Penn. Radio System Still Looking For Success

The distinction of being a pioneer for building a state-wide public safety radio network is still weighing heavily on Pennsylvania, as officials consider spending another $68 million to improve reception, on top of over $400 million that’s already been spent. The Harris. Corp. radio network was approved by the legislature in 1996 and was expected to cost $179 million. But engineering and construction problems, and poor reception over the state’s diverse geography have increased the cost substantially. The system was the first large-scale use of OpenSky digital technology invented by M/A COM Inc., a factor that contributed to the cost of the system and its full implementation. Other states signed radio contracts with M/A-COM, but notably, New York state terminated its contract in 2009 over problems with their partially-implemented network. M/A-COM was later purchased by Tyco Electronics, which in turn was purchased by Harris Corp. in 2009. Read the long story about Pennsylvania’s on-going radio project here. Also read a follow-up story to the original newspaper account.