# Tait Radio Academy

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Free educational content about Critical Communications

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- [Home](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/): Courses by experts with decades of industry experience in education and radio technology. Each course consists of short videos, a pdf study guide, and an exam
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- [Courses](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/): Here are the current courses for radio training with the Radio Academy. Each course is broken down into a series of lessons
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## Courses

- [Basic Radio Awareness](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/basic-radio-awareness/)
- [Introduction to P25](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/intro-to-p25/)
- [Introduction to DMR](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/introduction-to-digital-mobile-radio/)
- [Introduction to Industrial Control Systems](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/introduction-to-industrial-control-systems/)
- [Introduction to Intrinsically Safe Radios](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/introduction-to-intrinsically-safe-radios/): This course will help you to interpret IS standards, based on their location in the world, and the environment under which the IS radios will be used.
- [Best Practice for Radio Users](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/best-practice-radio-users/): This course focuses on end-user training for connecting and communicating clearly and efficiently on your radio. Great for users of all industries!
- [Introduction to Broadband and Convergence](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/courses/introduction-to-unified-critical-communications/)

## Lessons

- [Final Assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/final-assessment-4/): Once you have completed all the lessons, registered members can take this final assessment to earn a Tait Radio Academy certificate for the Best Practice for Radio Users course.
- [Clear, Efficient Communications](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/clear-efficient-communications/): Once you've connected to the person or people you need to communicate with, it's important to keep communications clear and efficient. Here's how:
- [Get Connected](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/get-connected/): You've got your radio and want to make a call - what do you do? This lesson answers exactly that.
- [DMR Standard](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/dmr-standard/): Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to do the following: Explain the need for the development of DMR Trunking Define what DMR is Identify DMR ETSI standards Describe the benefits of DMR Tier III Explain the benefits of a trunked radio system
- [Introduction to Radio Communications Principles](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/introduction-to-radio-communications-principals/): All forms of communication follow the same basic principles. In this first chapter, we explore those principles and the different ways in which people communicate. We also look at radio waves and learn how radio technology is able to make your voice heard many miles away.
- [Final Assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/final-assessment-3/): Once you have completed all the lessons, registered members can take this final assessment to earn a Tait Radio Academy certificate for Introduction to Industrial Control Systems course.
- [Industrial Control Systems by Industry](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/industrial-control-systems-by-industry/): There are several different industries that take advantage of Industrial Control Systems. In this lesson, there are 6 videos that will review some applications for industries like Utilities, Transport, Mining, and Oil & Gas. Learn how others are using Industrial Control and get ideas for improving your own business performance.
- [How SCADA Works](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/how-scada-works/): This lesson has 5 topics that explore how SCADA works and the different methods for transmitting SCADA information. From SCADA's history to future implications, this will help you understand the benefits of Industrial Control Systems and which method of transmitting Data is right for you. It is recommended that you complete the Introduction to DMR course
- [An overview of common I.S. standards](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/an-overview-of-common-i-s-standards/): A number of different standards worldwide help guide manufacturers, purchasers and users in the design, manufacture, selection and operation of IS radios. The first two videos will introduce them. 1.1: What is Intrinsically Safe? 1.2: Global Explosive Atmosphere Regulations
- [Final Assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/intro-intrinsically-safe-radios-final-assessment/)
- [Applying Intrinsic Safety](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/applying-intrinsic-safety/): This last lesson looks at practical tips and applications for Intrinsically Safe in the real world. It includes two videos: 3.1: Putting IS into action 3.2: ​Purchasing and Using IS Equipment
- [Locations and Labels](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/locations-and-labels/): These three videos explore the different regulations and labels used around the globe. 2.1: Hazardous Location Classifications 2.2: Labeling - the numbers and letters 2.3: Matching the location and the label
- [Call Types and Features](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/p25-call-types-and-features/): This three part lesson explains the different types of voice calls and data calls, as well as P25 encryption.
- [Channel Operation and Configuration](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/p25-channel-operation-configuration/): Learn the difference between physical and logical channels, how to operate channels, and how to configure channels and number P25 systems.
- [Final Assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/intro-to-p25-final-assessment/)
- [Final assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/final-assessment-2/): Once you have completed all the lessons, you can take this final assessment to earn a Tait Radio Academy certificate.
- [P25 Network Architecture](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/p25-network-architecture/): This lesson series contains 6 topic videos that will increase your understanding of P25 network architecture. Thanks to P25 open standards, there are many pieces that can come together to create your critical communications network. Select a topic below to access the video.
- [P25 Standard](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/p25-standard/): An introduction to the P25 standard, its features, and benefits
- [Final assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/final-assessment/): Once you have completed all the lessons, you can take this final assessment to earn a Tait Radio Academy certificate.
- [Communications Systems](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/communications-systems/): No two communication networks are the same. Trunked or conventional? Digital or analog? TDMA or FDMA? In chapter three, we explore the different types of communication systems and their various benefits and disadvantages.
