A few questions

[simiv]

My local fire department is wanting to use new frequencies and channels. They currently are on the FM mode but the proposed frequencies are FMN. The PL tones are different but I understand what those are. Now to my questions:
1) What does FMN mean?
2) I use the Uniden BCT15X, what will I have to change besides the frequency and PL Tone when I enter in the new ones if they switch over?
3) Does it effect the audio??
4) What is the difference between FM and FMN?

 

[Murstech]

It means FM Narrow.. I looked up the radio and it does receive that. You should be able to program it.
The only audio difference would happen if you are trying to listen on wide band fm. FMN wont be as loud.

 

[W2NJS]

The difference between FM and FMN (commonly called just "narrowband") is the deviation of the FM signal when transmitting and the bandwidth of the receiver channel when receiving. All commercial users have to change to FMN by 2013. There is a ton of information on this Board about the subject available by search, as well on the RR Wiki pages.

The 2013 changeover mandate does not apply to hams, NOAA weather stations, or marine band operations, but again, it's all in the lookup information available here.