TETRA  |  2014-10-23

Polaris Networks, Etelm Complete TETRA/LTE Interoperability Testing

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

Polaris Networks, a provider of Long Term Evolution evolved packet core software solutions to public safety, and Etelm announced the successful completion of interoperability testing of the Polaris LTE EPC software and Etelm’s integrated LTE/TETRA system.

The Polaris compact EPC-in-a-box solution combines the key elements of the EPC into a single platform. The Polaris NetEPC is used in system-on-wheels deployments in emergency networks or communications crises. Etelm’s e-TBS is a fully converged TETRA and LTE solution, allowing single or multiple e-TBS TETRA base stations, or a complete TETRA network, to sit directly on the LTE core without the need for external gateways. e-TBS may be integrated into either a private or public LTE network.

The successful interoperability testing signifies a step in a fully integrated approach to critical communications. The companies implemented an application to allow group calls between multiple TETRA, 4G and Wi-Fi subscribers. This will allow customers to mix technologies over the same core network, giving them the ability to choose the technology that best suits the operational and coverage demands of each user group.

“This would open up new opportunities for operators and first responders, and a standard handset can be used by a security official for critical incident management,” said Aditya Saraf, vice president of sales and marketing, Polaris Networks. “This convergence and integration of a TETRA base station directly with an LTE packet core will allow TETRA handsets to communicate with standard 4G LTE handsets.”