Cisco Systems Works on Disaster Internet Protocol
|
Written By Reprise Media | October 24, 2005 | Share This
|
|
Cisco Systems has announced they’re working on an Internet Protocol communications system that will link radio networks used by police, fire fighters, rescue and other public-safety personnel.
Right now each department maintains its own communications network and most are incompatible (comforting, right?). This disconnect has been identified as one of the major contributors to problems with early response to disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and September 11, 2001.
Cisco’s system uses special software to connect radio and cell networks over an IP network, converting the data into IP packets which are sent over an IP-based network.
They haven’t announced pricing yet but Cisco’s Chief Development Officer says it will be a steal:
“It will probably be about 10 cents to the dollar when compared to replacing radios. That’s a bargain.”
Cisco eventually plans on drawing in other types of communication such as IM and is working on a system that will send alerts automatically as emergencies arise.
The full story is here on ZDNet.
Topics: Search: Innovations |