- [DMR Network Architecture](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/dmr-network-architecture/): Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to do the following: Identify and explain the purpose of the key components of a DMR Trunked network. List DMR network elements. Explain why IP was chosen as the method of moving voice and data. Explain how dispatch consoles can be connected to the network and
- [Channel Operation and Configuration](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/channel-operation-and-configuration/): Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to do the following: Describe the concept of logical channels Describe channel operation and configuration Demonstrate channel numbering calculations
- [Call Types and Features](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/call-types-and-features/): This lesson contains four topics that identify the different DMR call types and each of their features. You'll learn about talkgroups, individual calls, status message calls, packet data calls, and more. We also touch on the importance of fleet management. Select a topic below to get started:
- [Modulation and Radio Building Blocks](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/modulation-and-radio-building-blocks/): In this chapter we discuss modulation and the building blocks of radio. How does your voice get converted into waves that can be transmitted and received by radio devices?
- [What is Convergence?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/what-is-unified-critical-communications/): Odds are, you’ve heard the term Convergence in Critical Communications. In this lesson, you’ll watch four videos that explore how it’s revolutionizing communications and the advantages it brings. Revolution in Critical Communications explains how Convergence, or unified critical communications, are changing the game. Driving the Revolution explores the reason the critical communications market has changed so
- [What is Broadband?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/what-is-broadband-communications/): Broadband is widely described as the great game-changer for mission-critical communications. So what is ‘broadband’? Not a specific technology. Rather, ‘broadband’ loosely refers to high speed, high-capacity wideband data transmission that can transport multiple signals simultaneously. It can be implemented in a variety of technologies. Think of a very wide multi-lane highway simultaneously transporting different
- [Final Assessment - UCC](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/final-assessment-ucc/)
- [The Benefits of Broadband and Convergence](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/the-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): There is a lot of content in this series of lessons, but that’s because there are so many benefits to convergence. In this section, we’ll take a look at some high level benefits, and then apply them to many different industries. You’re welcome to watch all of them, or focus on your industry. Either way,
- [What is the Future of LTE?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/what-is-the-future-of-lte/): One of the biggest movers and shakers in the Convergence space is LTE. The broadband data capabilities could change the game, but will LTE ever replace LMR? Can First Responders rely on LTE to support their communications during emergencies or major events? Who is guiding the development of LTE? What’s the difference between Public and
- [How to Choose the Right Communication Bearers](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/lessons/how-to-choose-the-right-communication-bearers/): Trying to decide which forms of wireless communication are right for your organization? In this lesson, we look at the pros and cons of LMR, WiFi, Satellite, and LTE. In this lesson there are six different topics/videos. You can view each of them below, and we recommend starting with the first.

## Topics

- [What are the Different Types of Broadband Communications?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-are-the-different-types-of-broadband-communications/): Ethernet You will be familiar with as the standard technology for wiring together computers and networking devices to create an office or home network (LAN). If you have ever plugged a cable from your computer to a modem or router/switch, then you have made use of an Ethernet connection. An Ethernet cable looks like a
- [What is Multiband Radio?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-multiband-radio/): You may have seen the photo of a police officer in a squad car sitting next to several mobile or portable radios. Each radio gives access to a different radio network or frequency band. If this picture could speak, it might say ‘why isn’t there a single radio that can replace all of these?’. Technology
- [Is Commercial PTToC Mission Critical?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/is-commercial-pttoc-mission-critical/): Public Safety embraced LMR for its ability to provide speedy and reliable narrowband voice communications at the touch of a PTT button. Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PTToC) tries to emulate the behavior of LMR’s PTT over cellular networks and commercial versions have been around since the days of Nextel’s iDEN. PTT, you will remember, is a
- [LTE and the Mobile Generations](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/lte-and-the-mobile-generations/): The LTE standards suite, which is setting the direction for future critical communications, is the work of a consortium of seven standards organizations called the 3GPP or third generation partnership program. The consortium includes ETSI, the European Telecommunications Standards Institute, which is one of the largest standards bodies in the world. Since the end of
- [What Can We Expect from 5G?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-can-we-expect-from-5g/): Although built on LTE, 5G brings in a totally new air interface. 5G New Radio (5G NR) operates in millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies (30-300GHz) and is a radical makeover of the radio access network. This allows 5G to support a million connected devices per sq. km (0.386 sq. mi), offer data rates ten times faster
- [Commercial Public LTE vs Private LTE vs Public Safety Mobile Broadband](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/commercial-public-lte-vs-private-lte-vs-public-safety-mobile-broadband/): Mission critical users who want to take advantage of mobile broadband have several choices. In this topic, we'll discuss the top 3. Commercial Public LTE Commercial cellular providers offer the vast majority of LTE services currently available to the public and businesses. In the US, Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint and U.S. Cellular are the
- [MCPTT and Mission Critical](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/mcptt-and-mission-critical/): MCPTT is 3GPP’s answer to the issues discussed in the previous topic, namely, an open standard PTT over LTE specification that meets the mission-critical requirements as identified in the U.S. by the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC), including a plan for integrating LMR and LTE. In response, both carrier-based and OTT PTToC vendors have
