We are witnessing a veritable explosion in wireless technology.  Gone are the days of choosing between being mobile and being productive. New devices and improved wireless services are stretching the limits of communications, and even saving lives.

According to the Center for Digital Government, public-sector wireless projects in the United States generated twice as many RFPs in 2003 than 2002.  Just as workers in the private sector use wireless computers to retrieve assignments, access data from corporate networks and send e-mail while away from their desks, growing numbers of government employees are also benefiting from untethered digital communications. 

Mr. Raffaeli manages complex radio systems in support of all County and municipal Fire and Emergency Medical Systems.  His is an administrative, operational and technical position involving responsibility for managing radio equipment, radio sites and their tenants.

Currently underway in DoIT: 

DoIT is implementing a countywide wireless data network.  The primary purpose of establishing this vital broadband network is to provide a secure, high-speed wireless data connection at the scene of an emergency incident.  It is being used between first responders, subject matter experts, and incident managers for day-to-day public safety issues, as well as homeland security incidents.  Worth noting is that this network allows for mobility, in that it can be established quickly and in almost any location in the County. 

DoIT understands the benefits of steering away from antiquated technologies and moving toward cutting-edge solutions.  This network applies 802.11-like protocols and TCP/IP, as well as 2.4 GHz and the recently licensed 4.9 GHz spectrum.   These state-of-the-art technologies provide efficient use of spectrum and allow interoperability by permitting the County to extend public safety and other emergency resources of the County, State and national governments to nearly any incident within the County.

This network serve as an excellent model of interoperable emergency communications for the entire country.  It satisfies most, if not all requirements of emergency incident response and enhances and assures public safety for the citizens of Westchester County.

What are Wi-Fi and WiMax?

DoIT is designing and installing a countywide two-way voice radio system for dispatch of Emergency Medical Services, the Fire Department, and the Department of Transportation.  The system is designed to include nine radio hubs and more than a thousand mobile/portable radios.  Mobile radios will be installed in the 600 front line Fire/EMS vehicles in the County.  Each vehicle will also be supplied with a portable radio.  Similar radios will also be installed in all Bee Line buses.  Present plans call for each County police department and hospital to receive a "base" radio.  This new radio system will allow the County to assemble communications groups and link them together as they respond to emergencies. 
 

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