Skip to Main ContentNIJ CommTech
 
Research and Development
What's New
CommTech Programs and Reports
Research and Development
Interoperability Standards
Grants and funding
National Task Force
Other Resources

National Institute of Justice (NIJ)   

CommTech: Research, Development, Testing and Evaluation of Interoperability Technologies (RDT&E)

In order to consider the latest technologies that may impact short and long-term interoperability planning, NIJ/OST released a focused solicitation in May 2000 for research and development proposals that address the area of convergence of wireless and information technologies, software radios and general interoperability technologies. The proposals were reviewed by a peer panel and NIJ, resulting in four awards in September 2000.

To assist State and local agencies that are in immediate need of interoperability assistance, NIJ has developed partnerships to technically and operationally evaluate interoperability solutions. A Federal laboratory will provide technical assessments, while public safety agencies (such as the Alexandria, Virginia, Police Department) are integrating, testing, and evaluating products in actual operational environments. The first product that underwent evaluation was the ACU-1000. Evaluation of other interoperability products is now underway, including the following:


Operational Test Beds

The CommTech Program will use operational test beds, such as the Alexandria Police Department, to integrate, test, and evaluate technologies that can contribute to addressing interoperability needs. The test beds will:

  • Demonstrate capability of existing technology to address some key critical interoperability requirements;

  • Identify shortfalls in the current technology base;

  • Investigate policy and procedure issues associated with introduction of technology to support interoperability;

  • Identify the impact of interoperability technology on the organization of law enforcement and public safety agencies; and

  • Share the results of the operational evaluation to the State and local law enforcement community.

Evaluations of technologies within the operational test beds will span a number of issues beyond how well the technologies worked to include impact on operations, organization, and infrastructure. Operational evaluations will be conducted over an extended period to ensure a comprehensive perspective on such issues.