Simoco announces integration with ESChat for PTT over cellular functionality for commercial DMR users

The solution delivers secure interoperability communications for Simoco’s DMR customers with commercial 3G/LTE/WiFi networks using ESChat’s advanced Push-to-Talk (PTT) over cellular functionality.

First commercially deployed in 2008 at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the ESChat suite of PTT products has since evolved to include encrypted group text and image messaging, as well as live and historical GPS location services.

ESChat’s AIS Interoperability is offered “as a Service” and is available for Simoco’s DMR customers using ESChat’s on-premise and cloud hosted solutions. Interoperability as a Service is an efficient and inexpensive option for customers wanting to add advanced interoperability to their agency or company radio network.

“We are excited about our partnership with Simoco and our collective ability to bring integrated LTE and DMR communications to the commercial LMR market,” said Josh Lober, President of SLA Corporation. “The integrated ESChat LTE and Simoco DMR solution supports all calling modes that Simoco’s customers have come to expect, including Private Calls, Group Calls and Emergency Calls. DMR operators can now expand their coverage area utilizing commercial or private broadband wireless networks”.

ESChat is available on smartphones, personal computers and tablets, and is supported by the Android, iOS and Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Gary Correia, VP Americas Sales and Business Development at Simoco Group, said: “Push-to-Talk cellular functionality means organisations can increase the number of users capable of communicating over the Simoco DMR network.

“Giving smartphones and personal computers this ability means they can benefit from additional layers of communications; supporting out of LMR region coverage with public networks, interoperability with various staff levels and cooperating regional networks. Staff can access and communicate with other radio users on the network while travelling or when in office environments, when they are away from mobile or portable radio devices. This flexibility is combined with the reliability and security delivered by Simoco’s distributed IP DMR Tier III network.”

Simoco and SLA will be demonstrating the technology at IWCE 2016, which takes place in Las Vegas between 24-25 March. The functionality will then be available throughout the Americas region in following weeks.

Simoco will be exhibiting at booth #1149. For more information about IWCE, visit http://www.iwceexpo.com