ENHANCED SPECIALIZED MOBILE RADIO (ESMR) BASIC DEFINITION AND INFORMATION

What Is ESMR?


Enhanced Specialized Mobile Radio (ESMR) systems use digital radio transmissions similar to other digital technologies. Spread-spectrum modes, such as frequency hopping, are common.

One major difference from other networks is that in an ESMR system, connections between users is almost instantaneous, compared to the typical delays required to dial and set up a call in a public cellular network.This capability allows the ESMR carrier to offer walkie-talkie–like services on its network, as well as cellular calling.

This is a great advantage for large work groups who need to be in constant contact with just a touch of a button, for example a construction crew. ESMR services also allow customers to contact many people at the same time, much like a CB radio, thus creating a multiple person “call.”

Examples of ESMR networks include Ericsson’s Enhanced Digital Access Communications System (EDACS), Motorola’s Integrated Dispatch Enhanced Network (iDEN), and the Nextel System. Delivery and courier services, which depend on mobility and speed, also typically employ ESMR for voice communications between the delivery vehicles and the office.

The technology consists of a dispatcher in an office plotting out the day’s events for the driver.When the driver arrives at his location, he radios the dispatcher and lets him know his location.The benefit of ESMR is its ability to act like a CB radio, allowing all users on one channel to listen, while still allowing two users to communicate personally.This arrangement allows the dispatcher to coordinate schedules for both pick-ups and deliveries, and to track the driver’s progress.

Drivers with empty loads can be routed to assist backlogged drivers. Drivers that are on the road can be radioed if a customer cancels a delivery.This type of communication benefits delivery services in two major areas, saving time and increasing efficiency.

Benefits of ESMR
ESMR is a unique digital service that allows the user a couple ways to communicate, including:

Push-to-talk features that operate like walkie-talkies allow users to talk directly to another person without delay in setting up the call

Group calling allows users to talk to many people at one time

Digital transmissions assure privacy

Two-way data features are available

International systems allow the use of one handset anywhere the service is available