Experimental emergency communication systems using USRP and GNU radio platform

Abstract

One lesson learned from recent large-scale disasters is that the destroyed communication infrastructure severely burdens the relief operation and the recovery mission. How to establish a temporary emergency communication system (ECS) providing reliable communication channels upon deployment becomes a must. An Universal Software Radio Peripheral platform with GNU Radio is employed for experimential purpose with basic voice communications and short message services. With the aid of pre-installed APP in victims' smartphone, valuable information about the victim, such as the identity, location, or physical condition, can be automatically delivered to the developed BS, which significantly facilitates the rescue work. Furthermore, BS acting as a relay could provide direct voice connectivity between victims and relief workers, thereby avoiding considerable fatalities.