P25 Solution Centre opens its doors

Airwave Solutions Australia has unveiled the P25 Solution Centre, an industry initiative with the aim of demonstrating to the Australian market the performance and maturity of the P25 open standard with equipment supplied by multiple vendors.

As a dedicated operator of government infrastructure, the company understands the importance of choosing the best and most compatible technology for an organisation. It is with this in mind that it partnered with P25 industry equipment manufacturers and suppliers (including Harris RF Communications, Tait Radio Communications, Auria Wireless, ComGroup Australia, RFI, ICOM and Zetron) to bring the P25 centre into being.

The centre provides an environment that allows visitors to test and verify the equipment and applications from multiple vendors and also confirm the value of these features to their business.

User agencies can define the parameters and participate in the live demonstrations of equipment working together within an integrated environment. Radio terminals can be used on the infrastructure of alternative manufacturers, as defined by the end-user requirements.

Incorporating P25 radio and switching equipment, console equipment and RF systems from manufacturers, full-time engineering support and direct access to participating manufacturers, the centre will allow users to experience first-hand a specified system in a real-life situation.

There are three ways to use the centre. The first is a short overview aimed at senior managers detailing the features and functionality associated with vendor equipment. This is intended for those who wish to have a more thorough understanding of the type of equipment their organisation is interested in and to gain the confidence that the system they purchase will meet their requirements.

The second provides an opportunity for project engineering teams to see how technical interoperability between systems can be achieved.

Aimed at those who may be interested in certain detailed functionality, these demonstrations involve the detailed configuration of specific testing or assurance activity.

The third activity is aimed at users who may wish to interconnect legacy equipment (consoles or RF equipment) or confirm the operation of new applications (eg, GPS/AVL or data applications) and devices in a secure environment that does not compromise an operational network.

CEO of Airwave Solutions Australia Malcolm Keys sees this initiative as providing users with a ‘hands on’ opportunity to confirm the compatibility and interoperability of terminals and infrastructure from a variety of manufacturers.

“We are pleased to host the centre. This endeavour represents a significant collaboration by the industry, to demonstrate the mature and open nature of P25 standards-compatible equipment.

“Airwave and its parent organisation Broadcast Australia are proud to lend our experience, capability and resources to the centre and look forward to working with both users and manufacturers to demonstrate the innovation available in the local Australian market.”

The centre is now operational and available by appointment. Should you wish to make an appointment to experience the centre, contact Airwave Solutions on 02 8113 4666 or email info@airwavesolutions.com.au for more information.