unknown
414.7375 D074 Unknown
415.0750 91.5 Unknown
416.7250 N482 USPS Postal Inspection Service, input to 407.7250
416.8375 N174 VAMC, input to 407.8375
417.0375 N263 VAMC, input to 408.0375
418.5250 Unknown
418.6000 136.5 Unknown
418.7750 100.0 Unknown
Friday, April 13, 2012
DEA on VHF?
While I continue to receive reports of the DEA transitioning to new P-25 frequencies in various parts of the country, I have seen two reports of what they believe to be new P-25 DEA channels in the VHF hi-band.
Both 173.6000 MHz, N156 and 173.7250 MHz, N156 have been reported with encrypted traffic in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The P-25 NAC appears to be what is steering listeners to believe it is the DEA. Although I have seen other federal agencies utilizing the same analog CTCSS tone of 156.7 Hz that the DEA used, I have not seen other agencies using a P-25 NAC of N156 yet.
There have been subtle indications of a possible move from UHF to VHF by the DEA. I'm also wondering if they have some new multi-band radios and have set up some VHF operations for interoperability with other Justice Department agencies.
The frequencies themselves are previously unassigned or had unknown assignments. 173.6000 MHz, N653 is being used as part of the Federal Interoperability project in Southern California.
UPDATE:
Add another unknown to this network - 173.8625 MHz, N156 has been heard in use in the same region.
Both 173.6000 MHz, N156 and 173.7250 MHz, N156 have been reported with encrypted traffic in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The P-25 NAC appears to be what is steering listeners to believe it is the DEA. Although I have seen other federal agencies utilizing the same analog CTCSS tone of 156.7 Hz that the DEA used, I have not seen other agencies using a P-25 NAC of N156 yet.
There have been subtle indications of a possible move from UHF to VHF by the DEA. I'm also wondering if they have some new multi-band radios and have set up some VHF operations for interoperability with other Justice Department agencies.
The frequencies themselves are previously unassigned or had unknown assignments. 173.6000 MHz, N653 is being used as part of the Federal Interoperability project in Southern California.
UPDATE:
Add another unknown to this network - 173.8625 MHz, N156 has been heard in use in the same region.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
CBP "Integrated Towers" Project
The US Customs & Border Protection (CBP) has begun soliciting bids on what it is calling "integrated fixed towers":
https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=9e350553fcd23dae89edc56dca8510e1&tab=core&_cview=0
These manned towers will be placed at strategic locations along the Arizona/Mexico border and will house various radar. communications and surveillance electronics that will help CBP with tracking illegal border crossings. The first of the towers is scheduled to be installed near the Nogalas, AZ CBP area of responsibility.
This may be the next version of the so-called "virtual fence" project that Boeing failed to deliver to CBP a few years ago. More information on this latest project can be found here:
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/article/25958/q_a_cbp’s_“integrated_fixed_towers”_program
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/26063?c=communications
https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=9e350553fcd23dae89edc56dca8510e1&tab=core&_cview=0
These manned towers will be placed at strategic locations along the Arizona/Mexico border and will house various radar. communications and surveillance electronics that will help CBP with tracking illegal border crossings. The first of the towers is scheduled to be installed near the Nogalas, AZ CBP area of responsibility.
This may be the next version of the so-called "virtual fence" project that Boeing failed to deliver to CBP a few years ago. More information on this latest project can be found here:
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/article/25958/q_a_cbp’s_“integrated_fixed_towers”_program
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/26063?c=communications
Saturday, April 07, 2012
US Marshals Service
For several years now, the US Marshals Service, part of the Department of Justice, has been utilizing the FBI radio communications network for US Marshals operations. Initially, it seemed that the Marshals were just utilizing the same frequencies as the FBI operations. However, there now appears to be evidence that the US Marshals, or some other FBI units are starting to use some of the same frequencies, but are using a different P-25 Network Access Code (NAC).
Most FBI operational channels using P25 digital mode are using a NAC of N167. Some known FBI channels are now starting to show users with another NAC, in some cases N864. Since most of this traffic is encrypted, positive identification of the users is not possible, but reports from the New York City area have perhaps identified the N864 operations as "possibly" being US Marshals. This same NAC is being reported in other cites as well, and additional P-25 NACs have been seen on known FBI radio channels.
If these different NACs are exclusive to US Marshals units or perhaps a joint USMS/FBI task force is also unknown. In addition, there have been reports of some VHF simplex channels historically used by the US Marshals, such as 162.7875 MHz and 163.2000 MHz, being used with a NAC of N839.
So if you have the ability, keep an eye out for any unusual P-25 NACs on known DoJ channels in your area. We shall see if there is any pattern to the NACs used or any information on the users.
Most FBI operational channels using P25 digital mode are using a NAC of N167. Some known FBI channels are now starting to show users with another NAC, in some cases N864. Since most of this traffic is encrypted, positive identification of the users is not possible, but reports from the New York City area have perhaps identified the N864 operations as "possibly" being US Marshals. This same NAC is being reported in other cites as well, and additional P-25 NACs have been seen on known FBI radio channels.
If these different NACs are exclusive to US Marshals units or perhaps a joint USMS/FBI task force is also unknown. In addition, there have been reports of some VHF simplex channels historically used by the US Marshals, such as 162.7875 MHz and 163.2000 MHz, being used with a NAC of N839.
So if you have the ability, keep an eye out for any unusual P-25 NACs on known DoJ channels in your area. We shall see if there is any pattern to the NACs used or any information on the users.
South Central Oregon Fire Channel Plan
Here's a nice listing of frequencies used by the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership. It contains both statewide and federal agency frequencies:
http://www.scofmp.org/channelplan.pdf
http://www.scofmp.org/channelplan.pdf
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Monitoring Times on Kindle
For those of us with Kindle e-readers, some good news. Monitoring Times magazine is available for the Kindle through the Kindle store. Although MT is available electronically as a PDF file, it is difficult to read on the original Kindle e-readers. (I haven't seen how the PDFs look on the Kindle Fire.)
The first issue available is the March 2012 issue and is a test to see how popular it will be. The Kindle version is formatted as text-only at this point, which works better me than trying to read the PDF version on a Kindle.
Give it a try and let the folks at Monitoring Times know what you think!
The first issue available is the March 2012 issue and is a test to see how popular it will be. The Kindle version is formatted as text-only at this point, which works better me than trying to read the PDF version on a Kindle.
Give it a try and let the folks at Monitoring Times know what you think!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
GOP Campaign Update
As noted in previous postings, both of the current front-running Republican presidential candidates are now receiving protective details from the US Secret Service.
Some initial reports have started trickling in about hearing some Secret Service communications frequencies active at recent campaign stops. Frequencies heard were 165.3750 MHz (CHARLIE), 165.7875 MHz (BAKER) and possibly 165.6875 MHz.
It's important to note that these protective details will generally be smaller and will not use multiple radio channels as with the details of those in elected office. Also, there should not be any White House Communications Agency (WHCA) activity at these events, as they have no responsibility for political candidates.