- [Will LTE Replace LMR?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/will-lte-replace-lmr/): Given the frantic pace of LTE development and the falling cost of ownership, the hot question of the moment is ‘Will LTE replace LMR?’. It may surprise you to know that the consensus among those with the biggest stakeholders in mission-critical LTE is that, while they anticipate LTE (and eventually 5G) to take over many
- [Pros and Cons of multiple bearers and devices](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/4-pros-and-cons-of-multiple-bearers-and-devices/): Now that we understand critical communications more clearly, we can better appreciate some of the advantages and issues surrounding the use of multiple bearers and multiple devices. At first glance, running multiple bearers may seem inefficient. Why not have just radio or just cellular to carry communications services? The short answer is that each bearer
- [What Makes Critical Communications, 'critical'?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-makes-critical-communications-critical/): Communications are ‘critical’ when they are essential to the operation of an organization. Failure or disruption of communications either seriously impacts or halts an organization’s activities. There are several senses of ‘critical’ that may be involved: Business critical – where comms failures severely disrupt business activity and may result in significant penalties. For example, power
- [What is Driving the Revolution?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-driving-the-revolution/): AT&T estimates that there are roughly ten million LMR radios worldwide, of which 40% can be classified as ‘critical' communications users. While LMR still dominates the market, people are also using mobile phones, tablets, smart devices, and cameras to stream video, automate asset tracking, perform mapping, run real time data analytics, monitor health status and
- [The Revolution in Critical Communications](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/the-revolution-in-critical-communications/): Why is everyone talking about unified critical communications? Communications have never been more important than they are today. Businesses, public safety, utilities, and other enterprises rely on communications being available all the time. For years, critical communications have been defined by the major land mobile radio digital technologies including TETRA, P25, and DMR. The parameters
- [Pros and Cons of Satellite](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/pros-and-cons-of-satellite/): Sometimes the nature of the terrain or the remoteness of the location or the sheer expanse of the area or the challenge of communicating with vessels at sea is too much even for LMR’s solid coverage. In such cases satellite communications is an option. A communications satellite, parked in an orbit above the Earth, receives
- [Pros and Cons of LTE](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/pros-and-cons-of-lte/): Long Term Evolution or LTE is an open standard digital cellular technology that is already proving to be a game changer in critical communications as it offers a combination of features unmatched by any other wireless technology. These include: voice and very high capacity data, mobile communication with fast handover across the network, low latency,
- [Which Wireless Bearer Should I Choose?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/which-wireless-bearer-should-i-choose/): Now that we’ve discussed the most common wireless voice and data bearers, you might be wondering which one you should choose? The key point is that you don’t need to choose the best bearer to do everything. Creating a monolithic system suitable for your entire organization is often too hard and involves making too many
- [Pros and Cons of WiFi](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/pros-and-cons-of-wifi/): Originally designed to connect office computers into local area networks (or LANs), Wi-Fi has become the go-to technology for short to medium-range wireless data communication and connection to the Internet. A WiFi network is inexpensive, easy to install, expandable, offers low latency (better than LMR), and excellent data rates. A wide variety of devices can
- [Pros and Cons of Land Mobile Radio (LMR)](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/pros-and-cons-of-land-mobile-radio-lmr/): For decades, land mobile radio (aka two-way radio), which operates in licensed frequencies, has been the mainstay of mobile critical communications. Used by millions worldwide in countless different conditions, constantly tested and refined, it has been the yardstick of success for critical communications, particularly in Public Safety. From the start, LMR was geared towards voice
- [Factors to Consider when Choosing the Right Bearers](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/factors-to-consider-when-choosing-the-right-bearers/): Maybe you’re convinced that no single device will meet all the needs of your organization, and now you’re looking at integrating multiple devices into your comms system. So, which network bearers should you consider? Or maybe you are already using multiple technologies but want to know whether you’ve made the right choices. Or maybe you
- [How SCADA is transmitted](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-scada-is-transmitted-1/): Originally, SCADA was non-network, meaning there was no communication as it was a closed loop between a RTU, a measurement point, and a control point. Over time, the demand to know more increased resulting in the requirement to have remote visibility over the process of monitoring control. Methods of Transmitting The advent of network SCADA started in
- [P25 Data Calls](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-data-calls-1/): In addition to voice calls, the P25 network supports a wide range of data calls and features, including status messages, packet data calls, AVL and more.
- [Introduction to P25 Encryption](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/introduction-to-p25-encryption-1/): Encryption in radio communications enables secure communication between parties and is achieved by loading the same key into all radios in a group.
- [P25 Voice Calls](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-voice-calls-1/): System calls, emergency calls, talk groups and calling encryption are just some of the call types featured on a P25 trunked system that are examined in this video.
- [Physical and Logical Channels](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-physical-logical-channels-1/): A physical radio channel is the frequency or frequency pair allocated by the regulatory body. Physical channels are divided into two time slots or logical channels.
- [Channel Configuration and Numbering](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-channel-configuration-numbering-1/): An in depth analysis and comparison of units & groups numbering, identifying a P25 trunked network, and how radio channels are addressed on a trunked P25 system.
