Network Functionality: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequent Questions & Answers
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Is there any direct interface into trunking controllers?
No, there is no direct interface into trunking controllers.
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What is the keying method for control stations?
Control stations can be keyed by direct connection of Push to Talk, Tone Remote Control (TRC), or serial connection (Motorola radios).
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How will network patches be captured by logging recorders?
Logging is a local responsibility. If your center records a certain talk group or channel and that talk group or channel is patched over the network, your local logging recorder will still record the transmissions. The Workstation Gateway Unit provides an instant recall function for up to sixty seconds of transmission. At this time there is no recording of intercom transmissions or conference bridges.
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How many dispatch centers can join a conference?
Up to eight different centers can participate in a conference.
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How many patches can the system support at any one time?
The network overall can support up to 2048 patches involving up to 4096 talk groups or channels.
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Who can terminate or modify a conference?
The duty officer who initiates a conference can modify its participants and cancel a conference.
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Who can terminate or disconnect patches?
The software allows any network user to terminate patches. Policies and procedures are being developed for Florida 's use of that capability.
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If someone selects a radio resource in my county, will I know it?
If someone has made a patch to one of your radio resources, that patch will be listed in the patch list window. You can also connect to that resource and hear the audio to/from that radio.
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Will all my talk groups or channels be available on the network?
The inclusion of talk groups or channels in the network is a local decision and also based on the number of available interfaces at for your system.
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Can the IO network application run on a computer that is being used for other applications?
The application is not certified to share a computer such as a Motorola Gold Elite console. This may be possible in future.
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Can the IO network application be made available from multiple computers on the local area network in a dispatch center?
There can be multiple applications running in a dispatch center but each requires its own Workstation Gateway Unit and IP address.
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Does the IO workstation replace my existing radio console?
The IO workstation is not intended as a replacement for existing consoles. For users with high-end, sophisticated consoles, the IO workstation allows you to perform many tasks now done on your radio console but it doesn't provide full console functions. Those users with simpler consoles may find that the IO workstation could serve many of their needs.
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What radio systems will be connected through the network?
The Florida network will include systems from EF Johnson, M/A-COM and Motorola in UHF, VHF and 800 MHz frequencies, conventional and trunked.
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Is the IO network for radio users or staff in the dispatch centers?
The IO network serves both first responders in the field and duty officers in the dispatch centers. Florida's first responders are able to talk directly to other regardless of radio system and they have mutual aid service wherever they travel. Duty officers can more easily manage those patches and have their own dispatch center conferencing capability to coordinate events with other centers.