MCR 2017 03 17

SPECS SURVEY: Mobile Antennas and Mics WHATS NEW: Digital Radio
RadioResource March 2017 MCCmag.com

TM
C O M M U N I C A T I O N S
IWCE
Issue
Inside
FirstNet
State Plans
The Evolution
of Gateways
Off-Grid Power
Alternatives
JUST RELEASED
NX-3000 SERIES
MULTI-PROTOCOL
A NEW PATH TO DIGITAL
IDEAL FOR VARIOUS NX-3220/3320 portable is capable of UHF operation from
DEMANDING WORK 400-525 MHz, with built-in GPS and Bluetooth.
ENVIRONMENTS
Select DMR Tier II or your preferred NXDN protocol plus FM

operations. Mixed digital NXDN or DMR and FM analog operation
for an easy migration from analog to digital.
World renowned KENWOOD audio enhanced with Active Noise

Reduction (ANR) using built-in DSP for best-of-class audio clarity
for clear, loud voice transmission in any high noise environment.
NX-3220/3320 portable now meets the IP67 standard for dust

intrusion and immersion.
User programmable 7 color LED indicator for silent call

notication and to identify unique callers or talk groups.
Stock only one radio series and fulll future orders based on the
customers digital protocol selection.
NX-3720/3820 mobile has a high visibility multi-line full dot-

matrix LCD display.
VISIT US AT
IWCE 2017
BOOTH 617
1-800-950-5005 www.kenwood.com/usa
Power Conversion
Products Since 1991
IW
AT C
WE DELIVER
E
T US
BOOTH
# 1732
ISI
V
Quality products, backed by the best customer service
in the industry.
ON
PST-600-12 SEC-1235M
POWER INVERTERS DESKTOP SWITCHING BASE STATION

POWER SUPPLIES
ON COMBINATIONS
SEC-1230UL
SEC-40BRM IDC-360
ON
OUTPUT:: 115V AC
RACK MOUNT CONVERTERS BATTERY CHARGERS

POWER SUPPLIES ON
STEP-UP, STEP-DOWN,
ISOLATED
INVERTERS | POWER SUPPLIES | BATTERY CHARGERS | DC CONVERTERS | SOLAR
1-800-561-5885 www.samlexamerica.com
OVER 25O SKUS IN STOCK t FAST DELIVERY
RadioResource Vol. 32, No. 3
TM
31
YEARS
March 2017
IN EVERY ISSUE
Dispatch 6
C O M M U N I C A T I O N S When will T-band decisions be made?
By Sandra Wendelken
Spectrum Monitor 8
CONTENTS A decision in Rivadas protest of the
FirstNet procurement is expected
soon. By Danny Ramey
Top News 12
Whats New:
Digital Radio 62
40
The Many Benefits
of Digital Simulcast Specs Survey:
Some digital mobile radio Mobile Radio Antennas 70
technologies can support simulcast,
offering numerous benefits. Specs Survey:
By Roberto Marengon Microphones 72
New Products 76
22
Survey Reveals IWCE Invitation 79
Fire Service Needs
The National Fire Outlook 94
Protection Association (NFPA) Fourth Gerry Reardon highlights
Needs Assessment examines the status SAFECOMs focus areas.
of firefighters communications, By Sandra Wendelken
technology, facilities and equipment.
By Barry Furey READER SERVICES
MarketPlace 81
46
Cognitive
Advertiser Directory 92
Communications
for Public Safety Subscribe MCCmag.com
As communications evolves, will first
responders be overwhelmed by the C O N TA C T U S
amount of information they receive?
www.MCCmag.com
By Daniel Devasirvatham, Ihsan
Akbar, Al Sadowski and Peter Cook Editorial
edit@RRMediaGroup.com
28
The Evolution Phone: 303-792-2390 ext. 110
Fax: 303-792-2391
of Gateways
The original voice inter- Sales
info@RRMediaGroup.com
operability solution has evolved to Phone: 303-792-2390 ext. 100
include push to talk (PTT) and radio Fax: 303-792-2391
over IP (RoIP) for broadband. Subscriptions
By Douglas Greenwood and www.MCCmag.com
athorne@RRMediaGroup.com
Omna Solomon Phone: 303-792-2390 ext. 105
Fax: 303-792-2391
52
Off-Grid Energy
34
Are You Ready for Alternatives RadioResource MissionCritical Communications (ISSN 1544-
9556) (USPS 013-459) is published monthly, except bimonthly in
Your State Plan? Off-grid power systems April-May and November-December, free of charge to qualified
recipients, by Pandata Corp., 7108 S. Alton Way, Building H, Centen-
Despite a pre-award can meet stringent requirements for nial, CO 80112. This issue: March 2017, Volume 32, Number 3.
Periodicals postage paid at Englewood, CO and additional mailing
protest, states can prepare for their capacity and reliability at a lower offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to RadioResource
MissionCritical Communications, P.O. Box 15637, N. Hollywood,
FirstNet state plans and an opt-in or cost than constructing a power line. CA 91615-9811. Canadian Post Publications Mail Agreement
No. # 40065056. Canadian Return Address: DP Global Mail, 4960-2
opt-out decision. By Dominick Arcuri By Tom Mahon Walker Road, Windsor, ON N9A 6J3.
4 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCmag .c o m

Connect at IWCE 2017
Las Vegas, NV
March 29-30
Booth #1023
Choose
Icom Radio
Solutions
Emergency Comms
for AIR, LAND and SEA
Contact dispatch and coordinate
backup with Icom two-way radio
systems. Icom radios are used in the air,
on the road and on the water to manage
EmComm efforts. Features include loud
audio, easy-to-use interface and rugged
military-tested construction.
Connect with an Icom

Technical Channel Manager today.
www.ConnectTCMtoday.com
2017 Icom America Inc. The Icom logo is a registered trademark of Icom Inc. 20773
RadioResource
DISPATCH TM
RadioResource MissionCritical Communications delivers wire-
Lets Get Moving less voice and data solutions for mobile and remote mission-critical
operations. The magazine targets public safety, state/local/federal
government, transportation, field service, business and industrial
users; engineering and consulting firms; mobile communication
on T-Band dealers/resellers; service providers and other industry professionals

in the United States and Canada. Editorial content includes business
and regulatory news, in-depth features, product information and
comparisons, industry reports and trends, innovative applications,
ndustry leaders need to get moving on the looming T-band issue. I
I
emerging technologies, case studies and technical tips.
am having flashbacks of the 2013 VHF and UHF narrowbanding PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
deadline, which although the industry knew about and planned for for Paulla A. Nelson-Shira, pnelson-shira@RRMediaGroup.com
about 20 years, still seemed to catch some off guard. EDITOR

As background, the 2012 legislation that created the First Responder Sandra Wendelken, swendelken@RRMediaGroup.com
Network Authority (FirstNet) also mandated that by ASSISTANT AND WEB EDITOR
2021 the FCC must auction the UHF T-band spec- Danny Ramey, dramey@RRMediaGroup.com
trum. Public-safety agencies and business/industry GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Brad Hamilton, bhamilton@RRMediaGroup.com
(B/I) licensees use this spectrum in 11 markets in the
United States. 2021 is only four years away. EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
The FCC in 2012 froze the band because the bill Ron Beck: Network Engineer, Central Lincoln PUD
directed it to auction the T-band spectrum. The law Klaus Bender: Principal Engineer, Site Safe
dictates that relocation of public-safety entities from Mark Crosby: President & CEO, EWA
Joe Hanna: President, Directions
the T-band spectrum shall be completed within two Dale Hatfield: Executive Director, Silicon Flatirons
years after the auction, so by 2023. The legislation does not address B/I Carroll Hollingsworth: CEO, DH Marketing
relocation efforts. Neil Horden: Chief Consultant, Federal Engineering
Douglas Jarrett: Attorney, Keller and Heckman
This all means that unless Congress approves legislation that changes
John Johnson: Radio System Analyst, TEMA
the current law, the T-band spectrum is going away. This mandate does- Craig Jorgensen: President, Quantum Telecommunications
nt affect the entire industry as the VHF and UHF narrowbanding rules Dr. Walt Magnussen Jr.: Texas A&M University
did, but some of the most spectrum-congested areas of the country and Andrew Maxymillian: Principal Consultant, Blue Wing Services
Mike Miller: President, RACOM
some of the largest LMR networks will be hit hard.
Rick Nielson: President, Nielson Networks
With a new presidential administration and a newly elected Con- John Rayfield Jr.: President, Rayfield Communications
gress, now is the time to take action. There is no doubt that other issues Joe Ross: Partner, Televate
healthcare reform, immigration, Russia and a plethora of other topics Robert Schlieman: Project 25 Steering Committee
Frederick Smith: Infrastructure Architect, Chevron
are dominating lawmakers attention. So the industry needs to make
Marilyn Ward: Executive Director, NPSTC
lawmakers aware of the huge impact the T-band law has on mission- The opinions of the editorial advisory board members are their own
critical communications. and not those of their employers.
The Land Mobile Communications Council (LMCC) set up a new

VICE PRESIDENT
T-band task force chaired by Jim Goldstein with the International Asso- Mark Shira, 303-792-2390 x101, mshira@RRMediaGroup.com
ciation of Fire Chiefs
CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
(IAFC) in December.
Email your feedback to The National Public
Debra Sabin, 303-792-2390 x103, dsabin@RRMediaGroup.com
swendelken@RRMediaGroup.com. Safety Telecommuni- CIRCULATION/TRADE SHOW ASSISTANT

Alicia Thorne, athorne@RRMediaGroup.com
cations Council
PRODUCTION MANAGER
(NPSTC) also plans to discuss the topic at its executive committee Stacey Horne, shorne@RRMediaGroup.com
meeting later this month. NPSTC and the Enterprise Wireless Alliance
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
(EWA) have taken the lead on providing hard data about how much a Melissa Richey, mrichey@RRMediaGroup.com
relocation would cost and the lack of spectrum options for the incum- ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
bents that need to move. Sharon Knell, sknell@RRMediaGroup.com
The industry should rally around the issue of the T-band spectrum
just as it did to secure the 700 MHz D block spectrum and quickly. CORRESPONDENCE
Editorial and advertising correspondence should be addressed to:
RadioResource MissionCritical Communications
7108 S. Alton Way, Building H, Centennial, CO 80112
Tel: 303-792-2390 Fax: 303-792-2391.
Editorial email: edit@RRMediaGroup.com
Advertising email: info@RRMediaGroup.com
Sandra Wendelken, Editor 2017 By Pandata Corp. All Rights Reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
swendelken@RRMediaGroup.com
www.MCCmag.com
6 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons

SPECTRUM MONITOR
Decision in Rivadas Protest of

FirstNet Procurement Expected Soon
By Danny Ramey Mercury filed its lawsuit, AT&T most demanding requirement, 30m
motioned to intervene in the case, plots, Ganley tweeted.
ollowing a flurry of filings in arguing that because it is in the com- In a later tweet, Ganley likened the
F February and the beginning of
March, activity in Rivada Mercurys
petitive range, it has an interest in the
case and the government could not
possibility of allowing some bidders to
not comply with that particular
pre-award protest adequately represent its interests. requirement to a scene from the movie
of the First Kaplan approved that motion, agree- The Dictator in which the main
Responder Net- ing that under court rules, AT&T had character uses a gun to get an early
work Authoritys the right to intervene to protect its start in a running race and then shoots
(FirstNet) procure- substantial economic interest in the other racers.
ment process has award of the contract at issue. On Feb. 23, Ganley tweeted: Still
slowed as the Many of the details of the case are wondering if all bidders for #FirstNet
involved parties limited because most documents, complied with by far the most burden-
await the judges except for those relating to procedural some requirement. 30 meter resolution
decision. matters and briefs from outside par- design mapping of America.
U.S. Court of Federal Claims ties, are sealed under the protection Unsurprisingly, the case has
Judge Elaine D. Kaplan heard oral order. attracted plenty of attention from out-
arguments in the case March 3. The A variety of documents have been side parties. One media organization
details of that hearing are not publicly filed in the case, according to a sched- filed a brief asking Kaplan to allow
available because the case is sealed uling order released early in the case access to portions of the hearing that
under a protection order intended to by Kaplan and a search of case did not contain proprietary informa-
shield proprietary and other sensitive records. The documents include the tion and to release redacted transcripts
information. administrative record, which outlines of any oral hearings in the case, as
Following the hearing, Rivada Net- the process that FirstNet used in evalu- well as redacted versions of the sealed
works, one of the lead companies in ating proposals; a motion for judgment filings in the case.
the Rivada Mercury team, released a on the administrative record from Kaplan denied that request and said
brief statement saying it expected Rivada Mercury; a response to Riva- it would be too difficult to separate
Kaplan to release her decision in the das motion from the government, as portions of the hearing that did not
next couple of weeks and it was well as a motion of its own for judg- include proprietary information from
hopeful she would rule in favor of ment on the administrative record; and those that did. On the request for the
Rivada Mercury. several responses from the three par- redacted documents, Kaplan said that
In November, Rivada Mercury ties to those motions. any filings in the case would be avail-
filed a lawsuit against the Department However, tweets sent by Rivada able to the public in accordance with
of the Interior (DOI), which issued the Networks Chairman and CEO Declan the protection order.
request for proposals (RFP) on behalf Ganley highlighted at least one reason The Bay Area Regional Interopera-
of FirstNet, alleging the government why Rivada Mercury feels it should be ble Communications Systems Authori-
had unlawfully excluded Rivada Mer- included in the competitive range. In a ty (BayRICS) and the city of Boston
cury from the competitive range for series of 12 tweets posted Feb. 21, filed an amicus brief asking the court
the contract. Ganley called a nationwide mapping to resolve the case as quickly as possi-
Rivada Mercury, pdvWireless and requirement in the RFP the most bur- ble so the NPSBN can move forward.
AT&T all publicly announced bids to densome requirement in the procure- In their brief, the two entities said
build the nationwide public-safety ment document and claimed that no they did not want to address the mer-
broadband network (NPSBN). Of carrier, except for Rivada Networks, its of Rivada Mercurys protest but
those three, AT&T is the only compa- had designed a nationwide network to wanted to make the court aware of
ny remaining in the competitive range; the FirstNet resolution requirement. how the protest is affecting local
it is unclear if any companies that did My question to myself is is governments across the country. The
not publicly announce a bid are still in @RivadaNetworks the only bidder for filing cited the importance of the
the competitive range. After Rivada FirstNet that complied with by far the potential benefits of FirstNet, such as
8 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCmag .c o m

improved interoperability, to protect- on the brief, the filing said. mental security before awarding a
ing the public and first responders. Kaplan granted the entities leave to contract. Kaplan denied the pairs
The two entities also expressed file the motion and said the parties request to submit the brief, saying that
concern about how long FirstNets involved in the case could respond to it was untimely because the case was
$7 billion in funding could last with the extent they felt necessary. None of already set for an oral hearing and the
continued delays. the parties have filed a response to that brief was not pertinent to the courts
Unfortunately, due to continuous brief. decision because it focused on the
delays, which are not the fault of this A second amicus brief submitted RFPs terms and not how FirstNet
court, this important funding is being the day before the hearing expressed evaluated the proposals it received.
depleted on administrative matters concern about the FirstNet RFP. Ken- While the remaining timeline for
rather than the deployment of the neth Chrosniak, a member of an EMS the case is unclear, FirstNet officials
FirstNet network, the brief said. The company and a volunteer firefighter, are ready to move forward once the
expeditious resolution of the bid and Eric Holdeman, an industry con- matter is settled. At Decembers First-
protest ensures the allocated budget is sultant, claimed that FirstNets RFP Net board meeting, FirstNet officials
put towards network deployment was invalid because it did not include said that the organization was moving
rather than further administrative costs requirements for environmental forward in a business as usual man-
around the contract award, thus pro- security. The two said the lack of envi- ner and continuing work on the pro-
moting efficient use of public monies ronmental security conflicts with the curement throughout the protest. The
for the public good. Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Cre- only delayed tasks are those that
In their request to submit the brief, ation Act of 2012, which created First- require information from the eventual
the entities said they provided notice Net and says that the organization network partner, the officials said. n
to the three involved parties. The fed- shall ensure the safety, security and
eral government did not object to the resiliency of the network. Danny Ramey is the web/assistant editor for
filing, AT&T did not respond and The filing asked the judge to MissionCritical Communications magazine.
Rivada Mercury withheld consent require FirstNet to address environ- Email him at dramey@rrmediagroup.com.
10 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

X10D
X10DR
DR new m
mode
els av
vailable
ailable n
now
no w
Talkaround standard AES Enccryption
2 Mic/1 Gateway Capability Advanced Emergencyy
In Car Monitor Public Address
A
Find Me IP67 Waaterproof
NO
OW
TAL
TA
TALK
FR
LK
FROM
ROM YOUR VE
fe
eet
VEHICL
EHICLLE
E
1600
60
00
contact: INFO
O@X10DR.COM www.x10dr.com *subje
ect to environment
Get More News
TOP NEWS at MCCMAG.COM
TECHNOLOGY
P25 CAP Officials Prioritize

Nonstandard Encryption, TDMA Testing
A ddressing nonstandard encryption and
its negative effects on public-safety
interoperability is a top task for the Project
encryption nonstandard
again, said Chief Gerry Rear-
don, chairman of the AP. The
working on a revision to add
tests that are recommended
for the CSSI and ISSI. Once
25 (P25) Compliance Assessment Program AP believes that is the biggest approved, these recommenda-
(CAP), according to the chairman of the impediment to interoperability tions will be given to the CAP
CAP advisory panel (AP) and a Department right now. AP. The panel will consider
of Homeland Security (DHS) official. The AP is also working on incorporating them as it drafts
A Compliance Assessment Bulletin a CAB to allow CAP testing for the CAB for CSSI testing.
(CAB) to stop the practice of manufactur- P25 Phase 2 TDMA equip- During the latest AP meeting,
ers providing subscriber units with a non- ment. TDMA equipment has been on the a vendor demonstrated a software-based
P25 standard encryption without also market for years, but the parameters for emulation tool that could potentially provide
including P25 standard AES 256 encryp- testing the equipment under the CAP pro- a virtual ISSI test. The AP is looking at other
tion is being finalized and should be posted gram havent been established until now. possibilities as well.
to the CAP website in coming weeks, said TheTDMA CAB is also a priority but will fol- Separately, at the recent TIA TR-8 meet-
Sridhar Kowdley, program manager of the low the nonstandard encryption CAB, ing, the committee created a new working
P25 CAP for DHS Science and Technology Kowdley said. group addressing radio programming com-
(S&T) Directorate. A third CAB that likely will take longer to patibility requirements. At the request of the
The CAB requires all P25 radios with implement will address testing the Console National Public Safety Telecommunications
encryption to include Advanced Encryption Subsystem Interface (CSSI) and Inter RF Council (NPSTC), TR-8 members agreed to
Standard (AES) 256 as a baseline. If a radio Subsystem Interface (ISSI). The biggest begin development of a draft schema that
has proprietary encryption, AES 256 must challenges for the interfaces are a lack of will allow the import of certain radio pro-
be included as well and used during mutual- accredited laboratories to perform the test- gramming parameters from a manufactur-
aid situations if encryption is needed. ing, and the tests are expensive because a ers code plug programming software and
We leveraged this off existing SAFE- lab needs the core infrastructure for three allow the export of these parameters into
COM guidance, Kowdley said. SAFECOM different vendors. another manufacturers code plug program-
has said if you are going to produce a radio The issue is the business case and the ming software.
and you want to include a nonstandard fea- affordability and viability for these labs to TR-8 is also working to add a new stan-
ture when there is a standard feature avail- host that work, Kowdley said. We are look- dard for a TDMA control channel to P25 air
able, you must include the standard feature ing for ways to do that. Weve asked industry interfaces. The standard, which was
as well. We are enforcing the guidance. for creative ways to test the ISSI and CSSI, approved for ballot, provides the messages
The problem we have with encryption is and we will see if we can vet that through the and procedures for operating a 12.5-kilo-
there is a nonstandard encryption being P25 CAP program and implement it. hertz channel with two TDMA slots where
offered by some manufacturers that is mak- The Telecommunications Industry Asso- either or both may service control channel
ing interoperability for those choosing ciation(TIA) TR-8.25.1 working group is traffic.
NPSTC Publishes Reports on The master report explains the role management and usage of interoper-
Interoperability, Encryption of best practices and the use of ability equipment and systems
The National Public Safety migration strategies to enhance first
Telecommunications Council responder safety and how each topic The group identified 13 topics that
(NPSTC) released publications on relates to the SAFECOM Interoper- will result in unique best practice
radio interoperability and encryption. ability Continuum. The first three statements. NPSTC intends to publish
The NPSTC governing board best practice statements cover specif- these additional reports as they are
approved Radio Interoperability ic issues that are critical to achieving completed by a working group.
Best Practices, including a master interoperability: The NPSTC governing board also
report and three best practice state- n Nationwide interoperability approved an encryption on interoper-
ments that identify specific actions channel naming and usage ability channels report. The use of
local public-safety agencies can take n Interoperability systems change digital encryption is increasing
to improve emergency communica- management practices among public-safety agencies, creat-
tions interoperability. n Training and proficiency in the ing interoperability problems for first

TM1000A
GPS NTP Time Server
WiFi & PoE CLOCKS

4 and 6 Digit Options
Mindshare by CSS / 563.387.7475 / css-mindshare.com css-timemachines.com

