Media Release – October 30 2008
TeamTalk Expands Secure Technology Network Across NZ
TeamTalk is pleased to announce the roll out of secure top end IP-based technology, “P25” in Auckland, linking to the
service already in place in Wellington and Christchurch, says TeamTalk managing director David Ware.
TeamTalk has also improved the Wellington service which will give better coverage in the capital.
“P25 provides direct benefits for a range of central and local government agencies to communicate privately on a day to
day basis with an added bonus. When an emergency arises that needs co-ordination across various organizations, P25
ensures calls and data are encrypted and can’t be overheard by anyone not involved in the emergency response.”
The government has set P25 as the public sector benchmark for secure encrypted communications.
“TeamTalk is confident this system will also have benefits for private sector companies who require an extra layer of
comfort around the security of their business communications. So we are looking forward to talking with interested
parties about how this technology can work for them and giving them a demonstration of the capabilities of the system,”
says Mr Ware.
“Another bonus for customers is that this service is centrally managed in real time right here from the office in
Wellington. We also have PC based software that can emulate a physical radio, allowing connectivity to the network via
VPN or internet which will also make it attractive to companies looking for seamless secure communications.
"TeamTalk has other smart technologies on offer that will enhance current business communications. Those products and
services, along with advancements like P25, are part of our future-proofing strategy for our customers. We are
continually investigating other “business smart” communication technologies to deliver to our customers in the near
future. “TeamTalk managing director David Ware concluded.
Background
The need for P25 was sharply felt in the US during the 9/11 attack, when the thousands of emergency vehicles and staff
attending weren’t able to communicate directly. This was identified as a major problem and caused the US Government to
focus on P25 as a key element of its Homeland Security initiatives.
Developed by the US Public Safety organisation, APCO, P25 was designed to overcome three problems;
• Interoperability – agencies have difficulty talking to each other
• Privacy – calls and information need to be extremely secure
• Coverage – they require reliable communications over large rural area as well as in cities.
P25 technology is TIA Standard–based and supports handsets from a variety of manufacturers including Tait Electronics
and Motorola.
ENDS