Developing Multi-Agency

Interoperability

Communications Systems:

User's Handbook

Applicable To:

ACU-1000 Modular

Interface/Interconnect System

And

TRP-1000 Transportable Radio

Interconnect System
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

 Page ii 

Developing Multi-Agency Interoperability Communication 

Systems: User’s Handbook 

ACU-1000 Modular Interface/Interconnect System 

And 

TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System 

Presented by: 

Office for Domestic Preparedness 

This project was supported by Contract GS-10F-0088I/2001BF505TO02, Task Order 2001TO046, awarded by 

the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs to Community Research Associates, Inc. The Assistant Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs, establishes the policies and priorities, and manages and 

coordinates the activities of the Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of 

Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and the Office for Victims of Crime. Points of 

view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the U.S. 

Department of Justice and Community Research Associates, Inc. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

 Page iii 

Foreword 

The Office of the Assistant Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs (OJP) is providing funds through the 

Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) State Domestic Preparedness Equipment Program for the purchase 

of specialized equipment to help enhance the capabilities of State and local units of government to respond to 

acts of terrorism involving chemical and biological agents, as well as radiological, nuclear, and explosive devices. 

This handbook is the result of a developed and focused effort by the ODP to address interoperability and is 

intended to enhance communications among the numerous agencies who would respond to large-scale terrorism incidents or emergencies. 

To further enhance that effort, the ODP provided more than 50 ACU/TRP-1000 systems to approximately 

10 jurisdictions across the United States under a pilot grant project. The communities cited in the handbook 

were selected from among those provided with the ACU/TRP-1000 systems that were part of the ODP pilot 

grant project. 

The ACU/TRP-1000 system is a useful communications device for those who must establish a link with other 

local, State, and federal agencies at the scene of multi-agency response incident. This system provides radio 

interoperability during incidents or events requiring communications between diverse organizations all using 

different radios and/or different frequencies. 

I look forward to building upon the strong relationships that already been developed with you and your colleagues during the first year of this very important program. 

Through our combined efforts, State and local emergency response agencies will receive the funding and assistance they need to enhance their capabilities and prepare for an event that will hopefully never take place. 

Sincerely, 

Andrew T. Mitchell 

Acting Director 

Office for Domestic Preparedness 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

 Page iv 

Table of Contents 

1 INTRODUCTION TO ACU-1000/TRP-1000 HANDBOOK........................................................1-1

1.1 PREFACE...............................................................................................................................1-1

1.2 GRANT PROGRAM SUPPORT ..................................................................................................1-1

1.3 PREFERRED TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES ...................................................................................1-1

1.4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...........................................................................................................1-2

2 INTRODUCTION TO MULTI-AGENCY INTEROPERABILITY COMMUNICATION ................2-1

2.1 MULTI-AGENCY INTEROPERABILITY COMMUNICATION..............................................................2-1

2.1.1 Importance of Multi-Agency Communication ...................................................................................... 2-1

2.1.2 The Interoperability Solution ............................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 ACU-1000 & TRP-1000 INTEROPERABILITY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS.................................2-2

2.3 ACU-1000 MODULAR INTERCONNECT SYSTEM ......................................................................2-2

2.3.1 Components of the ACU-1000 Modular Interconnect System............................................................ 2-2

2.4 TRP-1000 TRANSPORTABLE RADIO INTERCONNECT SYSTEM .................................................2-2

2.4.1 Components of the TRP Transportable Interconnect System ............................................................ 2-2

2.4.2 Potential Applications of the Interoperable Communication Systems ................................................ 2-3

3 ESTABLISHING INTEROPERABILITY ....................................................................................3-1

3.1 SET-UP AND OPERATION .......................................................................................................3-1

3.1.1 Cabling ................................................................................................................................................ 3-1

3.1.2 Interconnection Schematics................................................................................................................ 3-2

3.1.3 Security Issues - Encryption ............................................................................................................... 3-2

3.2 DEPLOYMENT OPTIONS..........................................................................................................3-2

3.2.1 Frequencies to Install.......................................................................................................................... 3-2

3.2.2 Connecting Portable Radios ............................................................................................................... 3-3

3.3 MOBILE OPTIONS - TRAILER, VEHICLE, COMMAND POST .........................................................3-3

3.3.1 Fixed-Site Operation - Communications Center, Backup EOC, and Dispatch................................... 3-5

3.3.2 Mutual-Aid - Manned or Unmanned Deployment ............................................................................... 3-5

3.3.3 Set-Up and Deployment En-route....................................................................................................... 3-6

3.3.4 Creating On-Scene Talk Groups......................................................................................................... 3-6

3.3.5 Making the IC's Job Easier ................................................................................................................. 3-7

3.4 NOMENCLATURE ISSUES ........................................................................................................3-7

3.5 STORAGE RECOMMENDATIONS ..............................................................................................3-7

3.5.1 Disperse Storage to Minimize Vulnerability ........................................................................................ 3-7

3.5.2 Stored as Pre-Deployed Backup Communications............................................................................. 3-8

3.5.3 Installed in Vehicles, Rack-Mounted For Optional Usages................................................................. 3-8

4 TECHNICAL AND TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS.................................................................4-1

4.1 800 MHZ MISCONCEPTIONS...................................................................................................4-1

4.1.1 Limitations of 800 MHz Systems at Large Scenes ............................................................................. 4-1

4.1.2 Talk Groups......................................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.2 ANTENNA CONFIGURATION OPTIONS......................................................................................4-1

4.2.1 Mobile Mounting, Rooftop, Portable Towers....................................................................................... 4-1

4.2.2 Temporary Magnetic Mount Antenna.................................................................................................. 4-1

4.3 FIXED FACILITY OPTIONS .......................................................................................................4-2

4.3.1 Planning Deployment Options ............................................................................................................ 4-2

4.3.2 Helicopter Deployment........................................................................................................................ 4-2

4.4 POWER SUPPLIES..................................................................................................................4-2

4.4.1 Uninterrupted Power Supplies ............................................................................................................ 4-2

4.4.2 Generator Capacities .......................................................................................................................... 4-2

4.4.3 DC Power Operation........................................................................................................................... 4-3
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

 Page v 

4.4.4 Onboard Generator Systems .............................................................................................................. 4-3

4.5 JPS CORPORATE SUPPORT ...................................................................................................4-3

4.5.1 Cabling Issues..................................................................................................................................... 4-3

4.5.2 Initial Training and Set-Up .................................................................................................................. 4-4

4.5.3 Software Upgrades ............................................................................................................................. 4-4

4.5.4 Assistance at Major Scheduled Events............................................................................................... 4-4

5 OPERATING SYSTEM MODELS .............................................................................................5-1

5.1 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS PROJECT..................................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 Chicago, Illinois TRP-1000 Deployment ............................................................................................. 5-2

5.1.2 Chicago, Illinois Operation Plan.......................................................................................................... 5-3

5.2 ORLANDO, FLORIDA PROJECT ................................................................................................5-3

5.2.1 Orlando, Florida TRP-1000 Deployment ............................................................................................ 5-4

5.3 ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO PROJECT ............................................................................5-5

5.3.1 Arapahoe County, Colorado TRP-1000 Deployment.......................................................................... 5-5

APPENDIX A – POINTS OF CONTACT........................................................................................ A-1

APPENDIX B – PARTICIPATING JURISDICTIONS ..................................................................... B-1

APPENDIX C – LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS/ACRONYMS ........................................................... C-1

List of Figures 

FIGURE 2-1 ACU-1000 ELECTRONIC CONSOLE – RADIO SYSTEMS PATCH INTO THIS PANEL, WHICH CAN BE 

CONNECTED TO A COMPUTER..................................................................................................................................... 2-2

FIGURE 2-2 TRP-1000 – INCLUDES THE ACU-1000 ELECTRONIC CONSOLE IN SHOCK RESISTANT CASING WITH 

PRE-CONNECTED MOBILE RADIOS AND POWER SUPPLIES. ........................................................................................ 2-3

FIGURE 3-1 LAPTOP AND RADIO FREQUENCY MONITORING EQUIPMENT CONNECTED TO TRP-1000 SYSTEM. ............. 3-1

FIGURE 3-2 EXAMPLE OF ENCLOSED TRAILER USED TO STORE AND TRANSPORT THE TRP-1000. ................................. 3-3

FIGURE 3-3 EXAMPLE OF A TRP-1000 UNIT MOUNTED IN THE BACK OF A CONVERTED AMBULANCE. THE INSIDE 

HAS BEEN RECONFIGURED WITH COUNTERS AND CHAIRS FOR COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIANS............................. 3-4

FIGURE 3-4 EXAMPLE OF A COMMAND POST VEHICLE. A BIGGER VEHICLE ALLOWS MORE COMMUNICATIONS 

EQUIPMENT TO BE CARRIED TO THE SCENE ALONGSIDE THE TRP-1000.................................................................. 3-4

FIGURE 3-5 EXAMPLE OF FIXED-SITE INSTALLATION OF TRP-1000 PACKAGE. ................................................................ 3-5

FIGURE 4-1 TWO PORTABLE GENERATORS MOUNTED ON A TRAILER PULLED BY A VAN HOUSING THE TRP-1000

UNIT............................................................................................................................................................................. 4-3

FIGURE 5-1 VIEW OF TRP-1000 MOUNTED INSIDE CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT’S FIELD COMMUNICATION VAN......... 5-2

FIGURE 5-2 INSIDE VIEW OF TRP-1000 STRAPPED INTO A MODIFIED ARAPAHOE COUNTY SHERIFFS PRISONER 

TRANSPORT VAN......................................................................................................................................................... 5-5
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 1-1 

1 INTRODUCTION TO 

ACU-1000/TRP-1000 HANDBOOK 

1.1 Preface 

This handbook is intended to provide pragmatic information and practical steps on setup and operation of a multi-agency interoperability communications system using the 

highly adaptable ACU-1000 Modular Interface/ Interconnect System (ACU-1000), and 

the TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System (TRP-1000). 

