Convergence: smartphone apps and radio

The launch of two smartphone PTT services in Australia will change the way enterprises fulfil their communications needs.

The talk of the town in radio circles over the past few years has been LTE and if, how and when it would take over from traditional LMR networks. Some in the industry have seen it as a case of either/or, but others have seen the writing on the wall … and that writing says ‘convergence’ - the marriage of smart, consumer-grade devices operating over cellular networks and more robust devices operating on networks such as P25, TETRA and so on.

One of the main drawbacks of standard mobile phone communications is its one-to-one approach, which is not at all useful for most critical communications operations, particularly first responder situations. There’s also the problem of the delay while a number is dialled and the connection is made.

What’s been needed is an instant, push-to-talk (PTT), one-to-one and one-to-many call capability.

A few such smartphone PTT apps have begun hitting the market in small numbers over the past year or so, but the pace is quickening. Now, two Australian operations have independently joined the PTT thrust with a vengeance, in a move that will no doubt shake up traditional modes of thinking and communications solutions.

Chatter made easy

First, we’ll look at the Chatter PTT, powered by Logic Unlimited. Chatter PTT installs on any device that takes apps and connects cellular, Wi-Fi, broadband, private and commercial two-way radio networks instantly.

Chatter PTT said its approach enables an enterprise to unite its entire mobile workforce, regardless of the device each individual is using. With minimal additional hardware requirements, the workforce’s existing mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops, two-way radios, consoles and/or rugged mobile handsets can connect and talk to each other.

In addition to enabling one-to-one and one-to-many team communications, Chatter PTT also enables operators to locate individuals using GPS tracking, improving worker safety and team efficiency and complying with OHS policies.

The system also offers an enhanced feature that records all voice exchanges on connected devices, protecting staff, assets and critical information.

Chatter PTT sees many potential users for the system, including mine sites, logistics, couriers and transport fleets, ports and airports, security firms, and shopping centres and hospitality, to name a few.

Systems such as Chatter PTT can leverage existing cellular, Wi-Fi and broadband networks, reduce call and messaging costs, and not be geographically constrained by LMR network ranges.

The system can easily connect into an existing LMR network such as TETRA or P25, through an RoIP gateway, which will enable calls to be made to and from a network, seamlessly. If a smart device user is on a mobile call when a two-way radio call is made, their current call will not be interrupted. The two-way radio call will be muted and they will be able to retrieve it as a voice message when they’re ready.

Groups of up to 250 users can be set up, emergency calls can be prioritised, and text, video and data can be instantly transmitted across the network.

Orion making WAVEs

Meanwhile, the Orion Network has introduced Motorola’s WAVE service, which turns smartphones and tablets into collaborative devices enabling users to connect with two-way radio networks over any cellular or Wi-Fi network.

With WAVE, organisations with an Orion Network digital radio system can scale their network by enabling registered smartphone users to operate their Apple or Android device just like a radio handset.

Orion said that WAVE is more than a PTT app, enabling vehicle drivers to host private or group chats, receive job tickets and provide status updates such as driver compliance using their smart device.

“Running an efficient and cost-effective fleet operation is no small task; competitive organisations that survive these current market conditions are those that demonstrate strong coordination and reliability, using all available business knowledge to deliver a higher level of service,” said Glen Norris, national business development manager for The Orion Network.

“By extending the robust benefits of two-way radio communications to both radio and smart device users, team communications become scalable and collaboration and overall customer experience is improved,” Norris added. “Fleet drivers are not hindered by vehicle-mounted devices and can use a range of smart devices to access the radio network while attending to ‘out of vehicle’ tasks.”

Norris said that radio conversations, not previously accessible with a cellular phone, can be joined by any user who has a valid WAVE login, wherever they have cellular network coverage.

“Not only have you removed the issue of network coverage ‘black spots’ by harnessing the power of converged digital radio and cellular networks, you are gaining unlimited opportunities to support senior decision-makers in organising and managing teams, and assisting in compliance and safety management.

“Imagine the competitive advantages of extending the two-way conversation to regular customers such as warehouse managers, fuel stations and supermarket chains,” said Norris. “By establishing new customer talk groups, customers and transport organisations can confirm deliveries and pick-ups via WAVE.”