AT&T, Harris join for LTE wireless

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DALLAS, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- AT&T and Harris Corp. are working together to develop next-generation LTE wireless solutions for U.S. agencies and first responders.

The companies said their effort will provide first responders with broadband and mission-critical communications systems that will enable high-speed video and data solutions.

Benefits to public safety agencies from the collaboration include a unified experience driven by integration of broadband and narrowband Land Mobile Radio networks; multiple business models to fit agencies' needs and resources -- from complete end-to-end network solutions to a subscriber-based model; seamless roaming and nationwide interoperability using AT&T's 4G network when outside the public safety LTE network coverage area; and a broader portfolio of wireless devices and applications designed for both commercial and public safety broadband networks.

"This alliance is a first step toward making next-generation technology and services available to agencies who seek competitive options," said Chris Hill, AT&T vice president of Advanced Business Solutions.

"It's the beginning of a public safety ecosystem of open devices and applications interoperable with private broadband networks, as they become available."

"Harris has extensive experience in mission-critical communications and a legacy of bringing new technology, such as LTE to public safety and government customers," said Steve Marschilok, president of Harris Public Safety and Professional Communications.

"This alliance will look to expand the choices for a growing set of solutions that can be deployed to create an advanced, mission-critical broadband experience for public safety."

The companies said 4G LTE technology provides several benefits, including faster speeds and lower latency for delivering mission critical information. With future public safety LTE solutions, emergency dispatches could include a live video feed from traffic cameras to help first responders assess the situation en route and could enable mounted police officers to quickly retrieve a suspect's information from a national database using a computer tablet.

The combined offerings of Harris and AT&T could further extend interoperability across existing narrowband public safety LMR networks to private public safety and public broadband networks, they said.