Tait launches PTToX linking P25 radios to broadband

Tait Communications has launched PTToX for its P25 trunked networks, linking its TN9400 P25 core network with broadband communications.

The system is designed to extend the reach of an existing Tait P25 trunked radio network without requiring agencies to replace current infrastructure. It connects land mobile radio users with broadband users across shared talk groups, bringing radios, smartphones, dispatch consoles and remote users into the same communications environment.

The release is aimed at public safety agencies using P25 networks that want to connect those systems with commercial or private LTE networks. The approach allows agencies to retain existing mission-critical voice arrangements while adding broadband-based communications for a wider range of users and devices.

Under the set-up, dispatchers, supervisors and incident commanders can coordinate field teams and broadband users through a single system. Any Tait P25 device on a connected trunked network can communicate with a Tait PTToX device.

Integration model

PTToX for P25 trunked networks works with Tait's TN9400 P25 trunked platform and uses TN9550 software to connect broadband-only devices to the PTToX platform. The service can be deployed in the cloud or on premises, giving agencies a choice in how they host and manage the system.

The product supports Group, Individual, Emergency and LMR Encrypted Calls across connected radio and broadband networks. TN9550 software also provides high availability for the service.

Device options

The platform can be used on Android and iOS smartphones, as well as Tait AXIOM wearables and Tait AXIOM mobile devices. This gives agencies the option of bringing broadband-only users into P25 talk groups without issuing every user a traditional radio.

The broader AXIOM line is a portfolio of software applications and devices for different teams and working environments. With this release, Tait extends that portfolio through a closer link with its P25 network products.

Capacity figures published by Tait show the system can support 1,500 groups with 1,500 members and up to 3,000 registered users. It also supports 100 simultaneous calls, with no minimum number of devices required.

Public safety focus

The launch targets organisations that need to connect field radio users with personnel who rely on smartphones, vehicle-based devices or remote access. That includes agencies seeking to widen coverage beyond the footprint of an existing radio network while keeping established communications systems in place.

Barry Crates, Product Manager - Infrastructure and P25 Solutions at Tait Communications, outlined the intended use for the new product. "The Tait PTToX for Tait P25 Trunked Networks technology offers public safety agencies an opportunity to integrate their Tait P25 trunked networks with commercial or private LTE networks, extending coverage and supporting important LMR features on broadband devices," Crates said.

He added that Tait sees the product as a way for agencies of different sizes to adopt broadband tools without moving away from existing voice systems. "The solution allows public safety agencies of any size to access broadband data capabilities while maintaining their mission-critical voice communications," Crates said.

The TN9400 P25 Trunked to PTToX solution is available to order now.