As many of our readers know, the communications industry is moving to digital. Currently, the primary technologies available in the USA are P25 (supported by the Department of Homeland Security), NXDN (a more affordable solution developed in Japan), and MotoTRBO (a proprietary system developed by Motorola). More recently, users in the USA are beginning to learn about TETRA, an international standard with some very interesting capabilities (full screen video among other things).
In public safety, P25 has been planned from the beginning to be the established standard. This standard is developing to include a Common Air Interface (CAI) which allows different brands to be able to talk to each other. More recently, the need for trunked radio systems connected by telephone lines to talk to each other using different brands and models has evolved. This standard, known as ISSI is critical to establishing true wide area interoperability.
EF Johnson, M/A-COM, Motorola, Tait, and Technisonics (Canada) have demonstrated a willingness to meet the CAI and ISSI standards. Others will likely follow before testing is scheduled by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Additional information is available at www.motorola.com/Business/US-EN/Business+Solutions/Technologies/Public+Safety+Project+25+Standards.
We thought it would be worthwhile to keep you up to date on these developments if you haven't yet decided on which digital technology is best for you. For what it's worth, Falcon Direct offers the lowest prices on full capability and P25 upgradeable equipment available through special pricing offered nationwide on the Alabama State Contract. Additional information is available at http://falconinfo.blogspot.com/2008/10/alabama-state-contract-news.html.