Get More News
at MCCMAG.COM
Nascent Public-Safety LTE Proximity

Services Market Faces Obstacles
T he market for proximity services
(ProSe) in public-safety Long Term
Evolution (LTE) devices called direct
and [vendors have] no plan to do so for at
least the next two years, a Motorola
spokesman said.
mode or off network in LMR systems is Motorola Solutions strategy for direct
uncertain because of a lack of public-safety mode is to use LMR technology for off-
standards and commitments from chipmak- network device-to-device communications.
ers for the technology. The Motorola spokesman said the current
Initial ProSe standards are included in state of ProSe will not be able to meet pub-
Third Generation Partnership Project lic-safety needs.
(3GPP) LTE Release 13, finalized last in ProSe-capable platforms, chipset ven- Rugged LTE handset maker Sonim
year. However, Release 13 ProSe stan- dors want high volume commitments from Technologies plans to support both a nar-
dards are basic and would only alert one their customer base. Most pre-commercial rowband LMR type of direct mode as well
device with ProSe that it is within a set trial activity during the past three years has as ProSe when the silicon software com-
distance of another device with ProSe. been in the commercial domain for proximi- panies and carriers begin to support the
Without ProSe features targeted more ty-based advertising and social networking, feature. Robert Escalle, vice president of
specifically for public safety, agencies for example. public safety for Sonim, said chipset ven-
cannot fully transition from legacy LMR Harris has considered incorporating dors will support this feature as the tech-
systems to LTE because direct communi- ProSe into our public-safety LTE devices; nology matures and requirements become
cations between devices in out-of-network however, the availability of ProSe support in better defined as to features and function-
coverage scenarios is an essential the chipset would dictate when this could ality of the ProSe element within the 3GPP
requirement for public-safety users. happen, said Michelle Johnson, Harris standards.
Emil Olbrich, president of consulting and director of theLTE center of excellence. Escalle also noted the importance of
market research firm PrimeLime, said after We believe the primary hurdle to ProSe- interoperability testing between different
the public-safety standards are completed, capable devices is chipset availability for devices to ensure first responders can com-
there has to be a market for the products, public-safety modes of ProSe. municate with each other in a direct-mode
and manufacturers have to build products Motorola Solutions understanding from implementation. This will take coordination
and extensively test them. our industry survey is that there are no pub- between chipset and device manufacturers
Devices are dependent on chipsets that licly available chipsets that have ProSe to ensure this happens and is successful,
include ProSe. However, prior to investing capability according to the 3GPP standard, he said.
responders. NPSTC members have n Encryption is not allowed on the contract for the First Responder
long advocated that analog voice be nationwide interoperability calling Network Authority (FirstNet) nation-
the standard for interoperability com- and tactical channels in VHF, UHF wide public-safety broadband net-
munications. and 800 MHz. work (NPSBN) and the contracts
A task force studied this issue and n Encryption is not allowed on 700 potential opportunities.
issued a questionnaire last May to MHz calling channels but is allowed Were very excited about our
assess how public-safety agencies on 700 MHz tactical channels. overall ability to improve the speed,
use encryption and to what extent n Some frequencies are allocated scale and capacity of our wireless
they use encryption on designated as mutual-aid channels (VLAW and network, and that not only involves
interoperability channels. The FCC VFIRE), and encryption is allowed. our 5G initiatives, but quite frankly,
also issued a ruling on analog voice n Encryption is allowed on local, were very optimistic about our First-
communications that directly regional and statewide interoperabili- Net initiative, said John Stephens,
impacted the use of digital encryp- ty channels if allowed by the local AT&T senior executive vice presi-
tion on nationwide interoperability authority. dent and chief financial officer
frequencies. (CFO), during the Deutsche Bank
The task force finalized an out- AT&T Optimistic about FirstNet 25th Annual Media Telecom Confer-
reach document to educate public- Spectrum, Funding Advantages ence March 8.
safety agencies on this issue and AT&T executives are optimistic Stephens said that the company
developed the following findings: about the carriers chances of winning already has 40 megahertz of unused

See Us at IWCE, Booth 333
Smooth Super Bowl P25, LTE Communications
P ublic-safety communications planning
for Super Bowl LI began a year before
the National Football Leagues (NFL) 2017
pare it, and because we were so intimate
with it, everything went very well.
In addition to voice communications,
championship game and went almost as about 200 public-safety officials used broad-
smoothly as the New England Patriots sec- band devices on Harris Countys public-
ond-half comeback, according to officials. safety early builder Long Term Evolution
The Houston Police Departments Inter- (LTE) network during the Super Bowl. The
operable Communications Working Group county deployed a small cell inside the sta-
averaged about 50 to 75 people at each dium to increase coverage.
monthly meeting. The meetings included in- where the Super Bowl Live fan event was Based on previous events, the county
depth planning with the host committee, held during the week leading up to the identified the broadband users, and their
wireless carriers and other stakeholders, game. The only interference was between needs drove the process. Public perception
said Tom Sorley, Houstons deputy chief one of the wireless carriers and the media of a uniformed officer looking down at a
information officer (CIO) for public safety microphones, Sorley said. device is negative, said Shing Lin, director
and chair of the working group. The Houston Police Department loaned of public-safety technology for Harris Coun-
Public-safety officials in the area use a between 400 and 500 radios to federal and ty. So, undercover officers who wouldnt look
24-county Project 25 (P25) Phase 2 network other officials who needed to communicate out of place with a smartphone used county-
for daily communications. Officials tweaked during the event, using four encrypted talk- owned band 14 devices from Motorola Solu-
the network to allow some talkgroups that groups. Network traffic increased about 20 tions and Sonim Technologies.
are normally active on only one part of the percent during the game. The phones were used during regular
network to be active on multiple parts of the Problems occurred when two groups self season football games to help the county
network during the event. Conversely, the assigned channels outside the 25-page inci- refine its processes. Officers used an
reach of some talkgroups with larger cover- dent radio communications plan (ICS 205) encrypted application called Moxtra that
age areas on a daily basis was reduced dur- talkgroup and channel assignments. We allows private or group chat and sharing
ing the event to ensure effective traffic flow. only had two instances of that, and both images and files. Policy issues, such as who
Public-safety officials worked with the FCC times we were able to solve those relatively owns an image taken if there is an incident,
to perform a baseline RF test in the area quickly, Sorley said. It took months to pre- were addressed before the game.
or underused spectrum available, ny a national platform for its internet despite filings from numerous
which if combined with the spectrum of things (IoT), smart cities and moni- mission-critical communications
from the FirstNet contract would put toring initiatives, as well as other ini- organizations, including EWA and
the company in a great position for tiatives related to first responders. UTC, in opposition.
improving capacity and quality. So, this really is an important bid It is EWAs belief that the action
If were fortunate enough to win and opportunity for us, and were taken by the bureaus conflicts with
the FirstNet contract, well add anoth- anxious to get a decision made and established commission policy, the
er 20 megahertz of 700 MHz spectrum are optimistic we will be part of that EWA filing said. The alliance urges
in 700 band [band] 14, Stephens said. decision, Stephens said. the FCC to set aside the grant of the
That puts us with 60 megahertz. Stephens did not discuss the ongo- waiver, return Higher Grounds
Thats a dramatic advantage. ing court case stemming from Rivada application to pending status and ini-
There is a uniqueness to the First- Mercurys pre-award protest. (See tiate a rulemaking proceeding in
Net contract. It not only allows you to Spectrum Monitor on Page 8.) which the many concerns about the
build a ubiquitous nationwide net- interference potential of the proposed
work on a new band, but it also gives REGULATORY system can be evaluated in great
you the funding to do that. detail and weighed against its
Stephens added that putting the EWA, UTC Request Review prospective benefits to the public.
FirstNet spectrum into service would of Higher Ground Order Despite the threat of interference
also provide an opportunity for the The Enterprise Wireless Alliance to these mission-critical communica-
company to put the remainder of its (EWA) and Utilities Technology tions systems and objections on the
spectrum inventory into service at the Council (UTC) filed applications for record, the order requires only that
same time. review of the FCCs order granting Higher Ground correct interference
Thats dramatic efficiency and Higher Ground an earth station (ES) after the fact and declines to require
effectiveness and will provide all of license. In January, the FCC granted Higher Ground to accept responsibili-
our customers, including our new Higher Grounds application, with ty and liability for any reported inter-
FirstNet customers, a dramatic conditions, for a nationwide license ference it causes, the UTC filing
advantage, Stephens said. to operate mobile ES transmitters said. The public interest is not
That in turn would give the compa- in the fixed service 6 GHz band served by granting Higher Grounds

Get More News
at MCCMAG.COM
application, nor is there a sufficient ceeding to address issues related to can augment calls to 9-1-1.
basis for waiving the rules. how smartphone 9-1-1 applications The National Emergency Number
interface with 9-1-1 systems. Association (NENA) said the devel-
Public-Safety Groups In its comments, the Association opment of 9-1-1-related smartphone
Support FCC Proceeding to of Public-Safety Communications apps offers an opportunity and a chal-
Address 9-1-1 Apps Officials (APCO) International said it lenge for the public-safety communi-
Fourteen entities filed comments is working to ensure apps are safe ty. The association said 9-1-1-related
regarding a request by the National and effective. APCO also said apps applications should be held to the
Association of State 911 Administra- cant replace 9-1-1, and critical issues same high standards as other compo-
tors (NASNA) to initiate an FCC pro- must be addressed before applications nents of 9-1-1 systems.
The city believes the commission
should initiate a proceeding to deter-
mine whether 9-1-1 apps, in light of
the problems alleged by NASNA,
should be allowed to interconnect to
the 9-1-1 system, the city of New
York said in its comments. 9-1-1
apps that do interconnect should be
subject to rules to address the con-
cerns raised and to require strict
adherence to standards, ensuring the
apps provide the seamless user expe-
rience that 9-1-1 already delivers.
NTCA The Rural Broadband
Association said the FCC is not the
appropriate venue to address
NASNAs concerns. Likewise, the
App Association said the FCCs
action will potentially stunt the
growth of mobile app innovation. The
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has
well-established authority to address
app claims impacting consumers, the
App Association said.
Although AT&T sympathizes
with many of NASNAs concerns, we
also note that NASNA offers no legal
basis upon which the commission
could assert authority over 9-1-1
apps, AT&T said in its comments.
To the extent that the commission
moves forward with a rulemaking as
requested by NASNA, it might also
be a proceeding in which to consider
rules appropriate for interconnected
VoIP (other than Long Term Evolu-
tion) in a mobile environment, such
as for over-the-top VoIP apps and Wi-
Fi calling.
$115M in 9-1-1 Grant Funds,

NG 9-1-1 Draft Bill
The 9-1-1 grant funds that were
authorized by the Next-Generation

^
TETRA - LTE - DMR - P25 - CAD

Going further in critical communications

9-1-1 Advancement Act of 2012 will be accepted starting sometime next-generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1)
should be available in early 2018. in the fall. Grant awards will then services and enhance and upgrade the
The act authorized $115 million in follow in 2018. nations 9-1-1 systems.
grant money from the AWS-3 spec- The grants are for the implementa- Nelson is the ranking member of
trum auction for various activities tion and operation of 9-1-1 services, the Senate Commerce, Science and
related to 9-1-1 and next-generation E9-1-1 services, migration to an IP- Transportation Committee, and
9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1). enabled emergency network, and the Klobuchar is a co-chair of the Con-
The funds from the auction were adoption and operation of NG 9-1-1 gressional NextGen 9-1-1 Caucus.
transferred to the Public Safety Trust services and applications, according The Association of Public-Safety
Fund in May 2016 and then trans- to the National 911 Program. Communications Officials (APCO)
ferred to the 911 Grant Program in The Next Generation 9-1-1 International said the draft bill
September 2016. The National High- Advancement Act was included in the addresses critical needs for the 9-1-1
way Traffic Safety Administration Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Cre- community and aligns with priorities.
(NHTSA) and the National Telecom- ation Act of 2012, the legislation that Provisions recognize the need for
munications and Information Admin- created the First Responder Network standards and resources to support
istration (NTIA), which jointly Authority (FirstNet). Subsection E of public-safety answering points
administer the grant program under the tax bill outlined the $115 million (PSAPs). The draft also recognizes
the act, are working on draft grant in grant money, a new 9-1-1 coordi- the need to reserve governance and
regulations, which should be avail- nation office, implementation plans control to states and localities, and
able for public comment sometime and requests for reports. the imperative of cybersecurity.
this spring. Separately, U.S. Sens. Bill Nelson 9-1-1 professionals deserve the
After the public comments and Amy Klobuchar released a draft benefits of accredited, consensus-
process, the final regulations will be bill, the Next Generation 9-1-1 Act based standards to ensure services
published, and grant applications of 2017, to further deployment of and equipment match the level of

Get More News
at MCCMAG.COM
innovation and cost efficiencies lems at the tops of cell towers, and acquire the entire share capital of
enjoyed in the consumer marketplace self-driving cars can be safer and Sepura.
said APCO in a statement. learn to avoid obstacles. At a February court meeting, 97.07
The text of this bill closely tracks percent of Sepura shareholders voted
NENAs recommendations for an NG Sepura Shareholders in favor of the transaction. At press
9-1-1 legal framework, first filed with Approve Hytera Acquisition time, approvals from the competition
the FCC almost five years ago, and Sepura shareholders voted to authorities in Spain and Germany
were grateful to Sens. Nelson and approve the recommended cash offer remained outstanding. The court hear-
Klobuchar for listening to the voice made by Bidco, a wholly owned sub- ing to sanction the scheme will be
of our members, said the National sidiary of Hytera Communications, to held in early to mid-March.
Emergency Number Association
(NENA).
BUSINESS
Motorola Solutions
Invests in Neurala Visit Us At IWCE
Motorola Solutions Venture Capi- Booth #932
tal and other companies invested $14
million in Neurala, a software compa-
ny that invented the Neurala Brain, a
deep learning neural networks plat-
form that is making smart products
such as toys, cameras and self-driving
cars more autonomous, interactive
and useful. Scan to nd headset
for your radio
Neurala is working with Motorola
Solutions on new applications of
video, image and audio analytics for
public safety.
Pelion Venture Partners led the
funding round, with participation
from Sherpa Capital, Motorola Solu-
tions Venture Capital, 360 Capital
Partners, Draper Associates Invest-
ments, SK Ventures and Idinvest
Partners. Neurala will use the capital
to accelerate servicing of its rapidly
increasing customer demand, as well Two-Way Radio Communication
as to revolutionize additional applica-
tion areas by adding built-in intelli- with No Adapter Required.
gence and autonomous behavior. Communicate clearly and safely with David Clark Company
Neurala pioneered the develop- headsets designed to connect directly to a wide variety of portable
ment of deep learning neural network radios without the need for an adapter. David Clark Radio
software for NASA to use in plane- Direct headsets are ideal for use wherever high noise makes
tary exploration, where processing communication difcult. Headsets are available in a variety of styles
power, battery life and communica- for any application. Call 800-298-6235 for more information.
tions are limited. Neuralas neural
network software uses a bioinspired Made In USA
approach to mimic the way the

human brain learns and analyzes its
environment. With the Neurala Brain, +H]PK*SHYR*VTWHU`0UJVYWVYH[LK
.YLLUOLHKZL[KVTLZHYLH+H]PK*SHYRYLNPZ[LYLK[YHKLTHYR W W W. D AV I D C L A R K . C O M
security cameras can identify specific
threats, drones can diagnose prob-
w w w.M C C m a g . c o m Mission Critica l Commu n ica tion s March 2017 21

Survey Reveals
Fire Service Needs Photo courtesy Mike Legeros
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fourth Needs

Assessment examines the status of firefighters communications,
technology, facilities and equipment. By Barry Furey
T
The National Fire Protection Associa-
tion (NFPA) released its Fourth Needs
Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service.
The report is based on responses to
surveys given to more than 5,100
overall assessment of fire department
readiness because of their importance
and impact on daily operations. Com-
munications, in particular, is often
acknowledged as having a profound
serving populations of 500,000 or
more, two-stage dispatching the use
of segregated call-takers and dispatch-
ers is the norm, accounting for 96
percent of those reporting. In areas
agencies. The report examines a broad effect on incident outcome. The with populations of less than 2,500,
range of issues including personnel and responses provided by participants however, this percentage plummets to
their capabilities, facilities and appara- helped paint a picture of where fire a mere 18 percent. In this scenario, the
tus, personal protective equipment, service preparedness stands in this crit- same person who took the initial tele-
community risk reduction (fire preven- ical category. Based on the responses, phone call is also likely to broadcast
tion and code enforcement) and the there are some surprises, some rein- the alert.
ability to handle unusually challenging forced assumptions, and a broad spec- The use of secondary public-safety
incidents. Previous studies were under- trum of resources and readiness. answering points (PSAPs) was also
taken in 2001, 2005 and 2010. tied to community size. Secondary
The report also covered a sixth key Operating Procedures PSAPs do not answer an initial 9-1-1
component communications and Community size had a significant call but rather provide agency-specific
advanced technology. It is only fitting bearing on personnel capabilities and dispatch and communications support
that these issues were addressed in the operating procedures. For agencies after receiving transferred calls or

It is of great concern that more than 38 percent of fire
departments have no backup 9-1-1 center. This increases to
47 percent in small jurisdictions.
relayed information. The majority of gests that agencies that might benefit ter, however, was the minimum
large agencies (59 percent) relied on the most from this technology may requirement of having at least two
separate services versus only 7 percent also be the agencies that have the least telecommunicators on duty at all times,
of small departments. Workflow aside, access. as outlined in NFPA 1221: Standard
the incident volume of small agencies One case in which size did not mat- for the Installation, Maintenance and
is likely insufficient to support a dedi-
cated center. With a number of states
now considering or mandating the con-
solidation of communications facili-
ties, it will be interesting to see how
these numbers change in the future.
Fire departments answered only
about 2 percent of their emergency
telephone calls directly, with the
largest initial contact being provided
by consolidated law-enforcement, fire
and EMS centers. These represented
78 percent of the total, with sites oper-
ated by law enforcement agencies
managing another 15 percent of the
intake.
Technology
Population also significantly affects
the use of CAD. More than 95 percent
of agencies serving at least 50,000 peo-
ple relied on this technology, whereas
only 39 percent of agencies serving
fewer than 2,500 people had access to
this form of automation. Mobile web-
based geographic information systems
(GIS), often used as an adjunct to
CAD, showed similar disparities.
Large agencies serving populations of
more than 100,000 had utilization rates
between 79 to 86 percent, while only
12 percent of the smallest agencies
counted it as a tool.
Because the FCC estimates that at
least 70 percent of 9-1-1 calls come
from wireless devices, accurate digital
mapping has become increasingly
important to the delivery of service,
especially in rural areas where land-
mark-based reporting may commonly
occur and with large areas that are not
formally addressed. GIS is also inte-
gral to the dispatch and tracking of
mobile resources, especially in wild-
land fires. Unfortunately, the data sug-

absent any current impact of large-
A Rural Fire Chiefs View scale initiatives such as the First

Responder Network Authority (First-
Net), interoperability in the fire serv-
Vaughan, fire chief of the smarter firefighters. Also, AVL for all
C.R. Cuba (Alabama) Fire Depart-
ment and president of the Alabama Fire-
resources, including volunteer vehicles. If
you know where someone is, you can
ice is on the rise. Only 9 percent of
agencies reported that they could not
communicate with their response part-
fighters Association, answered questions send him or her to investigate a report of
ners, half of what it was in 2001 a
about the Fourth Needs Assessment smoke in the area. You would also know
significant improvement. However, a
reports implications for a rural agency. who is responding to a call without tying
number of respondents did not know
Cuba has a population of 323. Vaughan up the radio.
whether or not they could communi-
also serves as chair of the Radio/Wireless MCC: Are there examples where lack
cate with other agencies. Identifying
Committee of the National Volunteer Fire of communications and/or technology
with whom you can communicate and
Council (NVFC) and represents the coun- compromised your small agencys ability
how to do so is a basic component of
cil on the FirstNet Public Safety Advisory to address an emergency?
incident planning and should not be
Committee (PSAC). Vaughan: I can provide quite a few.
left to chance.
MCC: Given the funding inequities They range from standard house fires to a
Although the survey examines the
among fire departments, how do rural com- major industrial incident where we had to
percentage of co-responders where
munities address communications needs? literally walk around and pass instructions
interoperable communications is possi-
Vaughan: If an agency is able to pro- by word of mouth. Our engines have to
ble, it does not define how this interop-
vide a portable radio for every firefighter, carry two different radios to talk to sur-
erability is accomplished or the exact
then it is doing well. In many cases, offi- rounding companies. There is no continuity
identity of these agencies. Because
cers and members purchase mobiles and of systems, and counties and departments
there is no one-size-fits-all application
portables out of their own pockets, which are isolated.
of interoperability, it would be helpful
results in nonstandard equipment, batter- MCC: What major issues face rural
to know that all participants complied
ies and parts. Some equipment may not departments when it comes to communi-
with at least a minimum baseline defi-
even be type accepted, in which case you cations?
nition. To the NFPAs credit, however,
might as well give them a rock and a Post- Vaughan: Coverage and cost. Depart-
a great deal of useful information was
it note. ments are by and large at the mercy of
gathered, and the process is evolving to
MCC: What are the most beneficial their county or region to provide appropri-
become even more efficient in the
devices you wish you had but dont have ate infrastructure. Even those systems that
future. Representatives from a number
access to? support 95 percent mobile coverage may
of major fire service organizations pro-
Vaughan: More GIS and thermal- fall well short of that for portables, and cell-
vided input and review, and there is
imaging capability. We have ArcGIS, but it phones may not even supply an adequate
movement from paper to electronic
is limited outside of our primary protection backup because service can also be spot-
data collection to encourage greater
area. We have the only thermal-imaging ty. My department operates on $18,000
participation.
camera for about 40 miles. Access to per year. About one-third of that goes
those tools across the board makes for toward insurance.
Advanced Technologies
The presence of developing tech-
Use of Emergency Services Communi- the original 2001 survey, and this is nology, such as advanced personnel-
cations Systems. Compliance here one area that requires attention in the location equipment, infrared-sensing
ranged from 94 to 100 percent across future. surveillance, physiological monitoring
the different community sizes. Perhaps even more ominous is the of firefighters and aerial robotics, was
fact that some agencies possess insuffi- more limited than communications fea-
Facilities, Equipment, cient equipment, negatively impacting tures such as CAD and GIS, with no
Interoperability daily operations and firefighter safety. category being used by more than 26
It is of great concern that more than Fifty percent of fire departments percent of departments of any size. It
38 percent of fire departments have no reported not having enough portable should be noted that half of the depart-
backup 9-1-1 center. This increases to radios to equip every member of their ments serving populations less than
47 percent in small jurisdictions. While staff, and two-thirds dont have a radio 2,500 reported having none of the list-
the advent of next-generation 9-1-1 reserve of at least 10 percent, says ed advanced technologies, the report
(NG 9-1-1) will bring improved Hylton Haynes, senior research analyst said. On the contrary, all of the largest
methodology and call-routing options, for the NFPA. This is largely agencies surveyed reported using at
survey numbers suggest a significantly unchanged since 2010 and is obviously least one advanced technology.
weak link in the current system. The a continuing need for the fire service. While the captured statistics pro-
percentages show little change since Survey numbers indicate that even vide a numerical comparison into the

severe. There were a number of areas,
such as personal protective equipment
(PPE) and self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA) that agencies
lacked. With limited budgets, adminis-
trators are often faced with choosing
between clothing a firefighter, purchas-
ing SCBA, buying a radio or putting
Photo courtesy Barry Furey

gas in the trucks. Often the radio will
lose out. Strategies must be developed
and maintained to more adequately
support communications and technolo-
gy for all fire departments, regardless
of size. Without this, our smallest com-
Although communications is important to all departments, there is considerable disparity munities will continue to suffer our
between large and small agencies.
biggest problems.
state of communications and technolo- preferable to a purpose-built and stan- The NFPA Fourth Needs Assess-
gy in the fire service, they do not show dards-compliant unit, they do address ment serves as an excellent barometer
the true impact on the ability of the the need to get water to the fire. of the current level of preparedness.
have-nots to provide safe and ade- Workarounds aside, there are few, if More importantly, it provides a clear
quate service. For example, it is not any, practical ways for first responders picture of the hurdles that lie ahead. n
uncommon for rural departments to to assemble a regional radio network
cobble together apparatus from sal- from spare parts. Barry Furey has more than 45 years experi-
vaged pieces of older equipment or to Of all the challenges to fire service ence in public safety as a 9-1-1 director and
modify military vehicles for firefight- communications, especially small fire officer in multiple states. He can be
ing use. Although neither solution is departments, funding may be the most reached at barryfurey@yahoo.com.
Vis
it
bo us a
Go Mobile with oth t I
#6 WCE
35
Ranger and Mobile Scout
T W O M O B I L E D I S P AT C H O P T I O N S
TM
MOBILE SCOUT
Full-F
u Fe eatured IP
Mobile Broadband o
Windows laptop or
TM
RANGER
Fo
our Channel Comm
m unications
Mobile Brroadband or Wi-Fi
Windows laptop or tablet*
*Mobilitty (Broadband or Wii-Fi) requirres a separrate license. 1-803-358--3609 | avtecinc.com/mobile

!"#"
$%"&'()*")!#

+$,-.$,-/--%

!"

