IS4S Awarded Phase I SBIR to Develop Communications Hub

Auburn, AL 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded IS4S a Phase I SBIR contract to develop the Next Generation First Responder Communication Hub. As technology advances, first responders are presented with a growing suite of increasingly sophisticated sensors and communication tools that provide vital, up-to-the-minute situational awareness information about their surroundings, location and status of other nearby first responders, and personal well-being. Additionally, an array of communication systems and devices is presented to the first responder. IS4S will develop an intelligent communications interface that interconnects the variety of sensors and electronics worn or carried by a first responder with multiple communication systems. This is a central device that efficiently, securely, and resiliently routes incoming and outgoing information to the chosen destination using the best available communication medium. The communications hub will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of information transmission while removing the burden of constantly communicating low-level but critical data, thus allowing first responders to focus on the task at hand. IS4S is working with Gwinnett County Fire Department to get user input into the design process and feedback from testing.