gen4AI - FAQ

Building Communications Resilience for Newport County

Frequently asked questions

What is driving the need for an analog-based radio network?

We've become reliant on digital communication infrastructures that can fail without notice. Often we have no backup. Analog radios don't need the Internet, cell networks, fiber cable, or satellites to function.

Are many U.S. towns operating similar networks?

Yes. We've been learning from similar, well-developed projects around Seattle, Oakland, and Los Angeles.

Are local police, fire, and emergency managers aware of this project?

To date, we have had good support from leaders at Newport Fire Department and Portsmouth Emergency Management agency. We are now participating a university-led research project focused on "no-notice bi-directional emergency communications."

Can local youth participate?

Yes! Local fire, medical, and police leaders are keen to see local youth involved in community resiliency projects. Project leaders are at the early stages of leveraging their collective experience with local programs to build opportunities for Newport County youth. In 2025, we began planning with JROTC and cyber security students at the Newport Area Career Tech Center at Rogers High School. Over the summer of 2025, we distributed 40 handheld FRS radios to students participating in cyber security skills camps at CCRI-Newport. It was exciting to see students rapidly master the use of the radios and communicating complex information over the radios.

What radio do you you recommend?

We get this question often. The answer really depends on us understanding your lifestyle and budget. The cost of a handheld spans $15 to $175+. While radios have become very affordable, a rugged radio that can survive a three drop on a cement floor or survive 30 minutes in water will cost more than an everyday radio that might be tucked away in a desk drawer. We're happy to show you a range of options at a monthly meeting.

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