Over the last few weeks, we have been covering some technical aspects of our DMR Tier 2 solution like Connecting DMR Tier 2 with a Voice Recorder, Console and AVL, The layout of a Multi-Site Tait DMR Tier 2 network and How to set up the Tait DMR Tier 2 Node. During this time, we have received a few inquiries on our DMR Tier 2 solution and have decided to also answer them on our blog. This will be done in two parts. In the first part this week, we will discuss the basics of the Tait DMR Tier 2 solution and how its features compare to the our DMR Tier 3 solutions. Next week, we will go into more detail like interoperability, location services, encryption and specifications.
Q. What does the Tait DMR Tier 2 solution consist of?
This development has provided a stand-alone Tier 2 repeater, based on the world-class TB9300 base station. By utilising a powerful node, these base stations can be IP connected to form a multi-site network. With the existing DMR Tier 2 terminals, these base station configurations can create conventional communications solutions.
Q. Why should I buy a Tait DMR Tier 2 base station when I can get a cheaper unit from another vendor?
Tait has built its reputation designing and manufacturing high-performance base station equipment. The TB9300 exceeds or matches all other DMR Tier 2 base stations in terms of sensitivity, selectivity and intermodulation performance. This means:
- the user gets extended talk-in (uplink) range as well as significantly increased resistance to interference,
- when connected by an IP link, the TB9300 can be programmed, monitored or used as a narrow-range spectrum monitor via a web-based interface,
- it has a Power Management Unit (PMU) which provides multiple power source options, providing protection from surges and power sags that can occur on remote sites.
- it is easily upgraded with very little effort to Tait DMR Tier 3, which puts powerful trunking options within easy reach,
- channel partners can more easily – and more cost effectively – maintain the system via superior, built-in diagnostics,
- DMR Tier 2 terminals from different manufacturers can operate, on Tait MR Tier 2 base stations due to the Tait commitment to open standards.
Q. What is the difference between DMR Tier 2 and Tier 3?
DMR Tier 2 is conventional, and Tier 3 is trunked.
DMR Tier 2 is a digital replacement for the many conventional analog systems still in service. This may be only a single, site-located base station providing communications for a small fleet. Or it may cover a wide area with a small number of users.
DMR Tier 3 trunking systems replace existing MPT1327 analogue networks used by PAMR operators and large organisations such as utilities, mines and transport. DMR Tier 3 provides significantly greater capacity, both in terms of base stations and the number of users.
Tait offers Tier 3 as well as the new Tier 2 solutions. The feature matrix shows the differences between the Tait platform offerings:
| Tait DMR Features | DMR Tier 2 Conventional | DMR Tier 3 Access | DMR Tier 3 Express | DMR Tier 3 Full |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reciter capacity | 18* | 4 | 24 | 1,000 |
| Site capacity | 6* | 1 | 6 | 250 |
| Node capacity | A node is required for interface or multisite applications | 0 | 1 | 20 |
| High availability (redundant node) | No | No | No | Yes |
| Talk groups | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Status messaging | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Text messaging | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Caller ID | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency call pre-emption | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Call options include: | ||||
| Emergency calls | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Broadcast calls | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Priority calls | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Divert own call | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Status call | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Group calls | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Individual calls private | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Calls to PSTN/PABX | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Four access priority levels | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Terminal authentication and device registration | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic site assignment | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Critical site assignment | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Stun (selective radio inhibit) | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Call queuing | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic re-grouping | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Vehicle Location | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Statistic records | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Console connections | Yes (via node) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AIS/SIP Licences for Dispatch connections | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Frequency bands: VHF, UHF, 700-800, 900MHz | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| GridLink (SCADA over DMR) | No | No | Yes | Yes |
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Read more about Tait’s DMR Tier 2 and Tier 3 solutions.