Finally, news media reports have reveled what are reported to be the "code names" that are assigned to the principles of the protection details. Here is what is being reported:
JAVELIN: Romney
PETRUS: Santorum
However, these have not been officially confirmed by the US Secret Service at this time.
Some initial reports have started trickling in about hearing some Secret Service communications frequencies active at recent campaign stops. Frequencies heard were 165.3750 MHz (CHARLIE), 165.7875 MHz (BAKER) and possibly 165.6875 MHz.
It's important to note that these protective details will generally be smaller and will not use multiple radio channels as with the details of those in elected office. Also, there should not be any White House Communications Agency (WHCA) activity at these events, as they have no responsibility for political candidates.
Finally, news media reports have reveled what are reported to be the "code names" that are assigned to the principles of the protection details. Here is what is being reported:
JAVELIN: Romney
PETRUS: Santorum
However, these have not been officially confirmed by the US Secret Service at this time.
Monday, March 05, 2012
G8 Summit Moved
There were folks planning on being in the Chicago area for the upcoming G8 Summit, May 18 & 19, to monitor the action. News is that the summit meeting have now been moved to Camp David:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/obama-shifts-location-of-g-8-summit-from-hometown-of-chicago-to-camp-david/2012/03/05/gIQAsm9CtR_story.html
Apparently the NATO Summit, scheduled for May 20-21, is still on schedule to being in Chicago.
Sunday, March 04, 2012
Additional Secret Service Detail for GOP
In addition to providing protective details for Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, the US Secret Service will now be providing details for candidate Rick Santorum as well:
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/02/26/santorum-to-receive-secret-service-detail/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/26/rick-santorum-secret-service_n_1303063.html
http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/story/2012-02-27/santorum-secret-service/53265660/1
No reports yet from monitors if they have been able to catch any radio traffic from the already operating Romney detail concerning possible code names.
No word on any possible Secret Service protection for candidate Ron Paul or Newt Gingrich.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Washington DC Logs
In the March issue of Monitoring Times, I have published my logs from the last trip I made to the Washington, DC area. I have a few entries that are unknown agencies, and like what I did with my New York City logs, I thought I would post them here and see if any DC listeners can help identify some of the unknowns. Any corrections or additions will be appreciated!
UPDATE: Check this post for updates, as I am adding information as I am able to find it.
162.0500, N201 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, WH1
162.0500, N00F
162.0625, N201 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division
162.0625, N00F
162.0750, N201 – US Secret Service Uniformed Division, F1
162.2125, D023
162.2500, 173.8 – US Capitol Police F4
162.3125, N211 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, Foreign Missions
162.6000, N012
162.6125, 127.3 – US Capitol Police F5
162.8250, N076 - DHS ICE
162.9500, N095 - DHS ICE
162.9875, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
163.0000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
163.0000, N013
163.3125. N202 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, WH2
163.3500, 146.2 – Department of the Treasury
163.7250, N073 – DHS ICE
163.9000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
164.1750, N011
164.4000, N001 – USSS PAPA
164.4375, N212 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, Foreign Missions 2
164.6250, 173.8 – US Capitol Police
164.6500, N001 – USSS TANGO
164.8875, N001 – USSS OSCAR
164.9375, 203.5
165.1875, 156.7 - Arlington National Cemetary
165.2125, N001 – USSS MIKE
165.2375, N100 – CBP NET 1
165.2875, N650 – BATFE NET 1
165.3750, N001 – USSS CHARLIE
165.4125, 210.7 - National Gallery
165.5375, 146.2 – US Capitol Police F2
165.6000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
165.6875, N001 – USSS WDC Field Office
165.7875, N001 – USSS BAKER
165.9250, 127.3 - US Capitol Police
166.2000, N212 - Possibly US Secret Service Uniformed Divsion
166.3250, N518
166.3250, N546 – Department of the Interior
166.4500, 167.9 - US Capitol Police
166.4625, N001 – DHS Common
166.5125, N001 – WHCA ALPHA
166.7000, N001 – WHCA
166.7250, 127.3 – Park Police F1
166.8500, 127.3 – Park Police F4
166.9250, 127.3 – Park Police F2
167.0125, N001 – USSS Executive Protection
167.0375, N001 – USSS Executive Protection
167.0750, 127.3 – Park Police F3
167.2125, N167 – FBI
167.4125, N167 – FBI
168.4875, 167.9
167.5125, N167 – FBI
167.5500, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
167.9500, 167.9 – Possible US Department of Agriculture
168.1250, N167 – FBI
168.1750, N293
168.2250, 151.4
168.2625, N71F – IWN (System 715) Trunked System, Site 160
168.2875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.4250, N293 – National Parks Service, National Capitol Parks East
168.4250, 162.2
168.4875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.5875, N100
168.6875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.8500, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.8875, N293
168.9250, N167 – FBI
168.9375, N078 - DHS ICE
168.9750, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1001
169.1875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 401
169.2250, 110.9 – US Capitol Police F1
169.7750, N4C5 – National Parks Service, George Washington Parkway
169.9375, N201
170.0000, N001
170.0000, N003
170.0000, N004
170.1000, 103.5 - National Parks Service
170.1750, 156.7 – US Capitol Police F3
170.4375, N202
170.7500, N293 - US Marshals Service, Federal Courts Security
171.2375, 254.1
171.3625, N293 – Department of Transportation
171.4000, N012
171.4375, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1001
171.7625, N211
171.7750, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 401
171.9875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1101
172.0250, 165.5
172.1125, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
172.2625, N069
172.4125, N001
172.4375, N4C5 – National Parks Service
172.4750, N4C5 – National Parks Service, National Mall and Memorial Parks
172.5875, N077 – DHS ICE
172.6125, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1101
172.6375, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
172.9000, N001 – TSA @ Reagan National Airport
172.9000, N013 – TSA @ Reagan National Airport
173.0000, N293 – Unknown agency
173.5250, 167.9 – US Capitol Police
173.5500, N71F – IWN Trunked System, Site 160
173.6375, N293 – US Supreme Court
173.6500, N293
173.7375, N293
173.7375, N864
173.8750, 94.8 pl – US Capitol Police
173.9000, N011
406.3875, D723 – US Capitol, public tours
406.4250, N12C – US Department of Agriculture, Headquarters Security
407.1375, N482 - US Postal Inspectors
407.4625, N421 - Unknown Agency
407.6000, N0F0 – US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
407.6000, NC0C
407.6625, N421 - Unknown Agency
407.7750, N482 – US Postal Inspection Service
407.8250, N1F2
407.8625, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
407.8625, NC0C -
408.2000, N201 – Federal Protective Service
408.2750, N167
408.3500, N167
408.6000, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.0375, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.0625, N421 - Unknown Agency
409.5125, D073 – Government Printing Office
409.7125, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.8500, D226
410.8250, D631
413.7125, N167 – FBI Uniformed Security
415.9000, 123.0
417.2000, N201 – Federal Protective Service
417.8875, N295 – US Mint Police
418.6750, N156 – DEA F4
418.7500, N156 – DEA F3
419.1500, 167.9 – US Information Agency
419.4875, D624 - Possible Federal Reserve
UPDATE: Check this post for updates, as I am adding information as I am able to find it.
