Replacing our ALPS hardware and installing smart phones in our appliances
We will be replacing our Appliance Location and Positioning System (ALPS) hardware and installing smart phones in appliances.
Mobile network providers in New Zealand and around the world are shutting down 3G networks(external link) to make way for faster and more power efficient 4G and 5G technology. This means customers who are still using 3G reliant devices, not just phones, will need to update device settings or upgrade to a newer device before the networks are switched off to retain connectivity.
For Fire and Emergency, this means we need to replace our Appliance Location and Positioning System (ALPS) units and replace the fixed phones installed into many of our appliances with smart phones.
Replacement of ALPS units
Fire and Emergency went to market last year to select a vendor to supply these new units and has awarded the tender to One NZ.
One NZ will begin a programme of replacement in each of the 950 vehicles that has this equipment, using a team of installers from around the country to install it on station as quickly and as efficiently as possible.
Replacement of the hardware also requires the fitting of a new GPS/cellular antenna in place of the existing. It’s anticipated that the process of uninstalling the current equipment and installing the new, plus testing, may take somewhere between 2-4 hours, depending on the truck type.
To reduce disruption to service as much as possible, the appliance can remain on the run during the install time, however ComCen will need to be aware of a possible delay in response as the installers remove themselves and tools to ready the truck for response. The installers will work with duty crews, VSOs, and CFOs to ensure any impact is minimised.
Stations will be advised in advance as to when the installers plan to be on site and there will be contact prior to installing to ensure users are aware when the install is to happen. New smart phones will also be installed in appliances at the same time as the new ALPS units.
New smart phones in appliances
We will be replacing the fixed phones in appliances with a portable smartphone (Samsung Galaxy) to give officers and crews the ability to remove the phone from the truck if required and to take advantage of the use of a range of applications to assist with their role.
The new phones will be mounted in place of the existing fixed phone, using a Quad Lock mount and wireless charging system.
The new phones will provide users with the features of the Public Safety Network SIM cards, which include roaming across Spark and One NZ networks, increased call quality, and priority on the cellular network.
These phones will be installed during the ALPS installation process and existing appliance phone numbers will be carried over to the new SIM, so the appliance can retain the same number.
If you shift into a relief appliance it is expected that you will take your phone with you and any new appliance you get in the future will come pre-fitted with a mount/charger for you to transfer your phone over to.
Further information on the new Smart Phone features is included in the Fire and Emergency phone guide.
We are hoping to commence both of these replacements in May. There will be more information coming.