On Field Radio Question

[OldGuy]

Being the old guy who's legs have let him down and I can't run any more , I have to get my Friday night fix by just finding a game to go watch.  I have noticed something this fall here in Texas and was wondering what the reason was for and the TASO requirements.  As I've travelled around I've seen some crews using radios with headsets during the games.  Most of these were as I traveled north of Salado.  I'm guessing they are being used to help speed up crew communications.  Being out of the loop now, did TASO send out any recommendations on this?

[centexsports]

The use of the communication device is at the discretion of the crew.   However, any unit that is used must be TASO approved. 

[OldGuy]

Just to better understand what is required to get approval from TASO?  Are only certain units allowed?  Just kind of curious how expensive this would be as I know the UIL has never made any TX officials rich.

[TxSkyBolt]

We started using them this year. The least expensive fully duplex, encrypted unit available was about $1800 for 7 units. You can get cheaper ones that comply with TASO rules (not much cheaper mind you) but they are not duplex radios, rather old style PTT with only one person talking at a time. If you go to the taso website you can download the application that shows the details and requirements.

[TexDoc]

You may want to explain full duplex.  My ham radio license might prove to be useful in officiating yet! 

[TxSkyBolt]

In a full duplex system, officials can communicate with each other simultaneously. An example of full-duplex is a phone. Each person on the phone call can speak and be heard by the other callers simultaneously.

[TexDoc]

Good job!  Full duplex as opposed to duplex, which is two way but not simultaneous, or simplex, which is the mode coaches are usually in, one way communication.

[Txgarza]

Was there really any benefit Brad?  From games I've seen in all levels there is still the need for an official to come talk to the R or another official about a call. There may be some trial and error still but what were the benefits gained?  Thank you.

[Kalle]

Seven units at full duplex? Really? So all units actually receive six channels simultaneously and mix the incoming signals? I would think that without a base station you could only get duplex in the sense that one (primary) unit can talk and listen at the same time with one other unit.

Which system are you using? We are considering getting one or two sets here in Finland.

[goodgrr]

Which system are you using? We are considering getting one or two sets here in Finland.

I'll message you privately with info on what we are doing in the UK.  Our sets are £10-16 per handset (including charger, headset etc)

[TxSkyBolt]

X, you initially fight the urge come to the R but our crew has gotten pretty good at just broadcasting the foul. I had a OH a few weeks ago and I was probably 30 yards from my R. Before I had even turned toward him I told him over the radio foul and offenders number.

It is also useful to communicate other information amongst crew members ie "tell right guard to get up to the line, or tell DT he's close to being offside. " Last week after a PAT as I ran to my FK position HC wanted an explanation on a DPI. I got on the horn and got the details from my B and relayed to HC. All in about 30 seconds.


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[TxSkyBolt]

Kale, it's called the Yapalong 4000 (stupid name I know).


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[Kalle]

Seven units at full duplex? Really? So all units actually receive six channels simultaneously and mix the incoming signals? I would think that without a base station you could only get duplex in the sense that one (primary) unit can talk and listen at the same time with one other unit.

Forget this, I'm so analog that I always forget the benefits of digital radio.

[hefnerjm]

Kale, it's called the Yapalong 4000 (stupid name I know).

I googled these, and on Amazon, it says "No Push to talk required".

Is there an option to set push-to-talk?  Not sure I'd want an always open channel to hear both coaches in the ear of my wings.

http://www.amazon.com/Yapalong-4000-Duplex-Radio-Units/dp/B00U6GGSXG

[TexDoc]

The price of the individual units should drop dramatically on these within the next year or two.  I expect  you can get a crew of 5 a duplex set with PTT or vox (not full-duplex) for about 350 to 400 very soon.  If there was not an encryption requirement, they set would cost less around $200.

[TexDoc]

This has been the best price I've been able to find so far that meets TASO requirements.  The number of radios you can add is unlimited.

http://www.theavspot.com/eartec-sstsc5000lp?gclid=CjwKEAiA64uyBRCVmKyT2vuAjzgSJADfINB6P6ZBgPeaA_k18MmtO-xA9uplTPbxG_4hK26yn4LBwBoCsEHw_wcB

[TexDoc]

 

Beating the horse to death, but here is a Chinese made version of a scrambled radio.  Around $35 for a set.  You can get 6 radios (3 sets) for <$150.  These do not include head sets, but those can be purchased separately.  If they break, you throw them away and get new ones.

[TxSkyBolt]

Kalle they have PTT headsets also. We started with open mic because that's what they shipped us. After two games we got PTT models.


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[TxSkyBolt]

Doc we've found the lapel mics don't work well. We're now using boom Mics.


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[TexDoc]

Boom mikes aren't to expensive.  You didn't like the earpieces?  The PTT is on the lapel clip, right?

[TxSkyBolt]

On this iteration it is. The ones we also have (lapel) mike had the ptt that clips on the belt. I prefer the acoustatube ear piece on the lapel version but better voice pickup with he boom. Ptt on the boom sits under the shirt about upper chest.  It's really easy to use there surprising to me.


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[Joe Stack]

Doc, what are the Chinese radios you reference?

Also, I want to discuss a stadium mic issue. Should I start another thread?

[TexDoc]

They meet the TASO requirements.  They cost $28 each, shipping from Hong Kong.  I'm going to order some and check them out.

[TxSkyBolt]

So you're telling me that for $28 they meet the following specs?

• Must operate in the unlicensed 915-928 MHz frequency spectrum. This band requires
no FCC licensing.
• 2.4 GHz frequency hopping spread spectrum. Reduces interference and allows
encryption, eliminating the ability of others to listen.
• Requires NO frequency coordination. The system will automatically select open
frequencies for use, eliminating the need to coordinate frequency use with coaches,
stadium personnel or others using similar devices in the area.
• Private/secure digital transmission. Provides secure communication and conversation
within the system
• Full duplex operation. Allows simultaneous “phone-like” conversation between
participants.
• Completely self contained and portable. Eliminates the need for a base station and the
opportunity for others to listen to conversations.
• Maximum operating range up to 600 yards or less than ½ mile.
• Push to talk operation only. Allows more focus by officials without the distraction of
open microphones.
• Water resistant.
• Noise cancelling microphone & headset. Eliminates background noise from the crowd
and bands, allowing for clear communication among the crew.


Sorry, but even the Chinese can't do that.

[TexDoc]

Might be in a different band, but these are encrypted and meet the other requirements.  No frequency coordination or licensing is required.  Yes, for $28.  They are highly integrated so the cost is very low.  Several chips have all of the required circuitry and programming so the cost can be very low.

What you guys bought for a very high price can be made in China for a mere fraction of the cost, and I expect that to happen soon.