Combined Services Winter Sports

We sponsored the Combined Winter Sports which was held in Meribel, France on the 2nd - 6th February 2010. Our involvement was to provide communications for the whole event so the skiers, commentators and event management could keep in contact with one another, without costly mobile phone bills at the end!

Portable Motorola Radios

For the Alpine skiers, the Army will again be looking to exert their domination at team and individual level. Last year they were chased all the way by the RAF!

It is also a big year for the Navy who are hoping to give some of their young up coming skiers the a good test, in events they have struggled with over the past few years.

This time as well as the Downhill, Super G Giant Slalom and Slalom events there will be a fifth race the SC Slalom, designed to give the speedsters and slalom experts an equal chance of success.

The presence of the "Battle Back" competitors was also be much looked forward to. They are hoping to use the championships as a springboard for future Winter Paralympics ambitions.

Snowboarding continues to grow in popularity and a record number of forces competitors are expected in Meribel. The snowboard park in Meribel is one of the best dedicated tracks in the Alps and offers plenty of challenges for all the competitors. The main event remains the Snowboard Cross with thrills and spills of racing on the tight track. But another great attraction is the Parallel Giant Slalom held under the floodlights, which adds extra spice. The Slope Style is the final event, which allows the riders to show off their skills with the board to the full.

The event is over a course of 5 days.

Meribel is once again pulling out the stops for the top service skiers and snowboarders.

Go into any of the bars and restaurants here and the prices hit you between the eyes! One bar was advertising its prices on labels on the tables. A pint of beer 4 Euros, in Happy Hour! The shops are as friendly and helpful as ever.

A link to the whole event and the bloggers is listed below, we hope you enjoyed the event and look forward to next year!

BFBS Sport

Home Office Scientific Development Exhibition

Communication Specialists and CommVert will be attending the Home Office Scientific Devlopment Exhibition on the 16th - 19th March in Farnborough. We will be on Stand U28 if you want to come and pay us a visit :)

Background Information
The HOSDB 2010 exhibition is the UK's only secure event for displaying the latest security equipment for law enforcement and public security. It focuses on the four key Home Office business areas:
Crime and Policing
Security and Counter Terrorism
Identity Management and Border Security

To meet the demand from exhibitors and visitors HOSDB 2010 is moving to Farnborough in Hampshire - just over half an hour away from central London by train and from Heathrow airport by road. The new venue offers a secure facility with ample on-site parking and local hotel accomodation.

In 2009 visitors from 44 countries attended, with 230 exhibitors. This year HOSDB and the organisers, A|D|S have joined forces with UK Trade and Investment Defence and Security Organisation (UKTI DSO) to invite senior policing and government security representatives from around the world. They will be hosted on a formal government-to-government basis.

There will be around 3,000 security products in over 150 different categories on show with products ranging from microchips to body armour.

Senior government officials will be running a series of one hour workshops to provide briefing on key areas of government programmes - open to all exhibitors at the event.

In recognition of the increased level of formal overseas delegations the event will run for three days.

Because of the specialist nature of this exhibition, entry criteria is strict. Visitors must be employees or agents of the police service, government security and law enforcement agencies - plus military and some select providers of Critical National Infrastructure.

For more information on visiting or exhibiting contact Ruediger Kanne of CommVert or call him on +44(0)1256 766 600.

Visitors may also register online for the HOSDB exhibition

Radio Communication Systems and Equipment

It is a matter of fact that this world is fast paced. There are many things which are highly responsible in order to make this world reach that kind of pace. One such thing which has played a vital role in this case is the two way radio communication, which is possible with the radio communication systems and equipments. Well, actually speaking, we have to thank two way radio communication, as it will help us to communicate with people who are far away from us. In addition, you will also enjoy a kind of ease and clarity when you are communicating.