Section Two, Introduction to Multiple 

Agency Interoperability, provides background on multiple agency interoperability 

communication along with basic information 

on the ACU/TRP-1000 Gateway Switch/ 

Interoperability Communications System, 

including a general overview of its operation. 

Section Three, Establishing an Interoperability System, outlines the basic set-up and 

initial operating procedures of the ACU/ 

TRP-1000 Interoperability Communication 

System. 

Section Four, Technical and Tactical Considerations, presents valuable insight and 

experience gained through a survey of jurisdictions that have had operational experience with the ACU/TRP-1000 Interoperability Communications Systems. 

Section Five, Operating System Models, is 

provided to further assist users involved in 

setting up their own multi-agency interoperability communication system. This section presents descriptions of setup and deployment by jurisdictions that are using the 

ACU/TRP-1000. These system models 

demonstrate the potential for achieving a 

high performance system. From these reviews, new users will be better prepared to 

set-up and operate comprehensive systems 

that take full advantage of the capabilities of 

the ACU/TRP-1000. 

This handbook is designed to enhance a 

jurisdiction’s ability to use the ACU/TRP1000 and to manage interoperability issues. 

The result will be an appreciation of how 

this system can deliver optimum, high performance results for emergency response 

agencies. 

1.2 Grant Program Support 

The National Institute of Justice, a bureau in 

the Office of Justice Programs, conducted 

research into use of the JPS Communications, Inc., ACU/TRP-1000 systems in conjunction with the Multiple Agency Radio Interoperability System (MARIS), under the 

Advanced Generation Interoperability for 

Law Enforcement, (AGILE) Program. This 

program conducted a detailed multi-phased 

survey of all ACU/TRP-1000 systems 

shipped under the grant program. Information from this program is available online at: 

www.nij-agile.jhuapl.edu. 

1.3 Preferred Technical Capabilities 

Individuals assigned to operate the 

ACU/TRP-1000 should possess, at a minimum, the following requirements: 

1. Land mobile radio systems experience. Experience should encompass a good understanding of different frequency bands, different types 

of modulation (example, AM, FM, 

HF APCO/digital), trunking systems. 

2. An understanding of radio theory 

such as receiver intermodulation interference a plus. 

3. Some basic understanding of antenna theory, wave propagation, 

feed line, RF connectors (PL-259f 

N/mini-UHF) is preferred. 

4. Basic knowledge of all the radios 

that may be interfaced with the system. 

5. Ability to program a variety of radios 

during a situation as new groups enter the network by referring to the 

ACLJ-1 000 manual. 

6. Technical degree or certificate preferred but not required, amateur radio experience a plus. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 1-2 

7. PC experience working in a WindowsTM 95, 98, 2000, NT, Ml environment is a must. 

8. Experience in using phone patches 

and explaining to users on the 

phone that the radio is not full duplex like the telephone. 

9. Ability to run a console type of 

communications gear and be a system operator is required. 

1.4 Acknowledgements 

In part, this handbook draws upon information from the AGILE Program that was established in 1998. The AGILE Program, 

supported by multiple Interagency Agreements including 1999-IJ-CX-AO94 and 

1000-LT-VX-A034, was awarded by the 

U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice 

Programs, and National Institute of Justice. 

Under this program, all of the interoperability projects then under way in the U.S. Department of Justice were combined by the 

National Institute of Justice. The result was 

establishment of a three-pronged approach 

that addresses both short-term and interim 

interoperability solutions as well as longterm interoperability solutions to be implemented through standardization of wireless 

telecommunications and information technology applications. 

Some material presented in this handbook 

is taken from the National Institute of Justice, AGILE MARIS Program Study. That 

research studied the feasibility for emergency service agencies to utilize communications technology that was initially developed for the military. That study evaluated 

the two interoperability electronic systems, 

the ACU-1000 Modular Inter-connect System, and the TRP-1000 Trans-portable Radio Interconnect System manufactured by 

JPS Communications, Inc. 

Any analysis, evaluation and review offered 

by this handbook does not represent product approval or endorsement by the Department of Justice; the National Institute of 

Justice, the Office for Domestic Preparedness, or any other agencies who may be 

cited within this document. The point of 

view and opinions contained within this 

handbook are those of the grant program 

participants. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 2-1 

2 INTRODUCTION TO 

MULTI-AGENCY INTEROPERABILITY COMMUNICATION 

2.1 Multi-Agency Interoperability 

Communication 

In its simplest terms, multi-agency interoperability communication is the ability of two 

or more public safety agencies to exchange 

information, when and where it is needed, 

even when different communication/information systems are involved. 

Multi-agency interoperability communication 

systems encompass the ability to exchange 

information among fixed facilities, mobile 

platforms, and portable (personal) devices. 

2.1.1 Importance of Multi-Agency 

Communication 

Effective and efficient emergency response 

requires coordination, communication, and 

sharing of information among numerous 

public safety agencies. Thousands of incidents that require mutual aid and coordinated response happen each day. 

High profile incidents, such as bombings or 

plane crashes, test the ability of emergency 

service organizations to mount wellcoordinated responses. In an era where 

technology can bring news, current events, 

and entertainment to the farthest reaches of 

the world, many law enforcement, firefighter, emergency medical service, and 

other emergency response personnel cannot communicate with each other during 

routine operations let alone major emergencies. 

Voice communication is not the only issue. 

Advances in technology have placed an increased dependence on the sharing of data, 

images, and video. As a result, interoperability (the ability of two or more organizations to communicate and share information, be it voice, data, images, or video) has 

been brought to the forefront as a key issue 

for our nation's emergency response agencies. 

2.1.2 The Interoperability Solution 

A fundamental interoperability challenge 

today is wireless voice communication 

among agencies that have different radio 

systems operating on various radio frequencies. It is intended that the AGILE program will ultimately address this issue 

through adoption of interoperability standards. However, while those standards are 

being developed, other mechanisms are 

needed that can address the interoperability 

requirements. One solution is the Gateway 

Switch device, also called an audio matrix 

or cross band switch, that links different radio systems. 

Not unlike a dispatcher's patch panel, the 

Gateway Switch device simply passes base 

band audio signals from the receiver portion 

of one radio to the transmitter portion of a 

dissimilar radio system. For example, audio 

from the receiver function of a Very High 

Frequency (VHF) transceiver can be passed 

to the transmitter circuitry of an Ultra High 

Frequency (UHF) transceiver. An advantage of the Gateway Switch device over the 

dispatcher's patch panel is that it requires 

no manual intervention once configured. 

The Gateway Switch device automatically 

routes voice calls from one radio system to 

another via control signals input by a radio 

user. It will also allow a connection between radios and telephone or cellular 

phones, or vice versa. In addition, the 

Gateway Switch has a degree of versatility 

that is not available via the dispatch patch 

panel. 

The Gateway Switch device can be configured either as a fixed base unit or for use in 

a mobile platform that is transportable in a 

van, sports utility vehicle or command vehicle. In a transportable mode, the Gateway 

Switch device becomes a mobile repeater, 

allowing different radio systems to communicate in a wide geographical radius around 

an incident. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 2-2 

2.2 ACU-1000 & TRP-1000 Interoperability Communication 

Systems 

This handbook discusses both the fixed 

base and mobile interoperable communications systems. The ACU-1000 Modular Interconnect System (as shown in Figure 2-1) 

is designed for fixed base operations. This 

system, manufactured by JPS Communications, Inc., contains the Gateway Switch, 

and is capable of interconnecting diverse 

radio, telephone, and cellular units to allow 

multi-agency communication. This system 

has the added benefit of adding a backup 

capability to regular communication and 

dispatch systems. 

The TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System puts the Gateway Switch in 

a shock-resistant case for mobile transportation and operation. It incorporates all the 

same functions as the ACU-1000 system, 

plus it comes standard with five UHF and 

five VHF radios for field use. 

The greatest asset of both the ACU-1000 

and the TRP-1000 systems is their ability to 

provide communications interoperability between HF, VHF low band, VHF high band, 

UHF, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, trunking talkgroups, and encrypted networks. 

2.3 ACU-1000 Modular Interconnect System 

The ACU-1000 units are designed to interconnect dissimilar radio systems by distributing the audio or voice-band signals from 

selected radios or telephone connections to 

other specified radios or telephones connected via the Gateway Switch. By connecting directly to each radio's control circuitry, the ACU-1000 can detect when a radio on the switch is receiving audio (to be 

distributed to other radios) and assert the 

"push-to-talk" on those radios to which the 

audio is to be transmitted. 

