The California Public Safety Microwave Network (CAPSNET) is based on Nokia’s Wavence microwave packet radio portfolio, and supports the communications needs of many key state and local government public safety agencies.
The network upgrade is part of a solution to transform the current time division multiplexing (TDM) technology system to support more advanced Internet Protocol (IP)-based networks. This will enable the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to provide highly reliable and secure connectivity for first responders, but also upgrade the network to provide higher capacity and improved availability.
“For nearly half a century, CAPSNET has consistently provided dependable service to its agencies during disasters,” commented Andy Cobb, area vice president, public safety, Nokia. “Nokia looks forward to working with Cal OES to modernise CAPSNET’s capabilities beyond what has historically been provided to what is now required to meet the public safety community’s needs in the new digital age.”
The upgrade is based on Nokia’s Wavence and 7705 SAR portfolios and incorporates features specifically designed to address Cal OES’ needs. Nokia will replace legacy hybrid microwave equipment with new packet-based technology while retaining full TDM interoperability. Cal OES will expand its bandwidth to support new IP-based applications, as well as increasing reliability and availability of the network, without impacting existing applications.
The Nokia Wavence is a packet-based platform that supports legacy TDM traffic and new Layer 2 and Layer 3 services. Nokia’s solution to the state also includes its latest addition to the Wavence product family, the new Microwave Packet Transceiver Plus (MPT-HLC Plus). This provides increased capacity using 4096 QAM and up to 7.5dB in system gain.
Higher system gain can reduce the size of the required antennas, lessen tower loading and extend the path distance. That can eliminate expensive repeater sites or simply improve the availability of existing paths. The Cal OES network also includes Nokia’s Network Services Platform (NSP), which uses automation to assist in delivering transport services faster and dynamic assurance for operating the network.