- [Channel Operation](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-channel-operation-1/): A comparison of the operation of a conventional FM channel to a P25 conventional channel, and the difference between conventional calling to a trunked network.
- [P25 Network Overview](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-network-overview-1/): In this course, we're going to look at different network configurations. P25 is designed to meet a wide range of Public Safety operational requirements. There are two elements that should be considered for a radio system to operate successfully: coverage and capacity. Coverage is the area over which people need to communicate, and capacity is the number
- [P25 Gateways](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-gateways-1/): P25 Network Gateways P25 networks have standard interfaces defined, allowing different subsystems to connect together, effectively acting as gateways between different parts of the system. Dispatch systems connect to conventional P25 networks using a protocol called the Digital Fixed Station Interface, or DFSI. This permits both voice and control of the repeater. The DFSI interfaces voice
- [P25 Network Management](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-network-management-1/): This section looks at three aspects of network management. Tactical management, the management of subscribers and groups using the network. Technical management, the configuration of network hardware. And, Network monitoring, fault and performance information. Let's assume that we're referring to a trunked P25 network. On a small network, these tasks may be carried out by the same
- [P25 Central Site Equipment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-central-site-equipment-1/): Large radio networks often have a central, or master site controlling all individual sites. This may or may not have its own radio equipment. A small conventional system may have no central site equipment. However, in a large conventional system, where multiple sites broadcast the same call to provide increased coverage, there is typically a
- [P25 Site Equipment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-site-equipment-1/): The site equipment in a P25 radio site is very similar to the site equipment at an analog radio site. One of the goals of P25 was to be able to remove an analog channel, and install a P25 channel in its place on the same frequency. Although a P25 network can be a conventional
- [P25 Linking Infrastructure](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-linking-infrastructure-1/): The linking infrastructure is what interconnects repeaters, controllers and dispatch equipment to form a radio network. In recent years, we have seen increasing momentum for the transport of voice and data applications within the same network, and the progressive replacement of TDM networks by IP networks. Because P25 voice is already in a digital format,
- [What is P25?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-p25-1/): Learn about P25, or Project 25, a suite of standards developed to provide digital voice and data communication systems suited to public safety and first responders.
- [Benefits of P25](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-p25-1/): In this topic, we explore the many P25 features that were designed for public safety use.
- [P25 Services and Features](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/p25-services-and-features-1/): Voice calls, individual calling, emergency calls and talking party identification are just some of the new and improved Features and Services of P25.
- [What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-the-difference-between-phase-1-and-phase-2-1/): From spectrum efficiencies to radio channel allocations, this lesson discusses the differences between P25 Phase 1 and Phase 2.
- [Introduction to P25 Trunking](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/introduction-to-p25-trunking-1/): For P25, the benefits of trunking often come down to emergency calls, the dynamic allocation of teams, the ability to share resources, and maximizing coverage.
- [​Purchasing and Using IS Equipment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/​purchasing-and-using-is-equipment-1/): All batteries and accessories must also be compliant. If any one part of the radio is non-compliant, the whole system is non-compliant & presents a safety risk
- [Putting Intrinsically Safe into action](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/putting-is-into-action-1/): Intrinsically Safe (or IS) equipment is designed to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres without the risk of causing a fire or explosion
- [Matching the location and the label marking](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/matching-the-location-and-the-label-marking-1/): Once we understand Hazardous Location classification and what the equipment markings are, we can compare them to make sure the equipment is suitable for use. In the North American marking scheme, the division or zone is specifically mentioned, so matching equipment to location is relatively easy. With ATEX and IECEx marking, the zone is indirectly
- [Labeling - the numbers and letters on the back of the radio](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/labeling-the-numbers-and-letters-on-the-back-of-the-radio-1/): Certification is carried out by approved bodies, who may be registered under multiple systems. In North America these are Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs). In Europe the laboratories are Notified Bodies under the ATEX scheme. Under the IECEx system they are Certification Bodies (ExCB). In Brazil the laboratories are accredited by INMETRO. All IS certified
- [Hazardous Location Classifications](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/hazardous-location-classifications-1/): Hazardous area classification Hazardous area classification is required by government regulatory bodies. These areas are defined by both severity and frequency of risk. Globally, there are two main area classifications: divisions and zones. Divisions vs Zones Division classification is traditionally used in North America. Zone classification originated in Europe but is now adopted worldwide. While
- [What is Intrinsically Safe (IS)?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-intrinsically-safe-1/): Intrinsically Safe (or IS) equipment is designed to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres without the risk of becoming a fire or explosion.
- [Global Explosive Atmosphere Regulations](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/global-explosive-atmosphere-regulations-1/): Used in 30+ or more IECEx member countries, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) system for explosive atmospheres (Ex) equipment, is the global benchmark.