2.3.1 Components of the ACU-1000 

Modular Interconnect System 

• Interface modules, each designed to connect communication devices such as radios and 

telephones 

• Control module 

• Power supply module 

• Local operator interface module 

• Chassis to accommodate the 

modules 

• Backplane to route audio and 

control signals between modules 

• Computer controlled software 

2.4 TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System 

The TRP-1000 is a package consisting of 

one or more transportable cases that includes multiple radios pre-wired to a Gateway Switch. The radios, which cover all 

possible frequency bands or interoperations 

needed, can be cross-connected through 

the Gateway Switch. 

The TRP-1000 (as shown in Figure 2-2) 

contains multiple radios that can be quickly 

programmed to the (transmit and receive) 

frequencies of involved agencies. These 

radios can then be cross-connected by the 

built-in Gateway Switch in a variety of ways, 

including a mixture of 2-way and conference 

conversations as well as a mix of permanent and temporary connections to include 

radios, telephones, and cellular phones. 

2.4.1 Components of the TRP Transportable Interconnect System 

• Self-contained 

• Five VHF portable radios 

• Five UHF portable radios 

Figure 2-1 ACU-1000 Electronic Console – 

radio systems patch into this panel, which 

can be connected to a computer. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 2-3 

• Portable antennas 

• Power supplies 

• The ACU-1000 cross-band 

gateway switch 

• Rugged polymer transportable 

case 

2.4.2 Potential Applications of the 

Interoperable Communication 

Systems 

Both the ACU-1000 and the TRP-1000 systems are excellent tools for emergency 

agencies responding to an incident requiring 

coordination among multiple agencies. The 

ACU/TRP-1000 systems provide crossband 

operation between agencies as diverse as 

FEMA, Red Cross, the National Guard, local 

emergency management, law enforcement, 

fire departments, and emergency medical 

services, as well as other public service 

agencies that might be involved. 

In instances where it is needed, the 

ACU/TRP-1000 systems can assist in 911 

call center applications. The ACU/TRP1000 systems can prevent overloading of 

the local 911 center communications circuits 

during a large-scale emergency by providing direct radio interoperability for emergency personnel outside the 911 center's 

normal communications systems. For instance, the ACU/TRP-1000 systems can 

facilitate interoperable communication at a 

hazardous materials spill in which HazMat, 

EMS, fire, and law enforcement personnel 

operate on alternate cross-connected frequencies. The interoperability system allows the 911 center to return to handling 

normal emergency call traffic rather than 

serving as the network communication center for the HazMat incident. 

ACU/TRP-1000 systems can be set up 

within minutes to solve several communication problems such as: 

• first response communications 

interoperability during the initial 

24 to 48 hours of an emergency 

• supplementing or extending the 

reach of fixed base radio communications coverage 

• transportable communications 

backup with flexible system configuration 

• enhancing local, state and federal interoperability during emergency situations and special 

events. 

Figure 2-2 TRP-1000 – Includes the ACU1000 Electronic Console in Shock resistant casing with pre-connected mobile radios and power supplies. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-1 

3 ESTABLISHING INTEROPERABILITY 

The advents of more and more multiple 

agency emergency response incidents have 

brought with them the need of multi-agency 

inter-communication. This dynamic component of multi-agency emergency response 

has become a major problem. 

Now, with assistance of new technology, the 

capability to have seamless communications across the full radio spectrum is possible. However, many jurisdictions are reluctant to establish new operational approaches and implement new communications methods. 

Based on ACU/TRP-1000 System demonstrations, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) funded a pilot program to place 

approximately 50 units in around 10 jurisdictions to determine the practicality of communications interoperability and the functionality of the ACU/TRP-1000 System. 

Every jurisdiction that received the units for 

testing and deployment had positive evaluations of the equipment. Many of the jurisdictions are well advanced in their plans to deploy the unit, and some have devised creative approaches to using the equipment. A 

few jurisdictions have passed the formal 

implementation stage and have developed 

operating procedures that incorporate use 

of the system into their emergency response plans. 

3.1 Set-Up and Operation 

Emergency response agencies provided 

with the ACU/TRP-1000 System reported 

minimal problems in setting-up the unit for 

use. Many agencies indicated they were 

able to operate the unit within minutes after 

unpacking the equipment. Other agencies 

had minor set-up issues that were quickly 

resolved by contacting JPS Communications for technical assistance. 

The first out-of-the-box initial setup, programming, and installation of additional radios may require a communications specialist/technician. However, operation of the 

unit once assembled is easily handled by 

dispatchers or other communications staff. 

Brief training on use of the unit is generally 

sufficient for operating. Most users find the 

software easy to understand and intuitive to 

use. 

3.1.1 Cabling 

The TRP-1000 comes with 10 multi-channel 

conventional radios pre-connected to the 

unit and covers a wide range of frequencies. 

All of these radios can be programmed to 

various jurisdictions' frequencies. Additional 

radios can be added (to cover other frequencies or to expand capability) of the 

TRP-1000 by connecting them via a cable 

connection to an open port on the system, 

or by replacing one of the radios supplied 

with the unit. 

Constructing the proper cabling to connect 

these additional radios to the TRP-1000 requires the ability to read and interpret electrical schematics. This is a simple but critical task for a radio technician. This task 

involves creating a connection cable (or rewiring an existing cable) for each radio 

brand or type so that it can interface with 

the TRP-1000 generic audio port. One cable is needed for every additional brand or 

type of radio connected to the TRP-1000. 

Figure 3-1 Laptop and radio frequency monitoring equipment connected to TRP-1000 

system. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-2 

It is recommended that new users develop a 

collection of pre-constructed cables to be 

transported with the TRP-1000 that can interface with radios from neighboring jurisdictions as well as state and federal assets. 

As with most emergency response issues, 

pre-planning to handle communications 

needs will speed the integration of other 

agencies into the system. 

3.1.2 Interconnection Schematics 

The manufacturer of the ACU/TRP-1000 

system, JPS Communications, notes that 

many of the schematics supplied by radio 

manufacturers for pin-out configurations are 

not correct. This can prevent proper connection of the radio to the TRP-1000 unit. 

JPS will provide schematics for any radio if 

the jurisdiction wishes to make their own 

cables, or JPS will provide pricing for premanufactured cables if the agency wishes 

to purchase them. 

The user should check model numbers 

carefully as similar looking radios and similar sounding model numbers may have 

completely different pin-out configurations 

requiring separate cables. They should 

contact JPS with any problems in connecting radios to the unit. Several jurisdictions 

were able to quickly resolve their connection 

problems with one call to JPS staff, which 

provided fax versions of correct pin-out configurations. 

3.1.3 Security Issues - Encryption 

Since the ACU/TRP-1000 systems operate 

on the principle of taking the analog voice 

signal from any radio, telephone or other 

electronic equipment, and re-transmitting 

this signal over another radio channel, it is 

possible to connect them to a radio operating on an encrypted system, or to connect 

encrypted radios from separate systems 

together. 

Because there is the capability of connecting an encrypted radio system to a nonencrypted system, use of JPS equipment 

with encrypted systems should be carefully 

engineered to limit the system only to connecting one encrypted system to another. 

JPS has recommendations for setup and 

operation of the system using encrypted 

radios to minimize the potential for inadvertently interconnecting encrypted radios into 

a non-encrypted system. Users should contact JPS for recommendations if encryption 

is an issue for their jurisdiction. 

3.2 Deployment Options 

One of the greatest strengths of the TRP1000 system is its nearly limitless capability 

to interconnect virtually any device that produces an audio signal to another device. 

This provides an overwhelming number of 

configuration and deployment options that 

can be daunting when deciding how the unit 

should best be used in the field. Initially 

most jurisdictions use the out-of-the-box 

configuration to see how the system operates and then experiment with various setup options to determine how the equipment 

can best enhance their unique requirements. 

3.2.1 Frequencies to Install 

Once jurisdictions have conducted sufficient 

testing to assure themselves that the TRP1000 will actually work well in their system, 

the question arises regarding what agencies 

should be programmed into the system for 

"daily" use - and what radios should be 

added to the system to obtain the maximum 

benefit from the unit. 

As noted, the basic configuration for the 

TRP-1000 includes 10 multi-frequency radios that can be programmed to cover several radio bands. Most jurisdictions that 

have 800 MHz capability have added an 

800 MHz radio to the TRP-1000 (or replaced one of the units provided) to obtain 

interoperability with their existing frequencies. 

Other radios can be connected to the TRP1000 to allow communication with virtually 

any agency. Jurisdictions should carefully 

consider all of the agencies that would respond at major incident scenes and preplan capabilities to allow interoperability, 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-3 

such as frequency lists, private line tones, 

and emergency contact information. 

3.2.2 Connecting Portable Radios 

While many jurisdictions have purchased 

mobile radios to add to the ACU/TRP-1000 

system, other agencies have chosen the 

option of connecting a portable radio to the 

ACU/TRP-1000 to accommodate other jurisdiction's frequencies once on the scene. 

While the flexibility of adding the portable 

radios is a valuable option, if a jurisdiction 

plans to operate with another agency for 

any prolonged period, it should consider 

acquiring mobile radios to accommodate the 

frequency used by that agency. This would 

reduce problems with battery replacement, 

limited range, and operating multiple portable radios inside a communications or 

command van. 

In addition, finding an available portable radio once on the scene may be problematic. 