162.0500, N201 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, WH1
162.0500, N00F
162.0625, N201 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division
162.0625, N00F
162.0750, N201 – US Secret Service Uniformed Division, F1
162.2125, D023
162.2500, 173.8 – US Capitol Police F4
162.3125, N211 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, Foreign Missions
162.6000, N012
162.6125, 127.3 – US Capitol Police F5
162.8250, N076 - DHS ICE
162.9500, N095 - DHS ICE
162.9875, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
163.0000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
163.0000, N013
163.3125. N202 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, WH2
163.3500, 146.2 – Department of the Treasury
163.7250, N073 – DHS ICE
163.9000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
164.1750, N011
164.4000, N001 – USSS PAPA
164.4375, N212 - US Secret Service Uniformed Division, Foreign Missions 2
164.6250, 173.8 – US Capitol Police
164.6500, N001 – USSS TANGO
164.8875, N001 – USSS OSCAR
164.9375, 203.5
165.1875, 156.7 - Arlington National Cemetary
165.2125, N001 – USSS MIKE
165.2375, N100 – CBP NET 1
165.2875, N650 – BATFE NET 1
165.3750, N001 – USSS CHARLIE
165.4125, 210.7 - National Gallery
165.5375, 146.2 – US Capitol Police F2
165.6000, N010 – Possible IWN NCR input
165.6875, N001 – USSS WDC Field Office
165.7875, N001 – USSS BAKER
165.9250, 127.3 - US Capitol Police
166.2000, N212 - Possibly US Secret Service Uniformed Divsion
166.3250, N518
166.3250, N546 – Department of the Interior
166.4500, 167.9 - US Capitol Police
166.4625, N001 – DHS Common
166.5125, N001 – WHCA ALPHA
166.7000, N001 – WHCA
166.7250, 127.3 – Park Police F1
166.8500, 127.3 – Park Police F4
166.9250, 127.3 – Park Police F2
167.0125, N001 – USSS Executive Protection
167.0375, N001 – USSS Executive Protection
167.0750, 127.3 – Park Police F3
167.2125, N167 – FBI
167.4125, N167 – FBI
168.4875, 167.9
167.5125, N167 – FBI
167.5500, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
167.9500, 167.9 – Possible US Department of Agriculture
168.1250, N167 – FBI
168.1750, N293
168.2250, 151.4
168.2625, N71F – IWN (System 715) Trunked System, Site 160
168.2875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.4250, N293 – National Parks Service, National Capitol Parks East
168.4250, 162.2
168.4875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.5875, N100
168.6875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.8500, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 801
168.8875, N293
168.9250, N167 – FBI
168.9375, N078 - DHS ICE
168.9750, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1001
169.1875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 401
169.2250, 110.9 – US Capitol Police F1
169.7750, N4C5 – National Parks Service, George Washington Parkway
169.9375, N201
170.0000, N001
170.0000, N003
170.0000, N004
170.1000, 103.5 - National Parks Service
170.1750, 156.7 – US Capitol Police F3
170.4375, N202
170.7500, N293 - US Marshals Service, Federal Courts Security
171.2375, 254.1
171.3625, N293 – Department of Transportation
171.4000, N012
171.4375, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1001
171.7625, N211
171.7750, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 401
171.9875, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1101
172.0250, 165.5
172.1125, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
172.2625, N069
172.4125, N001
172.4375, N4C5 – National Parks Service
172.4750, N4C5 – National Parks Service, National Mall and Memorial Parks
172.5875, N077 – DHS ICE
172.6125, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System, Site 1101
172.6375, N010 – IWN NCR Trunked System
172.9000, N001 – TSA @ Reagan National Airport
172.9000, N013 – TSA @ Reagan National Airport
173.0000, N293 – Unknown agency
173.5250, 167.9 – US Capitol Police
173.5500, N71F – IWN Trunked System, Site 160
173.6375, N293 – US Supreme Court
173.6500, N293
173.7375, N293
173.7375, N864
173.8750, 94.8 pl – US Capitol Police
173.9000, N011
406.3875, D723 – US Capitol, public tours
406.4250, N12C – US Department of Agriculture, Headquarters Security
407.1375, N482 - US Postal Inspectors
407.4625, N421 - Unknown Agency
407.6000, N0F0 – US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
407.6000, NC0C
407.6625, N421 - Unknown Agency
407.7750, N482 – US Postal Inspection Service
407.8250, N1F2
407.8625, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
407.8625, NC0C -
408.2000, N201 – Federal Protective Service
408.2750, N167
408.3500, N167
408.6000, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.0375, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.0625, N421 - Unknown Agency
409.5125, D073 – Government Printing Office
409.7125, N0F0 - US State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security
409.8500, D226
410.8250, D631
413.7125, N167 – FBI Uniformed Security
415.9000, 123.0
417.2000, N201 – Federal Protective Service
417.8875, N295 – US Mint Police
418.6750, N156 – DEA F4
418.7500, N156 – DEA F3
419.1500, 167.9 – US Information Agency
419.4875, D624 - Possible Federal Reserve
USCG NET Updates
For a while now I've been tracking the new APCO P-25 digital radio NET channels being deployed by the US Coast Guard. I've posted what I've found so far, but recently received some additional channels and thought I would post the updates along with the known channels.
So here are all the VHF P-25 channels that we have identified so far:
NET 01 139.9750
NET 02 140.4750
NET 03 140.7250
NET 04 141.6125
NET 05 150.7250
NET 06 141.5500
NET 07 150.3000
NET 08 162.0500
NET 09 162.1250
NET 10 162.2500
NET 11 162.3250
NET 12 163.0500
NET 13 163.1375
NET 14 164.3000
NET 15 164.3125
NET 16 164.5500
NET 17 164.5625
NET 18 164.9000
NET 19 164.9125
NET 20 165.2625
NET 21 165.3125
NET 22 165.3250
NET 23 165.3375
NET 24 166.1875
NET 25 167.9000
NET 26 168.8625
NET 27 171.2375
NET 28 172.3125
NET 29 165.2750
NET 30 171.2125
NET 31 171.3125
NET 32 171.3375
NET 33 171.3500
NET 34 171.3625
NET 50 172.0375
NET 51 165.4625
Here are all the UHF Coast Guard allocations with the identified P-25 NET names:
406.5000
406.5625
406.5750
406.6000
406.8000
406.8125
406.9750
407.6250
407.9250
407.9750
408.4000
409.0000
409.1875
409.2000
409.3500
409.8250
410.0250
410.3750
411.3750
411.7875 - NET 402
412.9750 - NET-409
413.0000 - NET-410
413.0250 - NET-411
413.0375
414.7625
415.6250
415.7750
415.8250
415.9250
416.2250
416.3875
416.4750
416.5500 - NET-4xx
416.5750
416.5875
416.6000
416.6375
416.7000
416.7125
416.8500
416.9250
416.9375
417.0000
418.3500
418.4375
418.4500
419.1250
419.6000
419.6500
419.8000
419.8250
419.8500
419.9750
The Coast Guard P-25 channels tend to us a NAC of N293. Encryption is used, some areas use it consistently, others not so much.
