Use Case

Transitioning public safety communications from land mobile radio to broadband


Public safety agencies in the EMEA region are modernising their communication systems, moving from traditional Land Mobile Radios (LMRs) to advanced broadband networks. This evolution is essential for connecting the frontline with real-time data to improve situational awareness and response times.

A first responder uses a Zebra FR55 rugged mobile computer to access patient data while treating a person on a stretcher next to an ambulance

The high stakes of outdated communications

Public safety agencies across EMEA face a critical need to transition from legacy Land Mobile Radios (LMR) using Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) to cellular-based networks. Frontline responders are now expected to do far more with their devices than voice communication alone: capture photos, check documentation, access navigation, share data, and use broadband communications in the field. But legacy TETRA devices are designed for a single purpose, radio communication, leaving teams dependent on multiple devices worn on the belt to complete everyday tasks.

These outdated systems create significant operational bottlenecks and add unnecessary complexity for responders working in high-pressure environments. When voice, data, video, documentation, and navigation are split across separate tools, teams face slower decision-making, reduced situational awareness, and higher operational costs. This communications gap can directly impact the safety of both first responders and the public they serve, making the transition to a modern, unified broadband communications platform a top priority for agencies.

The broadband transition solution

Zebra's integrated solution empowers public safety agencies to seamlessly transition to next-generation mission-critical communications. The FR55 supports Evolved Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Services (eMBMS), a licensable technology that enables agencies to simultaneously broadcast intelligence to many users, including push-to-talk (PTT) calls, map data, high-resolution images and videos.

Potential benefits

By transitioning to Zebra's solution, public safety agencies can move beyond the limitations of legacy systems to achieve tangible outcomes. This shift empowers teams with the data and connectivity needed to operate more effectively and safely.

Enhanced

real-time data and multimedia sharing

Instant

access to critical information for quicker response times

Reliable

rugged technology for high-risk environments

Unified

device strategy that lowers the total cost of ownership

 

 

How the solution works

A police officer uses a Zebra FR55 rugged mobile computer to access information at the scene of an accident.

Modernise critical communications

The process begins with the deployment of the Zebra FR55, a purpose-built mission-critical mobile computer. Designed for the rigours of frontline use, its enterprise-grade rugged mobility ensures reliable performance in any environment. The FR55 supports both 5G and 4G/LTE, enabling first responders to leverage secure MCX voice and stream real-time multimedia data, providing a unified communications experience that is more powerful and flexible than traditional LMR systems.

Secure and manage your devices

To help keep mission-critical operations secure, the FR55 combines LifeGuard™ for Android™ with advanced device protections. LifeGuard provides predictable security updates, while features such as Secure Boot and Verified Boot help prevent malware or corrupted components from loading at startup. On select configurations, Secure Element helps protect sensitive data, with support for Android StrongBox, FIPS 140-2 validation, and Common Criteria certification to meet rigorous public safety and government security requirements.

Optimise device performance and usability

The solution is enhanced by Zebra DNA, a suite of software tools that optimise device performance and usability. Zebra DNA makes the FR55 easier for IT to manage and simpler for frontline workers to use. This powerful software suite helps agencies reduce IT complexity, streamline workflows, and ensure that first responders can focus on their mission, not on their technology.

Future-proof your communications

Investing in this solution provides a clear path to modernising public safety communications. It equips agencies with the tools to improve collaboration, accelerate decision-making, and create safer operating environments for everyone on the frontline.

Note:

Use case figures and savings estimates are illustrative only and may be derived from customer data, projections, or controlled testing. They do not represent guaranteed results, and actual outcomes will vary by application; customers should consult a Zebra sales representative to evaluate their specific environment.