RFQ_Questions-_Answered.docx

Main Base Station:

1. How many separate physical devices consist of the Main Base Station? Amplifier/control module, microphone, AlertCommander (tone/message delivery system)

2. How are the main base stations connected to the speaker arrays? --- Physical connection is by 14Ga speaker cable to the amplifier module (node) and radio connection is by wireless IP or UHF to the base station.

Speaker Array:

1. How many speaker arrays can each base station control and power? ---It appears that each base station would have to control and power up to three nodes consisting of twelve loudspeakers apiece. However I have found a potential solution for speaker arrays that power themselves (AC, DC and battery) and provide the desired omnidirectional wattage using far fewer than twelve speakers. Multiple configurations are available and I have send an email to the company asking them to further explain their most relevant options. Should they respond in a way that confirms each capability listed on the salient characteristics document this product may be a viable option for our nodes and/or mass alert base stations.

https://www.americansignal.com/outdoor-warning-sirens/

2. Does each base station control (2) Speaker Arrays? ---Each base station would need to control two speaker arrays but have the capacity to control three speaker arrays upon planned expansion to four base stations and twelve nodes (arrays) total. The salient characteristics call for each array to contain twelve speakers but there are potentially COTS products able to meet our needs using fewer speakers. I am not a SME by any means but a fewer speaker system may be what works for an otherwise qualified base station that cannot bear a 36 speaker load.

3. Does each speaker array have local amplification? ---Our requirements state that the three base stations must put out 1200 watts but nothing is mentioned concerning local amplification at the individual nodes. The requirements of the entire system are such that broadcast messages must clearly extend a radius of two miles. Also, the capability must exist for a command traveling from a source to be received at a node up to two miles away (through telephone, radio, satellite and/or wireless IP).

Nodes:

1. Can you further explain what is included in the nodes? --- Ruggedized and weather protected case. Equipped for wired or wireless communication. UHF 256 Chan Transmitter / Receiver (800m range), Wireless Plug on 256 Channel 100Mw UHF Transmitter, Dual UHF Short Floppy Receiver Antennas upgradable to large external UHF.

2. Where are the nodes installed? ---The nodes will be installed so that the output of the base stations clearly extend both tones and voice to every square inch within our two mile radius. To be determined by on-site visit with GV engineers. If it does not go against OPSEC to include specific (or vague) dimensions of our perimeter then include whatever is appropriate. Many options for solar power exist but the cost may be a disqualifying factor. The components may also be extra susceptible to damage from the environment. Another limitation for solar in this AOR is the sand and dust swept into the sky by strong wind that can block the sun for days.

System as a whole:

1. Where do activations originate from? Base station, nodes, speakers, other? ---The capability should exist for activations to originate from handheld radios using radio frequency, live broadcast from a base station using a push-to-talk microphone, and a variety of prerecorded messages, tones and live broadcast over both landline and wireless IP from a computer focal point. Because the requested speakers are omnidirectional it seems that each broadcast would be meant to cover the entire area, rather than dividing base stations and nodes into dedicated sectors capable of transmitting independently.

2. What type of audio is being amplified? Tone, PA, pre-recorded message, all 3? --- All three

3. Can you describe how system will be used in the field? --- The system will be used to alert the entire base to severe weather, incoming attacks, public address, exercise drills, and potentially music. It is required that a broadcast command could be received by radio frequency, wireless IP, live broadcast by push-to-talk microphone at a base station, and potentially by satellite and landline.

4. Is the acoustic coverage requirement of 2 mile radius for one speaker array or combination of several? ---It is for a combination of several. It is also required that the base station or node must be able to receive a command from a source of up to two miles away. (Each element can transmit and receive amongst each other through a variety of means, and do so from a distance of two miles.)

1. Does the customer have authorized UHF frequencies for this solution? --- Yes

2. Does the IGCE include host-nation/AFAFRICA feature set approved radios (UHF Transceivers) for the GV System? --- Yes