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First Intercomm - VCA
When first responders from different agencies arrive at the scene of an emergency incident they can now communicate with ease, even though their radios operate on different frequencies and protocols. First InterComm solves their interoperability problem—without requiring major equipment replacements or investments.
The First InterComm device, also called the Vehicle Communications Assembly (VCA), is small enough (8.625” x 8.625” x 2.5”) to be conveniently mounted inside first responder vehicles. Once installed, the VCA relies on vehicle power.
When another vehicle equipped with a First InterComm VCA arrives at the scene, the system automatically creates a temporary mesh network, an incident-area network (IAN) – that enables interoperability. Once tuned to IAN, each device automatically becomes a node in that mesh network.
When a first responder transmits a radio message, the agency’s First InterComm device receives the radio frequency (RF) signal, converts it to a digital signal, and relays it across the mesh network. Every other First InterComm device at the scene then converts the digital message to its designated radio frequency and broadcasts it to its users. First InterComm's routing algorithms direct transmissions along the optimum route for the best service quality.
That’s all there is to it—instant voice interoperability.
First InterComm devices initially provide a “one-to-many” communications link. The First InterComm Talk-Group Software, running on a Windows® based PC, can be used to provide situational awareness and establish talk-groups as required among responding agencies. The incident commander can also establish one-to-one communication channels as required, while monitoring any or all talk-groups. This talk-group flexibility is transparent to the responders, and eliminates distracting background chatter.
For further information please contact:
BAE Systems
First InterComm System
+1 904 741 1745 or +1 603 885 9605
firstintercomm.eis@baesystems.com
