NCJ Number
175282
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 25 Issue: 7 Dated: July 1998 Pages: 18-20-22
Date Published
1998
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper identifies current problems of E911 in responding to the increasing number of cell phone calls, and describes the phases of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) plan for addressing these problems.
Abstract
Cell phone users expect a 911 call from a cell phone to work as it does from the service at home, but this is not the case. When a wireless 911 call is transmitted to the police from a cell phone, there is no way to call the caller back; and the calling pattern, including the set-up time, differs greatly from that of a wireline call. One incident can generate up to 50 calls, creating further problems. In one incident reported by a number of cell phone users, the dispatcher was not sure how many incidents had actually occurred, how many vehicles to dispatch, or even where to send them (that happens if callers do not give or do not correctly identify the location where the incident occurred). The FCC has gotten involved in the process, and in December 1997 established a Report and Order docket that contains Phase I and Phase II requirements for wireless carriers. Phase I went into effect on April 1, 1998. Encompassing cell phones, PSC phones, and SMRs (special mobile radios), it calls for capturing the calling party's 10-digit phone number as well as providing the closest cell (antenna tower) to the caller. It should locate the caller within a mile or two 100 percent of the time. Phase II, required by October 1, 2001, calls for even more precise data. It requires that the x-, y- (latitude and longitude) coordinates must be pinpointed within 125 meters 67 percent of the time. The technology of these phases is described, along with current efforts to implement it.