User's Guide

First InterComm ™ System User Guide
A29798 Page 1
November 2007
Welcome to First InterComm™ Networking
The First InterComm™ System (FICS) allows first responders from different agencies at
an emergency incident to readily communicate with one another, even though their
radios operate on different frequencies; i.e., VHF, UHF or 800 MHz systems, both digital
and analog. The FICS can accommodate any new communication technologies,
including the 700-MHz bandwidth.
Only one vehicle from each on-scene department is required to have an installed FICS
unit to enable linking dissimilar radio networks. There is no requirement for special
equipment, stand-alone towers, or other costly infrastructure.
An optional capability of the FICS is the Incident Commander Talkgroup Control™
Software (ICTCS) that allows the Incident Commander (IC), using a standard laptop
computer with Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) capability, to monitor system status and to
control communications. The ICTCS significantly enhances the system, but is not
required for voice interoperability; the latter is provided by the VCA100 and associated
antennas alone.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated the FICS a “Qualified
Anti-Terrorism Technology” under the SAFETY Act. The FICS Supports the National
Incident Management System (NIMS), and is included in the Memorial Institute for the
Prevention of Terrorism (MIPT) “Responder Knowledge Base” and the InterAgency
Board's (IAB) “Standardized Equipment List” (SEL).
Finally, it is important to note that using the FICS does not require changes to your
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Rather, it provides day-to-day voice
interoperability at an incident scene, and offers improved coordination of on-site first
responder personnel.
This User Guide contains a description of the FICS, and information on how to activate
the system and maximize its effectiveness.
First InterComm™ System Overview
The FICS consists of a Vehicle Communications Assembly (VCA100), a Land Mobile
Radio (LMR) antenna, and a Wi-Fi antenna. The system uses standard 12 VDC vehicle
power and has these features:
• No setup time required; voice interoperability is automatically available within one
minute of arriving on scene;
• Responders use their existing familiar radios. Multiple radios are not required;
• Responders require no special training;
• System span is scalable from routine to large incidents with no change in SOP;
• Compliance with commercial standards for radio communications and mesh
networks;