# $

%1
23
3 +45
)
'$ 333$
)
'$ )
!6
)
0

%&
& &
$ &
'

!()
*+,-
./(!0.
)# *+$
#

1,'12$+&+
The Evolution of
Gateways
F
From modest beginnings as analog gateways supporting
talk path patching interoperability between LMR networks,
enhanced gateways have evolved into umbrella networks
that incorporate push-to-talk (PTT) voice, video and data
(VVD) over terrestrial internet and commercial and public-
The original voice interoperability
solution has evolved to include
push to talk (PTT) and radio over
safety wireless broadband networks. The current and evolv- IP (RoIP) for broadband.
ing landscape of these solutions, how they are being By Douglas Greenwood and Omna Solomon
employed by public safety to expand interoperable commu-
nications, and their prospect for the future are explored in
this article. One early effort to address these limitations led to the
engineering of national interoperability channels that public-
Silos and Interoperability safety subscriber radios could be programmed to access. Sep-
With the introduction of LMR systems, mission-critical arate mutual-aid channels were established for each of the
PTT (MCPTT) communications was delivered to all sub- primary public-safety radio bands (UHF, VHF, and 700 and
scribers within the coverage footprint of an LMR network. 800 MHz). This approach provided a talk path to ensure that
However, subscribers to a given LMR network had limited all UHF radios could communicate with other UHF radios
means of communicating with neighboring networks. containing the appropriate mutual-aid channels; however,
Therefore, establishing LMR networks created communica- UHF radios could not communicate with VHF radios. Some-
tions islands, or silos, isolating first responders from their thing more had to be done to promote interoperability among
neighbors. different systems, frequency bands, radio architectures, and

proprietary and tional patch that
Basic Radio Interoperability LMR to LTE Communications
non-Project 25 lives long after
Gateway Architecture Interoperability
(P25) technolo- the incident
gies. response, when it
LMR LMR
Radio gateways is no longer
System 1 System 2
were developed to LMR required.
address these Logical LTE-LMR Gateway Gateways can
issues. With a be designed to
gateway, a talk eliminate the
path can be estab- LTE interoperability
lished between barriers between
disparate radio This figure illustrates a trunked LMR neighboring sys-
system connected to an LTE system.
technologies and tems; however,
frequency bands, depending on the implementation strategy and the scope of
Audio
expanding radio the interoperable communications requirements, they may
Patch interoperability for not be practical. In theory, audio gateways can intercon-
end users. These nect and sum up a large number of different channels or
gateways facilitate systems. At a certain point, though, shared communica-
inter- and intra- tions can become unintelligible to the participating entities.
jurisdiction inter- In reality, patching must be done among a limited number
operability of partners and typically on a temporary basis to achieve
between agencies optimal performance.
operating disparate To address these issues, the LMR industry has evolved
radio systems and toward building large multijurisdiction or statewide solu-
are typically tions that employ the basic concepts of audio patching but
deployed to sup- do so using more elegant and efficient technologies.
This figure illustrates how a traditional
gateway provides a shared talk path port short-term
between two trunked networks. tactical incidents. IP and Wireless Broadband
The data communications industry developed IP-based
LMR Gateway Patches signal transmission and switching to efficiently communi-
Radio gateways have become essential tools in the strat- cate all forms of information including VVD, making it the
egy to expand and advance interoperable radio communica- perfect platform to promote broadband interoperability. The
tions; however, they have inherent limitations. Talk paths adoption of 3G and 4G technologies by commercial carriers
can indeed be shared through a gateway by patching togeth- provides higher throughput IP communications to mobile
er a repeater channel or talk groups from different systems devices. PTT services can also be purchased on various
that need to communicate together. However, this piece- commercial networks, and many first responders carry
meal approach leads to somewhat larger communications Long Term Evolution (LTE)-capable smartphones.
silos the combined systems are still not interoperable The prevalence of smartphone-based PTT voice services
with their neighboring radio systems. and the continued use of LMR systems for mission-critical
Additionally, gateway patches are not practical solutions radio introduce silos similar to that of the disparate legacy
for long-term interoperability across disparate systems and radio systems. Connecting or sharing PTT talk paths over
are typically deployed temporarily. For example, if two public and private wireless networks is essential to LTE-to-
entities patch together radio communications channels, LMR interoperability as the technology platforms continue
each entity will hear all the traffic from the other systems their respective evolutions. Supporting this approach
users over their respective repeaters. Significant unrelated through open and standards-based interoperability gateways
traffic can potentially render the shared talk path in both enables a PTT application on a broadband subscribers
jurisdictions useless. These solutions additionally take up smartphone to communicate with LMR subscribers on their
multiple channel resources from other communications local LMR network.
services while patched. We have all experienced the opera- Several non-public-safety communities, including
LMR audio would employ audio patching or vendor-specific

solutions for voice interoperability, while a vendor-agnostic
XoIP switching fabric will create an inclusive architecture
capable of bridging all multimedia content.
schools, utilities, LTE network, including VoIP, mission-critical voice (MCV)
Evolution of Gateways
transportation and and voice over LTE (VoLTE). They are somewhat ambigu-
Broadband medical facilities, ous and may refer to phone service provided over an IP data
LMR-LTE Gateways play critical func- network. For this article, we will use the term RoIP because
LMR RoIP tions in the over- it is generally understood to refer to PTT services over LTE
Voice all emergency and LMR. A further distinction can be made between non-
response and miti- mission-critical and mission-critical PTT services.
gation structure.
Information shar- Broadband Gateways
ing within and As information required for mission-critical services
among different increasingly encompasses a broad range of multimedia
emergency sup- VVD, gateways will continue to expand to other platforms.
port functions (ESFs) not only includes voice but also a RoIP switching cores are based on IP technology capable of
varied ecosystem of rich multimedia content. With respect switching information in any form; the same concept can be
to voice, a smartphone PTT application could be integrated extended to streaming video and other situational awareness
into the local LMR gateway that supports commercial cel- data sharing across different emergency service functions.
lular interoperable communications. Delivery of this LTE- Many mechanisms are already in place for sharing some
to-LMR PTT capability may use LMR vendor-specific video from publicly funded closed-circuit TV (CCTV). A
(proprietary) solutions or vendor-agnostic third-party solu- utility or school, with video from fixed cameras it chooses
tions, and these solutions make it possible, in theory, to to share, can set up a video server that provides login access
bridge all non-public-safety PTT communications silos to camera video streams. While this is one source of video
with public safety during an incident. sharing, video can also be shared by individuals within a
With the introduction of the First Responder Network utility or school directly from their smartphones. In the near
Authority (FirstNet), the public-safety community will have future, citizens will also be able to directly stream video to
access to a dedicated mission-critical LTE wireless broad- support public safetys mission. Working with video from
band network that provides public-safety-grade services. these different sources during an incident will require
When FirstNet MCPTT talk paths are shared with public- switching, and we identify this form of information switch-
safety-grade LMR networks, the combined system will be ing over IP as XoIP. Broadband gateways in this context are
capable of providing public-safety-grade services. FirstNet implemented virtually through the XoIP switching fabric
may also develop and host an open standards-based frame- and are managed by some form of video management sys-
work or marketplace that enables digital LMR system opera- tem (VMS).
tors nationwide to better integrate their LMR systems with
FirstNet to enable local-area LMR-to-LTE interoperability. Technology Specific or Agnostic
An open standard gateway would also enable better integra- With the evolution of multimedia information and wire-
tion with commercial PTT solutions and VVD between and less broadband, vendor-specific and agnostic solutions that
among public-safety entities and the critical ESF community. cover all media and metadata types will surface both
will inevitably employ open standards to share data across
RoIP Gateways different platforms. However, VMS providers, similar to
Two different radio over IP (RoIP) gateways are avail- LMR vendors, will implement enhanced features to
able for LTE/LMR interoperable PTT voice services includ- increase functionality and better align the standards to the
ing LMR vendor-specific solutions and those provided by operational needs of public safety. For instance, simple and
third-party LMR vendor-agnostic solutions. A comprehen- user-friendly applications to provision and manage different
sive survey of existing gateway solutions is not the goal of user groups will require additional development beyond the
this article, but each of these types of gateways are avail- underlying multimedia sharing servers and systems. The
able. It is easy to identify LMR gateway products such as number of multimedia content providers will continue to
JPS Interoperability Solutions ACU-1000, the SyTech increase; therefore, it will likely fall on third-party VMS
RIOS, the Communications-Applied Technology ICRI vendors to provide logical solutions to capture and relay a
gateway and various others. For vendor-specific RoIP, citizens Twitter Periscope feed to a battalion officers
Motorola Solutions offers WAVE, while Harris provides mobile CAD application, for example.
BeOn. Vendor-agnostic RoIP solutions include Mutualink, LMR audio would employ audio patching or vendor-
ESChat and others. AT&T, a finalist to be the FirstNet specific solutions for voice interoperability, while a vendor-
industry partner, offers its commercial customers Kodiaks agnostic XoIP switching fabric will create an inclusive
PTT solution. All of the solutions leverage a combination of architecture capable of bridging all multimedia content. An
open standards and proprietary enhancements to deliver open standards-based vendor-agnostic solution will
viable solutions. increase interoperability across different platforms and con-
Numerous terms describe voice services over FirstNets tent. As FirstNet deploys the nationwide LTE network and

the anticipated
Broadband Data
Interoperability
Third Generation
Partnership Proj-
Wireless
ect (3GPP) stan-
XoIP
dards-based
Multimedia
Vendor Agnostic
MCPTT services,
RoIP any of these
Vendor Agnostic approaches may
Supply
be used to inte-
Voice-Only
RoIP grate LTE

Vendor Specific
MCPTT with
LMR PTT, which .
would additional-
This figure provides a simple illustration of ly support multi-
broadband data interoperability solution media content
architecture.
sharing and inter-
operability over a standards-based framework.
The value of multimedia content in enhancing the situa-
tional awareness of first responders and other emergency
services personnel, including from schools, utilities, trans-
portation and medical, will undoubtedly increase with pub-
lic safetys penchant for data. Public-safety agencies will
employ a growing ecosystem of VVD management tools to
preserve and protect citizens and property and to extend
multimedia communications to anchor community entities.
Effective use of these tools will, however, require careful
consideration of the legal, policy, technology and procedur-
al issues. There are many steps in successfully translating a
strategic vision for response into an at-your-fingertips tacti-
cal response.
Hundreds of best practice and standard operational pro-
cedure (SOP) documents were developed across the nation
to guide the proper use of legacy audio gateways. Sharing,
retention and management of rich multimedia content with-
in and across agencies will be a significantly more complex
feat. The launch of FirstNet may further expand the possi-
bilities by enabling direct connectivity of broadband data
with a private mission-critical broadband network and
commercial PTT services. It will be incumbent on all stake-
holders to devise comprehensive policies and procedures
governing the effective and timely use of the ever-evolving
data-sharing gateway technologies. n
Douglas Greenwood, PE, PMP, is a senior consultant at Televate, a

public-safety communications and IT consultancy, with more than
20 years of experience in radio systems engineering and wireless
broadband communications. Greenwood supports public-safety
agencies with various strategic initiatives including policies, tech-
nology, procedures, training and exercises necessary to translate
strategic decisions into tactical realities.
Omna Solomon is a senior consultant at Televate. He leads the

firms LMR communications practice and focuses on the planning,
design, implementation and operations of interoperable radio sys-
tem solutions at the state and local levels. Email feedback to
editor@RRMediaGroup.com.
Michael van Zuiden, director of
FirstNet labs, shows where the
partners eNodeB equipment
will be housed at FirstNets
Boulder, Colorado, laboratory.
Are You Ready for

Your State Plan?
Despite the pre-award protest, states can begin to prepare for their
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) state plans and an
opt-in or opt-out decision. By Dominick Arcuri
T
The contract award for the First
Responder Network Authority (First-
Net) deployment partner did not occur
in 2016 as anticipated; however, the
decision and award could occur as
plan. If the governor elects to opt out,
the state will then take on the responsi-
bility to design, install and maintain
the RAN in its state. In either case, the
states RAN will connect to the nation-
with possible adjustments to the plan;
n Formulate an informed opt-in/
opt-out decision recommendation to
provide to the governor; and
n Provide justifiable rationale for
early as this month. The delay provides wide core deployed and operated by the recommendation developed for the
some additional time for states and FirstNet and be part of the interopera- governor.
municipalities across the country to ble nationwide network.
prepare for the state plan review The recommendations in this article When Will
process. are applicable to all states and territo- States Review Plans?
The Middle Class Tax Relief and ries, as well as individual municipali- Given the available information and
Job Creation Act of 2012 created First- ties that want to provide input and a potential FirstNet partner contract
Net and established the process to suggestions to their states single point award in March, the official state plan
deploy the nationwide public-safety of contact (SPOC) and prepare local review period could begin as early as
broadband network (NPSBN) for our first responders for the upcoming September. An initial review of the
nations first responders. The act NPSBN deployment. draft plan could start earlier than Sep-
requires FirstNet to develop a plan for tember, possibly in June, based on
the radio access network (RAN) por- Review the FirstNets recently outlined first 100
tion of the NPSBN to be deployed in FirstNet State Plan days. To emphasize urgency, the act
each of the 56 U.S. states and territo- Because each state has the opportu- stipulates that each state will have only
ries. The act also requires every gover- nity to review its state plan, a thorough 90 days to review the state plan once it
nor to make a decision to either opt review is highly recommended to: is officially delivered. FirstNet plans to
in or opt out of the RAN plan pro- deliver all state plans at the same time;
posed by FirstNet. n Determine if the plan meets the therefore, it is important for states to
If a governor chooses to opt in, needs of the states first-responder begin preparing for the review process
FirstNet will deploy the RAN in that community; now, so that they can meet the desig-
state according to the proposed state n Develop feedback for FirstNet nated timelines.

ULTRA-RUGGED, Mission Critical
LTE Handsets: Bridging the
LMR-to-LTE Divide
W
technology with the launch of FirstNets Band 14 network. New

>d
>d
Is your agency ready?

W>D
Zd
standards that public safety currently relies on today.
Sonim Technologies can help you bridge the LMR-to-LTE

divide.
^
>ddyW

today.
Do you need to bridge the LMR-to-LTE divide? Contact us today!

PublicSafety@Sonimtech.com
(650) 532-3559
Shock Puncture Powerful 3-Year

Dustproof
resistant resistant audio Warranty
Resistant to Waterproof Resistant to Glove-touch Long battery life

oils temperature display
w ww.sonimtech.com
www.sonimtech.com
Portal Information acquisition process that FirstNet used age maps for 700 MHz band 14 and
from FirstNet to select its infrastructure partner. non-band 14 complementary coverage,
At the November 2016 SPOCs The second section overviews the as well as information covering the dif-
meeting, FirstNet unveiled a structure consultation and outreach process. It ferent phases of deployment, infra-
for the portal that will be used to com- includes information specific to each structure hardening and rural coverage
municate information included in the state resulting from the consultation milestones. Additional information
state plan. The portal consists of five meetings, information shared and state included in this section is RAN capaci-
sections. inputs provided during the data collec- ty and any planned RAN partnerships
The first section of the portal con- tion process. specific to the state.
tains FirstNet background. It includes Section three contains details of the Section four addresses FirstNets
information on the development of the state RAN, again specific for each operations and network policies. It will
state plan and background on the state/territory. This will include cover- include an extensive amount of data
related to the network architecture and
core, system availability, roaming and
security approaches. The policies out-
lined in this section will be critical for
ensuring network interoperability
throughout the nation. These network
policies will be consistent across all
states and territories, independent of
whether a state/territory opts in or out.
States considering an opt-out approach
will need to fully evaluate these poli-
cies to confirm that their alternative
plans can comply.
Finally, section five will address
the process for acceptance of the plan
(opt in), as well as the process to fol-
Mission-Critical Call Recording low if a state or territory pursues the
opt-out option. This section also has
P25 DMR TRBO TETRA specific state information related to the
financial considerations of an opt-out
NXDN VoIP DISPATCH NG9-1-1 decision.
Who Should Review

Incident Replay Instant Recall the State Plan?
Mobile Replay Network Archive As part of the state and local imple-
mentation grant program (SLIGP)
planning process, states designated a
broadband governance structure to
oversee the broadband planning
process. This governance structure
should establish a review committee
for the state plan that includes repre-
sentatives from various public-safety
COMMUNICATIONS
S LO
LOGGING
OGGING RECORDER
disciplines, key individuals in the pub-
lic-safety community both within the
major metropolitan areas and in rural
areas, representatives from other
defined regional areas of the state as
See Us at IWCE, Booth 642 applicable, tribal representatives and
www.eventi
tiidecommunications
id i ti s.com others as deemed appropriate.
One Alsan W
Way, Little Ferry NJ 076
07643
643 USA How Should State
Plans be Reviewed?
loggers@eventide.com
om 201.641.1200
201.6
6 extn 264 The FirstNet state plan should be

Formal Events with FirstNets 100 Days After Contract Award
Critical Design
Review Meeting
the Partner
Kickoff
Meeting
Preliminary IMS, QASP and
Contract Design Review WBS Review
Award Meeting Meeting
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Network State Plan Portal Delivery
Network Product and Mission Critical Service
Implementation Plan Network Design Review
FirstNet Activities
Service Road Map Road Map Review

Review
Review
Device Road Map
Coverage, Population and Coverage Review
Maps Review
State Plan Portal Design Review
State Deployed RAN Integration State Plan Portal User
Source: FirstNet
Preliminary Design Approach Review Testing
Review Nationwide State RAN
Plan Review
This FirstNet-generated timeline indicates activities planned after contract award, with initial portions of the state plan potentially available
as early as 90 days after the contract award.
reviewed to determine how well it performance and service measures that relating to the performance of the net-
meets the public-safety broadband are necessary to meet the needs of the work within the state involve the cov-
objectives of the state. During the public-safety community within their erage and capacity of the RAN. The
SLIGP planning and data-collection state. coverage evaluation must include a
process, each state established a set of Two of the most critical concerns comparison of the proposed RAN to
Smart Solutions
Easy Communication
Noisy workplace environments
create unique challenges for workers,
supervisors and team safety. 3M Peltor
?5BC3?==E>931D9?>C?<ED9?>C
When team members cannot hear and communicate
easily with each other, the entire operation can be prone
to delays, mistakes and accidents. In fact, studies have
shown that workers waste time every day trying to
communicate in noisy environments.
3M Peltor has a broad selection of communication solutions

with a variety of hearing protectors for work groups operating
in high-noise environments. When using 3M Peltor product
solutions, youll hear and communicate what you need to while
being protected from potentially hazardous noise.
Learn more at: 3M.com/Peltor/US


terms of the plan, along with others
Capacity Need vs. Proposed (GB/Month) specific to the state:
Spare_Ton n Network architecture, features

-30673
-30672 - -12930 and security;
-12929 - -4760
-4759 - -1598
n Availability and hardening;
-1597 - -350 n Public-safety priority;
-349 - 538
539 - 1480 n Local control;
1481 - 2750
n Device availability;
2751 - 5277
5278 - 46010 n Commercial roaming potential;
n Use of and synergies with public-
owned assets;
n Integration with state and local
public-safety answering points
(PSAPs);
n Service plan offerings and
monthly fees;
n Anticipated state resource and
financial commitments.
A hypothetical network capacity example for Virginia. Red areas indicate counties that
exhibit need that exceeds the proposed capacity by FirstNets state plan.
States and municipalities should
the coverage objectives established by versus the proposed. It indicates that prepare now for the FirstNet state
the state for each of the deployment the majority of the state has sufficient plan review process. No matter which
phases. or excess capacity (green-shaded way a state is leaning regarding the
Once the FirstNet state plan is counties), although in some counties, opt-in/opt-out decision, a thorough
received, the states and territories need exceeds the proposed capacity review of the state plan is important to
should compare these objectives to the (reddish-shaded counties). These latter prepare the governor and to support
proposed band 14 coverage included in areas should be flagged as requiring the state and local public-safety com-
the state plan. A geographic compari- additional network capacity in the pro- munity. While individual municipali-
son that displays at the county level, or posed RAN. Again, it is recommended ties do not have the same opt-in/
preferably at even greater detail, exact- this evaluation be performed at each opt-out decision the states have, they
ly what areas of the state are identified deployment milestone in the plan, have an opportunity to provide valu-
for coverage is recommended. Addi- including IOC 1-5 and FOC. able input and feedback in the process
tionally, this proposed coverage should In addition to the total network and will later face the decision of
be compared at each deployment mile- capacity by county comparison, states whether to adopt FirstNet service or
stone in the plan, including FirstNets should review the modulation and cod- some other option for their specific
initial operating capability (IOC) 1-5 ing scheme (MCS) and the signal-to- public-safety broadband needs. n
and final operating capability (FOC). interference plus noise ratio (SINR)
Another key performance measure distribution for the proposed RAN. Dominick Arcuri has been engaged in the
of the proposed RAN is the data The FirstNet RFP required prospective development and management of commu-
capacity of the network. States should partners to provide distributions of nications systems and projects for more
perform a county-by-county evalua- both MCS and SINR, in addition to than 36 years. He advises clients in areas
tion relative to the total proposed net- average uplink and downlink data rates related to two-way radio technology and
work capacity as it compares to the as a function of area and population standards, broadband data, radio propaga-
projected public-safety demand. Ideal- covered in each state. All this information, in-building coverage, spectrum
ly, a state will develop an actual pub- tion can be used to estimate the instan- management and other areas. Arcuri is a
lic-safety broadband data demand, taneous bandwidth the RAN will sup- registered professional engineer, a certified
based on historical analysis of calls for port in specific areas of the state. project management professional and an
service, that it can use for the capacity In addition to the coverage and emergency number professional. Arcuri
evaluation. capacity evaluations, the state should was a member of the Association of Public-
Each state should compare the also evaluate other aspects of the plan Safety Communications Officials (APCO)
actual public-safety demand to the as they relate to the objectives the state International Broadband Committee and is
proposed network capacity included in established during the planning participating in APCO Project 43, which is
the delivered state plan. In the figure process. These evaluation items investigating broadband implications for dis-
above, a hypothetical example for the should include most of the following patch centers. Email feedback to
state of Virginia compares the required performance, operational and business editor@RRMediaGroup.com.