If a specific frequency cannot be programmed into the multi-frequency radios 

supplied with the TRP-1000 unit, an older 

mobile unit can be quickly setup for use, 

negating the need for costly new units that 

may have minimal use. 

3.3 Mobile Options - Trailer, Vehicle, Command Post 

Jurisdictions have implemented many mobile deployment options. The most common 

include mounting the TRP-1000 in an enclosed trailer, placing it in a small utility vehicle, or installing it in a mobile command 

post. All of these options address a requirement for maintaining the mobility of the 

TRP-1000, and most provide for a platform 

from which to operate the unit. 

Using a trailer to transport the TRP-1000 

(as shown in Figure 3-2) is a low cost 

means of moving the unit from storage to 

event. Trailer configurations have been as 

simple as storing the unit in the back of an 

enclosed trailer with generators, a stash of 

radios, and the appropriate cabling. Some 

agencies have included a tent, folding table, 

and chairs in the trailer for extended operations. 

One of the drawbacks to a trailer mounted 

TRP-1000 is the need for a prime mover. 

Deployment plans for this arrangement 

must ensure that the designated prime 

mover is not already assigned to another 

task during an event. With this type of installation, the TRP-1000 must be configured 

either prior to departure, or on-site at the 

event. 

Special consideration should also be given 

to the fact that the unit gives off a significant 

amount of heat, and it may not work correctly if used while still inside an enclosed 

trailer during a hot summer day. Use of an 

enclosed trailer as an operating platform 

should take into consideration the need for 

the operator of the unit to have a comfortable working environment, either in extremely hot or cold weather. The power 

supply should also be capable of providing 

supporting power to heat or air conditioning 

units inside the trailer. 

Many jurisdictions have opted to place the 

TRP-1000 inside a dedicated communications vehicle using a van, command vehicle, 

or even converting a reserve ambulance as 

shown in Figure 3-3. Many configurations 

are possible with this arrangement and this 

can be an ideal solution if an agency has a 

spare vehicle to dedicate solely to TRP1000 deployment. 

Figure 3-2 Example of enclosed trailer 

used to store and transport the TRP-1000. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-4 

Most of the vehicle configurations include 

strapping the TRP-1000 to the floor or side 

of the vehicle with a jump seat or bench for 

a technician to set-up and program the unit 

en-route. Some jurisdictions have designed 

the vehicle to supplement their command 

vehicle by moving their primary communications component from the command vehicle 

to the smaller TRP-1000 communications 

vehicle, and connecting the two via an intercom system. 

Commanders would likely benefit from moving the distraction of multiple radios operating simultaneously to an adjacent vehicle. 

One particular advantage to these designs 

is that they are typically airconditioned/ 

heated vehicles, especially an ambulance 

that has supplemental air conditioning. This 

makes operating the TRP-1000 much easier 

in the summer as the unit generates considerable heat when in operation. 

One jurisdiction discovered having heat in 

the vehicle is also important as the TRP1000 and radios did not put off sufficient 

heat to warm the van during a cold nighttime deployment. Some communications 

technicians also indicated operating the 

various radios over a wide temperature 

range caused frequency "drift" and recommended keeping the vehicle at a constant 

temperature, or checking the radios occasionally for drift. They emphasized that 

temperature changes do not affect the TRP1000, but do affect the radios mounted in 

the unit. 

The third common mobile deployment option involves placing the unit on a mobile 

command vehicle, typically a bus, motor 

home or large trailer as shown in Figure 

3-4. Although space may be a consideration when deciding to implement this option, 

the co-location of the TRP-1000 with the 

other incident command resources can 

prove invaluable when manpower is at a 

premium. Since many mobile command 

vehicles already include communications 

and dispatch capabilities along with the 

necessary technicians and operators to run 

them, the TRP-1000 could easily be connected to and managed by these existing 

resources. 

Deployment plans for this arrangement can 

be restrictive, as it is necessary to deploy 

the entire command vehicle. There may be 

difficulties deploying the TRP-1000 to 

smaller events, or to long-term mutual aid 

assignments. One jurisdiction indicated that 

mounting the TRP-1000 in a command van 

would limit the ability to deploy the system 

off-road. However, like the previous option, 

this configuration allows for rapid deployment and on-the-fly set-up and programming while enroute to an incident. 

Figure 3-3 Example of a TRP-1000 unit 

mounted in the back of a converted ambulance. The inside has been reconfigured 

with counters and chairs for communications technicians. Figure 3-4 Example of a command post vehicle. A bigger vehicle allows more communications equipment to be carried to the 

scene alongside the TRP-1000. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-5 

3.3.1 Fixed-Site Operation - Communications Center, Backup 

EOC, and Dispatch 

Some jurisdictions have integrated the TRP1000 into their fixed communications and 

dispatch facility as shown in Figure 3-5. 

Others plan to use the unit as part of a 

backup emergency operations center. 

Since the TRP-1000 was designed as an 

interoperability solution, it does allow for the 

establishment of talk groups and patches 

between frequencies. 

Some agencies that dispatch by tone have 

worked on connecting their encoders to the 

unit as part of a backup dispatch package 

with varying degrees of success. However, 

since the TRP-1000 is restricted to analogue audio signals, it cannot facilitate computer-aided dispatch and other digital communications. 

Although the TRP-1000 has many applications that benefit these arrangements, JPS 

Communications offers less expensive 

equipment to meet the needs of a fixed-site 

facility; the ACU-1000, which is essentially 

the internal components of the TRP-1000 

without all the protective mounting and casings required for mobile operation. 

Some jurisdictions have considered leaving 

the TRP-1000 in a mobile format and stationing it at the backup Office of Emergency 

Communications (EOC) or backup dispatch 

center where it would be connected to a 

suitable antenna system and power supply 

ready for immediate use. This configuration 

leaves the option of quickly disconnecting 

the system for rapid deployment. 

Other jurisdictions are installing a power 

supply and antenna system at a preselected site to allow the installation of the 

TRP-1000 within minutes into a backup dispatch/repeater site. Still other jurisdictions 

are planning to use an existing fire station 

and radio tower to mount the antennas or to 

locate the antenna on a rooftop location in 

the downtown area to provide the greatest 

area of coverage in a backup configuration. 

3.3.2 Mutual-Aid - Manned or Unmanned Deployment 

Since most jurisdictions have mutual-aid 

agreements with neighboring jurisdictions, it 

makes sense to develop procedures and 

protocols for deploying the TRP-1000 to 

outside jurisdictions as needed. Some 

agencies have easily accomplished this by 

making additional units available for temporary or permanent loan to neighboring jurisdictions. 

Other jurisdictions have opted to set-up the 

TRP-1000 for mobile configurations, and 

are working on creating plans to send the 

Figure 3-5 Example of fixed-site installation of TRP-1000 package. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-6 

unit to neighboring jurisdictions as needed. 

When considering the latter option, a jurisdiction must decide if they are going to deploy the TRP-1000 with trained operators 

and technicians, or simply drop-off the unit 

with all necessary equipment and provide a 

quick training session. If operators and 

technicians are not included in the mutualaid package, then personnel from receiving 

jurisdictions should be included in relevant 

training and exercises. Agreements should 

be made ahead of time as to which jurisdictions will supply the necessary personnel, 

radios, connection wires, generator/power 

supply, etc. 

Ideally, the trained operators and technicians from either jurisdiction would already 

have the necessary frequencies and radio 

information on hand, and could quickly program the unit to meet the needs of the 

event. Jurisdictions have mixed feelings on 

this issue. Some see their role as supplying 

the equipment and training to get the recipient jurisdiction up and running, while others 

feel leaving the system without a trained 

technician would be unacceptable. 

3.3.3 Set-Up and Deployment Enroute 

Some jurisdictions have installed a mobile 

phone and fax capability in their TRP-1000 

transport vehicles (typically in vans or command vehicles) so that a communications 

technician can contact the other jurisdictions 

and agencies while en-route to the event to 

obtain their radio frequencies and other information. In this scenario, the TRP-1000 

can then be programmed with the correct 

frequencies and private line (PL) tones 

while another technician or operator is driving the unit to the incident. This also gives 

the technicians the ability to contact JPS 

Communications, Inc., or the radio manufacturers for technical information as 

needed. 

Mobile phones can also be connected to the 

TRP-1000 for further interoperability capability. For example, mobile phone capability 

would let another local, state, or federal 

agency monitor scene communications from 

any location over their regular phone line, or 

allow the Incident Commander to speak with 

anyone by phone, simply by using their 

portable radio and having the TRP-1000 

operator create the patch to the mobile 

phone. 

Deployment plans can be relatively rapid in 

nature, as the necessary programming can 

literally be done on the move. If the system 

can be powered by an on-board power supply, direct current (DC), built in generator or 

similar system, the system could be operational even prior to arrival on the scene. 

Note: 

Additional electronic communication 

equipment compatible with the ACU-1000 

Gateway Switch are: telephones, Internet 

audio transmissions, dispatch tones, marine radios, and aviation radios. 

Because the TRP-1000 will accommodate 

virtually any device that produces or transmits audio, the potential of adding landline 

phones or some mobile phones to the system exists. For example, this allows the 

system to connect the Incident Commander's (IC) radio to any telephone in the 

world, simply by having the TRP-1000 operator patch the radio to the telephone 

module. JPS provides phone modules for 

the TRP-1000 system as part of the standard system. 

