First Responders Looking Forward to New 4G Network

For public safety agencies across the country, an interoperable high-speed wireless network couldn't come fast enough.

First responders want to be able to download and upload large data files from the field and communicate on a network without delays and patchy coverage. Fortunately ultra-fast fourth-generation (4G) wireless technology has been building momentum in 2010, with the latest boost coming from Verizon Wireless. By the end of the year, Verizon plans to launch a massive long term evolution (LTE) network, reaching 110 million Americans in 38 major markets across the country, company officials announced Wednesday, Oct. 6, at the CTIA Enterprise and Applications conference. Deployed over Verizon's nationwide 700 MHz spectrum, the network will extend applications like never before with data downlink rates of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and uplink rates of 2 to 5 Mbps. To start, Verizon's network will be available in cities such as Seattle, Houston, Los Angeles, New York and Washington, D.C. In addition, 60 commercial airports will also have LTE coverage.

Some public safety entities, such as the Baltimore (MD.) Police Department in a pilot with Sprint in January 2009, have already tested 4G technology.