If you find any additional P-25 channels in use by the Coast Guard, please let me know!
So here are all the VHF P-25 channels that we have identified so far:
NET 01 139.9750
NET 02 140.4750
NET 03 140.7250
NET 04 141.6125
NET 05 150.7250
NET 06 141.5500
NET 07 150.3000
NET 08 162.0500
NET 09 162.1250
NET 10 162.2500
NET 11 162.3250
NET 12 163.0500
NET 13 163.1375
NET 14 164.3000
NET 15 164.3125
NET 16 164.5500
NET 17 164.5625
NET 18 164.9000
NET 19 164.9125
NET 20 165.2625
NET 21 165.3125
NET 22 165.3250
NET 23 165.3375
NET 24 166.1875
NET 25 167.9000
NET 26 168.8625
NET 27 171.2375
NET 28 172.3125
NET 29 165.2750
NET 30 171.2125
NET 31 171.3125
NET 32 171.3375
NET 33 171.3500
NET 34 171.3625
NET 50 172.0375
NET 51 165.4625
Here are all the UHF Coast Guard allocations with the identified P-25 NET names:
406.5000
406.5625
406.5750
406.6000
406.8000
406.8125
406.9750
407.6250
407.9250
407.9750
408.4000
409.0000
409.1875
409.2000
409.3500
409.8250
410.0250
410.3750
411.3750
411.7875 - NET 402
412.9750 - NET-409
413.0000 - NET-410
413.0250 - NET-411
413.0375
414.7625
415.6250
415.7750
415.8250
415.9250
416.2250
416.3875
416.4750
416.5500 - NET-4xx
416.5750
416.5875
416.6000
416.6375
416.7000
416.7125
416.8500
416.9250
416.9375
417.0000
418.3500
418.4375
418.4500
419.1250
419.6000
419.6500
419.8000
419.8250
419.8500
419.9750
The Coast Guard P-25 channels tend to us a NAC of N293. Encryption is used, some areas use it consistently, others not so much.
If you find any additional P-25 channels in use by the Coast Guard, please let me know!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
IWN Project Gets Zero Funding
Confirming what was alluded to in previous postings, the Justice Department has allocated no additional funding to the Integrated Wireless Network (IWN) project:
http://fcw.com/articles/2012/02/15/doj-wireless-network-information-sharing-cutbacks.aspx
It remains to be see what will be done with the existing IWN components. There was some funding allocated for the operation of the IWN through 2012. The 2013 budget has some funding for improvements of the FBI, DEA and US Marshals legacy communications systems.
http://fcw.com/articles/2012/02/15/doj-wireless-network-information-sharing-cutbacks.aspx
It remains to be see what will be done with the existing IWN components. There was some funding allocated for the operation of the IWN through 2012. The 2013 budget has some funding for improvements of the FBI, DEA and US Marshals legacy communications systems.
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Mitt Romney To Get USSS Protection
After winning the Florida GOP primary, Mitt Romney will now start getting a protective detail from the US Secret Service. More here:
http://news.yahoo.com/exclusive-mitt-romney-receive-secret-protection-025939494--abc-news.html
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/01/31/source-romney-to-get-secret-service-protection/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/campaigns/ap-sources-romney-sought-secret-service-protection-getting-it-wednesday/2012/01/31/gIQAQqiagQ_story.html
http://news.yahoo.com/exclusive-mitt-romney-receive-secret-protection-025939494--abc-news.html
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/01/31/source-romney-to-get-secret-service-protection/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/campaigns/ap-sources-romney-sought-secret-service-protection-getting-it-wednesday/2012/01/31/gIQAQqiagQ_story.html
Friday, January 27, 2012
Super Bowl XLVI Monitoring Post
Here's a look at my hotel room monitoring command post near Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. I'm also monitoring from inside the secured areas of the stadium where I am working.
Radios include the GRE PSR-500 and PSR-600, PRO-96, Uniden 396XT and the Optocom black-box receiver. And additional PSR-600 and 396XT are working over in the office at the stadium. The PSR-600 and Optocom are set up to log frequencies while I am away from the hotel.
Radios include the GRE PSR-500 and PSR-600, PRO-96, Uniden 396XT and the Optocom black-box receiver. And additional PSR-600 and 396XT are working over in the office at the stadium. The PSR-600 and Optocom are set up to log frequencies while I am away from the hotel.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
CBP To Fly ROV's Along Southwest US Border
The CBP is looking for vendors to help operate airborne remotely operated vehicles along the southwestern US border area:
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/article/25519/cbp_vendor_assess_operations_unmanned_aircraft_sys
The CBP Office of Air and Marine (OAM) currently operates such airborne platforms along the nation’s land borders and maritime approaches.
Here is a link to the CBP posted information on what they are calling the Wide Area Aerial Surveillance System (WAASS):
https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=fdb77d01ebbdeb5a5821d56bb535a27a&tab=core&_cview=1
http://www.gsnmagazine.com/article/25519/cbp_vendor_assess_operations_unmanned_aircraft_sys
The CBP Office of Air and Marine (OAM) currently operates such airborne platforms along the nation’s land borders and maritime approaches.
Here is a link to the CBP posted information on what they are calling the Wide Area Aerial Surveillance System (WAASS):
https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=fdb77d01ebbdeb5a5821d56bb535a27a&tab=core&_cview=1
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Super Bowl XLVI Indianapolis
Things are starting to come together in Indy for the Super Bowl on February 5th. All indications are that this event will have much of the same federal law enforcement activity as past Super Bowl events.
Several news articles concerning the security for the event have been published, including this one:
http://www.wibc.com/news/story.aspx?ID=1627838
Not much new information, but there are references to more hand-held devices being used for this Super Bowl than in past events. This might indicate some decrease in routine radio traffic for this event, but we shall see.
http://www.disaster-resource.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1596&Itemid=128
http://www.indystar.com/article/20111217/NEWS11/312170004/Super-public-safety-effort-planned-Super-Bowl?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|IndyStar.com|p
And it appears that S.A.F.E. will be handling crowd management this year:
http://www.safemanagement.net/
UPDATE:
Wednesday, January 25th, the Regional Operations Center opens:
Indianapolis officials on Wednesday opened a regional operations center for the coordination of law enforcement response to world-class events, including the Super Bowl.
The purpose of the center is to facilitate regional coordination and increase efficiency across all levels of law enforcement agencies in the event of emergencies.
The facility is at 200 N. Shadeland Ave., inside what once was Eastgate Mall. Marion County's emergency operations center will move to the new facility, with the existing EOC at 47 S. State St. serving as a backup facility.
Mayor Greg Ballard and Public Safety Director Frank Straub touted the facility as a good example of partnership between federal, state and local authorities.
Authorities plan to monitor a series of cameras at all hours, giving law enforcement agencies real-time information so they can shift crews as needed more easily.
The FBI will also house an intelligence operations center in the facility in the event of terrorism or other large-scale incidents
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
IWN Project Stopped? UPDATE
I recently came across what appears to be evidence of a halt in the Integrated Wireless network (IWN) project. A statement made by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa is posted on the US Senate web site here:
In this statement of May 4th, 2011, Senator Grassley mentions a "stop work" order being issued for the IWN program, and officially "suspended" by the Department of Justice Wireless Management Office. The statement portion pertaining to the IWN appears below.
