The VIRVE network is developing
25.02.2009, 17:42
VIRVE’s oldest base stations are over 10 years old, but the basic infrastructure is still in reasonable condition. VIRVE is a development programme in which the national VIRVE network used jointly by the Finnish authorities is being updated. At the same time, its use is being rationalised.
THE DEVELOPMENT involves the updating of about 400 base stations, for example. The first TBS3-type base station is already in use along Turku’s motorways. For users, the new base station means a better service area. The service radius will increase from 10 kilometres to as much as 20 kilometres. The reception difference is also audible in the inner coverage of the VIRVE network.
– A moderate framework ensures that the network will continue to function cost-effectively in the future, says Janne Koivukoski, director and readiness director of the rescue unit of the Ministry of the Interior. Over a period of ten years, VIRVE’s organisational model and method of organisation have developed into a smooth and functional system.
The network is owned and operated by a limited company (Erillisverkot Oy), the ownership of which is managed by the Ministry of the Interior. The Ministry of Transport and Communications issues licences. The VIRVE cooperation group represents users.
– The possibilities of the authorities for influencing the development of the VIRVE network through various channels are good, and the dialogue appears to be working, says Koivukoski.
New technology
There are plans to develop several features of the network. The capacity and inner area coverage of base stations in urban areas will be improved, and an effort will be made to manage the strong growth in data traffic. In addition, preparations are being made to secure the inner coverage of special sites such as hospitals and nursing homes.
– The development of the VIRVE network also involves the rationalisation of its use. First voice traffic is secured, then short messages, and third, data traffic, says Koivukoski.
Different users have different needs which have to be integrated. The purpose of the development programme is to manage the growth in network traffic. The amount of message traffic can be optimised through the design of software.
The updating of VIRVE’s base stations will enable the use of TEDS broadband, which will be ten times faster than VIRVE’s current data transfer speed. New terminals will also be needed to develop the network. Without them, users will not be able to utilise all of the network’s new features.