|
The Problem
In the aftermath of September 11th New York City began to take a closer look at their communication needs. Public Safety agencies realized that the ability to quickly and accurately respond to an incident required that the appropriate communication tools be in place. A committee was created to address the city’s communication needs and they quickly identified several challenging environments where communication was limited. One of the first scenarios they addressed was the lack of communications in high-rise buildings.
The high-rise scenario became a priority in the aftermath of September 11th and the New York City ACU-1000 committee began to actively search for a solution. The high-rise structure creates many obstacles for radio communications, which include:
1. Low E Glass
2. Steel Core of the Building
3. Penetration of the Steel and Concrete Structure
New York City had previously addressed this concern after the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. Leaky Coaxial cable had been installed in the World Trade Center Towers after the 1993 bombing but on September 11th this fixture was destroyed when the buildings were hit. New York City realized that in addition they needed a mobile solution, which would provide easy setup once the public safety personnel arrived on the scene.
The Solution
JPS Communications, Inc. joined forces with the New York City Police Department, Technical Assistance Response Unit (TARU) to develop a solution. There were several factors that this innovative approach must address.
1. Easy and Quick Setup
2. Completely Mobile and Self-Contained
3. Long Lasting Power Supply
JPS Communications took these characteristics into consideration and developed a Wireless Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Link that would allow these first responders to provide effective on-scene communications.
The PortaLink relies on the JPS NXU-2 to create a wireless link between the radios that are positioned on the ground and the radios located near the floor of the scene. High Gain directional antennas allow for penetration of the building's glass and core. The radio signals can then be transmitted and received throughout the building. The units are mounted in transportable cases, which are lightweight and easily deployed to any location. The cases can be quickly transported to the floor of the incident and can be operational in less than five minutes upon arrival. Detective Stuart Goldstein, NYPD TARU, comments, “You need a system that is easy to set up, it has to be self contained, it has to be able to power itself and it has to be user friendly. What I saw of this system all you have to do is power it up, point the antennas and you are on the air.” An optional case includes additional batteries as needed to extend the system’s operating time.
The PortaLink also has the capability of sending RS-232 data, such as sensors and EMS data, via the JPS NXU-2. This feature allows the users to remotely control any device that is compatible with the RS-232 port.
The NXU-2 is completely compatible with the ACU-1000 Intelligent Interconnect unit. The ACU-1000, in conjunction with the wireless VoIP device, allows instant multi-agency interoperability throughout the radio coverage area. This provides command post personnel with the ability to maintain clear communications with the first responders on the scene. “The ACU-1000 along with the PortaLink system eliminates relayed information, it allows first responders to use their own radios and when they speak everyone can hear,” comments Det. Stuart Goldstein, NYPD TARU. “As a result you achieve continuity of command.” The local radios that are not responding to the scene can be easily patched to the citywide trunk system when or if desired to enable remote command operation.
The Test
The preliminary testing of the PortaLink occurred at 55 Water Street in Manhattan. The testing of the unit consisted of placing one of the cases on the 35th floor and another case on the street. The directional antennas were pointed toward each other to establish a link between the NXU-2s. Once the link was established, radio checks were performed. Radio coverage was clear regardless of the exposure and communications was provided for all 51 floors. The PortaLink provided clear communications for all of the building's floors and even maintained coverage in the stairwell and elevators of the building.
The Conclusion
After the 9/11 attacks the ability to warn first responders of potential danger has become a priority of public safety agencies. Public Safety personnel understand that a weak link in the communication systems is not an option when the lives of citizens and first responders are at risk. New York City has taken a pro-active approach to addressing the potential dangers that may occur as a result of lack of communications. The PortaLink offers an affordable and versatile solution for public safety agencies. It not only offers extended radio coverage but it also provides RS-232 data transmission and video transmission. The mobility of the unit, along with its ease of operation, provide first responders with a reliable communications solution which allows them to focus their attention on protecting the citizens of New York City.
|
