How to Spec Your TOC AV Package
With so many different components to choose from selecting the the right equipment for your Tactical Operations Center or mobile Command Center can appear to be a challenge at first, but it doesn’t have to be. To make the process really easy Vellicom Tactical has created turnkey packages for various TOC sizes, however for those who would like to procure a more specialized system we have created this four step guide for formulating your Expeditionary AV equipment requirements.
Step 1: Select Your Display
The first and most significant choice to make in building out your TOC or mobile Command Center AV kit is determining which type of Tactical Display works best for your mission, and how many of these displays you will need. Each of these systems have their own set of benefits and limitations that we explored in a previous post, though ultimately this decision boils down to unit preference.
Your quantity of Tactical Displays will be determined by:
How much information needs to be displayed at any given time.
How large of a shelter or room you are operating in.
Whether or not you are using quad-view image processors to multiply the number of images that can be displayed on a single screen.
Generally speaking Company level TOCs (or functional units within a larger TOC) will benefit from a single Power Lift Display, while Battalion and Brigade TOCs should utilize a Triple Projector System, or multiple Power Lift Displays. For even larger TOCs or JOCs Tactical Video Walls offer a massive and modular solution for displacing a significant amount of information all at once.
Power Lift Display
Power Lift displays offer ultra-high definition resolutions and push button deployments.
Projector Systems
Big image, small logistical footprint, hassle free setup.
Tactical Video Wall
Expeditionary Video Walls are the ultimate in TOC Display Technology.
Step 2: Select your AVDC
After specifying your Tactical Display Systems the next step is determining how many media inputs and outputs you will need to support your command center. These numbers will determine which Audio/Video Distribution Center should be specified for your TOC.
Audio/Video Distribution Centers, commonly referred to as Video Distribution Units or VDUs, serve as the brains behind your TOC AV package and allow Battle Captains to rapidly control which video sources are displayed. You can learn more about Vellicom Tactical’s AVDC systems here.
Inputs
The number of media inputs required will be the primary driver behind your AVDC selection. To calculate this figure add up the number of individual laptops, surveillance feeds, VTC systems, and other video sources that will need to be displayable in your TOC.
Outputs
Calculating the minimum number of video outputs required is fairly simple, and largely determined by your Tactical Display selection. You will need one output for each flat panel display, projector, or video wall monitor.
Quad-view Image Processors
As discussed in a previous post Quad-view processors allow users to take full advantage of their Tactical Display real-estate by mapping up to four inputs onto a single output. Our AVDCs come equipped with 1-3 quad-view processors, allowing for a maximum of up to 12 images to be displayed at the same time.
AVDC-1
Inputs: 8
Outputs: 4
Quad-view: 1
AVDC-2
Inputs: 15
Outputs: 8
Quad-view: 2
AVDC-3
Inputs: 29
Outputs: 20
Quad-view: 3
Step 3: Select your upgrades
Vellicom Tactical offers additional systems to enhance the capabilities of your Command Center. These products are designed to work seamlessly with our Expeditionary Displays and Audio/Video Distribution Centers.
VTC Systems
Video Teleconferencing has become a critical element of modern communications. Thanks to the Vellicom Tactical VTC System you can take this capability with you virtually anywhere. Our video call packages combine the latest technology from CISCO with rugged packaging and all of the accessories that you will need to rapidly get up and running with conference calls in the field. All components are TAA compliant and compatible with systems commonly used by the DoD.
PA/Sound Systems
Portable Sound Systems can be added to our TOC packages to amplify audio from a specific video input, share radio communications, or serve as a PA system when combined with one of Vellicom Tactical’s microphone kits. All of our sounds systems are rugged, TAA compliant, and capable of producing high quality audio in austere environments. Most of these systems can be used with the included batteries for extended periods of time, or plugged into shore power for permanent operation.
Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)
The Vellicom Tactical UPS is a critical upgrade to protect sensitive electronics in the AVDC from power fluctuations. This system helps to regulate the voltage from inconsistent diesel generators, and provides backup batter power to continue operations through temporary outages. It comes in a shock resistant rack mounted protective case.
Step 4: Select your Extras
As a part of our mission to provide customers with truly Turnkey TOC packages we also offer the following components and accessory items to complete your mobile command and control systems.
Tactical Tables
Our Tactical Tables are constructed of lightweight aircraft grade aluminum and come with an extraordinary 3,000 lb weight rating. Optional cable management systems simplify setup and provide a surge protected power strip built into the table.
Folding Chairs
With TOC staff spending long hours in the seated position providing comfortable chairs should be a key consideration while defining your equipment needs. Our folding chairs are designed to be lightweight, strong, and enjoyable to sit in for extended periods of time.
Cable Packages
Each of our systems comes equipped with a starter cable package, however if you require additional cables, or would like to purchase replacements for legacy systems, Vellicom Tactical can accommodate your needs.
Cable Management
Keeping power and data cables neat and out of the way helps to reduce deployment times and reduce the risk of tripping hazards. Vellicom Tactical offers a number of cable ramps and bundling solutions to meet this need.
Lighting
Vellicom Tactical is in the process of developing innovative lighting solutions for shelter based command centers. These lights are designed to improve deployment times, and reduce energy consumption. Please contact our team for more information.
Step 5: How to Order
Vellicom Tactical products can be ordered through several contracting mechanisms including TLS, GSA, P Cards and AFNAF. For assistance in determining which contract is right for you please contact us.