Modern radio systems are evolving. Like many IT infrastructures that have shifted from hardware to virtualized environments, Motorola’s ASTRO Virtualized Prime Site offers public safety agencies a smarter way to manage P25 simulcast systems. By leveraging software-defined architecture and compact, high-performance hardware, the Virtualized Prime Site enhances reliability, simplifies expansion, and significantly reduces operating costs.
What Is the Virtualized Prime Site?
The Virtualized Prime Site is a software-based, on-premises solution for P25 simulcast systems. Instead of relying on bulky, hardware-centric components, it uses virtualization technology to consolidate multiple system functions into a smaller, more resilient footprint. It’s built on Motorola’s DSC 8000 controllers, which support site control and channel comparator functions—all designed for seamless operation in mission-critical environments.
Key Benefits of Virtualization
Reduced Equipment Footprint
Even in large-scale deployments, the Virtualized Prime Site occupies just half a rack of space. This not only saves room but also cuts HVAC, power, and maintenance costs.
Improved Uptime & Built-In Redundancy
Every component is redundant. From geographic redundancy to software-based failover, the system maintains all voice and data services—even during updates—without loss of capacity.
Simplified Expansion & Maintenance
Software channel expansions eliminate the need for new hardware. System updates can be performed via a browser interface with no service interruptions, and diagnostics are accessible securely from anywhere.
How Simulcast with Virtualized Prime Site Works
In simulcast systems, multiple radio sites broadcast on the same frequency simultaneously. The Virtualized Prime Site ensures all outbound signals are synchronized for seamless communication, while its software compares inbound streams and selects the highest quality audio frames for retransmission—delivering crystal-clear audio to users in the field.
Core System Specifications
- System Type Supported: P25 Trunking
- Voice Channels: P25 Phase 1 (FDMA), Phase 2 (TDMA)
- Data Support: Integrated and Enhanced Data
- Subsite Capacity: 1 to 32 sites
- Carrier Capacity: 1 to 30 carriers (based on DSC configuration)
- Power Consumption: 250–300 W typical, depending on configuration
- Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F
- Redundancy: Dual GPS, rubidium extended holdover, and geographic failover available
Hardware at the Core: DSC 8000 Controllers
The system is anchored by Motorola’s DSC 8000 controllers. These compact, virtualization-ready units perform mission-critical operations like site control, channel comparison, and load balancing. In the event of hardware failure, the remaining DSCs seamlessly take over to maintain full service delivery.
Why Virtualize Your Prime Site?
For public safety agencies, uptime isn’t optional—it’s essential. Virtualizing your simulcast prime site reduces failure points, accelerates updates, and prepares your infrastructure for future scaling without the cost and delay of hardware upgrades. You save on rack space, energy bills, and IT overhead while gaining the flexibility and control of modern, software-driven design.
Real-World Benefits
- Emergency Management: Redundancy ensures no dropped calls during disasters
- Rural Coverage: Extend reach without extra spectrum using simulcast
- Urban Flexibility: Reduce site clutter with half-rack installation
- IT Alignment: Easily managed alongside other virtualized systems
Start the Migration to a Smarter System
EMCI Wireless can help your agency transition to the ASTRO Virtualized Prime Site. Whether you’re building a new P25 network or modernizing your existing infrastructure, our team offers expert integration, configuration, and support tailored to public safety standards.
