The virtual switchboard for emergency units

The virtual switchboard for emergency units

AcceleRadio_Presentaion_sprint_100810AcceleRadio, an Israeli start-up, has developed a technology that automatically connects different radio systems used by different emergency units on scene for interoperability.  The problem of different radio networks, has been demonstrated in the 9/11 attacks in the US when the police, fire brigades, medical services and others on the scene were not able to communicate seamlessly.

The Israeli company’s dynamic relay systems (DRS), is the corner stone of the new technological solution. DRS is a communications network that links up to existing tactical radio systems to ensure uninterrupted high quality conversation in all conditions. The solution therefore saves combat and emergency / rescue operations from being compromised due to failings in the quality and reliability of their radio communication.

Moreover, it provides low frequency radio systems with the capability of interconnecting with other systems, such as satellite navigation, other emergency networks and UHF, greatly improving the tactical agility of the forces that use them.

The system is a network of light and compact communication nodes that converse through a wireless IP protocol. The network interconnects with existing low frequency radio systems by connecting these nodes – relay devices – to the key-pieces of communications equipment in operation.

The DRS-I is deployed in the vicinity of the personal devices. It serves as a powerful repeater on the local frequency and as a bridge to other networks. When the commander, or another member of a unit who has a DRS-micro connected to their personal radio, encounters a communication problem such as poor reception or not receiving a response at all, they issue a request to the DRS-I to switch from standby to active. This is done by pressing a button.

Once active, all messages transmitted over the network are received by the commander and resent using the powerful transmitter connected to it. This ensures that all messages are received by all members of the team. The system identifies and filters duplicate messages.