Tait system brings improved coverage, reliability for San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA, emergency responders are benefiting from improved radio network coverage and reliability following the successful implementation of the City's new public safety communications system from Tait Radio Communications, a global leader in providing radio solutions.

San Luis Obispo (SLO) and Tait recently marked the official handover of the new system, designed to increase the effectiveness of critical communications for the City's public safety departments.

SLO Chief of Police Deborah Linden, who addressed attendees at the handover event, says, "The increased coverage, the reliability of the system we have through Tait is evidence of a very well-designed and robust communications system behind the scenes.

"What it also indicates is some amazing partnerships with this project – within our city, with our departments and with Tait."

The City purchased a six-site hybrid TaitNet QS² Simulcast / P25 Conventional Simulcast system to replace a patchwork of stand-alone analog systems which were supporting various City departments. The new network interfaces with IP-based console equipment at SLO's Emergency Dispatch Center.

Steve Schmidt, SLO IT Manager, says, "The old radio system did not perform well with our mountainous landscape. In the event of an emergency or natural disaster, first responders would have to leave the site and drive until they could establish radio communications with the dispatch center, or use their cell phones to communicate.

"Now, City workers feel confident with their Tait communications equipment; coverage tests prove San Luis Obispo now has 98.5% city-wide coverage on their portable and mobile radios."

Steve Cragg, President, Tait Radio Communications, Americas, says, "We are delighted to see San Luis Obispo receive such positive results from their new system. The relationship between the City, Tait and consultants is a model example of working together to design and deliver a solution which exceeds expectations and improves community safety."

As part of the solution Tait also provided services including customer acceptance testing, system commissioning, training and ongoing 24/7 support.

The official handover event, which recognized the strong partnership between SLO and Tait, included an overview of the system, a ribbon-cutting and trophy ceremony and a guided tour of SLO's new Emergency Dispatch Center. The City's Mayor and Councilor members, with representatives from Police, Fire, IT and Tait, attended.