ICS integrated a comprehensive IP communications system with VSAT connectivity using a Tracstar .96-meter self-acquiring satellite antenna and with Tactical-IP™ broadband satellite service from ICS.   Tactical-IP provides the agency with up to 5Mb/s downlink and 2 Mb/s uplink, offering robust connectivity no matter location or conditions.  Voice communications are provided through Tactical-Voice™, IP-Telephony service from ICS.  

 

With the integration of a Raytheon ACU-1000 Radio Interoperability Switch, Northampton County can seamlessly connect their radio assets with other agencies responding to the same incident including the other agencies of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Regional Counterterrorism Taskforce. 

 

A Firetide Wireless Mesh node was also installed and integrated into the MCC’s network.  When the Northampton County MCC is on-scene with other NEPA-RCTT mobile command vehicles, the nodes create a wireless mesh-network from vehicle to vehicle allowing for information sharing and access.  The mesh serves as a dedicated network for multiple applications and users of the NEPA-RCTT.

 

The Northampton County Emergency Management MCC retrofit is part of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Regional Counterterrorism Taskforce contract with Incident Communication Solutions to provide communications systems throughout the region improving each agency’s operations as well as developing a greater collaboration among the taskforce.