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Mississippi Designates GSS System
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Global Security Systems said its GSSNet/ Alert
Studio has been installed as the state of Mississippi’s new Emergency Alert
System.
The system helps meet new FCC rules about distribution
of emergency alerts and supplants the familiar EAS analog “daisy chain” distribution
to broadcast outlets. GSS is based in that state. “The selection of this system
was supported by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the Mississippi
Emergency Management Agency and the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters,”
the company stated.
It describes this as an expansion of
the state’s existing Alert FM system, installed in 2005 and subsequently
expanded; it disseminates via subcarrier of FM stations.
“Alert FM and GSSNet/Alert Studio both distribute information using the
GSSNet satellite data delivery system,” the company said. “GSSNet provides a ‘switchless’
solution that is not affected by telephone or Internet issues during power
outages.”
Alerting officials will send messages using
an Alert Studio message origination tool; the message is sent via GSSNet and
received by satellite downlinks at Local Primary 1 and 2 stations, which then broadcast
the information.
Officials quoted in the announcement
noted the system’s use for Amber Alerts including their ability to attach
pictures to alerts and preview messages. Targeted EAS messages are also
supported.
The system will participate in IPAWS so Mississippi
officials can receive and distribute federal alerting messages as well.
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