It has been a while since we last posted anything here on theBlog so here we go.  There is definitely a lot of new technology that is waiting to be implemented into daily operational use as well as ready for emergency response needs.   Here are some of technology advancements that ALERTradio ERC should be working with this year:

• High Speed Multi Media (HSMM)  - there are some cards showing up that will work in the 70cm (420 – 440MHz portion) band.   Get some of these cards into operation and the will be ideal for long-haul last mile applications.

• Emergency Power Systems (EPS) – definitely need to work on this and develop some low-cost lightweight power units that can be easily and quickly deployed.

• Portable Asterisk Communication Servers (PACS) – a completely portable Asterisk PBX / RF Gateway that has its own power system as well as wired and wireless network connectivity.  Would be ideal to have SATCOM capabilities in the PACS, cost of SATCOM is prohibitive though. Unless someone knows of a lowcost VoIP capable solution via SAT.  Any ideas?

• Text to Voice (IMSMS2V) – Continue to work on applications that will allow for smooth transition from text messaging to voice and voice to test messaging.   Also find ways for IMSMS2V to work over the Intranet in the event that the Internet goes dark.

• Communications Restoration Services (CoReS) – Development of a commercial service that can provide communication restoration support after emergency incidents as well as other technical services to enhance readienss at all times.

Also need to create some new training opportunities that will encourage participation and most of all readiness for any hazard.   There’s a lot that can be done, yet the main challenge always comes down to funding it appears.  May a solution to this challenge be discovered and the above listed technology advancements and services be implemented.  

ALWAYS BE READY.