Each jurisdiction needs to evaluate the 

methods available to communicate with all 

of the agencies that may be responding to 

an incident and plan to acquire appropriate 

radios or frequency/private line information 

to allow for interconnection capabilities. 

JPS is finalizing development of their ViperNet system that will allow the TRP1000 to be connected to an Internet system, 

vastly increasing the number of deployment 

and control options. 

3.3.4 Creating On-Scene Talk 

Groups 

An ideal usage of the TRP-1000 system is 

to allow similar units (such as HazMat 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-7 

teams) from several jurisdictions, operating 

on separate radio systems, to be joined into 

a Talk Group, thus allowing the various tactical frequencies on the portable radios to 

be joined. This allows better communications on-scene, and takes radio traffic off 

the primary frequencies. 

3.3.5 Making the IC's Job Easier 

Ultimately, it is the ability of the TRP-1000 

system to make the IC's job easier, which is 

its most desirable feature. The system, 

properly run by a skilled operator, will allow 

the IC to be connected directly to any other 

radio channel operating at the scene or to 

anyone via a telephone line anywhere in the 

world without changing the channel on their 

portable (or preferably the aide's portable 

radio). 

A Unified Command Talk Group can be established to allow the heads of all of the 

relevant responding agencies to monitor or 

communicate on the command channel. 

Separate Tactical Talk Groups can be designated for various sectors as indicated 

above, and the IC can reach any of these 

groups quickly. 

All that is necessary is to work out a system 

to alert the dispatcher to connect/disconnect 

the IC as requested, and to establish protocols for creation of tactical groups on scene. 

By allowing direct connection to multiple 

agencies and sectors, the IC can be far 

more productive, and get messages to the 

various agencies as needed. The system 

can aid in keeping the span of control within 

acceptable limits. 

Other responders can request a patch to the 

IC through the TRP-1000 operator, which is 

terminated upon completion of the exchange of information, or can be left permanently connected. 

3.4 Nomenclature Issues 

Any time multiple jurisdictions are operating 

at the scene, the potential of having more 

than one unit using the same designation is 

present. For example, more than one unit 

designated as Tactical Unit 1, Medic 5, etc., 

can have disastrous consequences. 

Several of the jurisdictions indicate these 

issues are addressed through statewide or 

regional agreements. However, agencies 

that have not addressed this potential beyond their immediate mutual aid system 

must do so. This issue should be addressed to assure the potential is minimized 

if only by requiring agency designation prior 

to unit number as a protocol for all mutual 

aid i.e., Jefferson County, Tactical Unit 1, or 

Medic 5. 

3.5 Storage Recommendations 

Consideration should be given to the issue 

of storing the TRP-1000 to minimize the potential of a terrorism incident taking out primary and backup communications systems 

at one facility. Jurisdictions with a single 

unit are advised not to locate the system at 

their main communications center, while 

those with multiple units should spread 

them out across the jurisdiction. Consideration should be given to using one or more 

units as part of a backup communications 

plan, and it is strongly recommended that 

the units be kept in their transportable configuration in order to take full advantage of 

the versatility this provides. 

3.5.1 Disperse Storage to Minimize 

Vulnerability 

Since a jurisdiction's primary communication center may be a target for terrorist activities, it is recommended that the TRP1000 not be stored in the same location. If 

a jurisdiction is fortunate enough to have 

multiple units, it is recommended that they 

be distributed throughout the jurisdiction, or 

perhaps loaned to neighboring jurisdictions. 

An example of well-planned dispersion of 

units would be to place one unit in a mobile 

configuration at a backup communications 

and dispatch facility, another in a location 

on the other side of the jurisdiction, and remaining units loaned to neighboring jurisdictions. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 3-8 

3.5.2 Stored as Pre-Deployed 

Backup Communications 

Some jurisdictions have opted to use the 

TRP-1000 for backup communications in 

the event of a failure with their primary 

communications system. Others have 

setup their TRP-1000 as a mobile backup 

communications system that can be deployed at various locations within the jurisdiction that have been pre-identified as logical sites. This may be especially practical 

when a utility or command vehicle configuration is used for unit transport. 

One of the advantages of using the TRP1000 as part of a backup communications 

package is its ability to take old radios from 

a variety of manufacturers, using multiple 

frequencies, and combine them into a single 

system with perhaps two or three common 

channels. In this way, if a jurisdiction using 

an 800 MHz radio system encounters a system-wide failure they could switch to older 

400 MHz systems and still operate with their 

existing infrastructure. 

If the Fire Department still dispatches using 

audible tones or if its stations are still wired 

to receive those tones in addition to having 

been converted to a computer aided dispatch system, the TRP-1000 could carry 

those tones by simply connecting an encoder to the system. 

3.5.3 Installed in Vehicles, RackMounted For Optional Usages 

Regardless of how a jurisdiction chooses to 

integrate the TRP-1000 into its response 

plans, it is strongly recommended that the 

unit remain in its transportable configuration. In addition to the shock-resistant features of the mounting configuration, the 

portable rack mounting allows for multiple 

rapid deployment options. 

The system can be removed from the shock 

mounting system for permanent deployment 

in a communications center. However, 

"TRP" stands for "transportable.” The ACU1000 is the "non-transportable" version designed for permanent installation. Most of 

the agencies that have installed their units 

into vehicles for deployment intentionally left 

the units in the portable cases and secured 

the cases to the vehicle. This allows for 

rapid removal of the system for other deployment options and takes advantage of 

the shock resistance the portable cases offer. 

The TRP-1000 is designed as a mobile 

communications tool that can be moved to 

the location of an incident and setup to establish interoperable communications for the 

scene. The unit is designed to use mobile 

radios (typically used in vehicles) with generic omni-directional antennas positioned 

nearby. Depending on the size of the jurisdiction, terrain issues, and antenna placement, it could be possible to provide interoperability between radio systems over a 

larger area without additional repeaters and 

antennas for each frequency on the system. 

To illustrate the intent behind the design of 

the TRP-1000, consider a hypothetical jurisdiction responsible for 50 square miles of 

suburban population. This jurisdiction uses 

15 frequencies on an 800 MHz trunked radio system that accommodates their daily 

operations. The Fire Department from a 

neighboring county is called in for mutualaid to a large warehouse fire involving hazardous materials. Typically, the mutual-aid 

contingent using a low-band system would 

only be able to communicate amongst 

themselves at the fire scene. The TRP1000 would enable them to integrate seamlessly into the response by providing access 

to the 800 MHz communications Talk Group 

using their own low-band portables and mobile repeaters. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 4-1 

4 TECHNICAL AND TACTICAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

4.1 800 MHz Misconceptions 

Many jurisdictions are under the impression 

that an 800 MHz radio communication system solves interoperability problems, negating the need for an additional system. 800 

MHz systems can incorporate units from 

neighboring jurisdictions if both systems 

have been programmed for that capability 

and both are operating on the same brand 

of 800 MHz radios. However, they have no 

capability to incorporate other agencies with 

other brands of 800 MHz radios, or radios 

on other frequency ranges. 

4.1.1 Limitations of 800 MHz Systems at Large Scenes 

While 800 MHz communication systems 

provide significant flexibility at emergency 

scenes, the system must be able to handle 

continuing dispatch requirements and other 

incidents simultaneously occurring within 

the jurisdiction. While the portable radios 

have a large number of frequencies available, the system usually has a limited number of Talk Groups that can be created before the system is overloaded. Many jurisdictions are already encountering overloaded 800 MHz trunked systems on a 

regular basis. The additional requirements 

of a major incident will likely result in ineffective communications within the existing 

system, and the inability of allowing communications with other "non-800 MHz" 

agencies. 

4.1.2 Talk Groups 

The TRP-1000 system has the capability of 

creating additional Talk Groups on scene by 

allowing the 800 MHz portables used in a 

Talk-Around mode to be connected with 

other agencies radios. The TRP-1000 has 

the capability of creating several simultaneous Talk Groups with any of the radios connected to it, or connecting all of the radios 

together simultaneously. 

For example, putting all hazardous materials teams from across the region on one 

talk group (regardless of different radio systems) provides a tremendous benefit and 

will greatly enhance the potential for a positive outcome. A recommended practice is 

to create a Unified Command Talk Group 

with the heads of other responding agencies. The agency heads can access the 

Unified Command from their own command 

posts, or they can be patched into the 

command channel to monitor the incident 

via telephone. 

4.2 Antenna Configuration Options 

There are almost as many antenna configuration options as there are jurisdictions. 

Agencies currently using the TRP-1000 indicate antenna placement is not a problem 

and that frequency interference conflicts 

were usually simple to resolve. 

4.2.1 Mobile Mounting, Rooftop, 

Portable Towers 

Jurisdictions mounting the TRP-1000 in a 

mobile configuration have used a variety of 

antenna installations. Some use the magnetic, full-range units; others installed frequency specific antennae on a vehicle's 

rooftop (or on a ground plane attached to 

the rooftop). 

Others mount a portable crank-up tower or 

pneumatic mast to the mobile unit to get 

greater coverage and separation capability 

for the antennas. One jurisdiction utilized 

the donation of a pneumatic mast from a 

media company that retired one of their mobile satellite trucks. 

