Philips Radio Communication Systems has launched a touch screen, terminal-based control system for integrated mobile and telephone communications. The system, called DX3000 is aimed at frequent users of mobile radio communications such as police forces, the emergency services and public utilities. The hub of the system is a digital switch with a capacity of 1,000 ports, similar to a digital exchange in telephony but supporting radio as well as telephone traffic. Operators in a control room can call up database information from a remote location via a local area network or from the computer’s own memory and send it out to the field operator. Exact requirements vary between organisations, but the touch screen approach remains the same. Calling up information and dialling out to operators is all done using the screen as Philips reckons that it is an ergonomic improvement, which can be particularly relevant for police and emergency service operators – but please don’t use the touch screen if you’ve been eating fish and chips from a newspaper.
