Freqencies used around Mackinaw and Soo

[jdc50]

Trying to decide on a new scanner. Not sure if I should get a BC296D or BC250. The 250 would work fine around Lansing but wondering if when we travel to Mackinaw City and the Soo would I find that I would be better off with the 296.

Since there is a major price difference need to really decide which is best for my needs.

Thanks

 

[jimsokol]

If you've narrowed your choices to those two scanners, I would definitely go with the 296d due to its ability to receive MPSCS, the state of Michigan's statewide digital trunked system.

 

[jdc50]

Since Lansing is going to EDACS narrow band I believe I only have the two choices. My real question is though if Mackinaw City and the Soo are not making use of the MSP's sytem then it would spending double for nothing.

 

[jimsokol]

I understand, but keep in mind that even in your local area, any disaters, riots, or anything else that may require alot of outside agency involvement will likely occur on MPSCS.

As far as the areas you travel to, I have travelled there last summer and found most activity to still be occurring on high band. I can't say that is still the case. I have seen under the MPSCS section of the RR database on this site that it shows Chippewa County SD, and also the county between Mackinac City and Chippewa (Mackinac County) appear to be on MPSCS.

 

[Thunderbolt]

Mackinac County is on the MPSCS and I hear that Mackinaw City is thinking about switching over, but they want the MSP to erect more towers for handheld coverage. However, since our state is broke, I don't see that happening at all for a while to come.

73's

Ron

 

[mikey60]

Mackinac County is on the MPSCS and I hear that Mackinaw City is thinking about switching over, but they want the MSP to erect more towers for handheld coverage. However, since our state is broke, I don't see that happening at all for a while to come.

The MPSCS web site says that if the agency wants more towers, the state will be happy to build it for them, if the agency pays to construct the tower, and then pays a maintenance fee on it as well.

The City of Ludington did just that last year (Actually Mason county, but it's located in Ludington). That tower came on line last August.

Mike