The statement also indicates that the project "will end without completing it's original goal". So does this mean the IWN project is officially stopped and finished? I'm still searching for confirmation on this question. We will have to see what the future brings. Stay tuned...
Oversight Hearing of the Department of Justice
Prepared Statement of Ranking Member Chuck Grassley
U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary
Hearing on
Oversight of the Department of Justice
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Integrated Wireless Network (IWN):
I would also like to discuss what appears to be a new
failed IT procurement at the department.
The integrated wireless network program (IWN) was recently suspended by
the Department of Justice and it appears that the project will end without
completing its original goal to integrate the wireless radios for all federal
law enforcement agencies. The IWN
program was designed to implement a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission
and create a single interoperable communication system between federal law
enforcement agencies. However, the
Inspector General, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), and the Office
of Management and Budget have all expressed concerns with the program and labeled
it as high risk. To date, hundreds
of millions of dollars have been spent, and there is no part of the country
where all federal law enforcement radios are interoperable. The contractors have argued, as
expected, that they just need more money and time and there are rumors that the
department now wants to issue sole source contracts to companies just to buy
equipment. I want to know more
about this stop work order and whether the stop work order will simply be used
to sole source a contract for radios to vendors outside the original IWN
program. I am concerned that this
program is starting to look a lot like other failed IT programs at the
department—hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars spent with nothing to show
for it.
UPDATE:
A source found this article on line from the Washington Post that indicates any further expansion of the IWN project is currently on hold:
UPDATE:
A source found this article on line from the Washington Post that indicates any further expansion of the IWN project is currently on hold:
According to the article sources, “given future funding uncertainty” the Justice Department was ceasing design work on the next stage, in Maryland and Virginia, and would not begin planning for the third stage deployment in the Midwest, which had been slated for 2012. Apparently there is enough funding to continue with the current IWN operation in the Washington DC National Capitol Region and the Pacific Northwest.
UPDATE II:
An article has appeared on-line that summerizes what I found earlier:
http://www.informationweek.com/news/government/mobile/232500144
This article links to a new report by the DpJ Office of the Inspector General. That report can be found here:
http://www.justice.gov/oig/reports/2012/a1210.pdf
Unfortunately, this report has much of the technical information that appeared in an earlier OIG report redacted for public release.
And more industry reporting on the subject:
http://mccmag.com/newsArticle.cfm?news_id=7868
UPDATE II:
An article has appeared on-line that summerizes what I found earlier:
http://www.informationweek.com/news/government/mobile/232500144
This article links to a new report by the DpJ Office of the Inspector General. That report can be found here:
http://www.justice.gov/oig/reports/2012/a1210.pdf
Unfortunately, this report has much of the technical information that appeared in an earlier OIG report redacted for public release.
And more industry reporting on the subject:
http://mccmag.com/newsArticle.cfm?news_id=7868
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
WDW Federal Frequencies?
A source recently sent me some frequencies in use at Walt Disney World, near Orlando, FL. I was surprised to find out there was a federal facility, of sorts, on the grounds of WDW! The facility is the Shades of Green Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC), operated by the the US Army's Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command (FMWRC). Here are some links with more information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_Recreation_Center
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shades_of_Green_(resort)
Here are the frequencies that have been identified as being in use at the Shades of Green:
406.1625 / 415.1625, D125 Security
407.2250 / 416.2250, D754 Maintenance
407.2750 / 416.2750, D703 Housekeeping
406.1750 / 415.1750, D365 Unknown
407.2375 MHz may also be in use, but no DPL tone value has been recorded.
So next time you are near Orlando, give these a listen...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_Recreation_Center
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shades_of_Green_(resort)
Here are the frequencies that have been identified as being in use at the Shades of Green:
406.1625 / 415.1625, D125 Security
407.2250 / 416.2250, D754 Maintenance
407.2750 / 416.2750, D703 Housekeeping
406.1750 / 415.1750, D365 Unknown
407.2375 MHz may also be in use, but no DPL tone value has been recorded.
So next time you are near Orlando, give these a listen...
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Merry Christmas from The Fed Files
Thanks for all the great emails and reports from the loyal readers out there. Looking forward to more new and interesting federal intercepts in 2012!
Fed Files - January 2012 NYC Logs
In the January 2012 Fed Files column, I published a list of frequencies I logged during a recent trip to New York City for work. I included it in the column as a representation of the "raw" data I get from logs collected during my trips, but I started to identify some of the obvious frequencies and who they are used by.
Unfortunately, I included the list without finishing my identification tasks, and several sharp MT readers offered some suggestions. So here is the New York City list that was in the column, but with as many of the frequencies identified as I can. Keep in mind that these are simply what computer logged, and some of the P-25 NAC values may be incorrect. However, I usually disregard any NACs that appear only once. The NAC values listed appeared multiple times in the logs.
If you have any additional information on the unknown frequencies, please pass it along!