The Many Benefits of
Digital Simulcast
Some digital mobile radio
technologies can support
simulcast, offering
numerous benefits.
By Roberto Marengon
The Czech Mountain Rescue

National Team uses seven
digital simulcast systems.
Photo courtesy Czech Mountain Rescue National Team
E
Early versions of analog simulcast sys-
tems were often chosen because of
their spectrum efficiency, not their
quality. Radios designed for digital
modulation are opening a new era of
same everywhere.
However, building a simulcast sys-
tem does not simply entail setting all
repeaters on the same frequency.
Because of the non-linear frequency
reality, rays are reflected off of build-
ings, hills or rocks, scattering the
original single ray into several and
combining those new rays with ran-
dom phases and amplitudes. By using
simulcast applications, thanks to their demodulation process within a mobile a statistical model, a more favorable
intrinsic matching. A new generation terminal, special algorithms must be null probability is obtained, mirroring
of simulcast can also support digital implemented to ensure good quality in experience and in accordance with the
communications, providing essential overlap areas parts of the coverage Rayleigh multipath fading prediction.
benefits and eliminating previous chal- area where RF fields from two or more In fact, many experiences in the field
lenges. This article synthesizes con- transmitters converge. Because mobile demonstrate that in a well-designed
cepts that may help modify common manufacturers dont install special simulcast network there is no signal
thinking about simulcast. equalizers in their receivers, design degradation in overlap areas, and there
efforts revolve around repeaters. is no need to adjust delays within 9.3
Simulcast Defined Thanks to their high grade of match- to 12.4 miles of the cells radius.
In a simulcast radio network, all ing, the advent of digital radios
repeaters are active on the same fre- allowed the perfect alignment among Simulcast Benefits
quency both transmit (TX) and broadcast signals, a necessary condi- Digital simulcast systems are the
receive (RX) at the same time. tion for simulcast. natural evolution of analog systems
Therefore, a mobile terminal perceives A common myth about simulcast is and allow for a soft migration. In fact,
the entire radio network as a unique that when a user is in an overlap area an analog simulcast system can easily
big repeater, capable of covering the of two transmitters with the same RF be replaced by a digital one without
entire coverage area. There is no need field and opposite in phase, the user changing frequencies, antennas or
to install additional hardware or soft- will experience a hole in the receiver sites, allowing the co-existence of ana-
ware on mobile terminals. In fact, signal. This statement appears true if log and digital terminals during the
devices will move from cell to cell considering a simple model with only migration period. A well-designed
without the need for scanning or regis- two signals that have exactly the same simulcast system not only improves
tration because the channel remains the amplitude and an opposite phase. In communications but also adds the

The Uplink Voting System
Figures courtesy Radio Activity

Better inbound coverage is available through simulcast thanks to the large diversity effect introduced by the voting system.
following benefits. cies across borders because of different including during a communication.
Maximum spectrum efficiency. laws and their application in bordering Without simulcast, a mobile terminal
Simulcast requires a single channel in states. In a multisite trunking system, has to scan all frequencies in the net-
an entire area, despite the number of simulcast solutions best solve frequen- work to find the best radio cell. During
sites. Sometimes, simulcast is the only cy allocation problems. scanning, the network connection can
viable way to build a radio system. For Real-time roaming. Handoff get lost, an unacceptable situation in
example, its hard to manage frequen- without interruption is possible, an urban environment where cells are

Fading is a serious problem in digital
DMR vs. Analog Simulcast Signal Quality communications because a short hole
in the streaming can destroy critical
information, which is difficult to
recover. In fact, an annoying ciuf-
ciuf noise in analog mode often
heard when a mobile device is moving
along a highway, for example
becomes a total loss of communica-
tions in digital mode.
Easily expandable coverage
area. As in the case of shadowed
areas, coverage can expand without the
need for new frequencies.
Distributed transmission.
Some systems are designed with one
high-power TX and some RX-only
devices. Simulcast can also distribute a
low-powered TX in an RX site. This
This figure shows signal quality moving in a simulcast environment generated by two distributed transmission provides better
digital transmitters 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) apart. The lower plate corresponds to 20 dB coverage in buildings, for example
of analog SINAD (blue), and the top value shows 40 dB (red). DMR quality is shown by the reduces the interference area out-
black grid, characterized by sharp borders instead of a progressive decrease.
side of coverage, increases system reli-
frequently changed. inbound coverage improves. The voter ability, and reduces dissipation and
Better inbound coverage. selects the best receiving path from all power supply needs, increasing trans-
Thanks to the very large diversity repeaters, burst by burst, providing mitters shelf lives.
effect introduced by the voting system, strong protection from fading holes. Simulcast provides insuperable
Splitters, Couplers & Loads

For all of your In-Building frequency needs
Public Safety DAS and Enterprise
398-2700 & 698-2700 MHz
.QY2+/F$%
0&+0EQPPGEVQTU
+2TCVGF
[[[VRHYWXVMIWGSQ
V@VRHYWXVMIWGSQ
1.800.233.1728
benefits when applied in a trunking ulation format can be divided into two nal that modulates an FM transmitter
system. A multicast trunking system is main types: four frequency shift key- by using a base bandwidth from 0 to
an insatiable frequency devourer. In ing (4FSK), currently the most used about 4 kilohertz. Information is con-
fact, a few systems in the same area for simulcast; and four phase shift tained only in the instant frequency of
will use all available spectrum. Alter- keying (4PSK). the RF signal. This allows the use of
natively, simulcast trunking mode 4FSK modulation, with some vari- constant envelope transmitters (Class
represents a huge advantage over mul- ations, is adopted in NEXEDGE, C, for example) that are simple to
ticast because it uses the same frequen- DMR, Project 25 (P25) Phase 1 and design, perform at a low cost and are
cies on all sites. A common objection P25 Phase 2 (for mobile only) proto- highly efficient. Unlike analog FM
is that simulcast trunking doesnt opti- cols. This type of modulation is com- simulcast modulations in which
mize channel usage because it doesnt patible with conventional analog FM quality is limited by glitch noise
send a call to just one radio cell. This and can be considered an analog sig- digital modulations also suffer timing
objection, in many cases, is not a real
problem. In fact, in a dispatch/emer-
gency radio system, the majority of Visit us at
communications are talkgroup types, IWCE,
whereas the few private calls are pri- Booth 233
marily completed with cellular phones.
When a talkgroup is requested, the
controller has to allocate a channel to
each systems site to make sure all
group users are served, taking into con-
sideration that users may move across
radio cells during the call. The allocat-
ed channel broadcasts the same
information (call content), but the dif-
ference is simulcast uses the same fre- Give key decision make
ers
r the critical information th
t ey need to actt.
quency, whereas multicast requires a
different frequency for each site.
Therefore, in addition to its other ;bm]-0;|o1omm;1|ou1oll-m7rov|vtb1hl-h;v-u;-7b@;u;m1;|o
benefits, simulcast trunking provides l-m-]bm]bm1b7;m|v;@;1;-m7v-=;$o7-ou|;-lvblr|umom|_;
an enormous gain in spectrum manage- ;-uol0-v;v|-om-m7|_;bu_;-7v;|v-m7;u;1omm;1|;7
ment with a minimal reduction in traf- - Lieu
utenant Mike S. Jackson
fic capability. Continuous handover Oklahoma City Police Department Bomb Squad Supervisor
and roaming during a call are not per-
formed in multicast Digital Mobile
Radio (DMR) Tier 3 systems, giving CURRENT TECHNOLOGY WITH CLEAR-COM
simulcast an edge in such systems.
Digital Simulcast Concepts

Mobile radio communications are
quickly moving toward digital tech-
Half-Duplex Communications Simultaneous Communications
nologies, and some new factors irrele-
vant to analog simulcast mode have to
One party talks while others listen and wait Bi-directional conversations between parties on a
be taken into account. Digital simul- to respond. Current technology limits quick single channel. Clear-Com allows rapid exchange of
cast systems require increased transfer of key information during critical moments. important information, and you can do it all hands-free!
research-and-development efforts
compared with analog systems, but by
;uom;omou|;-l1-mv_-u;bm=oul-om-|om1;_b;ru;v;ubm]|_;
using well-designed base stations, the
vom7t-b|o==-1;|o=-1;1om;uv-om
realization of a professional simulcast
network becomes a plug-and-play ;-umlou;-0o||_;;-uol7b@;u;m1;-|1;-u1ol1ol)
experience. -m71ol;v;;v-|)oo|_
The same mechanisms that distort
signals in analog communications
remain in a digital environment, but
others should be considered. The mod-

broadcast signals different arrival
Balanced Repeater Coverage times (propagation delay), which pro-
duce mismatching;
n Quality increases because of the
different signals relative levels
obtained by the co-channel rejection
ratio of the FM receiver.
In a simulcast environment, DMR

signal quality is strong throughout the
area, whereas an analog environment
performs at more than 20 dB of
SINAD, with no communications out-
Increasing the number of transmitters and balancing the coverage of each repeater to avoid
having one dominant transmitter increases the performance of a digital simulcast system.
side the coverage area. A P25 Phase 1
modulation performs a bit better
recovery problems and inter-symbol smoother degradation. Taking into than DMR, thanks to the lower com-
interference (ISI). Because the ISI account the above considerations and pression ratio of the audio, and
increases with data rate, a P25 Phase 2 adding the propagation effect as well NEXEDGE should also perform
system at 12 kilobits per second (kbps) as the carrier on interference (C/I) pro- slightly better than DMR because of
must be more carefully designed than tection ratio, the figure on Page 42 its lower on-air data rate.
a DMR or P25 Phase 1 (9.6 kbps) or compares the signal quality of an ana- To obtain these results, the match-
NEXEDGE (4.8 kbps) system. For a log simulcast system with a DMR ing grade between base stations must
variation of only 2 to 3 decibels (dB) simulcast system. be high to confine mismatches in prop-
of signal-to-noise ratio near the receiv- Moving into the area from one agation factors. By replacing an exist-
ers threshold, digital communications repeater to the other, two opposite ing analog simulcast system with a
experience an abrupt break, whereas properties affect call quality: well-designed DMR system, users can
analog communications perform a n Quality decreases because of the expect to obtain at least the same field

quality and probably better quality second to 2.4 kbps) to efficiently The design of a digital simulcast
thanks to the high matching provided remove the glitch noise by using an repeater requires more accuracy than
by digital transmitters. integration filter. Although simulcast an analog repeater. Modern radio
With the coverage of each repeater performance somewhat depends on equipment, based on soft radio
balanced, a simulcast system will paging terminals implementation, it is design, removes most of the spread
perform at its best. In other words, reasonable to expect that because of resulting from old, discrete compo-
increasing the number of transmitters the low data rates involved, the RF nents. As a result, simulcast technology
and avoiding situations in which field will affect performance more than becomes applicable to digital modula-
there is one dominant TX increases the delay spread. tions as well, thus increasing overall
performance. P25 Phase 2 (outbound repeaters communications quality while offering
Similar considerations can be only) and TETRA protocols use a outstanding spectrum efficiency. n
extended to a POCSAG system. POC- modulation based on a 4PSK schema
SAG modulation is a simple binary with a gross data rate of 12 and 36 Roberto Marengon is the CEO of Radio
2FSK that can be viewed as a 4FSK kbps, respectively. This modulation Activity, a radio communications engineer-
that uses only full-deviation symbols. needs linear transmitters because the ing firm based in Milan, Italy. His career
Unlike the modulations previously RF signal doesnt have a constant began at Alcatel, where he developed the
described, the transition between sym- amplitude. TETRA simulcast does not first Italian 900 MHz cordless telephone. He
bols approximates a square wave mod- exist. Conversely, the P25 Phase 2 pro- worked as research and development
ulation. These fast frequency changes tocol allows for simulcast, but the (R&D) manager at Prod El SpA, part of the
simplify receivers designs, matching higher data rate required in comparison Marconi Group, for more than 10 years,
the miniaturization and low power with DMR lowers the acceptable radio developing a new generation of digital signal
needs. Unfortunately, in a simulcast cell dimension. In the future, better processing (DSP)-based simulcast net-
overlap area, a small delay between simulcast performance could be works. In 1998, he formed the engineering
transmitting signals can introduce obtained by P25 Phase 2 and TETRA company SIEL TRE Srl, focusing on mar-
glitch noise during frequency transi- systems if they have delay equalizers itime radio applications. Marengon founded
tions. Fortunately, the POCSAG sym- in their terminals, as is done on cellular Radio Activity in 2003. Email comments to
bol rate is low enough (512 bits per phones. comm@radioactivity-tlc.it.
GAI-Tronics CommandPLUS &

Navigator Dispatch Consoles
...Same Great Product
at a Great Price.
Feature-rich and user-friendly,
the best analog solution for
applications of 12 channels or less.

moves through but experiences delays
until capacity is available to transmit
the data.
The Public Safety Special Interest
Group of the Wireless Innovation
Forum recently issued a report titled
Elements of Context for Cognitive
Radio-Based Public-Safety Communi-
cations Systems. This article summa-
rizes three elements that are critical in
the evolution of first-responder
communications and management
information filtering, cognitive net-
works and context in cognitive
systems.
Information Filtering
Several conditions can overload
network capacity. Bandwidth-inten-
sive situations such as high-definition
video for remote triage, ordnance
disposal or dealing with an active
shooter; a large number of users in a
compact response area; competing
priorities; and extensive requests all
vie for data use. These circumstances
can be compounded by undisciplined
use or sending multiple copies of the
same or similar information that do
not add value.
Avoiding or minimizing service
degradation requires an expansion in
the capability to filter information,
manage the information flow in the
As public-safety communications evolves, field network, and keep the quality of
service and response acceptable,
will first responders be overwhelmed by the while prioritizing those needs across
amount and type of information they receive? multiple users, disciplines, functions
and networks. Discipline of use and
By Daniel Devasirvatham, Ihsan Akbar, Al Sadowski and Peter Cook
integration of resources such as con-
cepts of operation (CONOPS) need to
As public-safety communications ate structure of communications chan- evolve to make maximum use of
Amoves beyond legacy narrowband

voice LMR networks to broadband
technology, the task of providing
appropriate information to first
responders has become ever more
nels to meet the task at hand, while
ensuring incremental capacity to sup-
port emergency calls when a first
responder is in distress.
Unlike LMR, a broadband system
available resources and meet the task
at hand. This is an extension of stan-
dard operating procedures (SOP) and
memoranda of understanding (MOU)
in the LMR world to enforce radio
complex. Using LMR systems for does not require users to perform the discipline.
public safety has gradually evolved channel-allocation functions, although The complexity of a first respon-
and formalized the position of the operational resources such as priorities ders mission will likely continue to
communications unit leader (COML) and talkgroups may need to be man- increase as the amount of potential
in the national incident management aged. Instead, broadband provides information available explodes with
system/incident command system suitable communications pathways the use of broadband, sensors, alarms
(NIMS/ICS) protocol. The COML using available resources. If system and applications. The introduction of
coordinates frequencies and talk- capacity is exceeded, voice-path next-generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) also
groups to maintain the most appropri- requests return a busy signal. Data still adds to the flood of information.

KAIROS
Base Station/Repeater Visit us @ booth 543
IP and narrowband RF linked

professional infrastructure supporting: Frequency bands available:
ANALOG/DMR TIER II & TIER III 6688 MHz

P25 Phase 1 compatibility 136174 MHz
ANALOG & POCSAG PAGING 350400 MHz
SIP/RTP-IP connectivity 400470 MHz
RX soft diversity 450527 MHz
SIMULCAST 806941 MHz
THRIVE WITH US: join our successful network of international partners!
To learn more, please write to comm@radioactivity-tlc.it

and visit www.radioactivity-tlc.com
Cognitive Communications Basic Model
Incident/Management
Information tion, and prevent the data from over-
Prediction and
Decisions loading both field communications
infrastructure and first responders.
Supervision
(Manual or Automated) The INFO-M focuses on the con-
tent delivered, not channel-structure
details. A simple example involves the
Cognitive
case of three TV news helicopters
Decision
Assistance
sending videos of a fire to a dispatch
center. Unless there is different infor-
mation in the three views, sending all
Figure courtesy Mandi Peters, INL

Communications three to the field is a waste of commu-
Com 1 Com 2 Com 3
nications resources and places an extra
burden on incident command. It may
Inputs
be sufficient to send only one video
and snapshots or descriptions of addi-
tional information. Similarly, only one
video may show a potential shooters
weapon; however, a high-resolution
First responders still need to exe- In addition to information filtering, snapshot from a cellphone showing
cute traditional tasks fight fires, strong and appropriate human- the weapon might be more useful than
apprehend suspects and rescue the machine interfaces (HMI) are needed a bandwidth-intensive video. Some of
stranded without being overloaded in the field. A new tool for information this information might be appropriate
by data. Hence, the information management, the INFO-M, added to for the incident commander at the
presented to the first responder must be the incident response team at the dis- scene, with reduced information suffi-
managed and offered in a form that is patch or emergency operations center cient for the other responders. These
easily comprehended and usable in the will cull data, take care of the broad- decisions need to be made in real time,
field in the face of changing demands. band information management func- and only the most relevant information
RadioResource TM
Not your
magazine?
Get your own
FREE subscription
at MCCmag.com
Subscribe/Renew
online
www.MCCmag.com

Future Public-Safety
Information Decisions
should be forwarded to the field to While communications is a primary As more communications resources
conserve communications resources component of a firefighters or police become available, public safety will
and avoid overloading responders. officers work, a frustration often need to make communications
decisions such as:
In time, advanced techniques, such heard from first responders is that
n Network coverage extensions
as automated photo and video analyt- communications should just work. n Incident scene communications
ics, coupled with artificial intelligence, Communications are an ancillary tool, bands or modes
could ease the burden of the INFO-M. albeit an important one, but not the n Additional communications
This leads us to look forward to cogni- primary mission of first responders. resources
n Reconfiguration
tive network communications; howev- An analogy would be to the modern
n Moving traffic to other networks
er, the current state of the art requires automobile, which is expected to just n Changing priorities
at least the supervision, if not the start and work when needed and to n Changing frequencies
active decision-making, of a knowl- provide transportation under all condi- n Bringing in white-space
edgeable human in the loop. tions. A vehicles enormous complexi- communications
n Data aggregation
ty and myriad microprocessors are
n Dynamic spectrum sharing
Cognitive Networks unknown to most users, who have to n Uplink/downlink asymmetries
As first responders focus more on deal only with its well-known operat- n Bringing in drones and cameras
life-saving tasks and less on details of ing controls. n Advanced human interfaces
communications and as the intelligence Therefore, whatever can be done in n Broadband services such as
video streaming, on-demand video
and capabilities of networks improve, context-aware cognitive communica-
surveillance, etc.
the network itself could assist first tions to intelligently automate the
responders and communications man- deployment configuration and recon-
agers by either suggesting or taking figuration of equipment would be at 3.5 GHz or unlicensed LTE, the pri-
care of some details of network setup, valuable. Whether the information mary concern should be that it reach
configuration and future resource plan- comes in via satellite, commercial those for whom it is intended. These
ning as a mission evolves. This auto- cellular/Long Term Evolution (LTE) media are pipes for information trans-
mated assistance could be the basis of systems, a 700 MHz band 14 LTE sys- portation and should not drive the first
cognitive networks. tem, a future spectrum-sharing system responders functions.
TM
NXDN Digital Communica
ati
t on
Location. Location. Locationn.

Increase the benets of any radio system with a Ritron callbox.TTaalk to locations
near and far...main gate, secured lobby area, plant oor, delivery door, or the
parking lot. Get answers quickly, respond faster and increase safety.
The XD Series NXDN Digital callbox a ground-up, purpose-built design,
provides instant 2-way communication to radio-equipped staff. Easy to deploy,
no wires, no trenching. A built-in relay even allows remote control of entry/exit
gates, locked doors or an emergency strobe light. Recordable voice messages
make the product customizable and user-friendly.
Alkaline battery powered for a standalone, no-wires, auto turn-off solution or,
for an Always-On Intercom application, use the optional AC adapter.
40 Years
Enhance the effectiveness of any 2-way radio system Of Wireless
NXDN Digital, Conventional (12.5KHz or 6.25KHz) or Analog (12.5KHz) Design &
VHFF, 150-165MHz
MH - UHFF, 450-470MHz
MH Manufacturing
Built-in, Remote Controlled Relay for Access Control/Strobe Light Applications
Internal, Vandal-Proof Antenna, External Antenna Capable
Custom Recordable Voice Messages & Aux Sensor Inputs Calll Ritron TToododay 800-USA-1-USA
800 USA 1 USA
Rugged Aluminum, Vandal-Resistant PTT Button or email us at ritron@rittron.com Dealer Inquiries Welcome
Gasket-Sealed, Weather-Resistant Polycarbonate Enclosure
Choice of Colors - Hi-Viz Green or Black
7 H x 5 W x 3 D
Designed and Built In The USA 505 West Carmel Drive, Carmel, INI 46032 P: 317- 846 -1201 www.ritroon.com

More Information
Download the report from
Context in www.wirelessinnovation.org potential for maintaining life safety are
Cognitive Systems incentives.
For a cognitive system to work In summary, first-responder com-
properly and serve a first responder, it the scene and at the emergency oper- munications will see significant revo-
has to assess the context in which the ations center. The network could lutions from developing enhanced
events are occurring along with the issue alerts about approaching weath- information management with the
available resources. In more advanced er, new information about a perpetra- proposed INFO-M function, cognitive
systems, context helps choose the tors state of mind perhaps from communications systems that
setup and configuration of communi- medical records big-data analytics encounter changing situations and
cations, as well as filter the informa- of potential upcoming vehicular just work coupled with cognitive
tion flowing through the systems. rush-hour traffic, and a variety of capabilities, by which systems are
The response to a potential shooter optimization and information man- aware of circumstances and adapt on
requires different resources than that agement functions. their own. These new capabilities will
for a fire or a potential infectious out- These functions need to adapt as ease the burden on first responders
break. Some factors that go into deci- networks evolve. They must be gov- and help them focus on their primary
sion-making include location of the erned by policy, which brings in gov- mission. n
incident; surroundings such as urban, ernance. Other considerations include
rural and specific buildings; rank and security and the availability of infor- Daniel Devasirvatham is a former manager
operational role of various personnel mation from big-data sources. No one at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and
to determine priority; available com- is comfortable leaving decisions now runs Wi-Plan Wireless Consulting.
munications and operational and avail- entirely in the hands of a cognitive Ihsan Akbar works at Shared Spectrum
able nearby resources; time of day; the network, but confidence will increase Co. and is an adjunct professor at Virginia
possibility of going into another oper- as systems are enhanced and prove Tech. Paul Al Sadowski is the single point
ational period; and wind shifts. their worth under real operating condi- of contact (SPOC) for the state of North
Artificial intelligence techniques tions. Technology is always costly, but Carolina. Peter Cook founded PG Cook
could result in the system acting as an savings in operational costs, benefits Consultancy. Email feedback to editor@
aid to the incident manager, both at of more effective performance and RRMediaGroup.com.
Guaranteed performance
e, better than the original!
Industry leading 24-month Fast shipping

limited warranty
First-class
customer service
Performance meets Large inventory
or exceeds OEM specifications
Private label services
We ship across USA
Rugged plastic housing
Gold-plated contacts
March 29-30th
booth Leearn more at TCED.ca
We are at
1523

Weve got you covered!
Pyramid Communications Vehicular Repeaters are the most complete line
in the industry. Depending on your need and budget, we have the
vehicular repeater for you. The SVR-200, SVR-250 and SVR-P250 units
provide uncompromised on-scene coverage for portable radio users.
Analog, P25, Conventional, Trunked, Cross Band, In-Band

Factory interface cables for all of the most popular mobile radios
Over 20 years experience in vehicular repeaters
Contact us at 800-485-2881
or visit us at www.pyramidcomm.com

Off-Grid
Energy
Alternatives
Photos courtesy Andy Osborn, Washington Department of Natural Resources

Off-grid power systems can meet stringent
requirements for capacity and reliability at a
P
Power line construction is one of the
highest costs of a new radio site.
Overhead power lines cost $50,000
to $75,000 per mile. Environmental
rules often require buried power
lower cost than constructing a power line.
By Tom Mahon
lines, which cost $100,000 to

