Successful completion of the first interoperability testing of direct mode MCX communications

This event, utilising Qualcomm’s 5G-Sidelink technology, occurred at the ETSI Plugtest from 9th to 13th October in Malaga, Spain.

This eighth ETSI MCX Plugtest concentrated on testing new functionalities of 3GPP Release 17, FRMCS, eMBMS, Interworking function (IWF), direct mode, and other mission-critical communication features. A significant aspect of the tests was to ensure the capability of device-to-device communications vital for first responders in scenarios lacking network connectivity.

Previously exclusive to Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems, the breakthrough brought forth by Qualcomm’s 5G-Sidelink technology now enables devices to discover each other and establish communication autonomously from network infrastructure.

Softil, in cooperation with Alea, a Leonardo company, demonstrated the first-ever interoperable direct mode communication at the Malaga Plugtest, employing devices powered by Qualcomm’s 5G-Sidelink technology.

Anatoli Levine, Director of Products & Standards at Softil, who also spearheaded the company’s team at the Plugtest, stated: “By ensuring interoperability of MCX products and solutions, the industry spurs choice, economies of scale, confidence in the new technology and allows operators to choose best-of-breed solutions. With complete interoperability of systems, First Responders from all blue light agencies working at an incident can communicate together at all times irrespective of MCX vendor products being used.

“Once deployed, Qualcomm’s 5G-Sidelink technology will allow the complete transition from LMR to the latest public safety broadband technologies with the resulting benefits, notably the ability to work better and faster and beyond existing barriers.”

The event, held at the University of Malaga, saw participation from over 115 delegates representing 31 MCX vendor companies and 20 observer organisations and staff.

Softil has consistently engaged in all ETSI Plugtests for MCX and FRMCS since the series began in 2017. The company's engineers conduct product testing to enhance interoperability across open-standard solutions by different vendors. This commitment to full interoperability supports the deployment of new mission-critical products, ensuring vendors and customers a smoother, simpler, and quicker introduction to market.

About Softil’s BEEHD framework technology

Softil’s BEEHD is a framework in line with the 3GPP MCX Release 17 standards, providing a cross-platform SDK for developers and manufacturers of various communication devices. The technology underpins IP-based mission-critical voice, video, and data solutions across industries, with proven interoperability with major MCX systems worldwide.