Software-defined radio from Thales obtains intrinsic safe certification

Posted by John McHaleCLARKSBURG, Md., 26 March 2011. A software-defined, multiband radio system from Thales Communications that is used in first responder applications obtained Factory Mutual (FM) Approval Standard 3610:1988 for Intrinsic Safe equipment. The Liberty Multiband Land Mobile Radio (LMR) can now operate safely in explosive environments near flammable or combustible material.The Liberty LMR is a portable LMR that enables emergency responders to communicate with partner agencies, regardless of radio frequency band. It operates across all the public safety bands (136-174 MHz, 380-520 MHz, 700 MHz, and 800 MHz) and in Project 25 (P25) conventional, P25 trunked, and legacy analog modes. The Liberty LMR is capable of Output Feedback Data Encryption Standard (OFB DES) and AES encryption with Over-The-Air-Rekey (OTAR) for secure communications. It is MIL-SPEC rugged and submersible to two meters. "Agencies now have an Intrinsic Safe option available in a full-spectrum multiband," says Mike Sheehan, president and chief executive officer of Thales Communications, Inc. "Successful completion of the testing further illustrates Thales's dedication to providing interoperability to all users, including those working in hazardous environments."Intrinsic Safe certification complies with the requirements of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate for their Multiband Radio Project.The Liberty LMR is manufactured at Thales's Clarksburg, Md., facilities. The products are available for purchase through GSA Schedule GS-35L-0001L and DOI contract GS-TFMG-BPA-09-0012. For additional ordering vehicles and product information, email [email protected] or visit www.thalesliberty.com.