With the rollout of 5G networks and new technologies like cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI), it is now possible for emergency service organizations and local government to replace two-way radios or traditional cell phone-based communications with a solution based on 5G ultra-high-definition (UHD) video push-to-talk (PTT) over cellular technology.
Reliable and secure 5G PTT can transform mission-critical communications for industrial workers and emergency crews. It gives instantaneous voice and video communications at the push of a button, as well as precise positioning and centralized dispatch for improved safety and efficiency.
Mission-critical communications
With 5G PTT, it is simple for organizations to connect anytime, anywhere, using standard mobile devices, without the need to dial a number, set up a conference call or manage multiple apps.
The China Mobile 5G PTT solution leverages 5G infrastructure to provide highly reliable, low latency services with data segregation, supporting secure one-to-one or one-to-many voice PTT users. It also facilitates real-time transmission and playback of 4K UHD videos. Team members can also send text messages and share photos, maps and files, enjoying high-quality communications whether they are in offices, off site or remote locations.
5G PTT provides visualizable dispatch services to allow a centralized dispatcher to coordinate team members in multiple locations—with precise positioning to under 1 meter. Geo-fence location alerts support on-site teamwork by connecting PTT users in a defined area and working with emergency protocols to promote safety. The dispatcher can also leverage smart AI applications for image identification to streamline manpower and vehicle command services.
Furthermore, organizations can roll out China Mobile 5G PTT on a unified cloud platform for fast, flexible and cost-effective deployment. The solution proved its value to large event organizers when it was successfully deployed during the 14th National Games of China in Shanxi in 2021 and the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Faster response to fire emergencies
For fire departments everywhere, response time is critical to saving lives. Shanghai uses a hierarchical fire service model to respond to emergencies at speed, complementing full-service fire stations with a network of micro fire stations that bring personnel—both professional and volunteer—and equipment closer to the community.
To optimize the system and save precious moments, the Shanghai Fire Department has deployed a 5G PTT over a cellular system from China Mobile. It comprises more than 10,000 5G PTT terminals and a cloud-based operating platform that helps improve efficiency daily and in an emergency.
When a fire alarm is received, the new operational platform integrates geographic information system (GIS) and PTT services to automatically locate a micro fire station within 1 km of the fire site and open a secure PTT channel within 500 milliseconds. Professional firefighters are alerted and a standardized message is blasted out to experienced volunteer firefighters. The firefighters may be widely dispersed and use different devices, but the PTT solution delivers a clear message every time.
The dispatcher coordinates all the fire department resources for a timely and appropriate response to the emergency, with visualizable management and control at the micro station level. With 4K UHD video, the dispatcher can carry out smart inspections. Each PPT terminal can proactively report real-time videos, while the dispatch center supports simultaneous viewing of videos from multiple channels.
The China Mobile solution also enables early warning of fire hazards. The dispatch platform uses a regional Internet of Things (IoT) device management module to monitor smoke detectors and fire alarm systems. This information helps create a real-time fire-fighting heat map for a specific urban area so that personnel can be dispatched promptly from the micro fire station to check for hidden dangers.
Crucially, the new fire department system helps ensure that the closest micro fire station responds when an alarm is raised, so that firefighters arrive at the scene within three minutes. This can literally mean the difference between life and death. The ultimate goal is to bring this level of responsiveness to more emergency services and industrial enterprises, improving speed, safety and customer service.
