Airwave launches ControLink - the future of mobilisation and control room solutions

In response to the cancellation of the FiReControl service in December 2010, Airwave, the leading provider of critical voice and data communications to public service organisations in the UK, has launched ControLink - a suite of voice and data propositions.

According to David Sangster, UK services director for Airwave: “ControLink has been developed in close collaboration with our customers, software and hardware partners. It offers a vital solution - from data mobilisation to a full end-to-end IP-based control room solution - that not only fills the gaps left by the loss of FireControl, but delivers much-needed savings and efficiencies for the FRS.”

Leveraging the investments made by the FRS, ControLink provides core data and voice solutions through the Airwave Network enabling FRSs to maximise Airwave’s data service by providing end-to-end communications. By using software solutions provided by 3tc Software, FRSs can expect to achieve greater firefighter safety, realize operational efficiencies and savings through the use of 3tc MODAS and 3tc Guardian technologies.

There are currently three options available: a simple data solution that allows for clear, fast data messages to be exchanged over the Network using the short data service (SDS); a shared, hosted data mobilisation solution; and a comprehensive voice and data solution integrating control room radio communications with ground-based connections.

An added advantage of ControLink is that the set of core elements can be customised according to the client’s needs. This enables independent FRSs to tailor the solution to their specific requirements.

The use of a shared IP environment, which is increasingly known as „the cloud?, allows FRSs to share resources without sacrificing control. It also saves or reduces many of the traditional infrastructure costs, enabling services to invest instead in service delivery.

“We?re delighted to announce that Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is the initial customer to experience the benefits of ControLink and we expect the implementation of its solution to complete in July 2011,” adds David.

Mark Lord, technical projects manager at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, added: “The implementation of the data element of ControLink will allow our control room to continue communicating with its 30 pumping appliances by data using a network it can rely on.”

Source: www.airwavesolutions.co.uk