$150,000 per mile. Thus, an eight- Solar is by far the most common; it cost than constructing a power line.
mile buried power line is a $1 mil- can be easily scaled from small to
lion project. Organizations must large and has no moving parts. Off-Grid Power Basics
consider alternatives during project Combining power sources into a Designing an off-grid power sys-
planning and design. hybrid system can increase capacity tem is not mysterious and influences
Off-grid power encompasses var- and enhance system reliability. Off- other aspects of site design. Radio
ious alternative energy sources. grid power systems can meet the equipment and the equipment shelter
These may include solar, wind, fuel most stringent requirements for must be chosen for energy efficien-
cells and mechanical generators. capacity and reliability at a lower cy. The location of the shelter and

Not knowing your profitability
driving you crazy?
From quote to cash, the ECi e-automate cloud-based end-to-end business management solution will:
Notify you when contracts are due to expire Generate reports on contract profitability by model and system number
Track serialized equipment on the job site Ensure your techs in the field are fully optimizing their time
Stop stressing over inefficient processes and get back to building business with e-automate.
PURCHASING INVENTORY REPORTING ACCOUNTING CONTRACTS SALES SERVICE
VISIT US AT IWCE BOOTH #272 TO LEARN MORE
866-342-8392 www.ECiSolutions.com info@ecisolutions.com

2017 ECi Software Solutions, Inc. ECi, e-automate, and the ECi Red Box logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of ECi Software Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
Large System Example
Power Calculation
Duty Minutes/ Amp/Hrs./ Watt/Hrs./ Abernathy Mountain in

Description Volts Amps Watts Cycle Day Day Day Washington houses a large
solar power deployment.
Radio 1, TX 12 6 72 5% 72 7.2 86.4
Radio 1, RX 12 0.2 2.4 95% 1,368 4.56 54.72
Radio 2, TX 12 3.05 36.6 5% 72 3.66 43.92
Radio 2, RX 12 0.251 3.01 95% 1,368 5.72 68.67
Radio 3, TX 12 7 84 5% 72 8.4 100.8
Radio 3, RX 12 0.2 2.4 95% 1,368 4.56 54.72
Radio 4, TX 12 5 60 5% 72 6 72
Radio 4, RX 12 0.251 3.01 95% 1,368 5.72 68.67
12 Volt Subsystem 45.83 549.91
DC-DC Converter (idle) 1 48 0.063 3 100% 1,440 1.5 72

Microwave 1 48 1.250 60 100% 1,440 30 1,440
Microwave 2 48 1.250 60 100% 1,440 30 1,440
12 Volt Subsystem Converted to 48 Volts 11.46 549.91
48 Volt Power System 77.46 3,717.91
PV Array Calculations
Solar Array Calculations culating the power load for an off-
Panels Peak Max. Power Peak Max. Open Total Open Total Peak Total Peak grid power system is more than Battery Size (Amp-Hours)
Power Voltage Amps Voltage Quantity Voltage Amps Watts
Panel Make and Model 320 36.80 8.69 45.30 2 90.6 17.38 640
adding up the fuse values of the Load (amp/hours/day) X runtime (days) = capacity.
Panel Make and Model 320 36.80 8.69 45.30 2 90.6 17.38 640
equipment. A simple spreadsheet is Capacity/0.8 = rated battery size
Controller 1 Amps 34.76 1,280 recommended. Compile the separate
Panel Make and Model 320 36.80 8.69 45.30 2 90.6 17.38 640 transmit, receive and standby cur- batteries are available in a wide range of sizes and have
Panel Make and Model 320 36.80 8.69 45.30 2 90.6 17.38 640 rent for each radio and other equip- a history of reliability and low maintenance.
Controller 2 Amps 34.76 1,280 ment, either derived from vendor How long a site should operate without power input
Peak Watts per Day 2,560 specifications or bench testing. is a stakeholder decision. A wise designer will offer sug-
Average Solar Hours per Day 4 Divide by the duty cycle: 95 percent gestions while insisting policymakers define expecta-
Average Peak Watts per Day 10,240 receive and 5 percent transmit are tions for run time. That expectation defines the battery
Power Margin (Generate vs. Load) 275% common figures. Then, multiply by size required.
24 to arrive at the daily current and Battery size is easily calculated by multiplying the
Budget
power requirement. load and the run time and then factoring in the rated
Solar Power System: 48 Volt, 3,840 Watt Cost Qty. Subtotal Battery capacity calcula- degree of discharge (DOD). AGM batteries are rated for
Solar Panels - 320 Watt $200 12 $2,400
tions. Whether on grid or off grid, 80 percent DOD for example. Thus, batteries will be the
Charge Controller - 12, 24, 48V @ 60 Amp $650 2 $1,300
radio sites need energy reserves. highest cost and heaviest component of an off-grid
Batteries - 48V @ 1,320 Amp/Hour $19,500 1 $19,500
Murphys Law rules. Storms dam- power system. A 500 amp per hour, 12-volt (V) battery
DC Generator - 48V @ 110 Amp $6,000 1 $6,000
age power lines, clouds obscure the stack can be around $5,000 and weigh 500 pounds. They
Total (Without Mounting and Wiring) $29,200
sun, and the wind does not always disassemble for transport, but each cell for that size bat-
blow. tery is still 83 pounds.
This example would support multiple radios. The power calculations show a 48-volt system Energy storage means batteries, For small radio sites, sufficient battery capacity is
with 12-volt subsystem served by DC-DC converters. The total array is 6 by 26 feet. Adding and absorbed-glass-mat (AGM) bat- ideal for extended run time; for larger sites, this can
four more panels, as a third parallel pair to each array, would make this a 3.8 kW system.
Doing so increases the power margin to 410 percent, while increasing the cost only $800. teries are the first choice. They are prove costly. Combining power sources to create a
Add a DC generator for a robust system that costs less than a half mile of power line. designed for repeated charge/ hybrid energy system is an option to balance these costs.
discharge cycles. Li-ion technology
tower may need to be adjusted. process. The following examples offers higher capacity in a smaller Solar Power Systems
Small details will be optimized to show that even a large off-grid sys- package; however, the critical Solar power systems have been available for many
conserve energy. Users must calcu- tem can cost less than a half mile of charge, discharge and environmental years, and recent market factors have reduced costs.
late power requirements for all buried power line. criteria for Li-ion batteries are not a Five years ago, solar panels were more than $2 per watt,
equipment during the design Power load calculations. Cal- good fit for remote radio sites. AGM but panels can now be purchased for less than 75 cents
54 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m w w w.M CCm a g .c o m See Us at IWCE, Booth 1445
per watt. Solar power is economical
and requires no moving parts. Thus, PV Array Formula (Watts)
solar is the first choice for off-grid
Daily power requirement/peak solar hours = minimum PV array
power systems.
Size the photovoltaic array.
Calculating array size brings togeth- square meter. The U.S. Department hours per day, with some winter
er two factors: the power require- of Energy website has tables and hours as low as one hour per day.
ment, in watts, and the peak solar maps that show seasonal solar ener- Select the charge controller.
hours per day. A peak solar hour is gy for multiple locations in each There are two groups of charge con-
one in which the intensity of sun- state. Annual averages in North trollers. Small-scale controllers gen-
light is greater than 1,000 watts per America range from three to six erally range from six to 20 amps,
limit the input voltage and have a
fixed output voltage. Large-scale
controllers will handle 40 to 60
amps, support higher input voltages
and offer multiple output voltages.
Multiple large controllers may be
paralleled for higher current. In that
configuration, each controller is fed
by a separate photovoltaic (PV)
array, and the controllers communi-
cate by a data link. Choose a charge
controller that has more than enough
capacity for the power system being
designed.
Select and arrange panels.
There are three specifications that
must be considered in designing a
PV array: peak wattage, peak open
circuit voltage and peak current.
Identical panels may be arranged in
series and parallel to create an array.
The goal is to achieve the desired
wattage without exceeding the input
voltage or current of the charge con-
troller.
Structural and site design.
The final steps flow from the design
decisions. Work with a structural
engineer to design the mounting of
the PV panels and fit that structure
to the radio site. Design the DC
power distribution and wiring and
merge those elements into the over-
all site and shelter design, as well as
the required grounding and bonding.
Add margin. The calculations
above are a minimum; margin
should always be added to increase
reliability. For the PV array, consid-
er that the array will not only pro-
vide the daily power requirement, it
will be required to recharge the bat-
tery stack when the site has been
snowed on for several days. Because
such events usually occur in winter

Five years ago, solar panels were more than $2 per watt, but
panels can now be purchased for less than 75 cents per watt.
when less solar energy is available, other energy sources. Wind turbines power into the diversion load.
adding more panels to the PV array require diversion power regulators With careful design, wind energy
is cheap insurance. Over-sizing the to maintain a constant load on the can be a cost-effective power source
battery capacity will increase the turbine. In a hybrid system, the for off-grid radio sites. For example,
budget while adding run time. Addi- diversion regulator voltage should a quality 300-watt turbine can be
tional margin may come from be set slightly higher than the other added to a site for around $3,000.
adding another power source. energy sources to avoid draining Fuel cells. Originally invented
How much margin to add is a
judgment call that requires weighing
several factors. Less margin may
be warranted if a site is used more
in the summer and less in the winter.
A critical site that is heavily used
year round justifies the cost of
greater margin. Knowing your radio
system and users is the best guide
to margin.
Other Power Sources

While solar has advantages and is
common for off-grid power, there
are other options. Equally, combin-
ing other power sources to create a
hybrid-power system can increase
reliability.
Wind energy systems. Wind
energy systems are well publicized,
and large-scale systems dot many
landscapes. Small-scale systems can
serve remote radio sites if the design
is approached with care.
Small-scale systems designed
for consumer use are not suitable
because they will not survive
mountaintop conditions. For mission-
critical radio sites, select a wind
turbine that is designed for severe
weather conditions, self regulates Versatile solutions at your fingertips.
blade angle under varying wind
conditions and has a history of use
LTE and Broadband | Land Mobile Radio | Information Technology
in comparable settings.
PSAP and NG911 | Engineering | Measurement and Optimization
Designing for wind energy
requires site-specific data. The Procurement | Requirements Assessment | Communications Planning
recording anemometer should be Financial Modeling | Governance and Policy | Project Management
installed at the site; evaluate one or
two years of data. The wind speed
and duration data are applied to the
calculations in the same way as the
peak solar energy data to estimate
available energy.
Careful calibration is essential info@televate.com | www.televate.com | 703-639-4200
when combining wind turbines with

Small System Example
in 1838, fuel cells have seen signifi- Power Calculations
cant use in NASA spacecraft. Fuel
cells produce electricity through a Duty Minutes/ Amp/Hrs./ Watt/Hrs./
Description Volts Amps Watts Cycle Day Day Day
chemical reaction of positive hydro-
gen ions and an oxidizing agent. Radio 1, TX 12 6 72 5% 72 7.20 86.40
Radio 1, RX 12 0 2.4 95% 1,368 4.56 54.72
Fuel cells are classified by the type
12 Volt System 11.76 141.12
of electrolyte. Run time depends on
the fuel supply rather than the size PV Array Calculations
of the unit. Unlike batteries, the per- Peak Watts 135
formance is not degraded at low Average Solar Hours per Day 4
temperatures. Total Peak Watts per Day 540
Stationary power applications, Power Margin (Generate vs. Load) 380%
such as radio sites, are well demon-
strated. In one example, a 12-volt Budget
system produces 200-250 watts (4-6 Solar Power System: 12 Volt 135 Watt Cost Qty. Subtotal
kWh) while using 1.5 gallons of Solar Panels - 135 Watt $225 1 $225
propane per day. That example had Charge Controller - 12V @ 15 Amp $115 1 $115
an initial cost in the $30,000 range Batteries - 12V @ 110 Amp/Hour $250 2 $500
with a $6,000 annual fuel and main- Total (Without Mounting and Wiring) $840
tenance cost. Thus, fuel cells can be
cost effective for radio sites as This example supports a single remote repeater. The cost per watt is higher for small panels.
either a primary or secondary power The solar panel will provide the daily requirement in just more than an hour. The 380-percent
margin extends the site run time by producing usable power during low-energy hours.
source.
Mechanical generators. A power source, a generator runs when allows for a smaller battery bank
propane- or diesel-fueled generator solar energy is insufficient and a while improving reliability.
is always an option. As a secondary battery bank needs charging. This There are several decisions to
MU Series
Power Supplies with
Remote Monitoring Control Features
MU Input/Output Features:
MU Series: BMS MU Series: HE1U - 1 Internal Temperature Sensor
- Monitors AC line Voltage
- Monitors current (Amps)
- Monitors VDC output
- Remote on & off
DC-RMCU1
MU Series: EH MU Series: RLP
BOOTH
OOTH #1244
#124
We manufacture a large selection of power supply options that offer many different features designed
with your specific application in mind. We also offer Power Distribution, Battery Management and
Charging Systems, DCDC Converters, and a host of accessories. Contact us today to learn more about
the MU Series and let us help you find the right product to build your power solution today.
Check out our website today to find the right model for you www.duracomm.com
Phone: (816) 472-5544 sales@duracomm.com

Power Solution for Durable Communication System

W RKS FOR YO
WO Y U.
WHY CHOOSETELEX?
We RHUWKHPRVW radio interfaces s AND 7 HOH[UDGLRGLVSDWFKV\VWHPVLQFOXGLQJ

direct IP interfaces: Hytera DMR, Kenwood
K WKHHDV\WRXVH&6RIWFRQWUROVRIWZDUHDQG
NEXEDGE, P25 ,3DGDSWHUSDQHOIRUFRQYHUWLQJDQDORJ
FRPPXQLFDWLRQVWR,3RHUWKHXOWLPDWHLQ
We FRYHUWKHPRVW RF technologie
es: LQWHURSHUDELOLW\UHOLDELOLW\DQGVFDODELOLW\IRU
conventional, DMR, NXDN, P25, SD
DC, TETRA 5 2 , 3 9 2 , 3 F R P P X Q L F D W L R Q V
The LQGXVWU\VEHVW ROI lowest cost

c of 7KRXJKWKH\DUHPRVWFRPPRQO\XVHGE\
investment with highest performanc
ce HPHUJHQF\VHUYLFHV7HOH[VROXWLRQVFDQEH
VFDOHGWRHQKDQFHGD\WRGD\FRPPXQLFDWLRQV
The FKRLFH of emergency servic ces DQGRSHUDWLRQVDWDQ\IDFLOLW\)RUH[DPSOHIURP
H[LEOHDQGXVHUIULHQGO\FRQWUROVRIWZDUH DVLQJOH&6RIWHTXLSSHGFRQVROHDGLVSDWFKHU
IXWXUHSURRIFRQQHFWLYLW\DQGSURYHQ FDQFRRUGLQDWHDQGFRQQHFWVHFXULW\DQG
UHOLDELOLW\IRUDFRQVWDQWO\FKDQJLQJ PDLQWHQDQFHVWDZLWKH[WHUQDOODZHQIRUFHPHQW
RF environment YLDPXOWLSOHUDGLRVWHOHSKRQHV\VWHPVDQG
H[LVWLQJGLVSDWFKFRQVROHV
)XOO\FXVWRPL]DEOHDQGVFDODEOHVROXWLRQV
WRWWKHXQLTXHUHTXLUHPHQWVRIDQ\FULWLFDO : H S U R Y L G H D S S O L F D W L R Q V S H F L F V R O X W L R Q V I R U D
FRPPXQLFDWLRQVDSSOLFDWLRQ ZLGHUDQJHRIYHUWLFDOVLQFOXGLQJFRPPHUFLDO
E X V L Q H V V H G X F D W L R Q I H G H U D O D Q G V W D W H
6HDPOHVVO\LQWHJUDWHVLQWRH[LVWLQJ JRYHUQPHQWLQIUDVWUXFWXUHSXEOLFVDIHW\DQG
RSHUDWLRQVPDNLQJFRPPXQLFDWLRQV transportation, and ZHQHYHULQVWDOOWKHVDPH
EHWZHHQLQWHUQDODQGRUH[WHUQDOSHUVRQQHO V\VWHPWZLFH
PRUHHFLHQWDQGHHFWLYH
Learn more at ZZZWHOH[FRPGLVSDWFK
VISIT US AT
,:&( %227+
2017 Bosch
h Security Systems, Inc.
make when including a generator. If winter power production by keeping
an AC generator is selected, recti- snow off the PV array. For wind
fiers must be provided to charge the energy, studying the site shapes and
battery bank. Power factor is critical wind shadowing may suggest site
in selecting rectifiers; a higher design improvements.
power factor means more energy is Heating and cooling. Every
transferred to batteries. The alterna- state has energy standards within
tive is to select a DC generator. This its building codes with minimum
approach eliminates the need for insulation values. Exceeding the
rectifiers, is fuel efficient and cost minimum values reduces the need
effective. For example, a DC gener- for heating and cooling. Paying
ator producing 110 amps at 48 volts, attention to operating temperature
would cost around $6,000. specifications when selecting equip-
ment may also reduce heating and
Design Details cooling needs.
Reliable off-grid radio sites must If cooling is required, DC-
be designed for efficiency and relia- powered air conditioners can oper-
bility in a harsh environment. Here ate from solar power. Those units
are some additional issues for a reli- have higher efficiency than AC
able site design. power units. For example, a 13,000
Site layout. Optimize the site BTU air conditioner requires rough-
design for the chosen energy source. ly 800 watts to run at full capacity
Solar panels may be positioned to and costs less than $1,800.
shield the equipment shelter and Equipment selection. Choose
A small solar deployment at the Cowling thereby reduce the heat load. A snow equipment based on power con-
Ridge site in Washington fence may be worthwhile to improve sumption. A common 100-watt base

radio from one manufacturer
requires 1,700 watt/hours/day
(w/h/d); a comparable radio from
another manufacturer requires only
200 w/h/d.
Equally, is 100 watts output really
required? A system with base/mobile
balance can be achieved with the
right antenna and a 35-watt base
radio at 160 w/h/d. That radio also
has the lowest cost on the National
Association of State Procurement
Officials (NASPO) contract.
Electrical code. There are spe-
cific details for off-grid power sys-
tems in the National Electrical
Code. Requirements include safe
disconnect of power sources, over-
current protection, conductor size
and protection of conductors, along
with grounding and bonding. A site
is not exempt from inspection
unless the local building code
agency agrees.
Site monitoring. Mission-
critical radio sites should be moni-
tored so problems are identified
before site failure. Current technol-
ogy can provide more than site
FocusMatters
alarms. Control features allow auto- #534/-%23500/24s#/-0,%8#/--5.)#!4)/.3
matic coordination of multiple ).30)2%$)../6!4)/.
power sources and adjustment of
building controls based on sensory ANNOUNCING HINDSIGHT G3:
inputs. This increases site reliability
s-ULTI -EDIA2ECORDING3OLUTIONS
and reduces maintenance cost.
Alternative energy for radio sites s3IMPLE)NTUITIVE%FlCIENT)NTERFACE
is economically driven, while s3CALABLE&LEXIBLE(IGHLY)NTEGRATED
including environmental benefits s1!3CREEN#APTURE2EDACTION3TUDIO
that landowners and communities
desire. With careful engineering, the Designed for Public Safety & Critical Communications
power needs of any size radio site
can be met without constructing a WWWEXACOMCOMs sSALESINFO EXACOMCOM
power line. Off-grid power systems
can provide the capacity and relia-
bility for mission-critical radio. n
Tom Mahon is a radio project manager

responsible for statewide radio systems
design and planning. He currently works
MissionCritical Communications is a great
magazine. It keeps me on top of the industry with
articles on breaking news. I often send out articles

for the Washington State Department of
Natural Resources. Previously, he man- to my constituents. Keep up the good work.
aged the startup of Wyomings Project 25
(P25) trunked radio system and man- K.C. Office of Emergency Communications
aged projects for the Oregon Department RadioResource
of Corrections. Email feedback to

RRMediaGroup.com
tommahon@centurylink.net.