The two way radio communication has helped people or companies to be highly benefited. In fact, it has made a very complicated thing to look so simple, without wasting much money as well as time. The two radio communication systems and equipments will help all sorts of employees to be in touch with their fellow mates at any instant. The radio equipments are out there to set a milestone in world of communication. Since the radio communication system is enabled with two way radio communicating, employees can easily be in touch. In fact, you will find many huge industries, which are well equipped with radio communicating systems in order to guide as well as to manage their employees. Since the supervisors cannot afford to monitor and guide their employee being in the same place every time, the two way radio communicating will get their work done with the comfort of their cabin. Hence, it helps to get the task done without any sort of risks and tensions.

It is great to see that there are several companies out there both online as well as offline, which are offering these systems for hiring during the special events. You can look forward to hiring these systems for any special events. These companies will also offer amazing discounts for those willing to hire or purchase radio communicating systems. It is always advised to go through the online reviews of the companies offering these services in order to pick the right company. However, for those who are looking to get the radio communication systems installed to their office or homes in order to enjoy a great convenience, it is always advised to get them installed with the guidance of a systems expert. If you call them before and let them know the purpose of which system you are installing, they will choose a right system considering various factors such as the frequency required, power sources available etc. They will get started with the installation work as soon as you finalize the deal with them. Since they are also wireless, it will not be that difficult to maintain these systems.

In the security point of view, no provider will guarantee you that kind of security, which radio communication systems/equipments do. You can look forward to getting your business or house monitored 24 hours only by making the most of these systems.

Botswana: HF fixed radios

Since its independence in 1966, Botswana is experiencing harmony, stability and excellent economic growth. The commercially exploited diamonds found in Botswana is a source of its economic and geological wealth. Many foreign investors and social workers have shown great interest in the growth of this country. The need for powerful networking and communication is thus the need of the hour in Botswana. HF fixed radios, and vehicle mount communication systems are of great importance to workers who have to go deep into the country side.

The HF fixed radios come in different models according to the usage and the need. In desert areas or in mines communication is impossible without the help of powerful network systems. Governments as well as private organizations are always looking for flexible, cost effective and reliable communication systems for remote access mostly during times of emergency. High frequency radios are preferred from normal networks for these urgent and reliable communication needs.

Instant voice, instant messaging, email, fax and GPS navigation are some of the features of HF Fixed radio and vehicle mounted communication systems. Community workers and miners who have to travel to remote areas in Botswana will find this HF fixed radio reliable and really very useful in times of emergency. The government and other organizations need the vehicle mounted HF radios to keep up the constant and consistent network for transfer of important data and messages.

Fixed base stations are used for controlling the mobile and portable communication networks. HF fixed radio network need minimum infrastructure and hence considered as best suited during times of disaster and emergency. The cost for this form of network is also very nominal when compared to other communication network systems. HF radios are very tough so as to withstand any extreme condition and are also very cost effective.

The fact that the military uses these HF radios shows that this communication system has secured and reliable networks wherein the data and the voice messages are encrypted and secured using the latest technologies. Simultaneous communication among a group or many operators is possible in HF fixed radios. This is one reason why it is said to be most effective for disaster control and management as it can easily and quickly connect with any number of operators simultaneously.

HF radio base stations can also connect to VHF and UHF radio systems. It can also work along cellular phones and land line telephones also. It is simple to operate and can be carried and operated at any place or location with less hassle. This is what has made the HF fixed radio base stations and vehicle mounted networks a necessity in Botswana. Economically developing country like Botswana can rely on such high frequency, cost effective communication systems for all its development and emergency needs. The government and the military will find it very useful during riot and disaster control. Local police and security services can use these HF radios to control crimes in the country.

Botswana Tourist Information

Command Control Systems

Can you ever imagine a world without communication? Communication happens everywhere. Right from the mother earth to the animals, birds and humans, all communicate their messages in one form or another. Communication need not be in words or in a language. Any sound, data, form or character through which the message to be conveyed is transmitted is called a communication process. Today, human modes of communication have grown in leaps and bounds and hardly is it possible to set aside our mobiles or the internet. The whole human security today is based on the effective communication system like the command control systems used in the military.

