Johnson Controls has announced a strategic partnership with Westell Technologies, Inc. to enhance in-building public safety communications. This collaboration is set to broaden Johnson Controls' life safety offerings, which will now include advanced network infrastructure and hardware, ensuring robust radio signals inside buildings for police, fire, and EMT personnel.
The initiative aims to improve public safety communications, thereby contributing to the protection of property and lives.
Network Infrastructure Solutions
Westell specializes in technology that boosts radio signals, enabling first responders to communicate
Westell, a pioneering provider of network infrastructure solutions, specializes in technology that boosts radio signals, enabling first responders to communicate effectively throughout a building using wireless devices.
This system negates the necessity for emergency personnel to remove protective gear to establish communication, thus streamlining their response efforts.
Enhancing Building Safety
"As part of our mission to advance safety and security in buildings, we are pleased to partner with Westell Technologies to enhance the communication networks that are critical to our first responders," commented Peter Ebersold, Senior Product Manager at Johnson Controls.
He highlights that Westell’s extensive product range, quality, and infrastructure expertise make them a pioneering provider in in-building wireless solutions.
Addressing Reception Challenges
Many jurisdictions now mandate site surveys for buildings taller than 75-feet to ensure adequate radio reception
Many jurisdictions now mandate site surveys for buildings taller than 75-feet to ensure adequate radio reception for firefighters. Construction materials like low-emission glass and concrete can hinder signal reception, necessitating robust in-building radio communications networks.
In response, Westell offers an extensive lineup of solutions, including Class A and Class B public safety bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs), along with battery backup units (BBUs), passives, and antennas. These are well-integrated with Johnson Controls’ comprehensive in-building public safety communication systems.
Integration with Fire and Life Safety Solutions
"As a pioneer in fire and life safety solutions, we are pleased to partner with Johnson Controls as they expand their presence into the in-building public safety radio enhancement market," stated Tim Duitsman, President and CEO of Westell Technologies, Inc.
He emphasized the value of Johnson Controls’ extensive building technology solutions and how this partnership complements their Simplex and Autocall product lines with essential public safety infrastructure.
Compliant Public Safety Solutions
Westell's solutions, which comply with NFPA and IBC standards, are suitable for new constructions, as well as retrofits. They support a range of frequency bands, such as VHF, UHF, 700 MHz, FirstNet (Band 14), and 800 MHz, which are commonly used by first responder networks.
In combination with the TrueSite Workstation, the Westell and Johnson Controls partnership ensures an optimal life safety solution for communication and monitoring across campuses with multiple buildings.
