May 19, 2005 – ASTi recently installed two Digital Audio Communications Systems (DACS) at the Department of Energy Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken, SC. The systems were integrated into SRS’s JCATS-based (Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation) laboratory, providing voice communications for simulated force-on-force exercises.

The JCATS laboratory is a critical element in paramilitary forces training which provides law enforcement, protection, escort and security services for the Savannah River Site. The security force is tasked with ensuring that nuclear weapons and materials, classified data, and Department of Energy facilities and personnel are protected from varied and evolving threats.

ASTi delivered the SRS systems ready-to-use, and pre-configured to meet all customer requirements:

• IP network-distributed voice communications to 36 operator workstations. The system is capable of meeting future requirements for connecting with other DOE sites over a secure IP network.
• The reconfigurable software communications matrix provides access to as many as 16 independent virtual comms nets to operators for Blue and Red force radios, administration, and public address intercoms.
• Touch-screen control panels at exercise controller stations feature customized, embedded software offering: public address key, degrade or jam communications on selected nets, transmit or receive access on any net with voice override, and equipment health monitor (heartbeat indicator).
• ASTi also provided a technical support package, including: software model development & testing, onsite installation assistance & training, and ongoing help-desk support.

The ASTi communications system replaced a legacy digital intercom system, which the customer had found to be operationally deficient, and difficult to configure. The ASTi system was placed into immediate service the week following installation, providing communications for a JCATS training event.

Additional SRS Info: GlobalSecurity.org