What is a command control system?
What are the significant features of this command control system?
Global command and control systems are nothing but a collection of SOA systems. It was originally developed with the view to replace the worldwide military command and control system. It is used by US navy and Marine Corps, US army and Air force. Some significant features include intelligence analysis, combat operations support, radar and ground weapons analysis, targeting etc using the web services. It can also provide terrain and weather forecast. Further advance in this technology might enable chat, emails and newsgroups as well.

The command and control system uses IP based connectivity or NIPRNet, JWICS etc. this system can collect nearly 94 sources of different data’s. It is trusted as one of the best communication system for the enhanced security purposes. The nation’s safety lies in the performance of these control system as a slight fault might endanger the nation’s security. The data or message to be delivered must be confidential, fast and immediate. Thus an effective system which can provide all the three functions should be considered and the best. The military, air force and navy should also be able to co ordinate their action in times of war. So an effective system to combine and combat the three sectors is imperative.

High command officers always need to share high security messages or data. The quickest way to transmit these messages with minimal loss or theft is through the command control system. The system should be very strongly protected to face the threats from hackers and deadly viruses as the system uses the web services. It must provide accurate reports and the analysis should be true and dependable. If the chat and email options are provided then the communication within the army or navy is always open and inter connected for quick data or message transfer. It can easily identify the radar signals or the approaching security threat in no time. The message thus delivered will be very useful to protect the country and the people in it. The command and control system is thus dependable, reliable, trust worthy, highly rated for performance and can be used any where and every where. The communication systems are updated regularly and newer options and features are also introduced to keep in pace with the changing times.

Milipol Paris 2009

The Milipol exhibition commences on the 17th November and completes 20th November, 2009. For the first time Communication Specialists Ltd will be attending the Milipol exhibition, presenting our new product range in the security sector. We will also be showcasing our two way radio product range that supports the needs of the Military, Police, MOD, businesses and the end user.

Come and visit us on our SESP Stand Number 13C004 and MIB Electronics stand Number 11.L.089 - see you there!

What is Milipol Paris?
At the end of the 70s, various French manufacturers supplying police equipment were worried that they had limited commercial contacts at international level. Contrary to the Aeronautics and Defence sectors, the Interior Security sector did not have any promotion and communications platform that matched its importance in France. As a result, the idea of organising a specific international exhibition took hold. EXPOL (EXposition POLice), the first private initiative, showed the way.

In 1984, the International Milipol Committee came to life as an association whose goal was the promotion of security techniques and equipment.

That same year, the first international Milipol Show was organised in Paris as the privileged information and public-relations tool, open widely to professionals in the field of security, including manufacturers, end-users, buyers and exhibitors of all nationalities. The quasi-confidential field of police, civil and military security equipment, virtually unknown to the general public until that time, was thus brought to light.

While the subsiding cold war still held centre stage, security services were already at work in the wings, fighting against such growing menaces as criminality, drugs, organised crime, terrorism, industrial and economic espionage. They expressed their latest requirements and needs for equipment, while investigating all the techniques available.

The Milipol Show evolved within this climate of expectation and demand. It broadened out to include the field of security which encompasses private and public communities, that of industry and businesses, the protection of populations, and internal State security.

Held annually during the 80s, the Milipol Paris Show found its cruising speed as of 1991, the year in which the biennial scheduling was adopted.

In 1995, it acquired new dimensions of considerable importance.

As it was now held under the aegis of the French Ministry of the Interior, the Milipol Paris Show became an official event, along the same lines as the international Eurosatory exhibitions for land armament, Euronaval for naval equipment and the Paris-Le Bourget Aeronautics-Aerospace Exibition.

Today, the international Milipol Trade Show compels recognition as a result of its professionalism and the quality of its exhibitors and visitors attending from around the world, all genuinely linked to the various security sectors.

