Overview
The Arkansas Wireless Information Network (AWIN) will complete its transition to P25 Phase 2 operations by January 31, 2031. This page answers common questions for agencies and radio users preparing for the transition.
What is P25 Phase 2 and why is AWIN moving to it?
P25 Phase 2 uses Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) to provide two voice paths in a single 12.5 kHz channel. This doubles system capacity compared to Phase 1.
AWIN’s move to Phase 2 aims to:
• Increase system efficiency and capacity
• Better support high-traffic events and emergencies
• Extend long-term usability of the statewide system
When will the change occur?
The AWIN P25 Phase 2 transition is scheduled to be fully implemented by January 31, 2031.
Agencies should plan radio upgrades well in advance of this date. This gives agencies time to prepare radios, programming, procedures, and training.
Will my current AWIN radios still work?
Radios that are P25 Phase 2 enabled will continue to work normally. Phase 1-only radio will lose functionality as the system moves fully to Phase 2 operation which is set for January 31, 2031.
Do radios need to be replaced or reprogrammed?
Some radios will require reprogramming to enable Phase 2. Older radios that do not support Phase 2 will need to be replaced.
Will users notice any operational changes?
Most users will not notice any change in day-to-day radio use. Push-to-talk operation, audio quality, and talkgroup selection remain the same.
How does this affect interoperability?
AWIN will continue to support interoperability during the transition. Agencies with mixed Phase 1 and Phase 2 radios can communicate as long as talkgroups are properly configured.
What happens if agencies do not upgrade by 01/31/2031?
Agencies with non-Phase 2 capable radios will have:
• Loss of access to certain talkgroups
• Reduced priority during busy system traffic
• Inability to take advantage of capacity gains
AWIN strongly encourages agencies to plan upgrades well ahead of the deadline.
Who should agencies contact for assistance?
Agencies should work with AWIN-authorized radio programming shops, their local communications technicians, or the AWIN Operations staff for guidance.
• AWIN Operations Help Desk (24/7) contact through the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) or the DPS AWIN contact page HERE.
✔ Email: [email protected]
✔ Phone: (501) 683-1798
• Use AWIN Alert Sign-Up for updates on outages or system maintenance HERE.
• Talk to your local agency communications technician or a programming shop ahead of upgrades.
What resources should agencies review?
✔ Authorized radio list and programming requirements – AWIN official site HERE.
✔ Authorized AWIN Radio Programming Shops for vendor support HERE.
✔ Statewide communications plans highlighting LMR transition goals and interoperability (e.g., SCIP).
