[EAS] Max Length of EAS Messages (renamed)

[Skinner, Jim]

Eric:

About a year ago we had an Amber alert where the script was written for
a 2 minute alert.  It was reported to have been read within two minutes
by NWS personal, the TTS was not used for some reason.  

The attention tone seemed to take 8 seconds out of the two minutes.
Also, there was several seconds delay before the audio started (not
uncommon).  The State Relay Network cut the message short as did any EAS
box receiving directly from NWS.  Some shorter than others I believe. 

Crucial contact information was in the last 20 seconds of the message
which did NOT make it to air around the state.  

Perhaps a 100 second message would have worked, but I am recommending 90
seconds to the State Patrol for EAS alerts so they are assured to get
the entire message transmitted everywhere.  Technically we have 2
minutes, but I believe a good guideline is to write it shorter.  

Anyone else have experience transmitting 2 minute EAS alerts?  

  -- 
Jim Skinner CPBE CBNT
NE EAS SECC Chair
KPTM/KXVO TV
 

-----Original Message-----
From: eas-bounces at radiolists.net [mailto:eas-bounces at radiolists.net] On
Behalf Of Eric Adler

What do you mean by "will NOT fit" ?

Eric

-----Original Snippet-----
From: Skinner, Jim

BTW we have found that a 120 second message will NOT fit in the EAS
system.  It is better to define the message as 90 seconds maximum.