Mesh networks and mobile satellite: bringing connectivity to chaos
Posted by inmarsatgov on April 20, 2009
Not having a signal. It’s one of the single most disruptive things that a person in today’s technology-dependant world can experience.
Why? Well, we expect communication. We assume that it will be available to us in all situations and under any circumstances.
Unfortunately, there are places in this world, situations that exist and circumstances that can arise that make communications a luxury. Take, for example, in times of emergency and disaster response.
I recently had the opportunity to attend two large industry shows that featured technologies and solutions important to first responders. First was IWCE 2009, the annual convention for two-way radio manufacturers, and the second was Satellite 2009, an event for solutions for the end-user in the satellite-enabled communications marketplace.
At both the IWCE 2009 and Satellite 2009 shows, the sessions underscored the role of governance and planning in ensuring that first responders have the connectivity they need when they need it.
An example of this was offered at IWCE, where Alaskan state officials and DOD partners reported on efforts to bring the DOD concept of “Deliberative Communications Planning” to state emergency operations. Essentially, this involves “Doing Communications First” in planning for disaster response. By establishing communications first, emergency personnel are ensured that the information and ability to connect are in place and that cooperation can take place. Even so, with communications integrated from the start in exercise planning, it is clear that being able to communicate technically is not the same as training so teams actually do communicate in an exercise or disaster.
The technologies being displayed at both the IWCE 2009 and Satellite 2009 shows were quite amazing in their increasing ease of use and the capabilities they bring to the first responder. At IWCE specifically, Motorola reps reported on the growing adoption of the mesh network solutions, which support wi-fi and offer interference mitigation. These solutions can support a wide range of needs including medical triage and wearable video cameras. These mesh networks can be linked offsite via satellite as desired.
The world of disaster and emergency response is changing rapidly as new technologies make communication possible in even the harshest of environments. As these technologies continue to evolve and improve and as adoption increases, our ability to react quickly in an organized and cooperative fashion to even the worst disaster will surely save the lives of many, both victims and emergency personnel alike.
Jack Deasy, Director of Civil Government Programs