4.2.2 Temporary Magnetic Mount 

Antenna 

The TRP-1000 systems have been supplied 

to the jurisdictions with several full-range 

magnetic mount antennas that work reasonably well for limited events. The magnetic mount units provide extreme flexibility 

in that the antenna can be placed almost 

anywhere and the system is operational in 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 4-2 

minutes. The full-range antennae also reduce the potential of connecting the incorrect antennae to a radio that could damage 

the transmitter. Interference between radios 

is resolved by a slight adjustment of the antenna placement. 

4.3 Fixed Facility Options 

Several of the jurisdictions have installed 

fixed antenna units to allow the system to 

be operated as a semi-permanent installation that can provide greater coverage area, 

directional capability, and usually resolve 

any interference issues. In some cases, 

such as using the TRP-1000 as a backup 

repeater site, jurisdictions can install the 

needed antennae, provide a power supply, 

and bring the unit to the facility when 

needed. Some jurisdictions have one unit 

at their communications center to allow interconnection with other agencies (within 

range of the communications center) and to 

allow ease of initial training and refresher 

training for the operators. 

4.3.1 Planning Deployment Options 

Several of the extremely large jurisdictions 

have terrain problems that prevented a single TRP-1000 unit from covering their entire 

response area. By using maps of the jurisdiction, it may be possible to plan for coverage of the entire jurisdiction from a couple 

of strategically located sites. 

In other cases, mobile deployment is the 

preferred solution with antennae mounted 

on the roof of the vehicle. Combinations of 

fixed facility installations, complemented 

with mobile units, are also possible. Taking 

advantage of existing antenna towers to 

place additional antennae for the TRP-1000 

provides coverage of a large portion of the 

jurisdiction from a limited number of sites. 

New Vipernet technology from JPS Communications, Inc., will also allow remote operation of the TRP-1000 units from a central 

communications center. 

4.3.2 Helicopter Deployment 

A jurisdiction with extremely difficult terrain 

mounted the TRP-1000 in a helicopter for 

deployment over the incident scene to provide capability that could not be accomplished from a ground site. Other agencies 

have minimal need for helicopter deployment and would not wish to go through the 

re-balancing and re-certification needed to 

deploy multiple additional antennas and 

equipment on a helicopter. 

4.4 Power Supplies 

The TRP-1000 can run off 110V (volt) or 

220V alternating current (AC) and 12V or 

24V DC. Power supplies can range from 

vehicle batteries to portable generators or 

units can be plugged into a standard power 

jack in a nearby building. 

4.4.1 Uninterrupted Power Supplies 

When using an AC power supply, especially 

a generator, it is a good idea to consider 

placing one or more uninterrupted power 

supply (UPS) devices (depending on capacity) between the AC source and the TRP1000. This is a relatively low cost means of 

protecting the electronic components of the 

unit, as a UPS will supply a continuous and 

regulated supply of power. UPS units are 

short life batteries that are constantly 

charged by the connected AC power supplies. 

The TRP-1000 would then plug into the 

UPS device and be powered by the batteries. In this way, the TPR-1000 can remain 

operating for several minutes after the primary power source fails, allowing for the 

proper notifications and shutdown procedures to occur. The UPS device also 

serves to filter the peaks coming from a 

generator system. This prevents service 

interruptions if the generator runs out of 

fuel, or if the power cable is accidentally 

disconnected. 

4.4.2 Generator Capacities 

Most of the portable systems use portable 

generators in the 5-kilowatt capacity range, 

or carry (trailored behind the unit) multiple 

5-kilowatt generators for a backup capability, as shown in Figure 4-1. Under most 

circumstances, this capacity is adequate. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 4-3 

However, in situations where all of the radios are "keyed" for simultaneous transmission, the generator circuit breaker may be 

tripped. 

System loads should be calculated and the 

power supply systems engineered to allow 

adequate capacity. Adding heating or air 

conditioning units will likely place too high a 

burden on a portable generator system. 

Providing safe transportation and storage of 

backup fuel supplies and refueling of the 

generator units should be addressed where 

applicable. 

4.4.3 DC Power Operation 

While DC power is an option for using the 

TRP-1000 system, it requires bypassing the 

power supplies built into the system, along 

with considerable rewiring of the units, making it difficult to quickly reconfigure the unit 

for other deployment. Jurisdictions wishing 

to convert the system to DC operations 

should check to make sure the DC power 

supply (alternator) is adequate for running 

multiple radio systems simultaneously. 

4.4.4 Onboard Generator Systems 

A recent development in power supply systems for mobile equipment is the use of advanced generators operating off the vehicle's engine. These generators are capable 

of supplying up to 10 kilowatts of power 

output. These systems convert the idling 

engine speed to AC electrical supply stepping up the engine idle only as higher output 

is required. 

The supplier of this patented system is 

Auragen, Inc., which has units available for 

most vehicles manufactured after 1996. The 

use of retired fire/rescue apparatus as 

mounting platforms for the JPS system may 

prevent use of these newer systems. These 

new systems may be an attractive option for 

minimizing setup time, noise, and generator 

maintenance. With a system installed in a 

mobile communications van, it may be possible to have the TRP-1000 operational prior 

to arriving on the scene. 

4.5 JPS Corporate Support 

JPS Communications, Inc. has pioneered 

the use of radio interoperability systems for 

use by emergency response personnel. 

They are committed to providing continuing 

customer support and further improvements 

to existing systems, as they are made available. 

4.5.1 Cabling Issues 

JPS has schematic diagrams available to 

any jurisdiction that needs to connect additional radios to the TRP-1000 system beyond the radios installed with the basic configuration. Some jurisdictions with communications technicians or specialists have the 

capability, and prefer to make their own cables. Other jurisdictions have requested 

JPS supply the completed cables. JPS has 

created a catalog of available connection 

cables available for purchase. (See Appendix for JPS Communications, Inc., contact 

information) 

Figure 4-1 Two portable generators mounted 

on a trailer pulled by a van housing the TRP1000 unit. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 4-4 

4.5.2 Initial Training and Set-Up 

JPS will provide training and setup assistance to any jurisdiction purchasing the 

TRP-1000 systems. They are willing to assist with initial programming issues and to 

assure capable training is provided. (See 

Appendix for JPS Communications, Inc. 

contact information) 

4.5.3 Software Upgrades 

JPS will provide free software upgrades to 

existing systems as they become available. 

Users should contact JPS to determine if 

upgrades are available for their unit. (See 

Appendix for JPS Communications, Inc. 

contact information) 

4.5.4 Assistance at Major Scheduled 

Events 

JPS has provided local, state, and federal 

responders with major event deployments, 

including free technical assistance and 

training or operators for the unit as requested. (See Appendix for JPS Communications, Inc. contact information) 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-1 

5 OPERATING SYSTEM MODELS 

The following are examples of three communities that have established multi-agency 

interoperability communications systems 

using the ACU/TRP-1000 system. These 

communities have undertaken initial set-up 

and operation projects aimed at providing 

high performance multi-agency communications support for emergency response incidents. 

These project models are presented here in 

order to demonstrate the extraordinary capability of the ACU/TRP-1000 system, and 

to provide insight and ideas to those developing their own high performance interoperable communications system. The examples cited do not represent the complete 

capability, nor all the possible options and 

configurations possible with the ACU/TRP1000 system. However, they do demonstrate a dynamic and comprehensive approach to solving interoperability communications problems. 

The projects selected are from three distinct 

types of jurisdictions. Those selected present a model from a very large metropolitan 

city, a large growing urban community, and 

a rural/ large city interface jurisdiction. The 

intent is to present ideas and examples 

covering a variety of settings, background, 

and terrains. 

ODP recognizes that, although the project 

models described here are comprehensive, 

they are not perfect, nor are they the only 

jurisdictions with advanced or high performance interoperable communication system 

projects. 

5.1 Chicago, Illinois Project 

Chicago is the third largest city in the U.S. 

and has a population of nearly 3 million 

people. The Chicago metropolitan area 

covers an area of 228.5 square miles that 

encompasses the City and its surrounding 

suburbs and includes six counties in Illinois 

(Cook, Lake, McHenry, DuPage, Kane and 

Will). In 2000, the Chicago Fire Department 

responded to over 500,000 calls for help 

responding to various incidents involving 

people with emergency medical conditions 

as well as calls to preserve property. The 

department has six districts, 24 battalions, 

and a uniformed force of almost 5,000, including paramedics. 

In 2000, Chicago acquired six TRP-1000 

systems. Two units stay in the command 

center. Two units are reserved for deployment on an as-needed basis with neighboring jurisdictions. One has been installed in 

a surplus vehicle and the final unit will be 

similarly deployed. One of the mobile systems will be shared with federal agencies. 

The goal is to support 67 jurisdictions in the 

metropolitan area. 

The City of Chicago's Office of Emergency 

Communications (OEC) is charged with 

providing 911/311 call answering and dispatching of Police/Fire/Emergency Medical 

Services (EMS) personnel within the corporate city limits of Chicago. The OEC also 

has the responsibility of transferring any 

calls for service received that require the 

response of a suburban public safety 

agency. 

The OEC is responsible for staffing a Field 

Communications vehicle. The vehicle is 

operational on a 24 hour a day, 7 days a 

week basis and is staffed with an operator/driver and an electrical mechanic/ driver. 

Face-to-face relief at the incident scene allows for the continuity of communications 

services. The staff for the vehicle has been 

selected based on previous dispatch experience, effectiveness in following guidelines and procedures, knowledge of both fire 

and police dispatch operations and geographical knowledge. 

