Emergency communications systems can play a key role during disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes or large-scale acts of terrorism. And, nowadays satellite phone systems are used as reliable, emergency communications systems.

In this regard, IDL Corp., an Iridium Global Service Provider and value added manufacturer, has developed a multi-channel satellite communications interface, so called Multi-Exchange Unit (MXU 2000R), which can be used as a backup or a first responder emergency system when landlines and cellular towers fail.

IDL’s MXU 2000R connects PBXs, public switched telephone networks and telephones to the Iridium (News - Alert) global satellite system, thereby making it an ideal system for communications in remote locations. It allows users to make Iridium calls from the comfort of the desk. It can also connect groups of users in fixed or isolated locations such as buildings, islands, constructions sites, oil and gas fields.

In a release, Peter Gerard, president of IDL, said “The MXU is the best solution for reliable backup communications for companies and organizations that require 24x7 emergency communications services, conduct communications with remote locations, or use their own private communications network.”

Currently available in North America, Australia and Europe, the MXU system can fit in to any standard 19" rack. Featuring echo cancellation technology for voice quality, the system can be used to make 4 simultaneous inbound or outbound voice or data calls via system’s channels. Also featuring usage logs for internal billing, the system allows use of PINs for call authorization and tracking.

In addition, the MXU 2000R enables organizations to integrate their fixed- or field-base communications network with emergency field communications network, as well as with other emergency base locations. It can also connect via a standard analog phone to anyone on the Iridium Satellite (News - Alert) network and to normal landline or cellular phones.

IDL Corp. said that its MXU system is now in use within various Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals, regional health care systems and throughout various corporations that are concerned with anytime-anywhere communications with field employees such as TMC (News - Alert) Design and Raytheon.

Dallas, Texas-based IDL Corp. said that it specializes in providing Iridium-based communications solutions to government and private sector clients across the globe. Its satellite communications specialists enable clients to develop as well as implement Iridium voice and data systems.