To support the need for agencies to have a coordinated response to large-scale disasters and comply with the National Incident Management System, Communications-Applied Technology has developed the ICRI-4TG, an interoperability device that creates up to four independent talk groups. It enables first responders to talk and collaborate on-scene, and reach back to command using what would otherwise be incompatible radio equipment. The ICRI-4TG, like all incident commander radio interface(ICRI) models, is designed for simplicity and ease of use, functioning without the operational complexity of computers or keypads.

Article Tools

• 

Currently in use by hundreds of civilian and military agencies nationally, the ICRI enables public safety officers to rapidly interconnect a combination of up to 10 different agency radios, cell, satellite, and landline phones in an interoperability network, creating voice connections in minutes without the need for special training, computer interfaces, or technical assistance. With a radio from each agency cabled to it, incident commanders can use the ICRI's intuitive, simple rotary switches to divide networks into four independent "talk groups," separating special teams and agencies into task-specific "talk nets." The ICRI provides radio cross-band (VHF, UHF, 800 MHz), cross platform (digital/analog, trunked/talk-around, AM/FM), and VoIP capability for operations where command and control is needed for a wide range of responders.

First deliveries of the ICRI-4TG will be to the National Capital Region Radio Cache that was created to provide first responders across jurisdictions and disciplines to have interoperable communications in the event of large-scale emergencies.

These ICRIs also function as rapidly fieldable repeaters for linking communications back to remotely located command and control personnel, and can be used to extend communications into regions where RF propagation is poor, such as subway tunnels, airports and high-rises, where search and rescue teams need to maneuver.