The OEC, in conjunction with participating 

agencies, adopted a training manual consisting of specific modules involving these 

agencies and their operational concerns 

and practices. Training of the Field Communications vehicle staff took place at the 

OEC, and consisted of the pre-approved 

course along with specific training on the 

operations of the TRP-1000. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-2 

Each member of the Field Communications 

staff also received vehicle operation training, driver training, and training in the use of 

personal protective equipment. Classroom 

and drivers training lasted three weeks. 

Regularly scheduled in-service training coupled with drills and exercises supplement 

this formal training. The Field Communications staff "tours" with the Field Communications vehicle in order to provide on-site informational training to participating agencies. 

The Field Communications vehicle is a refurbished 1992, Ford F350, with an ambulance body. The vehicle is equipped with a 

hydraulic extendible 50-foot tower that dramatically increases the range of the system. 

As shown in Figure 5-1, the components 

are still housed in their shock resistant 

cases for increased protection and mobility. 

These units can still be removed from the 

ambulance and installed elsewhere relatively quickly. 

The vehicle currently houses a JPS TRP1000 interoperability system with five UHF 

and five VHF radios. The system has a file 

that tracks and logs connections of any 

phone numbers called as well as date, time 

and who connected or disconnected. OEC 

has also installed two 800 MHz radios, one 

470-512 MHz radio, and one Motorola Low 

Band radio. 

Data communications are currently handled 

by two Motorola MW520 mobile data computers with 1000 nit screens and one Microslate portable data terminal. The Field Com 

vehicle is also equipped with one mobile 

cellular phone and a fax/copy/printer. The 

vehicle carries 10 portable Motorola 

XTS3500 450 MHz radios, 10 spare batteries, and two Cadex C7000 Battery Conditioners/Analyzers. 

The vehicle is equipped with its own onboard charging system and has a portable 

5KW (kilo watt) gas generator that is carried 

on the rear tailboard to provide extended 

electrical power. The vehicle carries two 

100 foot 12/3 electrical cables with quad 

boxes and two 25 foot 12/3 cables. 

5.1.1 Chicago, Illinois TRP-1000 Deployment 

The Chicago Fire Department is currently a 

member of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS). The system involves over 

700 separate fire departments in Illinois, 

Southern Wisconsin, Northeastern Indiana, 

and Southwestern Michigan operating on 

over 100 different radio frequencies. Field 

Communications is scheduled to respond 

on all 2nd alarm, or greater calls, and will 

also respond on special requests for interoperability communications. 

The Field Communications unit responds on 

all aircraft disasters and accompanies the 

Chicago Fire Department's mobile command center located at O'Hare Field. The 

command center responds to all aircraft 

disasters within 150 miles of Chicago. The 

Field Communications vehicle will fit in a C130 (or larger) aircraft for transport if necessary. 

Field Communications responds to all major 

power outages in the metropolitan area. 

The unit provides local public safety agencies with communications between themselves and other responders as well as local 

utility providers. Field Communications also 

responds on all requests for communications needs at the scene of marine incidents. Field Communications will respond 

Figure 5-1 View of TRP-1000 mounted inside Chicago Fire Department’s Field 

Communication Van. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-3 

to hostage/barricade incidents. The unit 

also responds to all requests from suburban, county, and state law enforcement 

agencies involved in hostage/barricade incidents. The Field Communications unit responds on all level II, or greater, HazMat 

incidents. 

On any given day in the City of Chicago, 

over 30 law enforcement agencies operate 

inside the city limits. Currently, none of 

these agencies can communicate with each 

other. 

Additionally, the Field Communications unit 

responds and provides needed communications interoperability to the requesting agencies. It will NOT replace incident command 

at the scene, but will act as a clearinghouse 

for communications between agencies. 

Immediately following its deployment, the 

operating staff of the Field Communications 

is available for debriefing and critiquing of 

the incident. They prepare a formal report 

objectively outlining their participation in the 

event and forward the report to the Incident 

Commander. 

5.1.2 Chicago, Illinois Operation 

Plan 

The Office of Emergency Communications 

has verbal commitments from the Chicago 

Fire Department, Chicago Police Department, various city service agencies, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the 

Chicago healthcare industry. They also 

have commitments from the MABAS (covering 700 fire departments), the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the 

Community Fireman's Association (CFA 

covering 70 Fire Departments in Northern 

Indiana and Southwestern Michigan), FBI, 

ATF, and the US Army National Guard Civil 

Support Team (CST). 

The Chicago OEC Multi Agency radio Interoperability Project (MARIP) team has just 

been given the results of a survey commissioned by the team on 75 surrounding cities 

in the Chicago Metropolitan Area. The survey was conducted by a team from the cities Executive Management School. The 

survey asked for each city to designate their 

main channel/s of communication (be they 

Fire/Police/EMS or Public Works) and to 

identify a channel that their departments 

could use as a secondary channel. This 

secondary channel will be designated their 

interoperability channel for the MARIP. 

Our next step will be to begin the process of 

inviting each discipline in the project to a 

briefing. The disciplines will include Police, 

Fire/EMS, County, State, Federal, Military, 

Mass Transportation and Public Utilities/ 

Public Works. As an example - We will ask 

the Police Departments to appear and brief 

those with the program, and after a demo of 

the Field Com/TRP1000 ask them to select 

a 13 person representative committee (12 

members and 1 Chairperson) to work on 

developing an operational plan for the vehicle. The time line for plan submission will 

be 3 months. After all the plans are submitted we will again meet with all the committee chairs and digest their reports to design 

a master plan. We project that by July 1, 

2002, we will be ready for full implementation. 

5.2 Orlando, Florida Project 

Orlando is one of the fastest growing cities 

in America, presently encompassing over 

105 square miles. The greater metropolitan 

Orlando area is made up of the City of Orlando and three counties (Orange, with a 

population of almost 850,000; Seminole, 

with a population of over 350,000 and Lake 

with a population of just over 200,000). By 

2005, the area population is projected to 

grow to over 1.75 million. 

Orlando acquired four (4) TRP-1000s. Their 

project plan re-deploys three of the units to 

the surrounding counties for their use. Orlando will inspect the units on an annual basis. 

Orlando installed 800 MHz radios so the 

other jurisdictions would have interoperability with Orlando. They requested a radio 

from each of the other jurisdictions to install 

in the unit they kept to assure interoperability with each of the recipient jurisdictions. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-4 

Orlando configured all the systems before 

sending them out. Each system currently 

houses a TRP-1000 transportable module 

with five UHF and five VHF radios. Each 

system has a file that tracks and logs connections, disconnects and any phone numbers called as well as date, time and who 

connected or disconnected. The city has 

also installed two 800 MHz radios, one 470-

512 MHz radio and one Motorola Low Band 

radio. They have Mosaic antennas for the 

UHF and VHF and they have two 800 MHz 

5/8 wave antennas. 

5.2.1 Orlando, Florida TRP-1000 Deployment 

Orlando houses the TRP-1000 unit in the 

mobile racks to allow dispatchers to be 

more easily trained at their new communications center. They are exploring vehicle deployment options. 

The City is also studying a mobile repeating 

option on a 50-foot tower, with four antennas mounted on an aluminum crossbar. 

With a van, they could use the "bigfoot" 

concept for raising antennas. They could 

use a disk antenna for low frequencies and 

a gain antenna for the 800 MHz spectrum. 

They are setting-up the TRP-1000 for use 

as an emergency dispatch center and as a 

mobile repeater. They have identified a 

number of frequencies to be used in the 

new system. In an emergency, they would 

be able to use the unit to dispatch to the 

entire city. Currently, portable radios have a 

problem transmitting back to a single antenna location. 

Note: 

The following section was taken from 

the AGILE: City of Orlando Fire Department Mock Disaster Drill AfterAction Report.

On January 13, 2001, the City of Orlando 

Fire Department (OFD) was involved in a 

mock disaster drill at Universal Studios in 

Orlando, Florida. The exercise included the 

City of Orlando Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Association, City of 

Orlando Fire Department, and National Disaster Medical Systems (NDMS) Disaster 

Medical Assistance Team (DMAT FL-6). 

During this exercise, the fire department 

had the opportunity to utilize a TRP-1000 

provided by the Department of Justice 

(DOJ) Office of Justice Programs (OJP), 

OSLDPS as part of a demonstration and 

assessment initiative. For this exercise, the 

TRP-1000 was used to link radio communications between the Orlando Fire Department and DMAT FL-6. The exercise simulated a tornado hit in an urban area and the 

response of community volunteers (CERT) 

coming to the aid of the 150 disaster victims. One hundred fifty children from an 

area high school were dressed in camouflage and acted as victims of the storm 

event. The victims were dispersed throughout a section of Universal Studios Florida. 

Victims were assessed and provided basic 

first aid by the 20 CERT teams participating 

in the event (8 people per team) and transported via stretchers to the DMAT. DMAT 

(a surgical field hospital) triaged and simulated treatment of 75 of these victims. The 

event lasted for five hours. 

The TRP-1000s were initially configured 

with Bendix King VHF and UHF radios. The 

City of Orlando Police Department purchased five Motorola 800 MHz MCS2000s 

for installation into the four TRP-1000s. 

