Summary of earthquake perfomance of communication systems

Communication facilities can be divided into those associated with the central office, outside plant, and the wireless network. In general, central office communication equipment that conforms to the NEBS requirements and is properly anchored has perfomed well seismixally. The earthquake perfomance of support facilities and equipment, such as HVAC, iron work, battery plants, and emergency generators has been mixed.(AU)

Factors affecting congestion (change of traffic pattern) of telecommunication systems and networks

This paper is intended as a starting point for discussions to address and identify perfomance issues relñated to congestion (meaning delayed dial tone and incomplete call attempt) on telecommunication systems and networks after a major earthquake in a populated area. The driving forces, technology, advanced services, market demand and competition, that are shaping the telecommunication systems and networks of the next century can be harnessed to serve post disaster needs. The time has come to develop perfomance criteria and policies in parallel with the growth and changes of the telecommunication systems and networks. The task ahead is huge and not easy, success will depend on collaboration of operators, vendors, providers of emergency services, policy makers, researchers and users.(AU)

Concentration, system modeling and telecommunications perfomance

The overall perfomance of a telecommunications network is a function of the perfomances of its constituent layers, and lifeline earthquake engineering addresses mainly the physical layer. Contributions of lifeline engineering to physical perfomance qre reviewed in this paper, and two areas are singled out for discussion: Lifeline interaction and concentration. Lifeline interaction, i.e., T/C failure due to disruption to its support lifeline, is deemed the most important cause of failure now that direct failure of equipment is unlikely. However, interaction is but a special case of concentration, which refers to all locales with an over-abundant presence of assets. Where there is concentration, which refers to all locales with an over-abundant presence of assets. Where there is concentration, the effects of a failure among the pool of assets are always amplified.(AU)

Measures of perfomance for emergency response communications

The convergence of digital communications techniques makes necessary an encompassing view of telecommunications in emergencies. Such a view crosses technological, industrial, disciplinary and jurisdictional boundaries. A framework for characterizing the overall perfomance of the complex telecommunications network of the present and future is proposed. Such a framework is necessary to descirbe and pursue technical and policy goals for emergency response communications.(AU)

Telecommunications emergency operations in Pacific Bell

The security and defense of the United States, as qell as the health and welfare of the populace, could depend in part on the continued functionality of the national telecommunications network prior to, during, and after an emergency. This network is a critical resource to disaster response capability, and its value will be maintained only if operational continuity is assured through development and implemetation of effective disaster response programs. Since emergencies strike with little or no warning, inadequate preparation could result in grave consequences to citizens, communities, and the nation.(AU)

La telecomunicación al servicio de la asistencia humanitaria

La tecnología actual de las comunicaciones las aplicaciones de la telecomunicación en situaciones de emergencia y los medios de información desempeñan un papel fundamental en la ayuda prestada en caso de catástrofe. No obstante es necesario reconocer las limitaciones de estos campos de las redes públicas así como las restricciones reglamentarias. Las nuevas tecnologías por satélite incipiente como la Comunicación Personal Movil Mundial por Satélite (GMPCS) no resolverán estos problemas a menos que se tome debidamente en consideraciones las necesidades especificas de los proveedores de la asistencia humanitaria internacional y el mejoramiento del marco reglamentario. El presente documento ofrece una visión general de las posibilidades actuales, las limitaciones y las medidas que pueden adoptar los responsables de la gestión de las catástrofes en cuanto a una óptima utilización de los recursos existentes y potenciales (AU)