WHATS NEW: DIGITAL RADIO
Alinco, Electronics Division TMR is intuitive, easy to use and ready on demand, company offi-
Alincos digital transceivers feature NXDN and Digital Mobile Radio cials said. The unit is ideal for on-the-fly field communications, with
(DMR) technologies. The DJ-NX40 is a rugged NXDN digital or con- long-range capability and clear sound.
ventional single carrier per channel (SCPC) trans- www.relm.com
ceiver that employs FDMA four-level frequency
shift keying (FSK) modulation and the NXDN pro- BridgeCom Systems
tocol. The radio has 6.25-kilohertz spectrum effi- The Tekk D-500 radio is available in either VHF (136 174 MHz) or
ciency, high security and superior audio clarity. The UHF (400 470 MHz) and will work in Digital Mobile
DJ-AXD DMR VHF/UHF portable series is built for Radio (DMR) TDMA Tiers 1 and 2 or analog. The radio
demanding environments but is affordable and has a large color LCD display that is easy to read and
suitable for professional users. Both radios feature provides text, graphics and text messages. The device
DMR Tiers 1 and 2 TDMA technology, are IP67 provides up to 5 watts (W) of power and has 1,000
rated and have outstanding audio clarity. The receiver specifications channels. A 2.2 Ah Li-ion battery provides hours of talk
ensure good performance and maximum communications range. time. The radio is built on a rugged die-cast frame, is
www.alinco.com IP54 water resistant and weighs 9 ounces.
www.bridgecomsystems.com
Barrett Communications
The 4050 HF software-defined radio (SDR) transceiver provides CALL24 Wireless Callbox Systems
secure digital voice, email and data transfer, and has an intuitive The M-Series is an economical radio callbox product that initiates
touchscreen operator interface. Users can control the radio from a communications quickly between two parties. Single push-button
number of different remote platforms. simplicity affords instant communications to
The 4050 handset application can be improve guest services and assist with employ-
installed on smartphones, tablets, lap- ee productivity. The wireless callbox seamlessly
tops or PCs running iOS, Android or integrates into a customers analog, Digital
Windows. The app provides full remote Mobile Radio (DMR), NXDN or Project 25 (P25)
control of the radio, allowing a smart- radio system. Response to any call is conduct-
phone with the app installed to serve as the radio handset. This can ed by placing a portable radio in the respon-
be done either locally using Wi-Fi or from a remote location where IP ders hands, or the system can be monitored at dispatch, company
connectivity is available. officials said. The company provides ease of installation with alternat-
www.barrettcommunications.com.au ing current (AC) and solar power options.
www.call24wireless.com
BelFone Telecom
The BF-TD505/506 commercial Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) digital CeoTronics
migration radio comes with an AMBE+2 vocoder and a four-level fre- The CT-MultiPTT 2C can be deployed in any mission requiring the
quency shift keying (FSK) modulation technique simultaneous use of two radio networks for
with low bit error rate (BER) to provide superior communications. Intelligent software with up to
audio clarity in extended coverage. A mixed digi- three freely assignable function keys on each
tal/analog mode capability gives the radio all the side of the housing turns this push to talk (PTT)
benefits of digital while retaining compatibility with into an all-round device with an almost unlimit-
an existing radio fleet. The transceiver has 1,024 ed range of additional options. The device is rated to IP66/67 and
channels and 50 zones capable of 4.5 watts (W). Mil-Std-810G.
The BF-TD505 features a four-line color display www.ceotronicsusa.com
with a flexible menu-driven interface. Big tactile
rotary and large, easy-to-use navigation buttons ease handling and Cobham AvComm
menu navigation. The radios provide clear voice, real-time data and The 8800SX digital radio test set now supports the latest Motorola
discreet communications. Solutions APX radios. The two new auto-test
www.belfone.com options add support for both the APX8000
and the new APX B model radios to the
BK Technologies test set. The company also released similar
The KNG TMR is a Project 25 (P25) digital options for the 3920B analog and digital
emergency transportable radio with 15 watts radio test platform. A lightweight design,
(W) of power and more than 18 hours of talk ruggedness and 2.5-hour battery operation make the 8800SX ready
time. Complete with all the features and for any test environment.
options found in the KNG mobile, the KNG http://ats.aeroflex.com

Codan Radio Communications and uplink squelch. The BDA is Project 25 (P25) and National Fire
Cascade is an all-inclusive Project 25 (P25) repeater/base station Protection Association (NFPA) compliant and has a certified National
package that features two 100-watt (W) P25 repeaters mounted Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 4X enclosure, making it
inside a four rack-unit (4RU) subrack suitable for public-safety communications.
complete with network interface and www.combausa.com
power supply. The initial release of
Cascade supports VHF and comes Damm Cellular Systems
ready for P25 Phases 1 and 2 config- The TetraFlex client uses a TETRA smartphone or tablet application
urations in addition to analog. UHF to extend coverage, as well as data capacity for videos and pictures.
and 700/800 MHz versions will roll out in the coming months. The The client supports Android, iOS and Win-
Cascade platform provides remote diagnostics, remote program- dows operating systems and offers a ven-
ming, P25 Digital Fixed Station Interface (DFSI) networking and dor-independent soft terminal for noncritical
receiver diversity. voice and data communications through Wi-
www.codanradio.com Fi, UMTS and Long Term Evolution (LTE)
networks. The client supports full integration
Comba Telecom with TetraFlex radio systems and enables push to talk (PTT) in
The CriticalPointT 700/800 MHz single- or dual-band public-safety TETRA groups, individual calls, messaging, video streaming and
bidirectional amplifier (BDA) supports up to 32 bands per channel GPS tracking. No radio gateways are required. Functionalities
and 2-watt (W) output power per band.The depend on the operating system.
device can be configured to support a single www.damm.dk
700 or 800 MHz channel or, if required, it
can be converted to dual-band operation EF Johnson Technologies
with a purchased license software upgrade. The KENWOOD Viking VP6000 portable is designed for public-
To minimize noise and optimize radio call safety agencies with advanced features and ergonomics to meet
quality, the device offers both channelized auto gain control (AGC) mission-critical needs. Designed to meet the proposed National Fire

Protection Association (NFPA)-1802 ergonomic stan- and data capabilities with LMR features, performance and
dards, the VP6000 is equipped with TrueVoice digital ergonomics. Mission-critical users provided input into the
and analog noise cancellation. Perpetual software radios design. The radio leverages commercial broad-
licenses are easily managed with the free web- band to provide greater coverage, company officials said.
based Vault tool. Armada programming software with An embedded Wi-Fi access point and router allow the
elite battery management is simple to use and radio to connect with other systems and organizations.
reduces the time needed to maintain a radio fleet. www.harris.com
www.efjohnson.com
Hytera Communications
Futurecom Systems The BD302 and BD502 two-way radios are compact, easy to use
The PDR8000 portable digital repeater can be set up at a special and have a long battery life. Digital encoding and correction technol-
event or incident to provide local Project 25 ogy allow clear voice transmission without noise, even
(P25) on-scene portable radio coverage for across far distances. The BD30X has 2-watt (W) output
users. The repeater adds the capability to power, and strong receiving further extends the talk
establish a V.24 telephone wireline connection range, while good performance of anti-interference in
to Motorola Solutions dispatch consoles. The digital mode provides stable communications. The
device is available in the VHF, UHF and radios meet Mil-Std-810 C, D, E, F and G, including
700/800 MHz frequency bands. Users can temperature shock, vibration, high and low tempera-
operate the device with the case closed, and the repeater has end- ture, and humidity. IP54 dust- and waterproof design
to-end encryption. guarantees reliability in different environments. TDMA
www.futurecom.com technology allows the radios to work up to 16 hours in digital mode.
www.hytera.us
Harris
The Harris XL-200P is a small, full-spectrum Long Term Evolution Icom
(LTE)-capable radio that combines broadband push-to-talk (PTT) The Next Generation IDAS is a complete digital solution that helps

migrate systems from analog to InterTalk Critical Information Systems
trunking. The series includes the InterTalks Integrated Dispatch and Control Console System has IP
F3400D and the F5400D radios, the architecture and connects digital and analog radio, telephone and
new flagship IDAS products. The social media. The product
radios feature an SD card for voice is suitable for public-safety,
playback, USB port for easy pro- transportation, critical-
gramming and data transfer, and infrastructure, government
built-in GPS. A high-resolution LCD color display enhances visibility or private-enterprise appli-
in dim light, as well as bright sunshine. Additional safety features cations, and allows continu-
include man down, motion detection, stationary detection, lone work- ous management of critical information. The solution is ISO9001 and
er and power off emergency functions. Built-in Bluetooth is standard. 27001 certified. The product supports nonproprietary protocols such
www.icomamerica.com as Project 25 (P25), Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) and TETRA.
www.intertalksystems.com
IDA
The Model 21-28 VoIP and Tone Panel (VTP) is tightly integrated JVCKENWOOD
with the Project 25 (P25)-enabled Model 24-69 VoIP/Tone Remote The multiprotocol KENWOOD NEXEDGE NX-3000 series operates
(VTR) controller and provides a remote on either NXDN or Digital Mobile Radio
control ecosystem to serve mission-critical (DMR) and FM analog, with built-in GPS and
applications. The devices comprehensive Bluetooth. The radio features good audio
integration functionality with major radio quality with active noise reduction (ANR)
manufacturers ensures investment protec- based on a built-in digital signal processor
tion, company officials said. Users do not (DSP) and advanced Digital Encryption
have to invest in separate units but control Standard (DES), Advanced Encryption Stan-
analog and digital radios through the single unit. dard (AES) and ARC4 optional encryption.
www.idaco.com The NX-3220/3320 portable meets IP67 and
Antenna Sysstem Monitoring.

Any loocation, anytime.
Remote
Real time
See Us at IWCE, Booth 1555 monitoring
Vi it rfi.com.au/remotemonito
Visit fi / t itoring
i tot lear
l n more.

is capable of 400 525 MHz operation. Both the portable and the Up to eight users can talk simultaneously with an
NX-3720/3820 mobile have bright, multiline full dot-matrix LCD dis- unlimited number of listeners, and several groups
plays. Mixed digital NEXEDGE or DMR and FM analog operation can join together to create a larger group. The radio
facilitates an easy migration from analog to digital. The NX-3000 has a range of 330 980 yards and 10 hours of talk
series is suitable for SMR operators and demanding work environ- time, and 800 and 900 MHz models. The device is
ments, including utilities, transportation and public works. suitable for industrial operations, construction,
www.kenwood.com/usa/com search and rescue, firefighting, policing and others.
www.yapalong.com
Maxon America
The Maxon TPD-8000 series is a small, lightweight and durable Digi- Radio Activity
tal Mobile Radio (DMR) Tier 2/analog KAIROS is a compact and rugged multiprotocol transceiver based
portable. Available in VHF or UHF frequen- on a powerful LINUX core that allows a number of customized con-
cies, the radio offers 3 watts (W) of power, figurations: simple stand-
512 channels (32 channels/16 zones), 2.2 Ah alone repeater, DMR Tiers 2
battery and an easy-to-read LCD. Other fea- and 3 multisite systems, and
tures include choice of analog or digital per POCSAG and tunnel/
channel, text messaging, one-touch text, in-building applications,
USB charging through radio or desktop thanks to the PTP1588 syn-
charger, and IP67 and Mil-Std-810 E/F/G compliance. chronization protocol. The
www.maxonamerica.com radio works in simulcast mode, supporting both IP and narrowband
RF links among base stations. In addition to soft space diversity
Nautic Devices reception, the device provides Session Initiation Protocol/Real-Time
Yapalong is a full-duplex radio that requires no base station or mas- Transport Protocol (SIP/RTP-IP) ports for dispatching and phone
ter, making the communications peer to peer. The digital communica- applications. The product is Project 25 (P25) Phase 1 compatible; is
tions is in real time and encrypted, while providing exceptional clarity. available in two versions for horizontal/vertical mounting; and

supports the 66 88, 136 174, 350 400, 400 470, 450 527, GPS, IP67 rating, duplex call, man-down safe protection, long battery
and 841 961 MHz bands. life, enhanced RF coverage, Cryptr micro hardware encryption and
www.radioactivity-tlc.com superior voice quality.
www.samhoo-pmr.com
Ritron
The XD series NXDN callbox is a fixed two-way Shenzhen Excera Technology
radio for visitor or employee communications. The Excera offers Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) terminals for the public-
device provides two-way voice communications safety, utility, transportation,
with any other radio-equipped staff person or dis- harbor, and oil and gas mar-
patch area and can be installed in a variety of kets. The radios support DMR
areas. The device operates stand-alone using D Tiers 2 and 3 and comply with
cell alkaline batteries or with an adapter that pro- Mil-Std-810 and IP67. The
vides 12 volts of direct current (VDC) or 110 volts of alternating cur- devices offer multimode oper-
rent (VAC). The callbox operates in the VHF or UHF bands, and ation, providing both analog and digital DMR conventional or simul-
supports NXDN digital at 6.25 or 12.5 kilohertz or analog at 12.5 kilo- cast and trunking operation with full duplex, noise reduction, built-in
hertz. Other features include remote-controlled relay for access con- GPS and Bluetooth wireless technology.
trol applications and a tamper-resistant push-to-talk (PTT) button. www.excera.com.cn
www.ritron.com
Survey Technologies Inc. (STI)
Samhoo Science & Technology The Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) drive testing solution measures
The SPH6000 portable is fully compliant with Digital the coverage and perform-
Mobile Radio (DMR) Tiers 2 and 3 trunking and con- ance of digital radio systems.
ventional. The radio is available in the 136 174, A DMR test-mobile controlled
350 400 and 400 470 MHz bands. Features by STIs Field Test 7 applica-
include a large color display, full keypad, embedded tion receives a standard
Ca In
ll St
fo oc
rD k
et
ail
s
Features
High efficiency switching technology specifically filtered
for communications equipment
Heavy duty industrial design with metal construction Models SS-10NX5,
Certified Europe and North America CE safety standards SS-12NX5 and SS-18NX5
RoHS lead free compliant

The NEW Custom
Low profile and light weight package
All models have built-in protection features including Base Station Power
output current limiting, overvoltage protection for the radio, Supply for Kenwood
internal fuse protection and over temperature shutdown.
See us at IWCE booth # 633
NX5000 Series Radios
Phone 949-458-7277 astroncorporation@yahoo.com www.astroncorp.com

1031 pattern from radio towers to measure received signal combined with a full-size front-facing FST 1-watt (W)
strength indicator (RSSI) and bit error rate (BER). Field Test 7 speaker provide loud and clear audio. The radio supports
samples RSSI every 5.5 milliseconds and BER every 33 millisec- Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Tier 2 and provides two-slot
onds, satisfying all best practices standards for 40 Lambda meas- TDMA operation in a 12.5-kilohertz channel. An analog
urements. The software quantifies and displays the measured and digital dual mode makes the radio compatible with
DMR coverage and performance in detailed tile reports or colored an existing radio fleet.
contour plots. www.talkpod.com
www.surveytech.com
Unimo Technology
Tait Communications The PT-GD TETRA terminal is IP67 waterproof,
UnifyVehicle creates a network of rugged, compact and light. The radio is simple without
networks that includes LMR, Wi-Fi, complex functions, making it suitable for field workers.
wireless broadband and Bluetooth, The radio also has a clear and loud 1-watt (W) speak-
and the system travels with users, er, along with GPS coordinates functionality.
keeping them connected wherever www.unimo.co.kr/eng
they go. Support for applications
such as over-the-air programming Vertex Standard
(OTAP) and push to talk (PTT) over smartphones enables cus- The EVX-S24 is a small, light and discreet digital
tomization based on user needs, while constant connectivity increas- radio. Water submersible and dust proof, the
es both user safety and productivity. radio meets IP67 and is protected from immer-
www.taitradio.com sion in water up to 3 feet for 30 minutes. The
radio also offers complete protection from dust.
Talkpod Technology The device operates in both digital and analog
The D50 portable radio is IP67 rated, making it splash- and dust- modes, making digital-to-analog integration easy.
proof. Narrowband codec and digital error correction technologies www.vertexstandard.com

SPECS SURVEY: MOBILE RADIO ANTENNAS
MANUFACTURER 2J Antennas Barrett Barrett Codan Radio Codan Radio Comprod Comtelco Comtelco
Communications Communications Communications Communications
PRODUCT NAME 2J858B 2018 mobile 2019 automatic tuning 9300 automatic 3040 fast-tuning 362-75 A1641B A1145A
magnetic loop HF mobile HF tuning whip automatic whip
SPECS
Suggested list price -- -- -- -- -- -- $40 $34
Frequency range TETRA: 380-500 MHz; 3.9-12.2 MHz 2-30 MHz (cont.) 1.5-30 MHz 2-30 MHz 806-960 MHz 406-512 MHz 406-512 MHz
GPS: 1.57 GHz; Wi-Fi:
2.4 GHz
Maximum power input 25 W 125 W PEP 150 W PEP 200 W PEP (voice) 125 W PEP 100 W 200 W 200 W
Gain TETRA: 2 dBi (max.); 10-14 dB N/A N/A N/A Unity Unity 3.5 dB
GPS: 27 dB @ 5 V;
Wi-Fi: 2.2 dBi
Wavelength -- N/A N/A N/A N/A -- 1/4 wave --

VSWR (ratio) TETRA: <2:1; <2:1 (nom.) 2:1 or better (typ.) <1.3:1 <1.5:1 2:1 <2:1 <1.5:1
GPS/Galileo: <1.2:1;
Wi-Fi: <2:1
Bandwidth -- N/A N/A -- 1-2% 100 MHz 15 MHz 20 MHz

Mounting Screw mount Vehicle roof rack M16 stud w/ provision M16 stud M14 stud -- NMO/TAD NMO/TAD
for padlock
Radiator material -- N/A N/A Fiberglass Stainless steel/ -- Copper alloy Stainless steel
fiberglass
Whip length 5.36 inches N/A 8 ft. (std.) 60.5 in. Fiberglass: 7.9 ft.; -- None 36 in. (max.)
steel: 5.4 ft.
Spring material -- N/A Stainless steel Painted steel Blackened steel -- N/A Stainless steel
Load/matching coil -- Magnetic loop w/ Capacitive dipole tuned Fully sealed Fully sealed -- N/A Silver-plated,
construction variable tuning w/ inductor assembly encapsulated
capacitor assembly
Types of connectors All ATU 6-pin connector Tuning, RF connector RF PL-259 control RF PL-259 control N female All All
8-way military type 6-way military type
Types of cables All HF antenna-to-trans- Composite control, RF RG-58 feed cable, RG-58 feed cable, N/A All All
ceiver control cable, cable control cable control cable
ATU ground cable
Other features Combi antenna, IP67, Cont. coverage in Integrated GPS option, Rugged, shock mount- Rugged, shock mount- Low-profile, radome Low profile Spring-loaded
(not necessarily a IP69K, operating temp: mountains; storage NVIS extension w/ ed, scan amplifier, ed, scan amplifier enclosed contact, gold
complete list) -40 to +85 C when not in use tiebacks waterproof plated
MANUFACTURER Comtelco EM Wave EM Wave EM Wave Mobile Mark Mobile Mark Mobile Mark RFI
PRODUCT NAME A1843A EMFLX-M10008-WB EM-M20007 4G/LTE EM-MBD41000-NJ HD4-2400 LTM601 RM-WLF CD7195/CDQ7195
quarter wave poly pro multiband duplexer
SPECS
Suggested list price $50 $86 $54 $105 $90 $328 $64 $199/$289
Frequency range 406-512 MHz 144-174 MHz 698-960 MHz, 1.71- 108-174, 450-529, 2.4-2.485 GHz 694-960 MHz; 1.575- 694-894 MHz, 698-960 MHz, 1.71-
2.15 GHz 746-870 MHz; 1.57 1.612, 1.71-2.71, 2.4- 1.7-2.7 GHz 2.17, 2.3-2.7 GHz
GHz 2.5, 5-6 GHz
Maximum power input 200 W 150 W 100 W 150 W 10 W 10 W 35 W 10 W

Gain 3 dB 2 dBi 2/3/5 dBi 2 dBi 4 dBi 3/4/5 dBi 3/5 dBi 4.5/5.5/6.5 dBi
Wavelength 5/8 wave 1/4 wave N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Collinear
VSWR (ratio) <1.5:1 <1.8:1 1.5 (typ.), 2 (max.) 1.5 (typ.), 2 (max.) <2:1 2:1 2:1 (max.) <2.5:1
Bandwidth 20 MHz 30 MHz @ 1.8:1 VSWR 262/790 MHz VHF: 16 MHz; UHF: 70 Same as frequency Same as frequency Same as frequency LTE multiband
MHz; 700/800 MHz: range range range cellular
124 MHz
Mounting NMO/TAD NMO NMO NMO Threaded stud Threaded stud Threaded stud, mag 0.5-in. 26 TPI threaded
mount available stud
Radiator material Stainless steel Brass/black chrome Brass/black chrome Brass/black chrome N/A, enclosed radome N/A, enclosed radome N/A, enclosed radome Flexible PCB enclosed
in fiberglass radome
Whip length 21 in. (max.) 18.88 in. 4 in. Varies N/A N/A N/A 35/38 in.
Spring material Stainless steel e/m-FLEX polymer em-FLEX polymer em-FLEX polymer N/A N/A N/A 304 grade stainless
steel
Load/matching coil Wound coil-form N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Collinear
construction O-ring seal
Types of connectors All NMO N/A N female SMA plug (male) SMA plug (male) SMA plug (male), FME female
others available
Types of cables All N/A N/A RG-58/U, LL195 RF-195 RF-195/RG-174 RG-58 Low loss RG-58
Other features Spring-loaded Wideband, no tuning Low profile, elastomer- Multiband duplexed Low profile (0.5-in. Reduced profile; 6 Opt. pipe mounting kit Fixed whip (CD),
(not necessarily a contact required, flexible black ic polymer housing tri-band system, VHF/ high); durable, heavy- connections for LTE, removable whip (CDQ)
complete list) polymer spring resists high-speed UHF/700-800 MHz duty design Wi-Fi, VHF, GPS
impact from debris or w/ GPS
low-hanging obstruc-
tions
Key: N/A means not applicable. -- means information was not supplied. Dimensions may be rounded off.

The following companies submitted information for this Specs Survey.
For more suppliers, visit SuperGUIDE at www.MCCmag.com.
M ANUFACTU R ER RFI RFI Sinclair Sinclair Sinclair STI-CO Industries STI-CO Industries STI-CO Industries Webb Industries
Technologies Technologies Technologies
PRODUCT NAME CD29 series CD61 series SM600D SM700 ST421R Covert, fender, Interoperable Public safety, TRD Train
roof mount flexi-whip
SPECS
Suggested list price $139 $139 -- -- -- $150-$450 $423-$1,200 $63-$185 --
Frequency range 138-166, 380-470, 694 MHz to 6 GHz 694 MHz to 6 GHz 764-960 MHz 28-896 MHz 106-896 MHz 136 MHz to 1 GHz 140 MHz to 2.5
148-174 MHz 450-520 MHz GHz; VHF, UHF, cel-
lular, GPS, Iridium,
Wi-Fi combinations
Maximum power input 25 W 25 W 200 W 200 W 200 W 35-150 W 150 W 150 W 8-25 W options
Gain 4 dBq 4 dBq Unity (2.1) Unity (2.1) Unity (2.1) Unity Unity Unity --
Wavelength 1/2 wave 1/2 wave -- -- -- Varies Varies 1/4 wave --
VSWR (ratio) <1.8:1 <1.5:1 1.5:1 2:1 1.5:1 <2:1 <2:1 <2:1 1.5:1
Bandwidth 26/28 MHz 70/90 MHz 5306 5306 42 MHz Varies w/ frequency Varies w/ frequency Varies w/ frequency --
range range range
Mounting 0.5-in. threaded 0.5-in. threaded Ground plate One hole (0.75 in.) BOLT M6 x 25, A2 OEM mount Options available NMO roof, trunk lip, 3 x M10 studs @
stud, UHF connector stud, UHF connector required magnet, more PCD 2.8 in. (4 studs
opt.)
Radiator material Black powder-coated Fully over-molded -- -- -- Stainless Aluminum Nitinol PCB
304 grade stainless 304 grade stainless
steel steel
Whip length 33/34 in. 11/15 in. -- -- -- 9.5-31 in. (approx.) 35.5 in. (approx.) Cut to frequency --
Spring material N/A N/A -- -- -- N/A N/A N/A --
Load/matching coil PCB matching PCB matching -- -- -- Stub-matching Triband/quad band N/A Cover: UV-stabilized
construction circuit circuit coupler ABS; base plate:
aluminum
Types of connectors Various Various SMA Mx2, SMA N female, N male, N female (socket) PL-259, mini UHF, PL-259, mini UHF, PL-259, mini UHF, No connector or to
Mx1, BNC Mx1 BNC male, BNC BNC, TNC, SMA, N BNC, TNC, SMA, N BNC, TNC, SMA, N customer specs
female, TNC male,
TNC female
Types of cables Low loss RG-58 Low loss RG58 -- -- -- 17-ft. RG-58, RG- 17-50-ft. low-loss 17-ft. RG-58 LMR195, RG-174
316, LMR-195 cable
Other features Broadband, ground Broadband, ground Four elements Low profile (2.6-in. Low profile (2.1-in. Narrowband or Operates VHF, UHF, Flexible mast bends Rugged, ideal for
(not necessarily a independent independent including GPS; max. high); no ground high); aerodynamic broadband; single 700/800 MHz but wont break, harsh environ-
complete list) height: 4.25 in. plate required design or dual band radios, opt. aviation factory or field ments; max. wind
band tuned velocity: 186 mph
Multi-Bannd Antenna
a Systems...and more.
LMR P ublic Safety Homeland
H Security 4G/LTE GPS Telematics Telemetr y In-Building P ortable
E/M Wave, Inc.

engineers and mar ket s a gr owing
line of unique mobile an nd xed sta t ion
communica t ions ant ennna pr oduc t s . Our primar y Current ly pursuing Authorized Par t ners for
f ocus is to maximize thee Ant enna Va alue in ever y Int ernat ional Sales annd Dist ribut ion. Please contac t
pr oduc t to meet or exceeed customer expec ta t ions! sales@emwaveinc.com m for more informat ion.
QU ALIT Y HONEST Y INTEG

GRIT Y SEE US AT BOOTH #252
2 ...i ts the right thing to do!
t 216 -453-1160 f 216-447

