Updates

Fire Chiefs Present New Homeland Security Equipment for the National Capital Region

Washington, D.C. – Fire Chiefs from across the National Capital Region explained how new equipment purchased from the Department of Homeland Security Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) would benefit emergency response to terrorism, weather-related disasters and other large scale events. Equipment showcased at the March 29th press conference included the Incident Commanders’ Radio Interface (ICRI), the interoperability bridge that enables mutual aid and emergency workers to talk across incompatible radios. Members of the National Radio Region (NCR) Radio Cache team demonstrated how the ICRI™ links and provides independent talk-groups amongst inter-agency teams, and its cable reel application for extending communications below-grade in DC Metro (subway) system deployments. The National Capital Region recently earned top-ranking by the Department of Homeland Security for its “tactical interoperability” – the ability of mutual-aid first-responders to share voice communications as a critical incident unfolds – one of six jurisdictions out of the 75 evaluated nationally. As part of the NCR’s Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan the ICRI bridges digital, analog, UHF, VHF, and 800 MHz radios, as well as cell, landline and satellite phones. Developed and manufactured by Virginia-based Communications-Applied Technology, the ICRI addresses three major areas:
  • Affordability – Jurisdictions challenged to fund region-wide systems costing tens of $ millions can obtain an ICRI interoperability package for approximately $10,000 per unit.
  • Portable and Flexible Tool – Available for rack-mount in command vehicles or in hand-carried protective cases, ICRIs create a quick deploy, on-scene link within minutes. Extended battery-powered operation enables field use where power is unavailable or the infrastructure is compromised.
  • Ease of Use – The ICRI’s intuitive interface allows first-responders whose primary jobs are fire-fighting and law enforcement to use the ICRI in daily operations without special training or dedicated radio technicians. It features simple toggle switches rather than complex computer controllers that delay set-up and use.
About Communications-Applied TechnologyC-AT is a veteran-owned, small business that designs and manufactures the ICRI, radios, and intercoms for military, public safety, and commercial organizations. For more information, call 1-800-229-3925 or visit www.RadioInteroperability.com Media Contact for C-AT:Joel Greenberg, DCPR202-363-1065 | 202- 669-3639Email: joel@dcpr.com