Barrett FirstLink rapid field deployment system

Barrett Communications, in partnership with STAR Solutions and NVIS Communications of California (Barrett’s systems integrator in North America), has launched the Barrett FirstLink Rapid Field Deployment System (RFDS).

Barrett FirstLink RFDS is a complete solution for extending FirstNet’s Band 14 LTE footprint from any location over short, medium and long-haul distances back to core, providing responders with ‘reach back’ and ‘reach forward’ over HF radio. HF extends the FirstLink RFDS’s reach to up to hundreds of kilometres away without additional infrastructure.

STAR Solutions identified that there will be a period of time before the FirstNet network provides the blanket coverage throughout the USA. In response to this, STAR Solutions developed the IMPAC system which provides rapid deployment of a combined Band 14 LTE voice and data system. Barrett Communications through NVIS Communications partnered with STAR Solutions to develop the FirstLink RFDS, which provides an immediate blanket Band 14 LTE footprint.

FirstLink RFDS is controlled via an app on the Band 14 or FirstNet handset. All the complexities of linking and protocol conversion of SMS text to HF/AMD text and the crossover of voice to other digital voice or encryption are automatically managed by the RFDS.