163.3750, D065 - Input to USPS on 166.3750 MHz
164.1000, N001 – US Secret Service
164.3375, D251 – Postal Service Brooklyn
164.4000, N001 – US Secret Service PAPA
164.6500, N001 – US Secret Service TANGO
165.2125, N001 - US Secret Service MIKE
165.2375, N301 – DHS CBP NET 1
166.3750, D065 – US Postal Service Manhattan
166.5625, N301 – DHS CBP (B16)
166.8875, 103.5
- UN Security Base
167.1250, 114.8 – US Postal Service, New Jersey
167.4625, N207 – DHS ICE Regional Network
167.5125, N167 - FBI Newark B3/B4
167.7875, N653 – NYC FIO Federal Interoperability repeater
167.8875, 127.3 – Input to 164.1875 MHz, UN Security
168.3000, N167 – FBI H3/H4
168.8250, N167 – FBI H1/H2
168.8250, N730 -
168.8875, N167 – FBI B7/B8
168.9125, N935 - DHS ICE, New York City
169.4500, 100.0 – DHS, CBP Customs NET 2
169.6250, N167 – FBI (not previously logged)
169.7000, N864 – DoJ, US Marshals Service
169.7250, N864 – DoJ, US Marshals Service
169.9750, N167 – FBI Newark A1/A2
169.9875, N4F9 - Department of the Interior, Liberty Island/Ellis Island
170.3750, N167 – FBI G5/G6
170.4250, N167 – FBI G3/G4
170.4250, N730-
170.5500, N167 - FBI G7/G8
170.5500, N730 -
170.6250, N167 – FBI C7/C8
170.6250, N730 -
171.1750, N653 – NYC Federal Interoperability FIO 2
171.4625, N24F - Unknown agency
171.5500, N167 - FBI C3/C4
171.5500, N673
171.6875, N173
171.6875, N9C5 – DHS ICE Regional Network, New Jersey NJ-1
171.7250, N159 - DHS ICE Regional Network, New Jersey NJ-2
172.1875, N167 - FBI B3/B4
172.5250, N167 – FBI B1/B2
172.6625, N615 - Reported as US Marshals NY-2
173.6625, N167 – FBI A1
173.6625, N673
173.6625, N730
406.1125, 82.5 - UN Maintenance
406.1500, N293 – VAMC Brooklyn
406.3375, N482 – US Postal Inspectors RED Net
406.4250, 67.0 - VA Maintenance
406.5000, N020 - BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn (*seemed to show this NAC on some transmissions)
406.5000, N2E1 - BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn
406.9250, N020*
406.9250, N2E1 - BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn
407.1375, N482 – US Postal Inspectors GREEN Net
407.2000, N293 – State Department Bureau of Diplomatic
Security
407.4125, N1A3 - BoP Metropolitan Correctional Center,
Manhattan
407.5000, 107.2 – VA NJ Maintenance
407.7250, N482 – US Postal Inspectors WHITE Net
407.7750, N482 – US Postal Inspectors BLUE Net
407.9500, N020*
407.9500, N2E1 – BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn
408.1000, N0F0 – State Department Bureau of Diplomatic
Security
408.1250, N293 – VAMC Manhattan
408.2000, N270 - Federal Protective Service
408.2125, N020*
408.2125, N2E1 - BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn
408.3000, 74.4
408.4250, 67.0 - VA Manhattan, maintenance
408.5750, N020*
408.5750, N2E1 - BoP Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn
408.8125, N1A3 - BoP Metropolitan Correctional Center,
Manhattan
409.0250, 110.9 – Postal Service Flushing/Nassau
409.3250, 67.0 - VA maintenance
409.6250, N293 – State Department Bureau of Diplomatic
Security
409.7500, N020*
409.9000, N1A3 - BoP Metropolitan Correctional Center,
Manhattan
409.9375, N482 – US Postal Inspectors BLACK Net
410.4125, N1A3 - BoP Metropolitan Correctional Center,
Manhattan
411.7375, 67.0
412.9750, N293
413.4125, N293 – VA Medical Center, New Jersey
413.8625, CSQ – VA Medical Center - Paging
413.8750, 67.0
413.9750, D271
414.6875, D503
414.8750, 173.8
414.9000, 156.7
- DEA
415.9000, 74.4
416.1375, N482 – US Postal Inspectors, input to 407.1375 MHz
416.7250, N482 – US Postal Inspectors, input to 407.7250 MHz
417.2000, N270 – Federal Protective Service
417.6000, N293 – State Department Bureau of Diplomatic
Security
417.6500, 103.5
417.9125, 192.8
418.3500, 141.3
418.6250, 156.7 – DEA
418.6750, 156.7 – DEA F4
418.7500, 156.7 – DEA F3
418.7875, D125
418.9250, D731
418.9375, N482 – US Postal Inspectors, input to 409.9375 MHz
418.9500, 156.7 – DEA
419.7875, 67.0
Some have asked about the N730 NACs appearing on some of the FBI repeaters. I have noted these NACs for several years now, especially when I have been monitoring the New Years Eve happenings in Times Square. I suspect some sort of Special Operation or Task Force may be using a different NAC on these repeaters, but nothing has been confirmed - just a guess...
Some have asked about the N730 NACs appearing on some of the FBI repeaters. I have noted these NACs for several years now, especially when I have been monitoring the New Years Eve happenings in Times Square. I suspect some sort of Special Operation or Task Force may be using a different NAC on these repeaters, but nothing has been confirmed - just a guess...
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
USCG NET 411 Confirmed
Back in April of 2010 I asked for some help in confirming some of the new UHF Coast Guard activity that has been monitored recently. There were reports that the Coast Guard helicopters in many areas are now carrying UHF land-mobile radios that are on various CG Nets in the 406-420 MHz band. The helicopters in the South Florida area were reported to be using NET 411, but the frequency was not known.
Recently a Coast Guard helicopter was heard in the South Florida area calling on 413.025 MHz, NAC293 and confirmed that this frequency is indeed NET 411. Here is a list of what I have confirmed in the UHF band so far. These UHF channels are usually P-25 using a NAC of 293 and simplex:
406.5000
406.5625
406.5750
406.6000
406.8000
406.8125
406.9750
407.6250
407.9250
407.9750
408.4000
409.0000
409.1875
409.2000
409.3500
409.8250
410.0250
410.3750
411.3750
411.7875
412.9750 - NET-409
413.0000 - NET-410
413.0250 - NET-411
413.0375
414.7625
415.6250
415.7750
415.8250
415.9250
416.2250
416.3875
416.4750
416.5500 - NET-4xx
416.5750
416.5875
416.6000
416.6375
416.7000
416.7125
416.8500
416.9250
416.9375
417.0000
418.3500
418.4375
418.4500
419.1250
419.6000
419.6500
419.8000
419.8250
419.8500
419.9750
Recently a Coast Guard helicopter was heard in the South Florida area calling on 413.025 MHz, NAC293 and confirmed that this frequency is indeed NET 411. Here is a list of what I have confirmed in the UHF band so far. These UHF channels are usually P-25 using a NAC of 293 and simplex:
406.5000
406.5625
406.5750
406.6000
406.8000
406.8125
406.9750
407.6250
407.9250
407.9750
408.4000
409.0000
409.1875
409.2000
409.3500
409.8250
410.0250
410.3750
411.3750
411.7875
412.9750 - NET-409
413.0000 - NET-410
413.0250 - NET-411
413.0375
414.7625
415.6250
415.7750
415.8250
415.9250
416.2250
416.3875
416.4750
416.5500 - NET-4xx
416.5750
416.5875
416.6000
416.6375
416.7000
416.7125
416.8500
416.9250
416.9375
417.0000
418.3500
418.4375
418.4500
419.1250
419.6000
419.6500
419.8000
419.8250
419.8500
419.9750
Friday, November 18, 2011
Cain Gets SS Protection
News reports are indicating that Herman Cain, GOP candidate for President, has started receiving protection from the US Secret Service.
“Secretary Napolitano at the request of the Cain campaign consulted with congressional advisory committee which today authorized protection for Cain.” – George Ogilvy, Secret Service spokesman.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1111/68638.html
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/11/herman-cain-to-get-secret-service-protection-nancy-pelosi-ribs-perry-the-bubble-primary-the-pm-note/
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/herman-cain-u-s-secret-service-detail-unruly-reporters-hounding-officials-article-1.979787
hhttp://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Latest-News-Wires/2011/1118/Herman-Cain-receives-Secret-Service-protection
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2063085/Herman-Cain-gets-Secret-Service-Protection-receiving-death-threats.html
At this point, only President Obama and Cain are receiving protective details from the Secret Service. No reports from the field of any call signs or radio traffic related to this detail.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Denver / Laramie Area Federal Logs
I recently traveled to Denver and drove up to the Laramie, WY area for work. While driving I was able to log some federal activity.