7-8828 w w w. e m w a v e i n c . c o m

SPECS SURVEY: MICROPHONES
MANUFACTURER Astra Radio Astra Radio Astra Radio Earphone Earphone Earphone Holzberg Holzberg Hytera
Communications Communications Communications Connection Connection Connection Communications Communications Communications
(ARC) (ARC) (ARC)
PRODUCT NAME T21 single-wire X24 tactical throat T23 two-wire Interceptor wireless Hawk lapel Nighthawk bluetooth Kenwood mobile Motorola mobile SM19A1
surveillance kit mic kit surveillance kit lapel
SPECS
Suggested list price -- -- -- $225-$275 $55-$109 $131-$230 $50 $36 $120
Type of microphone Knowles Knowles Knowles Unidirectional Electret condenser Unidirectional Mobile Mobile Electric mic
Dimensions (HWD) N/A N/A N/A 0.4 x 0.3 in. 0.2 x 0.07 in. 0.3 x 0.1 in. 2.6 x 3.8 x 1.6 in. 2.6 x 3.8 x 1.6 in. 3.8 x 2.5 x 1.6 in.
Weight 6 oz. 28 oz. (packaged) 6 oz. 4.2 oz. 2 oz. 1.4 oz. 6 oz. 6 oz. 6 oz.
Power supply N/A N/A N/A Li-poly (1.5 A/3.7 V) 1.1-10 VDC Li-poly (1.5 A/3.7 V) -- -- 1-10 VDC
Modes (PTT, etc.) Mic/PTT Belt/junction box/ Mic/PTT Dual PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT Half duplex
remote finger PTT
Operating temp. range -50 to +75 C -50 to +75 C -50 to +75 C -15 to +60 C N/A -15 to +50 C -20 to +60 C -20 to +60 C -30 to +65 C
Noise reduction mic (dB) Yes Yes Yes No No No -- -- No
Noise reduction Yes Yes Yes Yes No No -- -- No
speaker (dB)
Mic frequency response -- -- -- 2.402-2.48 GHz N/A 2.4-2.4835 GHz -- -- 1 N-3 dB

Mic output (dB) -- -- -- N/A 95 4 dB/1 mW 90 dB -73 dB -44 dB 0 dB=10 VDC
1 kHz
Mic sensitivity -- -- -- -80 dBm -41 4 dB/U=4.5 V -44 dB -- -- -26 3 dBc 1 kHz
Speaker output -- -- -- N/A 95 4 dB/1 mW Depends on earpiece -- -- N/A
1 kHz
Speaker impedance -38 to +2 dB -38 to +2 dB -38 to +2 dB -- 90 10% Depends on earpiece 600 600 2.2 @ 1 kHz
Housing material Hi-impact plastic Hi-impact plastic Hi-impact plastic N/A N/A N/A ABS/PC ABS/PC Kevlar
Colors Black Black Black Black Black Black Black Black Black
Helmet compatible? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No
Volume adjustment? N/A N/A N/A Yes No Yes No No No
Sidetone? N/A N/A N/A No No No No No No
Intrinsically safe rated? No No No No No No Yes Yes No
Amplified mic? No No No No No No No No Yes
Amplified gain No No No No No No No No No
switching?
Noise filtering? Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes No

Noise cancellation? No Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes No
Clothing clip? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No
Pivots? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes -- No No Yes
Earphone jack? No Yes No Yes, 3.5 mm Earphone included Yes, 3.5 mm No No No
Also acts as radio? N/A No N/A No No No No No No
Warranty (years) 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year
Features/options (list) Opt. Hirose connec- Opt. Hirose connec- Opt. Hirose connec- Dual PTT, pair 2 Blue- Discreet/professional, 128-bit key encryp- -- -- DTMF coder, emer-
tor, more tor, more tor, more tooth devices, more metal clip for security tion, more gency button, more
MANUFACTURER Impact Radio Impact Radio Impact Radio Imtradex Imtradex Imtradex JCK Jean Couk JCK Jean Couk JCK Jean Couk Jing Deng
Accessories Accessories Accessories Enterprise Enterprise Enterprise Industrial (JDI)
PRODUCT NAME PRSM-HD2-NC PRSM-HD3-WP PRSM-HD7-WP Aurelis Base AT2-ATC TM3 HS15 H-600, LED RSM H-200, POC RSM JD-DM1
SPECS
Suggested list price Varies Varies Varies Connector dep. Connector dep. $370 Varies Varies Varies $29-$32
Type of microphone Knowles electret Omnidirectional Omnidirectional Hand Hand Table Bone conduction Electronic Electronic Nondirectional
Knowles MEMS Knowles MEMS condenser condenser dynamic
Dimensions (HWD) 2.8 x 2.5 x 1 in. 2.5 x 2.3 x 1 in. 3 x 2.5 x 1 in. 3.9 x 2.6 x 1 in. 6.1 x 1 in. (dia.) 2.4 x 4.5 x 6.7 in. 5.5 x 5.5 x 2.4 in. 2.7 x 1.5 x 4.3 in. 2.5 x 1.4 x 3.4 in. 6.7 x 2.6 x 6.6 in.
Weight 7.2 oz. 7 oz. 7.5 oz. 5.6 oz. 7.1 oz. 1.6 lbs. 1.4 oz. 6.9 oz. 4.8 oz. 1 lb.
Power supply 3-10 VDC 3-10 VDC 3-10 VDC -- -- USB Radio Radio/Li-ion AAA/Li-ion Radio
Modes (PTT, etc.) PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT Half duplex PTT PTT PTT, dual
Operating temp. range -40 to +70 C -40 to +70 C -40 to +70 C -30 to +70 C -20 to +70 C 0 to +50 C -40 to +75 C -30 to +75 C -30 to +75 C -25 to +50 C
Noise reduction mic (dB) Yes No No -- -- -- Yes No No No
Noise reduction N/A N/A N/A -- -- -- Yes No No No
speaker (dB)
Mic frequency response 50 Hz to 16 kHz 50 Hz to 16 kHz 50 Hz to 16 kHz 50 Hz to 16 kHz 200 Hz to 16 kHz 100 Hz to 8 kHz -- -- -- 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Mic output (dB) N/A N/A N/A -- -- -- -45 3 dB -40 3 dB -40 3 dB -58 dB
Mic sensitivity -36 2 dB @ 1 kHz -42 4 dB @ 1 kHz -42 4 dB @ 1 kHz -30 dB V/Pa. -36 dB V/Pa. -44 dB V/Pa. -45 3 dB -40 3 dB -40 3 dB --
1 kHz 1 kHz 1 kHz
Speaker output 120 dB SPL 120 dB SPL 120 dB SPL -- -- -- 0.5 W 1W 2W --

Speaker impedance 8 10% @ 1 kHz 8 10% @ 1 kHz 8 10% @ 1 kHz 8 @ 1 mW/ -- 8 @ 1 mW/ 16 15% 8 15% 8 15% --
1 kHz 1 kHz
Housing material Polycarbonate Polycarbonate Polycarbonate -- -- -- Silicon gel Polycarbonate Polycarbonate PC ABS alloy
Colors Black Black Black Gray (opt.) Silver gray Gray Black Black Black Black
Helmet compatible? Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes No No No
Volume adjustment? No No Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes No
Sidetone? No No No No No No No No No No
Intrinsically safe rated? No No No No No No No No No No
Amplified mic? No No No No Yes No Yes No No No
Amplified gain No No No No No No No No No No
switching?
Noise filtering? No No No No No No Yes Yes No No

Noise cancellation? Yes No No No No Yes Yes Yes No No
Clothing clip? Yes Yes Yes Yes No, table fit No Yes Yes Yes No
Pivots? Yes Yes Yes No No No No No No Yes
Earphone jack? Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes No
Also acts as No No No Yes Yes Yes No No No No
two-way radio?
Warranty (years) 3 years 3 years 3 years 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year
Features/options (list) Noise-canceling IP67, Mil-Std-810 IP67, hi/low Customizable Different connec- -- IP56, compatible IP68, Nexus/3.5- IP55, PoC com- Desktop mic
mic, Mil-Std-810 speaker, more tors available w/ helmet mm jack, more patible, more
Key: N/A means not applicable. -- means information was not supplied. Dimensions may be rounded off.

The following companies submitted information for this Specs Survey.
For more suppliers, visit SuperGUIDE at www.MCCmag.com.
MANUFACTURER Jing Deng Jing Deng Maxon America OTTO OTTO OTTO Pryme Radio Pryme Radio Pryme Radio Savox
Industrial (JDI) Industrial (JDI) Products Products Products Communications
PRODUCT NAME JD-270X JD-230X UDM-240 Revo NC2 Storm OTTO 500 SPM-4200 SPM-2100 SPM-2300 CLARITY Covert
SPECS
Suggested list price $5-$7 $5-$13 $159 $93-$125 $90-$202 $298-$365 $110-$130 $60 $75 $1,340
Type of microphone Nondirectional Nondirectional Wireless mic for Cardioid electret Omnidirectional Omnidirectional Speaker mic Speaker Surveillance kit Electret
dynamic electric mobiles electret MEMS
Dimensions (HWD) 2.6 x 3.8 x 1.6 in. 1.4 x 1 x 1 in. 3.5 x 2.3 x 1.2 in. 3.3 x 2.6 x 1.7 in. 3 x 2.4 x 1.7 in. 3.4 x 3 x 1.8 in. 3.4 x 2.3 x 1.3 in. 3.1 x 2.3 x 1.1 in. N/A N/A
Weight 6.5 oz. 1.3 oz. 4.3 oz 6.2 oz. 7.1 oz. 11.2 oz. 8.2 oz. 7.3 oz. 4 oz. 4.9 oz.
Power supply Radio Radio 3.7 VDC Li-poly Radio Radio Radio N/A N/A N/A 5 VDC (from radio)
Modes (PTT, etc.) PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT PTT, remote
Operating temp. range -25 to +50 C -20 to +60 C -10 to +50 C -30 to +60 C -30 to +60 C -30 to +60 C -40 to +80 C -40 to +80 C -40 to +80 C -10 to +40 C
Noise reduction mic (dB) No No N/A Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Passive
Noise reduction No No N/A No No No No No Yes Wireless earpiece
speaker (dB)
Mic frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz 50 Hz to 10 kHz 2.4-2.48 GHz ISM 50 Hz to 5 kHz 50 Hz to 5 kHz 50 Hz to 5 kHz 50 Hz to 10 kHz 50 Hz to 10 kHz 1.5 to 12 kHz N/A
Mic output (dB) -53 dB -38 dB 50-100 mVrms -- -- -- N.S. N.S. N.S. N/A
Mic sensitivity -- 2.2K -98 dBm -34 dBv (1 V/pa) -50 dBv (1 V/pa) -50 dBv (1 V/pa) -45 3 dB -40 3 dB -40 3 dB N/A
Speaker output -- 94 3 dB 500 mW 1W 1W 1W SPL 120 3 dB SPL 120 3 dB SPL 86 3 dB 100 2 dB SPL
Speaker impedance -- 32 16 8 16 8 8 8 110 N/A
Housing material ABS ABS Polycarbonate PC ABS alloy Xenoy Hi-temp. glass- ABS ABS ABS ABS
filled polymer
Colors Black Black Black Black Black Black body, hi-vis Black Black Black Beige
green grill
Helmet compatible? No No No No No No No No Yes Yes

Volume adjustment? No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No No No
Sidetone? No No Yes No No No No No No Yes
Intrinsically safe rated? No No No No Yes No No No No No
Amplified mic? No No Yes No No No No No No Yes
Amplified gain No No Yes No No No No No No N/A
switching?
Noise filtering? No No Yes No No No No No No N/A

Noise cancellation? No No No Yes No No Yes No No N/A
Clothing clip? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Covert vest avail.
Pivots? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes N/A
Earphone jack? No Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Wireless earpiece
Also acts as No No Yes No No No No No No No
two-way radio?
Warranty (years) 1 year 1 year 1 year 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 2 years 1 year 1 year
Features/options (list) CB microphone, IP54 ear/mic, diff. Use as vehicular IP68, emergency Emergency button Withstands 260 Dust & waterproof 3.5-mm earphone Acoustic tube, 2- Interference free,
electric-type changeable ear- repeater/intercom button C for 5 min., IP68, IP67, 3.5-mm jack, nonslip case, wire kit, comfort wireless PTT,
acceptable piece types system emergency button audio jack, more rep. cable, more ear tips, more more
MANUFACTURER Savox Stone Mountain Stone Mountain Stone Mountain Threat4 Titan Communi- Titan Communi- TwitCo Distribut- Wireless Pacific Wireless Pacific
Communications cation Systems cation Systems ing (ParMarLow)
PRODUCT NAME XG-CC-1 Phoenix LMR/ Sword BluSkye SM-HD8-WP MM20 EX-MM13 SM-1100 X10DR-XU1 X10DR-XX1
Elite PoC Bluetooth
SPECS
Suggested list price $360 $69-$215 $82-$299 $199 Varies $260 $109 $55-$65 $438 $588
Type of microphone Electret (adjust.) Omnidirectional Omnidirectional Omnidirectional Electret or Omnidirectional Omnidirectional Condenser 64-bit wireless 128-bit wireless
dynamic mic for mobiles mic for mobiles
Dimensions (HWD) 4.5 x 2.8 x 1.5 in. 3.1 x 2.5 x 1.1 in. 3.3 x 2.5 x 1.1 in. 3.1 x 2.5 x 1.1 in. 3 x 2.5. x 1 in. 4 x 2.7 x 1.6 in. 2.8 x 2.4 x 1.6 in. 8.75 x 2.3 x 1.5 in. 3.5 x 1.1 x 2.5 in. 3.5 x 1.1 x 2.5 in.
Weight 6 oz. 7 oz. 8 oz. 7 oz. 7.2 oz. 8.1 oz. 4.9 oz. 5.2 oz. 5.3 oz. 5.3 oz.
Power supply 3-10 VDC (radio) LMR: 5-9 V; 5-9 VDC 9-36 V 3-10 VDC Radio Radio Radio 3.7 VDC 3.7 VDC
PoC: 9-36 V
Modes (PTT, etc.) PTT, full duplex PTT, half/full PTT PTT, half/full PTT Double PTT, half PTT, half duplex PTT PTT/duplex PTT/duplex
duplex duplex duplex
Operating temp. range Tested to +260 C -30 to +60 C -30 to +60 C -30 to +60 C -40 to +70 C -25 to +60 C -25 to +60 C -10 to +55 C -20 to +60 C -20 to +60 C
Noise reduction mic (dB) Adjust. sensitivity Opt. No Opt. N/A Opt. Opt. Mechanical No No
Noise reduction Headset options No No Opt. N/A N/A N/A No No No
speaker (dB)
Mic frequency response Headset options 50 Hz to 20 kHz 50 Hz to 20 kHz 50 Hz to 20 kHz 100 Hz to 16 kHz 680 Hz to 20 kHz 680 Hz to 20 kHz Radio dependent 2.4-2.48 GHz ISM 2.4-2.48 GHz ISM
Mic output (dB) Headset options 100 mV RMS 100 mV RMS 100 mV RMS N/A 92 3 dB 92 3 dB Radio dependent 800 mVrms 800 mVrms
Mic sensitivity Adjustable -40 dB -40 dB -40 dB -34 2 dB @ 1 kHz -44 3 dB -44 3 dB Radio dependent Software defined Software defined
Speaker output 2 W (internal) 1W 1W 1W 120 dB 1 W (2 W max.) 1 W (2 W max.) Radio dependent 250 mW 250 mW
Speaker impedance 8 (internal) 8 8 8 2.2k @ 1 kHz 8/16 8/16 Radio dependent N/A N/A
Housing material Hi-impact ABS ABS/PC & TPE ABS/PC & TPE ABS/PC & TPE ABS ABS ABS Plastic Polymer blend Polymer blend
Colors Black/red, Black/gray Black/gray, glow Black/gray Black Front label color Black Black Black (std.), color Black (std.), color
hi-vis/black in the dark (opt.) options options
Helmet compatible? Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes

Volume adjustment? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes
Sidetone? No No No No No N/A N/A No Yes Yes
Intrinsically safe rated? No Opt. Opt. No No No Yes (ATEX/IECEx) No No No
Amplified mic? No No No Opt. No Opt. Opt. No Yes Yes
Amplified gain N/A No No Opt. No Yes No No Yes Yes
switching?
Noise filtering? N/A No No Opt. No Opt. Opt. Yes Yes Yes

Noise cancellation? N/A Opt. No Yes Yes Opt. Opt. No No No
Clothing clip? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Pivots? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes, 360 Yes, 360 No Yes Yes
Earphone jack? Yes Yes Yes Yes, 3.5-mm Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Also acts as No No No No No No No No Yes Yes
two-way radio?
Warranty (years) 1 year 2 years 2 years 2 years 16 months 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year
Features/options (list) RSM/PTT, IP67 AllClear, IP68, IP68, IS rating, E- AllClear, IP68, E- Volume control, Nexus/Hirose ATEX speaker mic Speaker mic 328-yd. range from 328-yd. range from
rating, more CallCheck, more button, more button, more more connector, more w/ IP67 rating vehicle, more vehicle, more
NEW PRODUCTS
PTT Interface for Console location. Staff members who dont usually bution grids to field devices. Because the
Zetron announced an interface option carry radios have full access to their router distributes intelligence wirelessly
that enables the integration of its MAX radio resources, team members and LMR over the IP/multiprotocol label switching
Dispatch radio console system with AT&T network through the use of AT&T EPTT (MPLS) transport network, devices in the
Enhanced Push-to-Talk (AT&T EPTT). on their smartphones or tablets. field can communicate and make deci-
The offering www.zetron.com sions without human intervention, as well
is in addi- as have greater flexibility, reliability and
tion to the Wireless Router scale. Security features are included in
AT&T EPTT The 7705 SAR-Hm Long Term Evolution both hardware and software implementa-
integration (LTE)/3G wireless router from Nokia is tions, and Network Group Encryption
already the newest addition to the Nokia Service (NGE) protects against cyber attacks,
available Routing portfolio. The unit allows for company officials said. The product is
with Zetrons AcomNOVUS telephony smart grid applications, also targeted at oil and gas, mining, pub-
and dispatch product. The network-based including distribution lic safety, government, transportation and
solution is built on Project 25 (P25) open automation, advanced aviation.
standards and integrates with the Con- metering and integra- www.nokia.com
sole Subsystem Interface (CSSI). The tion of renewable ener-
integration requires a software license gy sources, and lays Test Equipment with
add-on to the CSSI license. With this the groundwork to sup- P25 Support
integration, dispatchers on Zetron con- port field devices with Freedom Communication Technologies
soles can communicate with AT&T EPTT the internet of things announced R8100/R8000 firmware
users just as they would an LMR system, (IoT). The unit allows release 2.2.1, which adds a number of
extending radio communications to users high-capacity connec- new capabil-
regardless of their device, network or tivity from power distri- ities to the
testing plat-
form.
Release
Radio Remote Control 2.2.1 pro-

vides
expanded
Project 25 (P25) support, including a test
capability for Motorola Solutions P25
TRML Now for Phase 2 repeaters and enhanced bit error
NX700/800 rate (BER) testing for P25 Phase 1
and repeaters. Also included is an expansion
NX5700/5800 of the Motorola APX radio autotune capa-
bility to cover APX 1000 and SRX 2200
CPI's TRML Multi-Line tone remote allows users access to 4 different radios and the addition of a third tone
radios and is a feature packed small console. generator ranging up to 40 kilohertz.
www.freedomcte.com
CPI's MCR/TSR multi-channel systems control many popular Kenwood and
Motorola radios. Included is the Kenwood TK5710 P25, TK 7150/8150, Li-ion Battery with NMC
7180/8180, -90 series, NX700/800 and NX5700/5800 mobiles. The Radio Frequency Systems (RFS)
Motorola series includes the CDM1550 and CM300 mobile radios. released a new Li-ion battery solution
using NMC technology. The batteries can
CPI manufactures a complete line of DC,Tone, Local Extension,
be used at
Multi-Channel, and Multi-Line remotes and termination panels radio access
for most radio systems. For additional information on the network
complete line of CPI products please call or visit our website. (RAN)/cen-
tralized RAN
941 Hensley Lane Wylie, TX 75098
(C-RAN)
Phone: (800) 869-9128 (972) 429-7160
Fax: (972) 429-7165 sites to ensure remote radio head (RRH)
www.cpicomm.com operation and network availability during
power grid outages; at independent,

self-sustaining sites sourced by renew- via the new EDX Cirrus annual data sub-
able energies; and for powering tempo- scription service. EDX Cirrus includes
rary sites without connectivity to a power high-resolution hybrid clutter, terrain, vec-
grid or fuel generators. The modular solu- tor, demographic and social media data.
tion includes battery cells, a charging cir- The service provides regularly updated
cuit, algorithm and software for remote data, and annual subscription plans
access. RFS compact, eco-friendly Li-ion include the continental United States,
batteries reduce volume by up to 50 per- design software from EDX Wireless adds global data or data for a particular serv-
cent and installation weight by 20 percent high-resolution data to SignalPro projects ice area as defined by one square
compared to traditional acid batteries,
while increasing capacity and eliminating
the need for additional cooling to main-
tain operational temperatures, company
i v e Sens itivity
R e c e
Rethink
officials said. The easy-to-install batteries
are designed for a 19-inch rack and fea-
ture a battery management system
(BMS) for remote access to battery
parameters and hot plugging functionali-
ty, allowing for upgrades without shutting
SETUP AND CONTROL WITH DISPLA
AY, ETHERNET OR USB
down a site.
MPACT DESIGN
COM
www.rfsworld.com
Microwave Radio
Aviat Networks announced a new radio
platform called the WTM 4000. The pur-
pose-built IP-software defined network
(SDN) radio with an integrated IP/multi- EXP
PAND
A TO 32 CHANNELS
protocol label switching (MPLS) software COLOR DISPLA

AY
stack and built-in support for SDN proto-
cols
offers up
to 2.5
Gigabits
per sec-
TEST PORT/ALARM OUTPUTS 16 CHANNEL
ond
(Gbps) 1HZGE6SHFWUD77$6\VWHPFRQVLVWVRIDKLJKSHUIRUPDQFH77$XQLW
uncom- DQGFKDQQHOUHFHLYHUPXOWLFRXSOHUSRZHUGLVWULEXWLRQXQLW
pressed throughput per radio transceiver. 7RZHU7RS$PSOLHU Receiver Multicoupler/PDU U
The platform will have variants spanning 'XDOUHGXQGDQWDPSOLHUZLWKE\SDVVUHOD\ $PSOLHUZLWKE\SDVVUHOD\
G%LVRODWLRQIURPWUDQVPLWWHUVG%JDLQ 'XDOGLJLWDODGMXVWDEOHDWWHQXDWRUV
all microwave frequency bands from 6 to DQGG%QRLVHJXUH 6103FDSDEOH
$XWRPDWLFVZLWFKLQJDQGDODUPLQJ G%JDLQ
42 GHz. Using a new adaptive dual carri-
&KHFNRXWDOOWKHVSHFLFDWLRQVDWwww.dbspectra.com/rethink
er (A2C) feature, the radio can enable two
channels over a single radio transceiver,
which leads to twice the capacity of typi-
cal radios. The product achieves lower
power consumption, decreased weight,
reduced cost per Megabit and higher reli-
ability than previous products, company
officials said.
www.aviatnetworks.com
Always a Better Value
Wireless Network www.dbspectra.com

