PCTEL Announces Grid-Based P25 SINR Testing for Public Safety Networks

PCTEL, Inc. PCTI, a leader in Performance Critical TELecom solutions, announced today that it has added P25 Phase 1 SINR (Signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio) measurements to its automated grid-based testing solution for in-building public safety networks. PCTEL's innovative public safety testing solution makes verifying public safety coverage efficient and cost effective. The addition of P25 SINR makes it even easier for local jurisdictions to adopt rigorous grid-based testing requirements to keep first responders safe during an emergency.

SINR is included in the latest International Fire Code (IFC) specifications as a measure of signal quality. The traditional method of Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) testing is a time-consuming manual process that may lead to inconsistent results. PCTEL's SINR measurements are significantly more efficient, reliable, objective, and repeatable than DAQ testing. This makes it easier to enhance standards to include signal quality, leading to more reliable communications for first responders and other public safety personnel.

"Providing indoor communications coverage for first responders is critical for public safety, but the cost and complexity of testing and reporting procedures can be a major hurdle for government administrators and building owners alike," said Rishi Bharadwaj, PCTEL's COO. "PCTEL's innovative, practical testing solutions cut through these difficulties so that effective standards can be implemented. SINR measurements result in an even more accurate and streamlined testing process that improves performance critical communications in times of emergencies," added Bharadwaj.

PCTEL's public safety testing solution automates the grid testing process and provides printable reports that conform with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), IFC, or local codes. The solution combines SeeHawk® Touch scanning receiver software for Android™ tablets and an IBflex® scanning receiver. SeeHawk Touch automates the data collection and reporting process, which can be configured to meet a variety of local requirements. P25 SINR measurements are provided by the IBflex scanning receiver, which can be used for outdoor drive and indoor walk testing as well as grid testing. In addition to P25 coverage and quality testing, PCTEL's public safety network testing solution and IBflex scanning receiver support testing of FirstNet and other LTE-based public safety networks.

About PCTEL

PCTEL, Inc. provides Performance Critical TELecom technology solutions. We are a leading global supplier of antennas and wireless network testing solutions. Our precision antennas are deployed in small cells, enterprise Wi-Fi access points, fleet management and transit systems, and in equipment and devices for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). We offer in-house design, testing, radio integration, and manufacturing capabilities for our customers. PCTEL's test and measurement tools improve the performance of wireless networks globally, with a focus on LTE, public safety, and emerging 5G technologies. Network operators, neutral hosts, and equipment manufacturers rely on our scanning receivers and testing solutions to analyze, design, and optimize their networks.

For more information, please visit our website at https://www.pctel.com/.

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