PacStar shows versatile, rugged communication device

Much has been written about the communication needs of first response and emergency teams, and how 9/11 and Katrina demonstrated that these needs are yet to be met. Here is one small step in the right direction. Portland, Oregon-based PacStar is showing its PacStar 5500, a self-managed, feature-rich, and secure deployable communications system contained in a rugged case which is not too heavy. The device is aimed for use in war zones, disaster areas, or remote precincts. Similar products may require a six-ton truck or military-grade aircraft to transport, but the PacStar 5500 can be transported in a Humvee or helicopter and carried by two people. The company says it can be set up in ten minutes with single-button operation. You may see the PacStar 5500 — and even purchase it — at the AFCEA Homeland Security 2.0 Conference held today and tomorrow in Washington, D.C.

The PacStar 5500 supports high-bandwidth voice, data, and video communications, IP networking, file sharing, and print services in compliance with rigid security requirements and delivered across any technology platform through a secure network. Among the features the PacStar 5500 offers: Wireless/wireline LAN, PBX, and WAN connectivity

Communication to backbone networks via satellite, microwave, free space optics, or Public Switched Telephone Network circuits

Wireless communications which are FIPS 140-2 or NSA Level 1 compliant

Adherence to platforms and codes currently in use by military and commercial contractors

Read more about the PacStar at company Web site