3KRQH'HVLJQHG 0DQXIDFWXUHGLQWKH86$,62&HUWLHG
Design Software
SignalPro version 8.4 wireless network 6WRSE\RXUERRWKDW,:&(WRFKHFNRXWRXUQHZSURGXFWV%RRWK.

degree tiles a cost-effective alternative new study for routes/transportation
to purchasing data outright. Current Sig- allows users to use directional antennas
nalPro users can use EDX Cirrus data in oriented along a particular route or path.
existing projects. A write to PDF function- www.edx.com
ality can generate custom reports for link
and multilink studies. Improvements to Coaxial Adapter
multipoint studies allow users to add The Unidapt universal adapter system
more technical specifications, and the from RF Industries allows users to create ing the Unidapt connector interfaces onto
multipoint study engine was upgraded. A a coaxial adapter in seconds. By thread- the Unidapt universal adapter, users can
create any innerseries or intraseries
male-to-male, female-to-female or male-
to-female adapter. The companys male
and female 4.3-10, 4.1-9.5 (mini) DIN and
QMA interfaces can be combined with 14
other male and female Unidapt connector
interfaces. In addition, the interfaces can
be used with other members of the prod-
uct line, including R/A adapter, T adapter,
Unicables, wattmeter flange adapters, RF
sampler/injector, binding post and banana
plug. Various kits are available and com-
patible with the new interfaces. The new
interfaces are manufactured with durable,
non-tarnish tri-metal (white bronze) plated
machined brass bodies and silver-plated
contacts with dielectric.
www.rfindustries.com
vRAN Multiband Network

SOLiD introduced GENESIS RAX, a
scalable, flexible, multioperator, multiband
virtualized radio access network (vRAN)
signal source solution. GENESIS RAX is
part of the SOLiD GENESIS platform,
which allows middleprise building owners
Download
a Free
Demo at
softwright.com
to cost effectively operate their own in-

building wireless network, including a
multioperator signal source component.
The new solution lowers cost of on-
Terrain Analysis Package (TAPTM) See Us at IWCE,
Booth #1068 demand capacity and coverage to wire-
Path Design Coverage Maps less service providers, company officials
VHF/UHF Links Land Mobile said. The platform is comprised of three
Microwave Links Ground-to-Air interoperable elements new hardware
Reliability Studies Terrain Shadowing technology, cloud-enabled functionality
800-728-4033
Plus: Intermod studies, KML graphic export... sales@softwright.com and a capacity exchange application.
and Much More! www.softwright.com www.solid.com

IWCE Invitation
The following companies invite you to visit their booths at IWCE.
(Updated March 8)
3M Peltor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 546 Codan Radio Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1055

AC DC Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1246 Comba Telecom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
Alinco/Remtronix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 447 Comtelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 966
Astron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 633 CSS-Mindshare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 549
Avtec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 635 Davicom, a division of Comlab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1367
Barrett Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3303 David Clark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 932
Bird . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1020 dbSpectra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2907
BK Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1035 DuraComm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1244
CALL24 Wireless Call Box Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1726 Earphone Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 766
Cape Products USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248 ECi Software Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272
Cara Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224 EDX Wireless. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1472
Catalyst Communications Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1445 EM Wave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Clear-Com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233 Eventide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 642
Cobham AvComm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1335 Exacom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 442
Visit Us at IWCE
Booth 650
RadioResource TM
www.MCCmag.com

Fiplex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 862 RF Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367
Freedom Communication Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1757 RFI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1555
Futurecom Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1524 Ritron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 829
Genesis Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1347 Samhoo Science & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434
Hytera Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1717 Samlex America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1732
Icom America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1023 Sensear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1363
Impact Radio Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1168 Simulcast Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 847
JCK Jean Couk Enterprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1272 SLA (ESChat) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3000
Jing Deng Industrial (JDI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1747 SoftWright. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1068
JPS Interoperability Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2811 STI-CO Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530
JVCKENWOOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 617 Stone Mountain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 666
MissionCritical Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 650 Survey Technologies Inc. (STI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1174
Mobile Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1359 Talkpod Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1172
Newmar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1144 Telex Radio Dispatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1531
OTTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1062 Times Microwave Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
Positive Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1576 Trans-Canada Energies Distribution (TCED) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1523
Power Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1142 Unication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2915
PowerTrunk, part of Sepura Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1735 Virtual Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2711
Pryme Radio Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 958/1058 Washington Radio Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3008
Pyramid Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 Wireless Accessories Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 572
Radio Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 543 Wireless Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
3000+
Critical
150+ 175+
exhibitors speakers
Communications
Professionals
16 - 18 May 2017
Asia World Expo, Hong Kong
UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF

THE MODERN END USER TO
OPTIMISE YOUR NETWORK
GATHERING A TRULY GLOBAL AUDIENCE FOR THE 19TH YEAR
2017 GOLD SPONSORS 2017 SILVER SPONSORS
Mission Systems
https://tmt.knect365.com/critical-communications-world

MarketPlace
Equipment For Sale . . . . . . . . . . . . .81-91
Help Wanted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Professional Services Directory . . . . . .91
Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Tower Sites/Site Products/Services . . . .85
Contact Debra at 303-792-2390, x 103 Fax: 303-792-2391 dsabin@RRMediaGroup.com

We accept VISA, Mastercard and American Express
Equipment For Sale
Identify Hidden Interference
The rapid increase of wireless

technologies, RF spectrum
overcrowding, and system co-
location has made eliminating RF
interference more challenging
than ever before.
WirelessSite-RFI is the industry

leading software that identifies,
analyzes, locates, and resolves
RF interference you encounter.
Contact us today to purchase

this time-saving software tool or
for consulting support on your
complex communications system
projects.
Riverview Software Solutions, LLC

256-582-9652
www.RiverviewSoftwareSolutions.com
Celebrating Our 25th Year in Business

Pre-Owned
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT & SALES
Bought, Sold, Brokered
www.bro-comm.com
810 Old Hwy 8, Rockton, ON, Canada, L0R 1X0
519-647-0400 Fax: 519-647-0276 Watts: 888-832-2210
sales@bro-comm.com
w w w.MC C m a g . c o m Missio n Critica l Commu n ica tion s March 2017 81

Software Licensing
Cara Enterprises, Inc.

DOUG THOMPSON
FCC Licensing, Part 90 and Part 101
IW C E www.caraenterprises.com
24
Booth 2 Sales@caraenterprises.com
(702) 838-9728 Fax: (702) 363-4607
Name: Ch1-BER
Latitude: 45.7194533
Longitude: -123.92822900
Value: 1.07
Ch1-RSSI: -101.30
Ch1-BER: 1.07
Ch1-QOS: 99.52
FCC Part 90 LMR Licensing

Frequency Search
Contour Studies
Channel Plans
700 & 800 MHz Regional Planning Apps
IWCE
Public Safety & Utility Focus for 45+ years
www.nrctele.com info@nrctele.com
174
Booth 1
Norman R. Coltri, PE PMP (609) 654-8196
MRC LICENSING
FCC License Consulting
Pre-Coordination Research
Forms Preparation and Submission
40 Years Experience
Bob Moffitt 239.233.7679
email: moff31@gmail.com
Equipment For Sale
IWCE
Booth 1144
Equipment For Sale
wireless accessories unlimited
Quality
Aftermarket
Batteries
DO EXIST
Circ uiti t Protection
Circuit Prot
Pr otec
ection
Grade A Cells
ABS Plastic
Sonic Welding
Private Label
waunlimited - com
800-586-5675 IWCE
BO OT H # 572
TREAT YOUR APX

LIKE A CELL PHONE
SEE IT AT
BOOTH 1576
GOOD
2GOCHANGED THE WAY
RADIO BATTERIES
TECHNOLOGY WERE CHARGED FOR
THE FIRST TIME IN 75 YEARS!
Available now for the APX as well as other models.

Contact an authorized dealer, shop Amazon, Ebay or Google a premier
online supplier for yours today! Search Keywords Good 2 Go Battery.
IWCE
12509 N. SAGINAW BLVD. #106 FORT WORTH, TX 76179 Booth 966
VOICE 817-929-9506 EMAIL sales@positive-charge.biz WEB www.positive-charge.biz

Equipment For Sale
IWCE
47
Booth 8
We sell more than just batteries
Fast shipping
First-class
customer service
Large inventory
Private label services
We ship across USA
Learn more at TCED.ca
Welcome All
IWCE
Attendees!
84 Ma r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

Equipment For Sale
Antenna Tower
SiteGuide
3
5
1
2
6
4
Color-coded by region so you

can find the sites you need!
Region 6
IWCE
Tower Space in Virginia Booth 4
47
Hampton 320ft 37-05-07.5N 76-25-35.8W
Richmond 200ft 37-33-32N 77-24-32W
Portsmouth 480ft 36-51-39.5N 76-21-11.7W
Newport News 200ft 36-59-59N 76-25-20W
Hampton #2 400ft 37-04-41N 76-26-47W
Portmouth #2 250ft 36-51-39.5N 76-21-11.7W
Call or visit our website
www.areawideva.com
757-380-8498 email: tomblount@areawideVA.com
Region 3
Region 5
Region 6
Tower Sites for Lease

AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, MI, MS, NY, OH, OR & UT
Easy terms - No Red Tape
We buy Tower Sites!
www.midamericatowers.com
Call Jay @ 815-693-1565
Think Smart
( )
RadioResource TM
Think Buyers
(26,487)
Think
MarketPlace
The industrys largest
303-792-2390 x103
dsabin@RRMediaGroup.com
Smart Thinking!
IWCE
Booth 248
Equipment For Sale
PREVENTS DEAD BATTERIES

Intelligent
SHUT DOWN
TM

IN-VEHICLE CHARGER
TIMER
PROTECTS ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

Maximizes Battery Performance Visit Us
ON WHEN IGNITION TURNS OFF
SAVES MAINTENANCE COSTS

At IWCE t Battery and Equipment Protection Device
And Extends Battery Life Booth t Monitors Battery Voltage. Low Voltage shuts down load
Rugged design and 3-year warranty 1142 t Thousands Installed on Police Patrol, Fire/Uitiliy Vehicles
with MDC/MDT, approved by states, cities, and counties
make it ideal for public safety and
t Automatic On/Off, 30 AMP, 12 Volt DC
service vehicles.
t Programmable with external DIP switch for selecting time
Ultra-compact size simplifies t Made in USA. One year warranty.
installation.
Models available for Motorola,

Kenwood, Hytera, Icom, Tait,
MZL-100
HEAVY DUTY 75 AMP
and other two-way radios. DELAY TIMER / LOAD MANAGMENT
MZL-90
90 AMP IGNITION SENSING
SHUTDOWN DELAY TIMER WITH
A BUILT-IN 6 FUSE OUTPUT
All Logic chargers include a DC power cable for hardwire
installation, but may also be used plug-and-play with
an optional vehicle power adapter.
P.O. BOX 710548, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77271
5FMt'BY
Contact us for more information: 800-529-1618 x117 Toll Free: 800-888-0909
performance@powerproducts.com (email)
XXXBDEDJOEDPNtTBMFT!BDEDJOEDPN
www.powerproducts.com
Logic In-Vehicle Chargers By Power Products.
REDUCES VEHICLE DOWNTIME
See Us at IWCE
One Tool, One Data Set

Functionally Rich Find or post a job online at
Introducing LMR PlannerTM
by RLA Communications Engineering LLC
JOBsource
> MCCmag.com
JOBsource Online
An online global
resource for employers to post jobs
and for industry professionals
to locate job openings
www.RRMediaGroup.com
then click on the Jobsource tab
Contact Debra
for more information
303-792-2390, ext. 103
www.LMRplanner.com Support@LMRplanner.com
88 Ma r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m
Equipment For Sale
Help Wanted

Equipment For Sale
Your
Ad Here
To place an ad, contact
Debra Sabin
303.792.2390, ext. 103
BULK UP your company presence. Advertise.

YES its a competitive advantage.YES its legal!
Professional Services
Consulting
ADCOMM Engineering Company

Bridging the Gap Between
Operations and Technology
Engineering and Management Consulting
Specializing in Public Safety
Simulcast Dispatch Staffing
Dispatch Centers Management Review
Radio Systems Workload Analysis
System Integration Project Management
Serving Public Safety Since 1979

425-489-0125 www.adcommeng.com
dhsalesgroup.biz @DHSalesGroup
DELTAWRX
management consultants
Advertise your
professional and
Public Safety
Mass Notication
Oil & Gas Business Emergency Sales
Public Safetys trusted advisor consulting services...
Utilities Consulting Solutions Reps
Strategic Planning Project Management Procurement
Two-Way Radio Mobile Data CAD/RMS Information Technology
Startups & More
Contact Debra
(818) 227-9300 www.deltawrx.com dsabin@RRMediaGroup.com
Internet Event Brand 21700 Oxnard St. STE 530 Woodland Hills, CA 91367 303-792-2390 x 103
(800) 966-3357 Marketing Planning Marketing

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY
3M.com/Peltor/US www.acdcind.com www.adcommeng.com www.remtronix.com www.idaco.com www.impactcomms.com www.JDI-CO.com www.jeancouk.com

Page 37 Page 88 Page 91 Page 85 Page 63 Page 89 Page 75 Page 27
www.areawideva.com www.astroncorp.com avtecinc.com/mobile www.barrettcommunications.com.au/sdr www.jpsinterop.com www.kenwood.com/usa sales@lonepeaklicensing.com www.midamericatowers.com

Page 85 Page 68 Page 26 Page 64 Page 39 Inside Front Cover, Page 2 Page 82 Page 85
www.birdrf.com www.bluewing.com bktechnologies.com www.BridgeComSystems.com www.mobilemark.com www.newlondontechnology.com www.PoweringTheNetwork.com www.ottoexcellence.com

Page 23 Page 91 Back Cover, Page 96 Page 81 Page 84 Page 82 Page 82 Page 10
call24wireless.com www.capeltd.com www.caraenterprises.com www.catcomtec.com www.positive-charge.biz www.powerproducts.com www.powertrunk.com pryme.com/promo/mc

Page 65 Pages 86-87 Page 82 Page 55 Page 83 Pages 81 and 88 Page 19 Page 56
www.clearcom.com www.cobham.com/avcomm www.codanradio.com http://combausa.com/public-safety/ www.pyramidcomm.com www.radioactivity-tlc.com www.rfindustries.com rfi.com.au/remotemonitoring

Page 43 Inside Back Cover, Page 95 Page 67 Page 25 Page 51 Page 47 Page 42 Page 66
https://tmt.knect365.com/
www.comtelcoantennas.com www.cpicomm.com critical-communications-world css-mindshare.com www.ritron.com www.RiverviewSoftwareSolutions.com www.samhoo-pmr.com www.samlexamerica.com
www.davicom.com www.davidclark.com www.dbspectra.com dhsalesgroup.biz Sealevel.com www.sensear.com www.simulcastsolutions.com www.softwright.com

www.duracomm.com www.earphoneconnect.com www.ECiSolutions.com www.edx.com www.sonimtech.com www.sti-co.com www.stonemountainltd.com www.surveytech.com

www.emwaveinc.com www.eschat.com www.eventidecommunications.com www.exacom.com www.talkpod.us www.televate.com www.telex.com/dispatch www.timesmicrowave.com

Page 71 Page 31 Page 36 Page 61 Page 83 Pages 57 and 91 Page 59 Page 15
www.fedeng.com www.fiplex.com www.freedomcte.com www.futurecom.com TCED.ca www.UnicationUSA.com www.veetronix.com www.virtualtrunk.com.sg

Page 91 Page 60 Page 9 Page 69 Pages 50 and 84 Page 17 Page 85 Page 29
www.gai-tronics.com genesisworld.com www.hytera.us www.ConnectTCMtoday.com WashingtonRadioReports.com waunlimited.com www.x10dr.com WirelessSupply.com

92 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m w w w.M CCm a g .c o m M issio n Cr it ic a l Co m m u n ic a t io n s M a r c h 2 0 1 7 93

OUTLOOK
Chief Gerry Reardon, recently elected chairman of (NGA) policy academy recommenda-
SAFECOM, highlights the focus areas for the federal tions. SAFECOM is addressing sustain-
ment of public-safety LMR systems and
interoperability program, including T-band spectrum.
how Long Term Evolution (LTE) technol-
ogy such as the FirstNet network will
Reardon is in his 40th year with the city change the public-safety landscape.
of Cambridge (Massachusetts) Fire SAFECOM must be at the forefront to
Department. He has held all the rank help be the conduit between public-safety
positions within the department during users and our federal partners. We need to
that time. He is completing his seventh advocate for grant funding and guidelines
year as chief. Reardon is responsible for to our elected officials so they better
the fire departments operations, budget- understand the needs of those who serve
ing, purchasing, training, fire prevention, on the front lines for our nation.
fire investigations and local emergency
planning committee. He is also the pub- Will SAFECOM help stakeholders
lic-safety and security liaison for the during the rollout of public-safety
Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) LTE alongside LMR networks?
for state, local and federal programs. SAFECOM plays a vital role representing
Reardon is a member of the FEMA a vast multidiscipline group of public-
Region 1 Regional Emergency Commu- safety providers. We have members
nications Coordination Working Group attend technical meetings with the Public
(RECCWG) and the Massachusetts state Safety Communications Research
interoperability executive council (SIEC), (PSCR) program to help shape the needs
Metro Boston UASI jurisdictional point and functionality for our nations first
of contact; chair of the UASI Communi- SAFECOM is responders. We are providing input for
cations Interoperability Subcommittee, future development of an LTE platform
the Metrofire Radio Committee and the addressing and its challenges such as security. We are
Project 25 (P25) Compliance Assessment working in conjunction with FirstNet on
Program (CAP) advisory panel; and sustainment of issues such as identification, credentialing
member of the National Fire Protection and access management (ICAM).
Association (NFPA), Massachusetts Fire public-safety LMR
Chiefs and the Association of Public- What big changes will public-
Safety Communications Officials systems and how safety practitioners see this year?
(APCO) International. We have many users on the UHF T-band
Long Term frequencies that are scheduled to be
What are the focus areas for SAFE- cleared for auction. Although the spec-
COM in 2017? The major focus items Evolution (LTE) trum is restricted to about a dozen areas,
for SAFECOM are covered in our mis- they represent the most densely and con-
sion statement: SAFECOM aims to pro- technology such as gested areas for frequency use in the
mote emergency response providers, country. The program is also developing
interjurisdictional and interdisciplinary the FirstNet an ICAM strategy and looking to produce
emergency communications interoper- a best practices paper to assist public
ability across local, regional, tribal, state,
network will change safety with purchasing mission-critical
territorial, international borders and with LMR systems. Public safety also needs to
federal government entities.
the public-safety address LMR sustainment and have a bet-
Specifically, we are conducting a landscape. ter understanding of the FirstNet system
nationwide communications baseline after the contract award process.
assessment, looking to increase priority
services users and deal with the potential What issues are at the forefront for
effects of the loss of UHF T-band fre- fire officials? Fire communications in
quencies mandated under the First general will migrate more to Project 25
Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) (P25) digital platforms. We need to better
legislation. We would also like to imple- educate our constituents on how to pro-
ment the National Governors Association cure the best system for public safety. n

Verify Yo
Your In
In-Build
Build
ding Critical
Communications Will
W Be There,,
When Yo ou Need It Most
The most important thing we build is trust
Make sure your

o First Responders have Siignal Mapper dramatically reduces the
he time Cobham AvComm
v
in-building coverage beffo
ore there is an reequired to map indoor signal coverage
ge where 10200 W Yorkk Street
S
incident, not during the initial response. GPS signals are not available by using patented Wichita, KS 67215 USA
teechnology to geo-refference
e and locate T: 316-522-4981
Ideal for all in-building Land Mobile Radio inndividuals in-building. F: 316-524-2623
RF coverage applications, Cobham AvComm info-test@aeroflex.com
together with TRX now provide you with the Co ombined with the powerful measurement
ability to accurately measure all aspectss of signal annalysis feeatures of the 8800SX and the 3550R
coverage for P25, DMR, dPMR and NXDN teest systems from Cobham, Signal Mapper gives
systems. The NEON Signal Mapper Application o alll the RF signal performance parameters
you
combined with the Cobham 3550R and the neeeded to ensure that you have superior signal Visit Booth #1335 at IWCE 2017
8800SX Radio Teest Sets provide you with the cooverage - when you need it most. fo
or a demonstration.
peace of mind that your users are covered.
www.cobham.com/avcomm

MCR 2017 03 17

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

MCR 2017 03 17

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

SPECS SURVEY: Mobile Antennas and Mics WHATS NEW: Digital Radio

RadioResource March 2017 MCCmag.com

Select DMR Tier II or your preferred NXDN protocol plus FM

World renowned KENWOOD audio enhanced with Active Noise

NX-3220/3320 portable now meets the IP67 standard for dust

User programmable 7 color LED indicator for silent call

NX-3720/3820 mobile has a high visibility multi-line full dot-

POWER INVERTERS DESKTOP SWITCHING BASE STATION

RACK MOUNT CONVERTERS BATTERY CHARGERS

INVERTERS | POWER SUPPLIES | BATTERY CHARGERS | DC CONVERTERS | SOLAR

4 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCmag .c o m

Connect with an Icom

on T-Band dealers/resellers; service providers and other industry professionals

about 20 years, still seemed to catch some off guard. EDITOR

trum. Public-safety agencies and business/industry GRAPHIC DESIGNER

The Land Mobile Communications Council (LMCC) set up a new

swendelken@RRMediaGroup.com. Safety Telecommuni- CIRCULATION/TRADE SHOW ASSISTANT

6 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons

Decision in Rivadas Protest of

8 Marc h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i o nCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCmag .c o m

10 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

P25 CAP Officials Prioritize

12 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

WiFi & PoE CLOCKS

Mindshare by CSS / 563.387.7475 / css-mindshare.com css-timemachines.com

Nascent Public-Safety LTE Proximity

14 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

16 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

$115M in 9-1-1 Grant Funds,

18 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

TETRA - LTE - DMR - P25 - CAD

Going further in critical communications

20 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

approach to mimic the way the

w w w.M C C m a g . c o m Mission Critica l Commu n ica tion s March 2017 21

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fourth Needs

22 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

w w w.M C C m a g . c o m Mission Critica l Commu n ica tion s March 2017 23

A Rural Fire Chiefs View scale initiatives such as the First

24 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

Photo courtesy Barry Furey

*Mobilitty (Broadband or Wii-Fi) requirres a separrate license. 1-803-358--3609 | avtecinc.com/mobile

26 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

28 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

LMR audio would employ audio patching or vendor-specific

32 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

RoIP grate LTE

Douglas Greenwood, PE, PMP, is a senior consultant at Televate, a

Omna Solomon is a senior consultant at Televate. He leads the

Are You Ready for

34 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

Is your agency ready?

Sonim Technologies can help you bridge the LMR-to-LTE

Do you need to bridge the LMR-to-LTE divide? Contact us today!

Shock Puncture Powerful 3-Year

Resistant to Waterproof Resistant to Glove-touch Long battery life

Who Should Review

36 M a r c h 2 0 1 7 Mi s s i onCri ti cal Communi cati ons www.MCCma g .c o m

Service Road Map Road Map Review

3M Peltor has a broad selection of communication solutions

Learn more at: 3M.com/Peltor/US

w w w.M C C m a g . c o m Mission Critica l Commu n ica tion s March 2017 37

Spare_Ton n Network architecture, features