- [Industrial Control Systems for Transport](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/industrial-control-systems-for-transport-1/): Across the industries, the way to think about it is a system of systems. Transportation is a perfect example. So you have the fleet, it could be rail or busses, but rail is a perfect example. It includes switching, light controls, and warning signs working together as a system of different systems. SCADA for controlling and switching tracks
- [Industrial Control Systems for Oil & Gas](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/industrial-control-systems-for-oil-gas-1/): The Oil and Gas industry is a good example of a variety of complex systems, or a system of systems. Exploration SCADA may be used in combination with seismic systems in order to understand the formations underneath the ground before drilling. The drill process can then be monitored to determine what is being drilled –
- [Industrial Control Systems for Mining](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/industrial-control-systems-for-mining-1/): Within the mining industry, industrial control systems provide understanding of the environment and assets, including people that are in that environment. SCADA can also help optimize and orchestrate the processes that produce the resource being mined. For example, in a mining environment, diggers are heavy machinery that drill or grind to break apart big chunks of
- [Industrial Control for Water Utilities](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/industrial-control-for-water-utilities-1/): We will now take a look into industrial control systems in different industries. The way to think about industrial control systems within an industry, is as a number of different systems working together to create a system of systems. Water Utilities For Water Utilities, Industrial Control Systems and SCADA information should provide certain abilities, such as
- [Utilities and the Smart Grid](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/utilities-and-the-smart-grid-1/): The term “Smart Grid” is an overarching description of building intelligence into grid operations and the utility network. Intelligence can allow a better understanding of the current conditions and gives users the ability to predict how different events, such as the weather, and how it will affect the grid and grid operations. From here, users
- [What is Distribution Automation?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/utilities-and-distribution-automation-1/): Distribution automation is the process by which the collection of data is automated and analyzed, and then controls executed by Utilities. Distribution automation is a little bit of a misnomer because it implies a closed loop. In reality, most operators will want to see the analysis, look at the proposed control scheme and validate that no workers are on
- [Choosing the right mode of SCADA transmission](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/choosing-the-right-mode-of-scada-transmission-1/): When thinking if SCADA is right for you and your organization, there are 4 main things to consider: Your Existing Technology and Requirements Deployment Economics Event Driven Costs Limitations Existing Technology and Requirements The first thing to think about is your existing technology. Do you have any existing systems where you can start to leverage and optimize
- [SCADA and Polling](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/scada-and-polling-1/): SCADA SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is a 70-year-old technology and is, fundamentally, the most common terminology used for industrial control systems. It is the ability to monitor the physical world, acquire data in an automated way, and to provide control type signals back into the system to advise an action based on the data. The
- [Data Driven Decisions](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/data-driven-decisions-1/): Combining Industrial Control Systems with Workforce or Asset Management tools can enable quick, clear decisions that improve productivity.
- [Benefits of Industrial Control Systems](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-industrial-control-systems-1/): This course is taught by Philip Mullins, the Senior Marketing Manager for DMR Tier 3 at Tait Communications. In this course, Philip will discuss industrial control systems, specifically DMR industrial control systems and why choosing this technology might be the best choice for your organization. You're probably wondering, "why discuss Industrial Control Systems on the radio
- [Fleet Management](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-fleet-management-1/): The numbering plan for DMR consists of over 16 million individual addresses. Most systems will use a subset of the DMR number range, particularly MPT1327. A DMR network is a lot like a cellular system, every individual subscriber unit requires an individual number, every group requires a number. There are IP addresses throughout the network
- [DMR Call Features](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-call-features-1/): There are a number of features of DMR systems that are controlled centrally. DMR systems use two kinds of trunking, transmission-based trunking and message trunking. Transmission-based trunking means the call finishes when the PTT switch is released. When it's pressed, a new channel is allocated for the call. Transmission-based trunking is used for group calls
- [Data Calls](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-data-calls-1/): The other main type of calls on a DMR system is Data Calls or Data Messages. Data calls or messages on DMR systems are very useful because they can convey a large amount of information using the same or fewer system resources. A data message provides a clear statement of intention. Data calls can be
- [Voice Calls](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-voice-calls-1/): Trunked radio systems enable radio users to make two main types of calls on a DMR system. The first main type of call is Voice Calls. Voice calls can be individual calls (one to one), or talk group calls (one to many). Calls can also be made to dispatchers or through telephone gateways. Individual Calls What:
- [Physical and Logical Channels](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-physical-and-logical-channels-1/): This topic covers the two kinds of channels that are included in a DMR system. DMR uses physical hardware channels, which is a receiver and a transmitter operating in a 12.5-kilohertz narrow bandwidth. You can see in the diagram below, a base station split into a receiver and a transmitter. Typically, a transmitter will transmit
