[EAS] CAP Converters

[Edward Ford]

I realize the FCC has its hands full with the results of the National Test, but they need to make a ruling on CAP Converters.  If they aren't going to be approved for use by the FCC, then that decision needs to be made quickly.  That would keep broadcasters from buying something they can't use.  Also it would be allow manufacturers to not use their resources on building devices that won't be type accepted.  Currently the Gorman-Redlich CAP-DEC1 is on the FEMA list of having passed IPAWS-CA testing, but what FCC says no converters?  Where does that leave stations that have bought them?  Where does that leave Gorman-Redlich and TFT?  

Running periodic national tests more often is a good idea, but the rest of this process doesn't make too much sense.  The FCC and FEMA need to decide on all the questions of standards, then as many have suggested, let the manufacturers build the boxes.  No one wants to buy another unit in a couple of months or in 3-5 years.

Edward Ford
KBPK/Fullerton College