ITU and Qualcomm have reached an agreement to improve emergency communications for disaster preparedness and to coordinate relief activities in the aftermath of a disaster.
Qualcomm has agreed to donate to ITU a Qualcomm Deployable Base Station (QDBS) with a total estimated value of nearly USD 500,000. The base station will enhance ITU's capacity in deploying mobile telecommunications to assist countries in preparing for disaster and in strengthening response and recovery mechanisms.
Based on 3G CDMA technology, QDBS is said to be a compact, quickly deployable and easy to operate mobile solution for providing first-responder communications. The cellular system can be forward-deployed to supply vital wireless communications.
"We are delighted by this alliance with one of our development Sector Members," said Mr Sami Al Basheer, Director of ITU's Telecommunication Development Bureau. "QDBS brings with it the wireless technology that is so essential in bridging the telecommunication gap when terrestrial networks are knocked out by natural disasters."
Through its Wireless Reach initiative, Qualcomm says it works with organizations such as ITU to bring wireless technology to those who need it most.
"We are proud to work with ITU and provide a useful system to enhance their emergency communications programme," said Shawn A. Covell, Senior Director of International Government Affairs for Qualcomm. "Wireless Reach is fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate with ITU in order to help make a difference when a disaster strikes."