NCJ Number
189625
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 28 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2001 Pages: 116-118,120,122-124,126-127,128
Date Published
July 2001
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article examines the Public Safety Wireless Network Program and interoperability issues with regard to public safety agencies.
Abstract
The Public Safety Wireless Network (PSWN) Program is a joint effort sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. It addresses the issues facing public safety wireless communications, primarily in the area of interoperability among land mobile radio networks used to support public safety missions (law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services) at all levels of government (local, State, Federal, and tribal). Wireless interoperability refers to the ability of public safety officials to communicate with each other seamlessly and in real time. Projects undertaken by the program include: using audio switches in both fixed and mobile configurations; cross-patching consoles; interconnecting proprietary systems; wide-area networking of multiple compatible systems; consolidating communication sites (including sharing infrastructure resources); and determining unique considerations for wireless data interoperability and interoperability in the maritime public safety response environment. The article describes program initiatives in specific cities and geographic areas.