Tools for First Responders

DTC offers a variety of tools for First Responders, some of which are described below. In general, the First Responder arrives at an incident with little knowledge of what the situation is. The ability to quickly gather and share information with other responders is critical in making timely and correct decisions.

HVT Handheld Video Transmitter

The Handheld Video Transmitter is the latest innovation in tactical video reconnaissance and digital video transmission from DTC.

First responders will find the HVT valuable for search and rescue, assessing threats, physical security, and disaster sites. The HVT is an essential tool for fire/rescue, government, military, and law enforcement teams. Weighing less than six pounds and completely portable, the HVT uses a Palladium digital transmitter and fits in a
durable 9.8 by 9.0 by 4.8 inch package.

Rechargeable Lithium batteries provide a nominal runtime of three hours with all features ON. Even longer runtimes are achieved with the illuminator LED’s and laser turned OFF. The LED’s are ultra-bright and efficient, providing sufficient illumination for excellent video in complete darkness. A red spotting laser provides a safe method of effectively pointing the camera without the need for a monitor.

The HVT was designed to go virtually anyplace and to work well in virtually any environment from sunlight to darkness. A miniature color video camera is fitted in the center of the HVT, with dual banks of illuminator LED’s in concentric circles around the camera. Two types of LED’s are used with illumination beam-widths of 20 degrees and 45 degrees. This combination provides both a spot light and an effective flood light, with a combined output designed to recoginize a person in a dark room at a 12 foot distance.

This capability may be enhanced by using a DTC wireless transmitter to transmit video from the HVT back to a remote receive location, such as a van or man transportable listening post, such as the MiniPIX™.

Scout Infrared Camera

One of the tools required is the ability to visually assess the situation. In near or complete darkness, the FLIR Scout™ handheld IR camera provides an invaluable capability. Operating in zero light situations, the Scout enables a responder to “see” based on heat generation. Imagine trying to locate an incapacitated person in complete darkness, or identify the source of heat in a fire situation. Images are displayed via the color display on the Scout or by using a MicroOpitical Heads Up Display (HUD) clipped to their glasses or helmet. The other hand is free to carry a weapon, radio or other equipment.

This capability may be enhanced by using a DTC wireless transmitter to transmit video from the Scout back to a remote receive location, such as a van or man transportable listening post, such as the MiniPIX™.

DynaDome™ Rapid Remote Camera System

Another way to visually monitor a situation quickly is by using DTC’s DynaDome™ wireless camera system. The DynaDome™ consists of an inverted camera in a rugged case that can be set just about anywhere, with remote control and wireless video transmission provided through a DTC TopHat box. This enables complete control of PTZ and camera functions remotely over a two way radio, combined with microwave video transmission back to a remote site. As a power source, consider using a marine battery. It will provide days of operation.

The MiniPIX™ is an ideal receiver for this application, as it is quickly deployable (about ten seconds to set up), and will operate for over an hour on its own internal battery. You’ll want to find an external AC or DC (car outlet) as soon as possible for extended operation.

This solution allows the responders to stand off from a potentially dangerous situation, while still monitoring activity at the site.

Audio Transmitter/Receiver
Collapsed Building Situation

Searching for survivors in a collapsed building is time critical. Consider using DTC’s T-2001 audio transmitter as a means of listening for survivors by lowering it into the structure. A MiniMate MMR-3 or MMR-4 may be used to monitor the audio, and the operator should use a good pair of headsets to filter out ambient background noise.

This set up doubles as a good audio surveillance system, and is an excellent low cost solution for this application.