Case study for an internal emergency communication system using the IP502H, IC-SAT100 and IC-DU65B transceivers

Solving the problem that was faced, with a communication system based on IP transceivers as the core transceivers.

Once a year, YAMAHA MOTOR CO., LTD conducts a companywide disaster management training with approximately 18,000 people, including group companies. Additionally, once a month, it conducts communication training between all 18 locations, including headquarters. In the past, using digital convenience transceivers for training, communication interruptions frequently occurred. We tried to internally improve by increasing the number of convenience transceivers, adding extra antennas and so on, but it was not possible to solve the problem. Therefore, we contacted Icom and discussed out current communication system. As a result of field surveys, it was discovered that intermodulation and sensitivity suppression occurred when a multiple of 8 antennas installed on the rooftop were used simultaneously. This caused communication interruptions.

Based on the result of a survey of various communication systems to solve the problem, a plan using outdoor wireless LAN was suggested. The system is based on IP502H IP transceivers that can provide stable communications using the mobile phone network as well as IC-DU65B Convenience transceivers and IC-SAT100 Satellite transceivers was decided. And one of the attractive points is that this system allowed the continued use of existing model IC-DU65B transceivers as the different propose of use.

The most important thing is to share information in emergency situations, and so the need to establish a reliable and stable emergency communication system. 

"When a disaster occurs, the most important thing is to share information. In other words, it is important to establish reliable and stable communication system that functions no matter what kind of disaster occurs."

The IC-DU65B Convenience transceivers were introduced to share information within the workplace disaster prevention team at each location. Furthermore, the IP502H IP transceivers are introduced to send collected information, damage information on buildings/facilities, safety information (roll call result) and so on from each location to the disaster response headquarters. The IP502H IP transceivers can work in the mobile phone network to share information between all 18 locations. In addition, the IP502H supports dual SIM, and even if one carrier goes down, the IP502H can work by switching carriers. This is also attractive point as a communication device for disaster use.

The IC-SAT100 Satellite transceiver is introduced as the most important communication devise for determining the initial response in an emergency.

Previously, satellite phones were used as communication devises for the initial response from top management; a communication devise for the initial response must be kept nearby to be used at any time.

But satellite phones were too heavy to bring everywhere, and it took too much time to start up. There were many problems, such as not being able to use it immediately in emergency situations. On the other hand, there are many good points to an IC-SAT100 Satellite transceiver in that it is portable and can send information to multiple people at once.

Synergy Performance with IP transceiver, Convenience transceiver, and Satellite transceiver

Previously, a communication system was established based on Convenience transceivers as the core transceiver. Introducing 3 different type of transceivers this time, a reliable and stable communication system is established, and various advantages are given.

The IC-SAT100 Satellite transceivers are used for the initial response and decision. The IC-DU65B Convenience transceivers are used for information gathering at each location. The IP502H IP transceivers are used for sending collected information at each location to the Head office. By clarifying the purpose of use for each transceiver type and the information transmission route, it is possible to establish smoother communications than ever before. Even if the mobile phone network is down and the IP502H IP transceivers do not work, the IC-DU65B Convenience transceivers work between each location. In this way, there are great benefits to constructing a communication system using transceivers with 3 different communication formats.

Ideal Communication System

By employing Convenience transceivers, IP transceivers, and adding Satellite transceivers, it was then possible to establish an ideal communication system for emergency situations.

Now the new communication system for emergencies has been set up. As the next challenge, it is important to be prepared to use this system effectively and communicate information smoothly in an emergency. Therefore, we will continue to conduct disaster management training regularly. In the future, we are considering adding the use of data communication, including data and video.

The transceivers are mainly for emergency use. At 5 guardhouses at the head office, the transceivers are used for normal operations. The IC-DU65B Convenience transceivers are used for daily patrols and the IP502H transceivers are used for communications between locations. Furthermore, the IC-SAT100 Satellite transceivers are used at the main guardhouse for 24 hours daily security and emergencies.