We are working on capabilities that will deliver increased uplink bandwidth over existing network bearers, so that we can work with our customers and end users to determine the value and business benefits of new and enhanced applications. If we can successfully put that capability into a vehicle, then we can create a complete mobile operations centre for the emergency services, with all the associated efficiencies that can deliver.

Coverage, capacity

Together with Axell Wireless, we have developed an enhanced repeater that enables the delivery of coverage and capacity using new techniques, lowering costs associated with any technology refresh or new coverage requirements. The enhanced repeater can also extend in-building coverage, and provide coverage into areas where it might be difficult to site a mains-powered base station. This will promote the wider use of less power-hungry wind or solar power options, reducing energy costs.

One of the challenges we have as an industry is how to ensure reliable connections in rural areas. We are evaluating technology using non line of sight capability, that enables connectivity to base stations from the core switch that would have traditionally required satellite communications.

Looking to LTE, we are also working with other critical communications organizations and supporting the Tetra and Critical Communications Association (TCCA) in its work. A number of initiatives are in place to secure cross-border harmonized spectrum in Europe, and influence the standards bodies such as 3GPP and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the US to incorporate public safety needs into the ongoing development of LTE.

Devices, architectures

Of course the network enhancements need to be matched by those of the terminals, and in the future we see devices collaborating to deliver more capabilities, with the network bearer or bearers transparent to the end user. We also see a greater exploitation of service-oriented architecture, delivering a platform that allows data to be entered once, then shared across a number of databases and applications. This will build into a central resource and data repository for the public safety services, enabling faster, more efficient access to accurate information and reduced data storage costs.

All this progress is driven by the need to reduce cost and improve functionality. Our customers, and the end users, are fully involved in our development work so the user benefits can be explored from the outset. By working together, we can begin the business change in advance of the eventual move to LTE to ensure a smooth and cost-effective progression.

The first and fundamental consideration is that this new data world enables relevant applications – for as soon as an application or service becomes something that makes a real difference, that’s when true adoption happens. Our goal is to ensure that the PPDR sector is fully enabled to support the communities that it serves, and to offer better services to the public, both today and for future generations.