As one of the UK's leading independent radio communications companies, RTS are delighted to have been appointed sole UK and European distributors for an innovative and revolutionary GPS Microphone. As well as adding security and text messaging to almost any two-way radio, the microphone also improves safety in search & rescue and emergency situations by accurately displaying the location of all personnel using the system.

With locations throughout the UK, Radio Telecom Services Ltd. (RTS) launched the device at major exhibitions in London and Munich and have already received positive responses from both inside and outside Europe.

Manufactured in the USA, the RTS GPS Microphone is already in use with a large number of First Responders throughout the world. Existing uses include: Defence, Public Safety, Fire and Rescue Services, Police, Ambulance Services, National & Local Authorities and Security Specialists, who all find the microphone invaluable in their operations.

Information displayed on a backlit LCD display includes: GPS position, personnel tracking, waypoints, compass and text messaging between group members. In the case of a emergency or major incident, full mapping features can be deployed quickly and effectively using a laptop or pda, management software and just one GPS Microphone.

The first UK user of the system is Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, who have just equipped their Mobile Incident Command Centres with the RTS GPS Microphone, along with additional software that allows total visibility of all personnel at major events.

Commenting on the RTS GPS microphone, Robin Bigger, Assistant Group Commander says: "Deployed at major incidents, we see this product as a vital part of our fireground technology as it enables us to increase situational awareness and maximise fire fighter safety. Command of geographically scattered incidents and events such as wild land and forest fires is greatly improved thanks to the enhanced personnel management capabilities provided by this simple-to-use technology”.

In addition, at the prestigious 'Soldier Technology' Exhibition staged at the Olympia Conference Centre in London, the RTS GPS Microphone received an award in the 'Outstanding Situational Awareness Device' category, in competition with several major international companies.

RTS have already taken on additional experienced staff to cope with the increase in activity and opportunity. They are also appointing dealers in key areas who will provide supply and support for the new range of products, that can work with virtually any radio and is available in both analogue or digital formats.

Additional information - including screenshots of the various functions - can be found at the GPS Microphone's dedicated website: www.rtssar.com