Migrating From Cellular Digital Packet Data

• NCJ Number: 217104
• Date Published: March 2007
• Length: 2 pages
• Agencies: NIJ
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)

Annotation

This paper briefly discusses the migration of public safety agencies’ network connectivity from cellular digital packet data (CDPD) to commercial/private wireless broadband services.

Abstract

Key points identified in the move from cellular digital packet data include: (1) public safety agencies that use commercial cellular digital packet data (CDPD) will soon be forced to migrate to another method of communication; (2) commercial companies are now offering wireless data services that transmit data at significantly higher speeds than CDPD; (3) several factors should be considered when migrating to a new service, including reliability, bandwidth, subscriber fees, and coverage; and (4) private mobile networks consisting of radio frequency network data systems or wireless broadband networks are also viable options. The most popular form of network connectivity for public safety agencies, CDPD, will soon be unavailable due to failing equipment and an insufficient user base. CDPD can be replaced by wireless broadband systems. However, the end of the CDPD era will have significant financial, technical, and operational implications for public safety data communications. The new era of wireless broadband services should be embraced with an open but informed mind. It will likely open the door to some exciting new public safety features. 2 notes