INTEROPERABILITY NOW
1-1
1
General Information
1.1
Scope
This instruction manual provides the information necessary to install and operate the ARA-1
TM
Radio-to-SIP Interface.
1.2
Description
The JPS Interoperability Solutions ARA-1 Radio-to-SIP Interface is a network device used for
interfacing radio equipment to SIP networks, thereby
extending the coverage and capability of
these networks. It is comparable to an ATA (analog telephone adapter), which allows a standard
telephone to operate on a SIP network; the ARA-1 provides the same capability to a radio. The
ARA-1 makes special provision for the differences between radios and telephones. In particular,
the half-duplex nature of radios and the control signals they require are accommodated by the
ARA-1.
Designed for years of continuous operation in mission-critical applications and remote locations,
the ARA-1 has no moving parts and requires no periodic shutdown or maintenance. Startup upon
power on is typically less than 10 seconds.
1.2.1
General
The ARA-1 provides a seamless interface between a radio and an IP-based network using SIP.
This brings to existing SIP networks all the features inherent in a radio system, including the
ability to wirelessly reach otherwise inaccessible areas. For example, an ARA-1 can be used with
an LMR system to extend the SIP Network into areas of rugged terrain, across bodies of water,
or into tunnels.
The ARA-1 also provides to radio networks all the features available with SIP. These include
interoperable communication among disparate radio systems that is as easy as creating a typical
PBX conference call and also other PBX features such as Call Logging, Call Forwarding, and
Call Recording.
1.2.2
SIP Interface
The SIP side of the ARA-1 assigns its associated radio a unique extension that can easily be
dialed using any IP phone, softphone, or other voice communications device associated with the
SIP PBX. Any number of radios, SIP Phones, or other audio devices in the network can be
conferenced together by the SIP PBX.