163.6250 MHz, 151.4pl - ICE repeater at Denver International (DEN), used by TSA
165.2875 MHz, N650 - BATFE
166.3000 MHz, 110.9pl - Rocky Mountain National Park
166.5875 MHz, N301 - CBP at Denver International (DEN)
167.4625 MHz, N167 - FBI, north of Denver?
167.7250 MHz, N385
167.9250 MHz, N555 - Western Area Power Administration (WAPA)
172.9000 MHz, N001 - TSA at Denver International (DEN)
418.6750 MHz, 156.7pl - DEA F4
Once north of the Denver area, I came across some federal channels that are apparently a trunked site that is part of the statewide WyoLink system. This site is called the Cheyenne Water Tank site:
169.6250 MHz, N1A3
169.7125 MHz, N1A3
169.7750 MHz, N1A3
170.0750 MHz, N1A3
170.3625 MHz, N1A3
Came across this VHF trunked system belonging to F.E. Warren AFB in Cheyenne. The listing for this system at Radio Reference shows only one site for this system in Cheyenne, but I picked up a second site as well:
138.1625 MHz, N150
138.2625 MHz, N150
138.4625 MHz, N150
138.8875 MHz, N150, P-25 System 154, Site 001
138.3375 MHz, N151, P-25 System 154, Site 002
And finally, while driving through the Cheyenne area, came across these conventional channels:
165.1125 MHz, NDEA
173.4625 MHz, NDEA
Yes, the P-25 NAC showed as "DEA". The frequencies are used by the Wyoming Air National Guard, so my guess is someone at the radio shop had a sense of humor.
163.6250 MHz, 151.4pl - ICE repeater at Denver International (DEN), used by TSA
165.2875 MHz, N650 - BATFE
166.3000 MHz, 110.9pl - Rocky Mountain National Park
166.5875 MHz, N301 - CBP at Denver International (DEN)
167.4625 MHz, N167 - FBI, north of Denver?
167.7250 MHz, N385
167.9250 MHz, N555 - Western Area Power Administration (WAPA)
172.9000 MHz, N001 - TSA at Denver International (DEN)
418.6750 MHz, 156.7pl - DEA F4
Once north of the Denver area, I came across some federal channels that are apparently a trunked site that is part of the statewide WyoLink system. This site is called the Cheyenne Water Tank site:
169.6250 MHz, N1A3
169.7125 MHz, N1A3
169.7750 MHz, N1A3
170.0750 MHz, N1A3
170.3625 MHz, N1A3
Came across this VHF trunked system belonging to F.E. Warren AFB in Cheyenne. The listing for this system at Radio Reference shows only one site for this system in Cheyenne, but I picked up a second site as well:
138.1625 MHz, N150
138.2625 MHz, N150
138.4625 MHz, N150
138.8875 MHz, N150, P-25 System 154, Site 001
138.3375 MHz, N151, P-25 System 154, Site 002
And finally, while driving through the Cheyenne area, came across these conventional channels:
165.1125 MHz, NDEA
173.4625 MHz, NDEA
Yes, the P-25 NAC showed as "DEA". The frequencies are used by the Wyoming Air National Guard, so my guess is someone at the radio shop had a sense of humor.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Federal Spectrum Under Scrutiny
http://www.tvtechnology.com/article/125416
Over 1500 MHz worth of frequency spectrum assigned to the federal government is being considered for broadband data use.
While many of these chunks of radio spectrum are used for non-voice data, links and video surveillance, the 406.1 to 420 MHz band is heavily used for both federal and military trunking and conventional radio systems. Keep an eye out for upcoming changes in this band...
Over 1500 MHz worth of frequency spectrum assigned to the federal government is being considered for broadband data use.
While many of these chunks of radio spectrum are used for non-voice data, links and video surveillance, the 406.1 to 420 MHz band is heavily used for both federal and military trunking and conventional radio systems. Keep an eye out for upcoming changes in this band...
Friday, October 14, 2011
Atlantic City, NJ
During a recent trip through the Atlantic City, NJ area, I came across a few new federal frequencies:
163.1000, N167 - FBI, might be regional task force. This channel is active is many places across the country right now.
163.2250, 100.0pl - US Fish & Wildlife Service running surveillance on roadside fish sale. At one point the channel was called "FARA Local" or something that sounded like that. Any ideas?
164.5625, N293 - US Coast Guard, NET 117.
165,1375, CSQ - NJ Air National Guard at ACY. Sounds like aircraft maintenance.
167.7750, N9C5 - DHS ICE Regional network
168.7500, N167 - FBI
172.2125, N9C5 - DHS ICE Regional network
172.8125, D754 - FAA or ANG - Patched to ACY ground.
172.9000, D315 - FAA Tech Center at Atlantic City International Airport. This is the analog portion of a mixed-mode repeater.
172.9000, N315 - FAA Tech Center, this is the P-25 side of the repeater.
173.4875, N293 - Someone at ACY, heard a "Clear To Lauch" message for ANG F-16's.
173.7875 - Unknown
345.0 MHz, AM - US Coast Guard helicopter ops.
163.1000, N167 - FBI, might be regional task force. This channel is active is many places across the country right now.
163.2250, 100.0pl - US Fish & Wildlife Service running surveillance on roadside fish sale. At one point the channel was called "FARA Local" or something that sounded like that. Any ideas?
164.5625, N293 - US Coast Guard, NET 117.
165,1375, CSQ - NJ Air National Guard at ACY. Sounds like aircraft maintenance.
167.7750, N9C5 - DHS ICE Regional network
168.7500, N167 - FBI
172.2125, N9C5 - DHS ICE Regional network
172.8125, D754 - FAA or ANG - Patched to ACY ground.
172.9000, D315 - FAA Tech Center at Atlantic City International Airport. This is the analog portion of a mixed-mode repeater.
172.9000, N315 - FAA Tech Center, this is the P-25 side of the repeater.
173.4875, N293 - Someone at ACY, heard a "Clear To Lauch" message for ANG F-16's.
173.7875 - Unknown
345.0 MHz, AM - US Coast Guard helicopter ops.
Another POTUS Bus Tour
President Obama starts another bus tour of North Carolina and Virginia, beginning next Monday in Asheville, North Carolina;
http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20111012/NEWS01/310120043/Obama-revisiting-Asheville-part-bus-tour?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage
Unknown if the Secret Service will be using the mega-buses they recently purchased for these bus tours.
Although I have family in Asheville and visit there often, I will miss this event...
http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20111012/NEWS01/310120043/Obama-revisiting-Asheville-part-bus-tour?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage
Unknown if the Secret Service will be using the mega-buses they recently purchased for these bus tours.
Although I have family in Asheville and visit there often, I will miss this event...
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Atlanta P-25 UHF System
Over a month ago I was working north of Atlanta and found what appeared to be a multi-site, P-25 trunked system in the federal 406-420 MHz UHF band.
There are two UHF systems in the Atlanta metro area currently - a 4 site Motorola Type II system operated by the Federal Protective Service and used by Dobbins Air Reserve Base, and another Motorola Type II system operated by the Bureau of Prisons.
This new system is showing that it has 4 networked sites on the air. The site info I have so far:
System ID - 3B9
WACN - BEE00
NAC - 3B1
Site 101 - 406.1125, 407.8125, 409.3000, 410. 0375
Site 102 - 408.8375
Site 103 - 406.7750, 408.4375, 408.6375
Site 104 - 408.8375
(Yes, both sites 102 and 104 show the same frequency for the control channel. They must be located far enough apart to re-use some frequencies.)