The Milipol brand is owned by a group of companies - COFREXPORT, PROTECOP, THALES, VISIOM and CIVI.POL Conseil, a consultancy and service company of the French Ministry of the Interior.

The exhibition is organised by EDS Milipol.

British Army Telemark Skiing Association

The British Army Telemark Skiing event will be taking place in Austria and will commence in January 2010. We will be sponsoring this event again in 2010. The Army Sports Association require communications for this event so we will be supplying them with 10 Motorola Hand Held Radios and PA system.

Motorola design, manufacture, sell, install, service analogue and digital two way radios as well as voice and data communications products and systems.

Buy Motorola VHF Hand Held Radios

The list below provides you with the dates of this event. It will be held in Rauris, Austria between 6th - 18th Jan 2010.

Mon 04 - Jan Committee Arrives
Tue 05 - Jan Set up day
Wed 06 - Jan Competitors Arrive
Thu 07 - Jan Training
Fri 08 - Jan Training
Sat 09 - Jan Training
Sun 10 - Jan Training
Mon 11 - Jan Training
Tue 12 - Jan Training
Wed 13 - Jan Development Telemark Sprint
Thu 14 - Jan Championship Giant Slalom
Fri 15 - Jan Championship Telemark Sprint
Sat 16 - Jan Development Telemark Sprint
Sun 17 - Jan Championship Telemark Classic. Prize-giving
Mon 18 - Jan Competitors depart
Tue 19 - Jan Committee depart

Those wishing to take part in the 2010 Army Telemark championships should read the DIN and complete the included entry form.

Many of you reading this may not even know what Telemark Skiing is, so, let's go back in time and give you some background history on Telemark Skiing and the British Army Association.


Where did the Telemark come from?
Telemark skiing was introduced in 1868 by Sondre Norheim of Norway, it is also referred to as free heel skiing which is a technique focused around the Telemark turn. This type of skiing has steadily regained popularity since the 1970s.

What is Telemarking?
The Telemark turn is a skiing technique that allows for fast, smooth and stable turns on a variety of surfaces. Telemark skiers have cable bindings, which allow the heel to rise during turns - hence the term 'free heel' skiing. Telemark skiing is therefore characterised by the 'telemark turn', in which the outside ski leads in the turn and the inside ski trails, with the knee bent and the heel raised. (By contrast, Alpine skiers' boots are fastened firmly to their skis and the inside ski leads in the turn.)

History of Telemarking Skiing
Telemarking Skiing has been called "the world's oldest new sport". Telemark has also been referred to as "the most rhythmic and flowing way to descend snow covered mountains". Telemark skiing is all about the stroke, sensation and the feeling of excited exhilaration that comes from getting into the grove of the tele turn. The true stoke of Telemarking is hard to describe. It can be an almost ethereal experience in those moments when everything comes together: form, function, time and space.

In 1868, Norheim and a group of skiers from Telemark travelled to the city of Christiania (now Oslo) to take part in the second annual Centralforeningen (Central Ski Association), a ski competition the object of which was to see who could ski most skilfully down a particular nearby slope in the city . At the time, nearly all skiers were straight running everything, and struggled to make any kind of turn. At the competition, Norheim and the other villagers shocked the city skiers, demonstrating skills that had never been seen before, including strong turns and precisely controlled stops.

Who Are the ATSA?
ATSA was set up in 2007 to provide a focal point for Telemark skiing at all levels within the British Army.


The Aim of ATSA:

• Encourage new telemarkers to get involved
• Run an annual Army Telemark championships in Austria. (This is open to Royal Navy, RAF, UK Civilian and other military competitors. In 2010 we will also host a world cup telemark event.)
• Send a British Army team to the Inter Services Championships
• Support GB Telemark - the focus for the British national team

Competing in this skiing event are the Army, Navy and The Air Force.