- [Channel Operation](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-channel-operation-1/): Normally, the lowest numbered channel at a site on a DMR network is the control channel. See in the diagram below, the channel number indicates the position of the physical channel at the site. For example, here we have Site 1. Site 1 consists of a cabinet with physical channels located inside the cabinet. Channel
- [Channel Configuration and Numbering](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-channel-configuration-numbering-1/): Channel Rotation Channel rotation is used to avoid the situation when a channel may have problems, and the call won't stay on that channel. The following details how channel rotation works. One control channel at a site can handle multiple traffic channels. Any logical channel at a site apart from the control channel can become
- [DMR Network Management](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-network-management-1/): Every DMR system has the ability to allow control of various elements of the network such as setting up new users, monitoring calls, and keeping track of call records. Network administrators or managers can access any device on the network using a standard web browser, and a secured session. There are a number of configuration,
- [Telephone Gateways](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-telephone-gateways-1/): Telephone gateways are the interface that enables radio users and telephone users to communicate with each other. The DMR network utilizing a Network Gateway can support direct communications between users on DMR and telephone users. It also supports communications between radios and private telephone extensions through a switchboard (PBX), without dispatcher assistance, although dispatch equipment
- [DMR Network Gateways](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-network-gateways-1/): A network gateway is a simple device that allows a single audio channel to connect to the DMR network. It converts the AMBE voice over IP (VoIP) used by the network into analog 4-wire audio. The network gateway allows simple interfacing of the Line Dispatch Terminal (LDT) to the DMR network. The Line Dispatch Terminal
- [DMR Node Architecture](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-node-architecture-1/): In a DMR network, there are nodes with two functions, a control node and a switching node. There is only one control node in a network. In a multi-node network, the lowest numbered node is the control node. The control node validates all call requests, sets up and clears down all calls, and sends call
- [DMR Site Equipment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-site-equipment-1/): A DMR trunking site contains various architecture, such as base stations, Ethernet switches and transmitting or receiving antennas, and depending on the site, you may also find routers, power supply and power distribution equipment. The base stations at a site provide the RF interface to the radios using the network. At each site, there is
- [Linking Infrastructure](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-linking-infrastructure-1/): As previously mentioned, a Linking Infrastructure, or IP backbone, is used to interconnect the various elements of the DMR network. The DMR trunked network connects the radio sites together using an Internet Protocol. There are many advantages of using an IP. For starters, it’s very flexible. Internet Protocols use a fault-tolerant, easy-to-handle connectionless architecture, they
- [Network Overview](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/dmr-network-overview-1/): A typical DMR network consists of one or more node controllers and a number of sites. Each site is made up of several base stations connected by an IP backbone that can be either a switched local area network (LAN), or a routed wide area network (WAN) through the use of routers and bearers. The
- [How does DMR Trunking work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-dmr-trunking-works-1/): Perhaps the best way to explain how trunking works is an analogy. Imagine you walked into a bank to make a withdrawal. There are three different tellers – one for withdrawals, one for deposits, and one for business transactions. For whatever reason, the withdrawal line you are in has a long line, but the business
- [Benefits of DMR](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-dmr-1/): DMR offers several benefits to users, technicians, managers, and the rest of your organization. Firstly, DMR is an ‘open’ standard and is not proprietary to a single manufacturer. This means that competition is possible between manufacturers, not only when a new system is purchased, but over the lifetime of the system. So, if you need
- [What is DMR?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-dmr-1/): Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) is an international digital radio standard developed by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), and first ratified in 2005. More than a decade ago, vendors and users of radio systems recognized that the existing analog trunking standards required updates with modern techniques to provide: Improved voice quality Improved functionality such as
- [Radio Operating Techniques](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/radio-operating-techniques-1/): Here are a few general operating guidelines for connecting and communicating clearly on your radio.
- [Regular Radio Checks](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/regular-radio-checks-1/): Having a working radio is essential for critical users. You don’t want to be caught with a device that won’t work because you weren’t careful in the office.
- [How to Connect](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-to-connect-1/): When making a radio call, it’s important to connect with the right people. This lesson looks at connecting on a conventional network or a trunked network.
- [Microphone Manners - How to Use your Radio Microphone](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/microphone-manners-how-to-use-your-radio-microphone-1/): In this topic, we will provide six principles that demonstrate the best ways to use a microphone to ensure clear, concise communication and improve safety
- [The Phonetic Alphabet](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/the-phonetic-alphabet-1/): The phonetic alphabet has evolved since its inception, and has now been standardised internationally by major aviation and telecommunications organizations.
- [Procedure Words in Radio Communications](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/procedure-words-in-radio-communications-1/): The use of correct operating procedures, whilst it may appear over-efficient to some, does save considerable time if every operator is aware of what to expect.
