[April 10, 2013] TeleCommunication Systems Supports ATIS/TIA Interim Text to 9-1-1 Solution Tweet Apr 10, 2013 (Close-Up Media via COMTEX) -- TeleCommunication Systems, Inc., a provider of secure mobile communication technology, announced that it fully supports and conforms to the new J-STD-110 Joint Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions/Telecommunications Industry Association Native SMS to 9-1-1 Requirements and Architecture Specification, a standard that, upon implementation, will provide short message services subscribers the ability to send an SMS text message to 9-1-1. In a release, the Company noted that this interim solution is part of the effort to enhance public safety through the use of SMS text messaging to 9-1-1. The FCC requires that carriers implement technology to allow customers to send text messages to 9-1-1 in areas where public safety answering points are prepared to receive the texts. In an emergency situation where the caller is hearing- or speech-impaired, in noise-sensitive situations or when networks are congested with voice calls, SMS 9-1-1 allows rapid communication with public safety first response dispatch facilities via text. TCS has been a key contributor to the new J-STD-110 standard and is currently deploying products compliant with this important industry solution. TCS has collaborated with ATIS in conjunction with TIA to develop and publish this new standard outlining the requirements, architecture and procedures for text messaging to 9-1-1 emergency services using native wireless operator SMS capabilities for the existing generation and next generation (NG9-1-1) PSAPs. This interim solution enables the routing and delivery of SMS 9-1-1 text messages via different methodologies, including TTY (teletype interface used primarily in telecommunications devices for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), a Web service interface based on secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol and an "i3" ESInet interface defined by the National Emergency Numbering Authority for interconnection to NG9-1-1 systems. ATIS President and CEO, Susan Miller, said: "ATIS is committed to developing and improving technical and operations standards. We are excited to be a part of the ongoing evolution of NG9-1-1 and are grateful for the dedication of companies such as TCS in helping to develop this new standard and thereby improve public safety." TCS Senior Vice President and General Manager, Safety and Security Group, Chris Nabinger, said: "We are pleased to be a key contributor to this new standard and are currently deploying products that meet the requirements of the JSMS911 guidelines. TCS recognizes the importance of ongoing collaboration with leading industry associations such as ATIS and TIA to accelerate the transition towards NG9-1-1, which will help solve the many challenges public safety officials face today and over the coming years." ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]