IP Radios

IP Radios are the answer to customer’s demand for more range, more integration and more users. These devices work through existing wireless systems, and thus can be integrated with existing infrastructure. Further, IP systems do not require licensing.

So how does it work? The system is the logical combination of radio and wireless technology. Each system requires a controller, which acts to manage up to 100 units.  Access points are placed in locations where the units will be used, and units can jump from access point to access point while a person is moving throughout a large area.

The system can also work over a system that expands to different buildings or cities. This is designed through the use of routers on each end, and of course the necessary access points. Only one controller is necessary, as it can work remotely to manage units off site.

This technology is perfect for enterprises working over several dispersed sites, or large areas such as hotels and warehouses. It is also scalable according to unique needs and concerns.

Check out the following infographic to demonstrate how it works!

IP Radios (4)

Image source: Unsplash

Spot News Release:1000 Rescues in Canada

SPOT Satellite Technology Delivers Peace of Mind for Outdoor Enthusiasts with 1,000 Rescues Initiated in Canada – over 3,500 Rescues Worldwide
Proven and essential safety gear, SPOT devices provide affordable and reliable connectivity, S.O.S. notifications, and real-time GPS tracking, completely independent of cellular coverage

Highlights:

  • SPOT satellite devices have been used to initiate 1,000 rescues in Canada since 2007; over 3,500 worldwide.
  • SPOT gained 12,000 new Canadian users in 2014; 55,000 worldwide.
  • B.C., Alberta and Nunavut account for the majority of SPOT rescue incidents to date.

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario – March 25, 2015 – Globalstar Canada Satellite Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar Inc. (NYSE MKT: GSAT) and the leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, announced today that its SPOT products have been used to initiate 1,000 rescues in Canada, many life-saving, since the technology was launched in 2007. British Columbia has reported the greatest number of SPOT rescues with 376 incidents, followed by Alberta at 115 and Nunavut at 111. Another 96 SPOT rescues have been initiated in Ontario and 85 in Quebec. The majority of these rescues were comprised of hiking/mountain sports, boating/water sports and motor vehicle incidents.

With hundreds of thousands of SPOT units in service globally, SPOT delivers peace of mind for outdoor enthusiasts with affordable and reliable connectivity and real-time GPS tracking, when there is unreliable or no cellular coverage. In Canada, SPOT gained 12,000 new users in 2014, adding 55,000 worldwide, a record number of activations in any single year which underscores the fact that Canadians increasingly want to stay connected.

SPOT products offer users worldwide peace of mind, by allowing them to track their assets, use location-based messaging and emergency notification technology and to make calls beyond the reach of mobile signals. Since it was introduced, outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers such as hikers, boaters, campers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts have come to depend on SPOT’s life-saving capabilities.

Emergency Preparedness
The first week of May is Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada, a time when Canadians are encouraged to take a role in being prepared for an emergency. This includes knowing the risks, making a plan and building an emergency kit. Essential and proven safety gear, SPOT satellite devices can be an important part of trip planning for anyone considering outdoor adventures where cellular coverage is unreliable or unavailable.

According to Kevin Callan, SPOT Ambassador and the ‘Happy Camper’:  “SPOT Gen3 is an incredible piece of technology that not only allows for a much safer wilderness trip, but it also provides a sense of ease for friends and family at home. That’s a huge asset. With GPS accuracy, it pin-points my location, lets people at home know where I am, and that I’m safe. It also can send an emergency signal if I ever need it. I’ve used this device for several years now and greatly depend on it.”

SPOT continues to innovate with products and services that deliver peace of mind, reliable connectivity and accurate GPS tracking solutions that are relevant to millions of users around the world, such as:

  • SPOT Gen3™ is a rugged and affordable GPS tracking device providing off-the-grid messaging, emergency alerts, extended battery life, and extreme GPS tracking at 2 ½ minute intervals.
  • SPOT Global Phone is the most affordable satellite phone available in retail, allowing users to make calls virtually anywhere beyond the boundaries of cellular.
  • SPOT Trace™ is a GPS tracking device which uses 100% satellite technology to track anything, anytime, anywhere. SPOT Trace ensures that users never lose sight of their car, boat, motorcycle, ATV or other valuable gear.

The ability to send S.O.S. notifications to GEOS and emergency dispatch services are included in the SPOT Basic Service plan. The GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center is staffed 24/7 with dedicated and highly trained operatives who have access to emergency responders worldwide, to ensure timely and efficient response to each emergency situation.

Microsoft for Mobile Devices

Earlier this month, Microsoft shifted to providing the Office suite free for mobile devices.[1] While this may not sound revolutionary, for those of us who live on our devices, it in fact is.

Many of us use Microsoft products in our everyday business and personal affairs. We are well versed in the features, understand the tools, and have no inclination to change. However, upon moving to a mobile device, users were previously forced to resort to Apple and Google offerings. Frankly, these products do not have the ease of use and universality of Microsoft Office.

The shift by Microsoft is especially welcome now that Google has moved to multiple apps for Google Drive, requiring the installation and use of 2 apps where one would easily suffice.

Aware of this situation, Microsoft has altered its previous paid model and allowed the products for free download to consumers (not businesses).[2] Microsoft’s motivation is apparently to ensure dominance of the Office suite across platforms.[3]

Office is available on the iTunes store and on Google Play.

[1] http://office.microsoft.com/en-ca/mobile/

[2] http://www.theverge.com/2014/11/6/7163789/microsoft-office-free-for-ipad-iphone-android

[3] http://www.theverge.com/2014/11/6/7163789/microsoft-office-free-for-ipad-iphone-android

Digital Doctor: Medeo

This week’s post is a little different. At Walco Radio, we are excited by all technology, and are eager to tell you how you can use it to make your life better. With that in mind, we have found a program that we think is pretty innovative.
It is no secret that finding a GP in BC is a struggle. Many people have lost their GP to retirement, moved to a new city and never found one, or simply never had one to begin with. The Province, in realizing this issue, has launched a program called Medeo.
Medeo is essentially Skype or Facetime with a doctor. It works on your desk top, Apple or Android device. You can get the iTunes app here and the android app here.
Getting set up is relatively easy. You simply sign up by creating a login. Security is ensured by requiring a cell phone number for verification. In other words, when you log in, a text is sent to your phone with a code that must be entered onscreen. Next, you fill out a form with your symptoms. You are then connected to a coordinator who either puts you through to a physician or sets up an appointment for later. The session with the physician is carried out using your device’s camera and microphone. Just like in a face to face appointment, the doctor may give you a prescription or referral to a specialist.
Many of the practitioners on the board of Medeo are based out of Victoria or Vancouver. The founder of the program received his education in Alberta, and has practiced in Victoria for 4 years. This ensures local content and understanding of the needs of BC residents with respect to health care.
This program is an exciting new way to combine mobile technology with modern concerns. Just one more way communications devices are changing our world.