Safety-Attuned Liaison Using Software-Defined Radio

To address the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) need for a software-defined radio for public safety, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes to develop a new Safety-Attuned Liaison Using Software-Defined Radio (SALUS) device. This proposed radio device is based on a reconfigurable and interoperable modular open systems approach that integrates custom analog hardware, commercial microcontroller units, and open-source software to provide universal radios for public safety officers (PSOs). The device will operate continuously over 12-hour periods in various modes to communicate with land mobile radios and cellular networks. The device can perform base station operations to extend ranges of nearby devices in fringe coverage areas. In Phase I, Intellisense will demonstrate the feasibility of SALUS by developing the prototype architecture, identifying key risks and challenges addressed by the proposed device. Intellisense will determine a preliminary design at the end of Phase I to address DHS parameters. Now at technology readiness level (TRL)-2/3, the SALUS device will reach TRL-3/4 by the end of the Phase I effort. In Phase II, Intellisense will develop a SALUS prototype including an approach to obtain certification through the appropriate bodies. Phase II will include a modular design of SALUS for high-power user equipment and P25/Tetra using open-source software. The successful completion of this project at the end of Phase III will benefit the nation in both government and commercial sectors by providing flexible, affordable, and sustainable communications technology for PSOs. Commercial applications for this technology include a universal radio supporting public emergency services, firefighters, and police.