Through a multi-agency agreement, the 800 

MHz radios were programmed with systems 

and talk-groups from neighboring jurisdictions as well as conventional NPSPAC interoperability channels. The Bendix King 

radios were programmed with frequencies 

utilized within the State of Florida for interoperability and disasters as well as Federal 

FEMA and NIC frequencies, which were 

also decided upon through multi-agency 

agreement. 

Orlando Fire Department transported the 

TRP-1000 to Universal Studios and set up 

operations in close proximity to DMAT FL-6. 

The TRP-1000 was set up and connected to 

AC power from two outlets on the property. 

OFD set up the antennas several wavelengths apart utilizing some ice machines 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-5 

and the vehicle as a ground plane. The set 

up time for the TRP-1000 was approximately 15 minutes. 

After the initial setup of the TRP-1000, a 

test was conducted of the 800 MHz, VHF, 

and UHF radios with an OFD portable radio. 

Initial attempts to generate a net between 

the 800 MHz, VHF, and UHF radios, and 

any combination thereof, were unsuccessful. OFD personnel determined that the 

speaker button on the VHF and UHF radios 

was set up for PA function rather than 

speaker. After the radios were reprogrammed, the TRP-1000 successfully generated nets between the 800 MHz, VHF, 

and UHF radios without incident. After generating a test net, audio settings were adjusted to optimize performance; once initially set, the settings did not require any 

further adjustment during the exercise. 

During the exercise, one of DMAT FL-6's 25 

KHz UHF simplex channels was linked to a 

OFD 800 MHz talk-group. Once the software correction (described above) was accomplished, the TRP-1000 worked flawlessly. There were brief moments of cross 

talk and intermod. This was not due to any 

deficiency in the TRP-1000 but a symptom 

of being set up in a RF rich environment, 

coupled with the DMAT FL- 6 radios utilizing 

carrier squelch rather than selective signaling. At the conclusion of the five-hour exercise, the TRP-1000 was dismantled and 

stored for transportation in 15 minutes. Assistant Chief Robert Sorenson noted, "The 

TRP-1000 has tremendous potential for the 

City of Orlando and surrounding jurisdictions. The ability to network communications of several agencies utilizing different 

communications mediums in a field portable 

piece of equipment makes operational interoperability a reality. In this exercise, the 

TRP-1000 system has proven to be a reliable and useful piece of equipment." 

5.3 Arapahoe County, Colorado 

Project 

Arapahoe County, Colorado is one of the 

largest counties in Colorado with a population of more than 500,000. It adjoins the 

City of Denver to the south, covering an 

area of 850 square miles. Littleton is the 

county seat. The western part of the 

County is mostly urban with residential, retail, office, and industrial areas, while the 

eastern portion is relatively rural. 

5.3.1 Arapahoe County, Colorado 

TRP-1000 Deployment 

Arapahoe County has two TRP-1000 units. 

One is currently mounted in a converted 

prisoner transport van as shown in Figure 

5-2. The county is purchasing a second van 

for the other unit that will have four wheeldrive capability and air conditioning. The 

unit is manned by telecommunications 

technicians and the van is available to go 

anywhere in the State of Colorado. There 

are two other technicians from neighboring 

counties that can be called upon to man the 

unit. 

The unit is equipped with 60 older VHF 

portable radios pre-configured for the interconnect system. These can be distributed 

at an emergency site to assure each team 

has a radio that can communicate with the 

command post. The TRP-1000 can be easily removed from the van for re-deployment 

to a higher elevation such as the top of a 

building. 

There are also two additional units set up in 

separate vans. The TRP-1000 units are 

Figure 5-2 Inside view of TRP-1000 strapped 

into a modified Arapahoe County Sheriffs 

prisoner transport van. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page 5-6 

attached via tie-down straps. There are 12 

antennas on each van and two generators 

in a trailer that is towed by the vans. 

Arapahoe County contacted the FCC and 

the state telecommunications offices to get 

a current list of frequencies being used by 

emergency response agencies. They used 

these to make a list of contacts and phone 

numbers for all responder agencies in Colorado. That information is carried on the unit 

as a reference. 

The communications technicians have also 

equipped the van with schematic diagrams 

and common cable connectors to be able to 

interconnect other radios to the system 

while at the scene. 

Power to the unit is supplied by two generators (one as backup) carried on a small flat 

bed trailer towed behind the van, or by extension cord hookup to any satisfactory outlet. The power supply is "filtered" through 

two uninterruptible power supply (UPS) 

units to prevent voltage spikes, and to guard 

against generator failure or inadvertent disconnection of the extension cord. 

Problems encountered with their set-up occurred on a hot day during the TOPOFF 

2000 Exercise. Communications technicians had to fine-tune the radios connected 

to the TRP-1000 because they started to 

drift off-frequency. They now plan accordingly for the heat and bring fans or crack 

windows as necessary. 

Arapahoe County also notes that extreme 

cold temperatures can also cause radio frequency drift. To solve this problem, they 

are staffing the unit with radio technicians 

who can monitor and correct most radio 

problems. In the future, vehicles will be 

equipped with air-conditioning and heat to 

minimize this problem. 

Plans include the addition of an Aluma 75-

foot winch-up tower. The tower would be 

towed on a trailer. 

Arapahoe County has informed other jurisdictions of their willingness to respond 

within the state in support of any major incidents. Arapahoe County has demonstrated 

the system on several occasions and has 

provided informational packets for other jurisdictions interested in the system. 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page A-1 

APPENDIX A – POINTS OF CONTACT 

The Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP)

Point of Contact: Scott Kelberg 

Email: mailto:kelbergs@ojp.usdoj.gov

Web Site: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/osldps 

Point of Contact: Frank Lepage 

Email: mailto:lepagef@ojp.usdoj.gov

Web Site: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/osldps 

ODP State Domestic Preparedness Equipment Program 

Although the jurisdictions identified in this user’s guide obtained their ACU/TRP-1000 systems through a one-time ODP pilot project, acquisition of interoperable communications 

equipment is also an allowable expense under the ODP State Domestic Preparedness 

Equipment program. Additional information on this program may be obtained from the ODP 

web site at: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov

JPS Communications, Inc, Corporate Support Information 

Address: 

JPS Communications, Inc. 

5800 Departure Drive 

Raleigh, NC 27616 

Phone: 919-790-1011 

Fax: 919-790-1456 

E-Mail: mailto:jps@jps.com

Web Site: http://www.jps.com/
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page B-1 

APPENDIX B – PARTICIPATING JURISDICTIONS 

Point of 

Contact Title Agency/Location Phone Number 

Vince Whitmore Chief Fire Department 

Alexandria, VA (703) 838-4600 

Jerry Evans Communications 

Operations Manager 

Fire Department 

Salt Lake City, UT (801) 799-3540 

Thomas Bland Special Agent Federal Bureau of Investigations 

Atlanta, GA (404) 679-9000 

John Hughes Telecommunications 

Specialist 

Federal Bureau of Prisons 

Philadelphia, PA (215) 521-7410 

R.L. Sorenson Assistant Chief Fire Department 

City of Orlando, FL (407) 246-3160 

Kay Calhoun Chief, Fire Communications Officer 

Fire Department 

Baton Rouge, LA (225) 389-4615 

Richard 

Nowakowski Project Manager Office of Emergency Communications Chicago, Ill (919) 790-1011 

Craig W. Howe Telecommunications 

Specialist 

Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office 

Arapahoe County, CO (303) 795-4998 
ACU/TRP-1000 Handbook 

Page C-1 

APPENDIX C – LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS/ACRONYMS 

Abbreviation/Acronym Callout 

AC Alternating current 

ACU/TRP-1000 systems Used to generically refer to both the ACU-1000 and TRP-1000 systems 

ACU-1000 ACU-1000 Modular Interconnect System 

AGILE Advanced Generation Interoperability for Law Enforcement 

Aluma Aluma is a registered trademark of the Aluma Tower Company, Inc. 

ATF Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms 

CERT Community Emergency Response Team 

CFA Community Fireman's Association 

CST Civil Support Team 

DC Direct current 

DMAT Disaster Medical Assistance Team 

EMS Emergency Medical Services 

FBI Federal Bureau of Investigation 

FCC Federal Communications Commission 

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency 

HazMat Hazardous Material 

HF High frequency 

IACP Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police 

IC Incident Commander 

JPS JPS Communications, Inc. 

KHz Kilo hertz 

MABAS Mutual Aid Box Alarm System 

MARIS Multiple Agency Radio Interoperability System 

MHz Mega hertz 

NDMS National Disaster Medical Systems 

NIC Network Interface Card 

NIJ National Institute of Justice 

ODP Office for Domestic Preparedness 

OEC Office of Emergency Communications 

OFD Orlando Fire Department 

OJP Office of Justice Programs 

PL Private line 

TRP Transportable 

TRP-1000 TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System 

UHF Ultra High Frequency 

UPS Uninterruptable power supply 

V Volt 

VHF Very High Frequency 

ViperNet Voice over Internet Protocol for the Extension of Radios over Networks. 

ViperNet is JPS' proprietary technology embodied in a family of hardware and software products that enable communications radios to be 

interconnected via a network across the room or around the world. Voice 

over Internet Protocol, known as VoIP, is a means of digitizing voice signals and transmitting them over a digital network, which can be a LAN, 

WAN or even the internet itself.