In 1989, APCO, NASTD, NCS, NTIA, Defense, and NSA agree to the Creation of APCO-NASTD-FED Project 25 (now referred to simply as Project 25 in deference to the broad range of participating organizations) in an effort to address the need for radios and their infrastructure to be interoperable, meaning agencies would be able to communicate across disciplines and jurisdictions as they serve and protect the public at large. The P25 standard is endorsed and supported by many entities including agencies within the federal government such as the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice and Commerce.
Today the Project 25 standard is developed through the collaborative efforts of multiple manufacturers and public safety users and published by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). The suite of standards defines aspects of mission critical digital two-way radio communication equipment and enables interoperability between different vendors’ P25 products.
Though many radio providers strive to meet the P25 standards, agencies looking to ensure that their potential purchases adhere to these requirements should consider several things:
1. Interoperability
Although most radios today offer some level of interoperability, it is important that an agency research this before making a purchase decision. Project 25 is the standard for public safety mission critical communications. Can the radio communicate with other P25 radios provided by different manufacturers operating on the same RF spectrum (UHF, VHF, low-band, 800-MHz, etc)? Can the radio operate in multiple frequency bands for interoperability? Does the radio meet the Project 25 standard for Common Air Interface? Will it come off the shelf with these capabilities or will it require some level of after market service or technology to make this happen? Can the radio manufacturer provide you with documented proof of interoperability with other infrastructure manufacturers?
2. Durability and usability
Radios are used in every type of emergency situation, so they must be capable of functioning in any possible environment. Radios should be submersible and meet standards for MIL 810 C, D, E, F. Furthermore, the devices should be easy to access and operate by field users with top mounted displays, knobs that can turned using gloves, easy to access emergency buttons for use during extreme situations.
3. Specifications
Each type of discipline will have its own requirements, but some are universal.
Mayday Button - All portable radios should be equipped with a Mayday or emergency alert button that is easily accessible but recessed to prevent accidental activation.
Identifier – Portable radios should be equipped with an identifier that transmits an identification code with each transmission specific to that unit.
Intrinsically safe – Portable radios should be safe for the environment where they are being operated.
Toning – Portable radios should also be equipped with a paging option that allows the radio to serve as a radio pager for receiving tone alerts for alarms or for emergency evacuation procedures on scene.
Coverage - All portable radios will provide some level of coverage, evaluations should be considered to ensure agency coverage requirements are met.
The radio is possibly the most important tool public safety uses. It’s the primary means of dispatch, the source of on-going communications during events, and our lifeline during emergency situations. Because it serves so many roles, agencies owe it to their personnel to take the time and effort to research all of their options and make careful consideration prior to purchasing the radios they issue their responders to do their job.
Do you have any other suggestions for officers purchasing radios? Please leave a comment below or email products@policeone.com with your feedback.