Traffic monitored so far has only used two talk groups, TG 100 and TG 200. The users are still unknown but traffic so far is mostly security checks to various building numbers. Radio procedure sounds possibly military. Also the broadcast band plan of the trunked system shows a 380 MHz channel level, so more circumstantial evidence of it being possibly DoD.
While there are several US Army installations around the Atlanta area, including Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem, they were reported to be using the FPS trunked system. Monitoring of the FPS trunked system showed no connectivity or patches to this P-25 system.
More information as it becomes available.
There are two UHF systems in the Atlanta metro area currently - a 4 site Motorola Type II system operated by the Federal Protective Service and used by Dobbins Air Reserve Base, and another Motorola Type II system operated by the Bureau of Prisons.
This new system is showing that it has 4 networked sites on the air. The site info I have so far:
System ID - 3B9
WACN - BEE00
NAC - 3B1
Site 101 - 406.1125, 407.8125, 409.3000, 410. 0375
Site 102 - 408.8375
Site 103 - 406.7750, 408.4375, 408.6375
Site 104 - 408.8375
(Yes, both sites 102 and 104 show the same frequency for the control channel. They must be located far enough apart to re-use some frequencies.)
Traffic monitored so far has only used two talk groups, TG 100 and TG 200. The users are still unknown but traffic so far is mostly security checks to various building numbers. Radio procedure sounds possibly military. Also the broadcast band plan of the trunked system shows a 380 MHz channel level, so more circumstantial evidence of it being possibly DoD.
While there are several US Army installations around the Atlanta area, including Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem, they were reported to be using the FPS trunked system. Monitoring of the FPS trunked system showed no connectivity or patches to this P-25 system.
More information as it becomes available.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Operation Mountain Guardian 9/23/11
http://www.douglas.co.us/Operation_Mountain_Guardian_Emergency_Exercise.html
Operation Mountain Guardian is a terrorism-based emergency response drill that will be taking place in the Denver area this Friday, September 23rd. The drill involves many public safety agencies in the Denver Metro area and will include participation by federal agencies, including the FBI and Federal Protective Service.
This represents a rare opportunity to monitor the activities of the different agencies and see what is being used for communications. Be sure and keep an ear on the federal interoperability channels, as well as the DoJ "25-Cities" repeaters in the Denver area:
“DEN IO N” 170.6625 MHz (DENVER NORTH)
“DEN IO E” 171.9875 MHz (DENVER EAST)
“DEN IO C” 171.4375 MHz (DENVER CENTRAL)
“DEN IO S” 172.1875 MHz (DENVER SOUTH)
“DEN IO W” 167.2625 MHz (DENVER WEST)
Operation Mountain Guardian is a terrorism-based emergency response drill that will be taking place in the Denver area this Friday, September 23rd. The drill involves many public safety agencies in the Denver Metro area and will include participation by federal agencies, including the FBI and Federal Protective Service.
This represents a rare opportunity to monitor the activities of the different agencies and see what is being used for communications. Be sure and keep an ear on the federal interoperability channels, as well as the DoJ "25-Cities" repeaters in the Denver area:
“DEN IO N” 170.6625 MHz (DENVER NORTH)
“DEN IO E” 171.9875 MHz (DENVER EAST)
“DEN IO C” 171.4375 MHz (DENVER CENTRAL)
“DEN IO S” 172.1875 MHz (DENVER SOUTH)
“DEN IO W” 167.2625 MHz (DENVER WEST)
Thursday, September 15, 2011
CBP Aquires New Blackhawks
The Customs & Border Protection Office of Air & Marine (OAM) has acquired 4 new UH-60M helicopters that were modified by the US Army at their Aviation and Missile Research Center at Redstone Arsenal near Huntsville, Alabama:
http://blog.al.com/huntsville-times-business/2011/09/black_hawk_helicopter.html
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Mexican Cartel Radio Network
I have encountered news reports in the past that suggested some of the Mexican drug cartels were utilizing a wide-area, encrypted radio system to outsmart both the Mexican and US authorities. It appears that the Mexican military was able to take down this network:
http://www.borderlandbeat.com/2011/09/marines-dismantle-los-zeta.html
http://gizmodo.com/5840412/mexican-commandos-just-took-down-this-secret-drug-cartel-radio-grid
http://www.borderlandbeat.com/2011/09/marines-dismantle-los-zeta.html
http://gizmodo.com/5840412/mexican-commandos-just-took-down-this-secret-drug-cartel-radio-grid
Saturday, September 10, 2011
9/11 Anniversary Alerts
With the 9/11 10-Year Anniversary coming up tomorrow, many are speculating about the heightened security around the country, including federal and military installations.
There are news media reports that some "unsubstantiated yet credible" threats that have caused some increase in local, state and federal law enforcement activity. Keep searching the federal frequency bands for possible activity over the next 48 hours or so...
New USCP Radio System
The US Capitol Police are one of the federal agencies in the Washington, DC area that are still running analog radios. They have received some criticism for not yet upgrading to the federally backed APCO-P25 digital standard. But there appears to be change on the way.
A bid has been posted from the US Navy in Lakehurst, NJ for a multi-channel VHF P-25 system:
https://www.fbodaily.com/archive/2011/01-January/15-Jan-2011/FBO-02359641.htm
This system is part of the USCP radio modernization program and will be used by the US Capitol Police in the DC area. Some frequencies have been posted that are related to this new system:
Channel Number Transmit Receive
1 169.5750 162.2500
2 169.8375 162.6125
3 170.1375 162.8000
4 170.3750 163.1625
5 170.5750 163.6000
6 171.0000 164.0125
7 171.4125 164.3250
8 171.7875 164.6125
9 172.3875 164.8125
10 172.6875 165.0375
11 172.9625 165.5375
12 173.1625 165.7750
13 173.4750 166.2250
14 173.8125 166.4250
In addition to these trunked system frequencies, the bid proposes some "Travel Channels" to be used outside of the coverage of the DC system;
A bid has been posted from the US Navy in Lakehurst, NJ for a multi-channel VHF P-25 system:
https://www.fbodaily.com/archive/2011/01-January/15-Jan-2011/FBO-02359641.htm
This system is part of the USCP radio modernization program and will be used by the US Capitol Police in the DC area. Some frequencies have been posted that are related to this new system:
Channel Number Transmit Receive
1 169.5750 162.2500
2 169.8375 162.6125
3 170.1375 162.8000
4 170.3750 163.1625
5 170.5750 163.6000
6 171.0000 164.0125
7 171.4125 164.3250
8 171.7875 164.6125
9 172.3875 164.8125
10 172.6875 165.0375
11 172.9625 165.5375
12 173.1625 165.7750
13 173.4750 166.2250
14 173.8125 166.4250
In addition to these trunked system frequencies, the bid proposes some "Travel Channels" to be used outside of the coverage of the DC system;
Travel 1: TX 168.3500 RX 163.1000
Travel 2: TX 173.5250 RX 166.4500
Travel 3: TX 173.8750 RX 166.4750
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