landonjensen said:
do some depts have it to where it depends which radio you use?
I have never heard of a call sign reflecting the type of radio, or particular radio they are using.
Call signs have 3 basic functions
1. Duty / Assignment ( street patrol, specialized equipment, swat etc )
2. District, Sector, Beat, geographical assignment etc
3. Shift
For example, one particular law enforcement agency in Sacramento,CA
Nearly every single employee that would touch a radio has their own specific call sign. Even high ranking brass who do not assume patrol duties get radio call signs.
As far as patrol, each patrol officer has their own unique call sign that they carry each and every day. Unless, they are working a special assignment, such as a parade or local event. Then their call sign would reflect that particular event ( Parade 1, Parade 2 etc )
If the officer works overtime, moves to a new shift, a in a different area, then their call sign will change to one of many "spare" call signs, that would reflect that particular shift/area.