Disaster Response Teams Require Dependable Mobile Connectivity
Time and connectivity are critical in disaster recovery operations. When catastrophe strikes, first responders and recovery teams must hit the ground running with reliable communication networks. Organizations dedicated to disaster response and recovery understand this need more than anyone. With FEMA, government agencies, and non-profits, a U.S.-based recovery organization provides rapid deployment of essential communication tools to ensure successful recovery missions.
The organization coordinates response and recovery missions in areas ravaged by natural disasters. It is often deployed to disaster sites within 24 hours and required to be fully operational within 72 hours. Its mission is mission-critical, meaning failure is not an option. This need for rapid, reliable communication is why they turned to Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions (Ericsson) solutions and MCA’s TRaCK Box for dependable mobile network connectivity.
After the devastating Category 5 Super Typhoon YuTu hit the Saipan, Guam, and Tinian islands, the organization was tasked with restoring communication channels to facilitate emergency relief and recovery operations. Their team was the first to arrive in a region with widespread infrastructure destruction, needing a fast and reliable communication solution to coordinate response efforts.
Challenge | Establishing Network Connectivity In A Disaster Zone
Disaster zones present unique challenges, especially when setting up communication networks. After Typhoon YuTu, Saipan, Guam, and Tinian were left in ruins, the island suffered the most damage. No building on Tinian retained its roof, and the primary runway was severely damaged. Guam’s airport, the region's central communication and logistics hub, also required immediate attention.
The organization's challenges were twofold: They needed to establish network connectivity in an environment where no communication infrastructure remained and needed more resources available on the ground to deploy such a network. The lack of cellular connectivity made traditional methods impossible, and the team needed to ensure continuous communication with FEMA, other government agencies, and non-profits coordinating the recovery.
Solution | Ericsson’s NetCloud Service for Mobile and MCA’s TRaCK Box
To overcome these challenges, the organization turned to Ericsson’s NetCloud Service for mobile, which includes a rugged LTE-embedded router, 24/7 support, and a limited lifetime warranty. This solution is specifically designed for mobile units operating in harsh conditions, such as disaster zones, providing reliable network connectivity for their field operations.
The organization installed Ericsson devices inside transportable field units, which they paired with MCA’s Tactical Rapid Communications Kit (TRaCK Box) equipped with the R1900 router. The TRaCK Box is a ruggedized communications kit that provides rapid and reliable connectivity in extreme conditions. It includes an Ericsson IBR900 with multi-carrier 4G LTE Advanced support, dual-band WiFi, and shock/vibration resistance according to military standards.
Using the TRaCK Box alongside Ericsson’s solution, the organization could set up an operational network within hours of landing in the disaster zone. The TRaCK Box’s durability and extended battery life (up to 48 hours) meant the team could maintain connectivity even in the harshest environments without relying on external power sources.
The R1900 Equipped TRaCK Box Solution
The TRaCK Box, developed by MCA’s CNS Team, played a crucial role in the success of this mission. This portable, all-in-one communications kit meets the mobile connectivity needs of industries like emergency management, law enforcement, and military operations.
The TRaCK Box has the Ericsson R1900 router, a robust device that supports 5G, LTE Advanced Pro, and DC-HSPA+ fallback. Its dual-band WiFi, multi-carrier 4G LTE Advanced Pro modem, and ruggedized exterior make it ideal for disaster recovery situations. With an IP54 rating and compliance with MIL-STD 810G standards, the R1900 can withstand shock, vibration, and humidity, making it the perfect choice for unpredictable conditions in post-disaster zones.
The TRaCK Box also offers customizable options, such as VoIP solutions, to ensure seamless voice and data communication for first responders. Its waterproof, crushproof, and rustproof design ensures durability, while its lightweight build and soft-grip foldable handle make it easily transportable. The organization utilized these features to deploy its network quickly and efficiently, allowing them to manage communications for FEMA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other agencies on the ground.
Benefits | Fast, Reliable Connectivity with Remote Management
Fast Network Connectivity
The combination of the Ericsson NetCloud Service and TRaCK Box allowed the organization to establish network connectivity within hours of arriving on the islands. This fast deployment was critical for coordinating air and ground operations, bringing essential supplies, and communicating with government agencies.
Reliable, Always-On Connection
Ericsson’s LTE-embedded router and MCA’s TRaCK Box provided the organization an always-on connection, even without traditional infrastructure. The TRaCK Box’s extended battery life and solar generator compatibility meant the network remained operational even in the most challenging conditions.
Seamless Integration with Communication Tools
The organization relied on network connectivity to utilize its proprietary software that tracks personnel and materials in and out of the disaster zones. The secure network connection also enabled the use of encrypted communication tools, such as WhatsApp, to ensure the privacy and security of sensitive information during the recovery operations.
Remote Management Capabilities
With Ericsson’s NetCloud Manager, the organization could remotely manage and update all their Ericsson devices from a single location. This capability was invaluable during extended recovery operations, as it allowed the organization to maintain control over the network and ensure that all systems were functioning correctly without being physically present at each site.
Long-Term Reliability for Prolonged Recovery Efforts
As the recovery efforts continued for months, the organization needed a network solution that could be relied upon for the long haul. The Ericsson and TRaCK Box solutions proved to be highly durable and reliable, enabling the team to manage the distribution of generators to critical locations such as hospitals, schools, and shelters.
Results | A Reliable Communication Network Deployed Within Hours of Arrival
The combination of Ericsson’s NetCloud Service and MCA’s TRaCK Box equipped with the R1900 router enabled the organization to complete its mission successfully. Within hours of landing in the disaster zone, the team established a reliable communication network to coordinate relief efforts, manage logistics, and communicate with key stakeholders.
Thanks to the TRaCK Box's rapid deployment capabilities, the team provided FEMA and other agencies with the communication infrastructure they needed to deliver aid and resources to the affected islands. The solution's long-term reliability ensured that recovery operations could continue without interruption for several months.
The Ericsson NetCloud Service and MCA’s TRaCK Box solution are indispensable tools for disaster recovery operations. By providing fast, reliable, and durable network connectivity in post-disaster environments, these solutions enable first responders to focus on what matters most: saving lives and rebuilding communities.
About MCA and Our CNS Team
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives. More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace.
Our Cellular Networking Solutions (CNS) team (formerly known as USAT) is made up of certified experts in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for public and private enterprises nationwide - complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts.
Our extensive catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments allows us to deliver a full suite of reliable technologies capped with a service-first approach.
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