- [How do repeater systems work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/repeater-systems-1/): As previously discussed, repeaters help with the problem of line of sight in conventional communications. If two radios want to communicate with a hilltop in the way, then there is no line of sight. One way to overcome this is placing a repeater (or base station) at the top of the hill. One radio communicates
- [How Scanning Works](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-scanning-works-1/): Portable and mobile users are constantly on the move. When they work on a system with multiple repeaters in different locations, it can be difficult for the different units to keep in touch. One method is for each user to check the different channels by hand to see if there is any communication activity on
- [Voting and Simulcast networks](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/voting-and-simulcast-networks-1/): Suppose a system has a number of different repeaters at different sites. All are transmitting the same audio, but users are often on the move. While they may begin with excellent reception at the first site, eventually they will experience better reception at the second site than the original first site. A process called voting
- [How does trunking work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-does-trunking-work-1/): Trunked networks get their name from the world of telephony. Traditionally two cities would bundle their connections together into a single thick line like the trunk of a tree, which is known as a trunked line. The local household loop lines operated like the branches of a tree, one line for each household. The reason
- [Different types of radio](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/different-types-of-radio-1/): We have now covered Conventional, Trunking, and Simulcast systems. Next we'll cover the different radio technologies that actually support these different types of operation. Conventional FM: As previously mentioned, conventional FM is a popular technology in analog radio. Almost every major manufacturer in the world supports some form of conventional FM technology. MPT1327: Perhaps the
- [Digital vs. Analog](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/digital-vs-analog-radio-1/): The radio technologies previously mentioned are all open standards, which means that equipment from different manufacturers can work together. Digital radio, however, does offer some particular advantages over analog. Security: One of the most important advantages is security. With digital, encryption can be used without degrading the quality of the audio or the range at
- [How does an FM Transceiver work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-does-an-fm-transceiver-work-1/): Take a look at this FM transmitter diagram: The process is relatively straightforward: 1) The microphone takes the voice in. 2) This voice signal goes into an audio processor in order to create an input signal. 3) The input signal is combined with a carrier frequency that is generated by the voltage controlled oscillator (V.C.O.). 4)
- [The correlation between range and power](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/the-correlation-between-range-and-power-1/): Range and power of portable and mobile radios have an interesting relationship. With both portables and mobiles, the radio converts radio power into radio frequency power and is radiated out of the antenna. Range of a radio is dependent on both the power that's available to it and also the frequency in which it's working.
- [The difference between FDMA and TDMA](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/the-difference-between-fdma-and-tdma-1/): An RF channel occupies a certain amount of radio spectrum. What is the most efficient use of this small chunk of radio spectrum that makes up our channel? There are two different techniques. The first technique is called frequency division multiple access (FDMA). This method separates channels by frequency, so if users want to have
- [Introduction to Channel Spacing](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/channel-spacing-1/): Radio spectrum is very limited. Every user of radio spectrum needs a “pipeline” or block of pipelines in order to communicate over. These pipelines are called channels and they are differentiated by their frequency. Just like a pipe has a certain diameter, an RF channel has frequency bandwidth or channel spacing. Wideband channels occupy 25
- [How does modulation work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-does-modulation-work-1-1/): Frequency of an RF channel is best understood as the frequency of a carrier wave. A carrier wave is a pure wave of constant frequency, a bit like a sine wave. By itself it doesn't carry much information that we can relate to (such as speech or data). To include speech information or data information,
- [How do repeaters work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-do-repeaters-work-1/): Working with a handheld is similar to working with a walkie-talkie. As long as somebody is in a straight line from them, a user can talk to them. This is a radio to radio connection and is called simplex communication. A walkie-talkie works fine if there is no obstruction between the radio that is calling
- [What is propagation?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-propagation-1/): It's useful when thinking about radio waves to think about light waves. Light travels in rays, and radio waves do the same thing. It is called radio propagation. When white light goes into a prism it is separated by wavelength into red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet. In the same way, radio waves are
- [What is a radio wave?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-a-radio-wave-1/): As mentioned in the basic communication model, in order to convey information to somebody: A user must impose a pattern, which interacts with a medium in a channel, which gets decoded at the recipient's end, and is finally received in a form in which the recipient can understand it. Most of these interactions between the
- [What is Communication?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-communication-1/): Communication begins when somebody wants to convey information to somebody else. That information must be presented as some kind of pattern. For example, speech is a pattern, smoke signals are a pattern, talking drums are a pattern, telephone calls are pattern, Morse code is a pattern. These patterns then travel over a communication channel, typically
- [The Benefits of Broadband Communications](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/the-benefits-of-broadband-communications/): The Benefits of Broadband Communications We've had a look at what makes up Broadband technology. Now I'd like to talk about some of the benefits that mobile broadband communications can deliver. Smartphones show you some of what mobile broadband can offer professional users. Smartphone communications are mainly data oriented. Even voice calls are carried as
- [What is Broadband Communications?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-broadband-communications/): Broadband is widely described as the great game-changer for mission-critical communications. So what is ‘broadband’? Not a specific technology. Rather, ‘broadband’ loosely refers to high speed, high-capacity wideband data transmission that can transport multiple signals simultaneously. It can be implemented in a variety of technologies. Think of a very wide multi-lane highway simultaneously transporting different
- [Summary of the Benefits of Broadband and Convergence](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/summary-of-the-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): As the preceding videos illustrate, whatever industry you work in, Unified Critical Communications brings considerable benefits: More Efficient Communications: A Unified Critical Communications system can be configured to automatically select the best available bearer for each communication. Get Better Productivity: UCC ensures that critical voice and data arrive where it’s needed by the fastest and
