Comparisons

[duke_nemmerle]

Two, that I would like someone informed to make.

1) Does anyone know of a place where I can get contrast/compare info on some of these different pieces of software for decoding? Are there any that decode more than just trunking signals?

2) The two types of interfaces, level 2 and level 4. Which signals does the 4 handle that the level 2 cannot? Can the 4 handle everything that the 2 can?

Actually, it would be great if someone could consider doing a wiki page on comparing the various types of software and hardware involved in decoding(specifically trunking)

There is a content page that introduces what is required and how to make the interface, but it really doesn't go into any depth comparing and highlighting some of the nuances that could be considered when choosing a software/hardware combo for decoding.

Like I said, this would make a great addition to the "Trunking Basics" area of the wiki.

 

[SCPD]

1) Does anyone know of a place where I can get contrast/compare info on some of these different pieces of software for decoding? Are there any that decode more than just trunking signals?

No - I haven't seen any. Most are single protocol.

2) The two types of interfaces, level 2 and level 4. Which signals does the 4 handle that the level 2 cannot?

Ermes and FLEX - both are paging protocols. I can't remember if RD-LAP is 4 level or 2. There was some speculation that a 4 level slicer would work with APCO P25 but this has not panned out.

Can the 4 handle everything that the 2 can?

Yes. The 2 level slicer reports a signal as above or below the zero threshold. The 4 level slicer adds two more thresholds - one above zero and another below zero. Ignore these two and the output is the same as a 2 level slicer. Some 2 level only decoding software isn't configured to deal with a 4 level slicer so some clever wiring is required to make the 4 level work.

Actually, it would be great if someone could consider doing a wiki page on comparing the various types of software and hardware involved in decoding(specifically trunking)

That's the great thing about Wiki. As you find out more stuff, you can return to the wiki page and add what you've learned.

-rick

 

[duke_nemmerle]

Thanks for the info, from a fellow rick

 

[ronenp]

Try the following

http://www.ronen.ampr.org/rx-sb.html

and

http://www.ronen.ampr.org/paging.html

hope it help a bit ...
Ronen
http://www.ronen.org