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Mining](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/mining-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): Mining companies face challenges similar to those encountered by the oil and gas industry, namely volatile markets, rising costs, falling revenue, declining productivity, a shrinking skilled workforce, and the demand for environmentally sustainable practices. Their operations may extend over geographically scattered mine sites including both surface pits and underground and rail or road transport to
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Oil and Gas](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/oil-and-gas-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): It’s been tough time for the oil and gas industry as volatile markets, rising costs, declining productivity and a shrinking skilled workforce take their toll on business. The concept of a Digital Oil Field promises a way out, but it depends crucially on integrated communications. O&G companies are looking to integrate their business operations using
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Transport](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/transport-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): Public transport systems need to increase patronage and trim costs to help cities reduce road congestion and manage the transportation requirements of growing urban populations. A UCC solution can help with both patronage and costs. Backed by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) and the Information Technology for Public Transport (ITxPT) association, Europe is
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Utilities](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/utilities-benefits-of-unified-critical-communications/): Utility companies face major challenges providing efficient and reliable electric power, water and gas services. Not only do they need to maintain large distribution networks, for which worker safety and cost are big concerns, but a changing marketplace with new diverse generation options, new demands (such as the support of electric vehicle charging), environmental and
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Emergency Medical Services](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-unified-critical-communications-emergency-medical-services/): Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) see their mission changing from the transportation of patients to hospitals for emergency medical care to one of delivering more advanced medical care directly to the patient. In a race against time, faster response and more appropriate medical assistance lead to better patient outcomes. This concept, which one leader
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Fire Services](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-unified-critical-communications-fire-services/): It is no surprise that UCC can help fireground communications in ways that are similar to the UCC benefits derived by Law Enforcement. Multi-device talkgroups, automated asset tracking, keeping everybody connected and better informed, and the positive effect on response times are benefits that Fire, too, can enjoy. Where Fire differs is that fire events
- [Benefits of Broadband and Convergence for Law Enforcement](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-of-unified-critical-communications-for-law-enforcement/): Group calls are critical for public safety. UCC takes this to a whole new level by making it possible to create groups that span multiple technologies and devices. If you add PTToC as a feature that can run on all sorts of devices, then there are always alternative fast routes for a call. Response times
- [What benefits Can You Get from Broadband and Convergence?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/benefits-unified-critical-communications/): By combining the strengths of multiple bearer networks to ensure that your communications always get through, Convergence (Unified Critical Communications) can deliver a package of benefits to your organization that no single technology can match. UCC enables fast voice and broadband data communications on almost any device, across all major networks to anybody, anywhere. With
- [How Does Broadband and Convergence Work?](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/how-does-unified-critical-communications-work/): Through a mixture of hardware and software a Convergence (Unified Critical Communications) platform can be implemented in various ways, either as a centralized system hosted on customer premises or as a cloud-based service, or de-centralized as a mobile platform connecting voice and data networks, with Internet access to an organization’s home network via LTE broadband.
- [What is Broadband and Convergence](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/topic/what-is-unified-critical-communications/): Convergence (Unified Critical Communications) is an approach that is both radical, and deceptively simple. Unlike traditional reliance on a single communications technology, Unified Critical Communications combines the strengths of a diverse range of technologies, while mitigating their individual weaknesses. It can: Replace traditional single-technology solutions with multiple communications bearers, Open up the choice of a

## Quizzes

- [Final Assessment](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/quiz-unified-critical-communications/): Finished taking the Unified Critical Communications course? Test your knowledge with this quiz, available to registered user. Pass the quiz and you'll receive an official certificate!
- [Introduction to Industrial Control Systems](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/introduction-to-industrial-control-systems/)
- [Best Practice for Radio Users - Final Quiz](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/basic-radio-etiquette-final-quiz/)
- [Introduction to DMR - Final Quiz](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/introduction-to-digital-mobile-radio-final-quiz/)
- [Introduction to Intrinsically Safe Radios - Final Quiz](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/introduction-to-intrinsically-safe-radios-final-quiz/)
- [Introduction to P25 - Final Quiz](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/introduction-to-p25-final-quiz/)
- [Basic Radio Awareness – Final Quiz](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/quizzes/radio-basics-101-final-assessment/)

## Certificates

- [Introduction to Broadband and Convergence](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/introduction-to-unified-critical-communications/)
- [Basic Radio Awareness](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/basic-radio-knowledge/)
- [Introduction to DMR](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/introduction-to-dmr/)
- [Introduction to P25](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/introduction-to-p25/)
- [Introduction to Intrinsically Safe Radios](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/introduction-to-intrinsically-safe-radios/)
- [Best Practice for Radio Users](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/basic-radio-etiquette/)
- [Introduction to Industrial Control Systems](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/certificates/introduction-to-industrial-control-systems/)

## Instructors

- [Evan Forester](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/evan-forester/)
- [Philip Mullins](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/philip-mullins/)
- [Stuart Colsell](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/stuart-colsell/)
- [Andrew McTaggart](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/andrew-mctaggart/)
- [Dr. Jan Noordhof](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/dr-jan-noordhof/)
- [Noel Farrelly](https://www.taitradioacademy.com/instructor/noel-farrelly/)