Paradigm Secure Communications launch the new XmarX Personnel Tracking Device featuring a unique two way messaging facility and truly global coverage.

Tracking and recovery of personnel is something that should not be left to chance. Increased hostility and threats to operational personnel overseas can lead to difficulties and jeopardize the high level of protection they deserve. It is imperative that in an instant, threatened personnel are able to communicate their location and situation, and receive confirmation that their message has been received, understood, and that help is on its way.

Many products currently on the market rely on GSM or radio waves and offer limited feedback to the user, XmarX is a light-weight rugged (MIL-STD-810F&G and IP67 rated) hand-held tracking device which utilises GPS and Iridium Short Burst Data (SBD) communications for true worldwide coverage.

Personnel are able to alert the appropriate authority of an emergency with a "one-button" feature. Uniquely, XmarX offers a variety of alert activation mechanisms; via a Bluetooth key fob, countdown timer, loss of USB or Bluetooth connection, dead man switch. Alternatively other mechanisms can be designed specifically to customer's individual needs. Alerts enable the sending of location based on GPS and /or Iridium data to allow first responders to quickly track and locate personnel. Secure (AES 256) encrypted 2-way messaging allows the safe communication of identity, short messages and positions together with acknowledgement from the first responders and HQ that the message is received and understood.

XmarX is also configurable via the on screen menu as well as Over-The-Air; allowing the device settings to be altered by the customer. It offers two levels of position reporting; a tracking mode with periodic reporting, and a waypoint mode with manual position reporting.

XmarX is environment proof; it is sealed from water and dust, vibration and shock resistant, and operational from -30°C to +60°C. The advanced power saving modes ensures an extended battery life.

XmarX has a Bluetooth module which can be disabled if required. This together with a USB connection allows a multitude of COTS such as smart phones, PC s, and PDA's to use the device as an Iridium modem. The USB doubles as a charging port allowing most commercial charging devices such as solar to be used. The Bluetooth or USB module can also be used in conjunction with mapping devices to give situational awareness in the field or used in conjunction with body worn medical sensors to allow remote m physiological monitoring of military personnel in operational environments.

XmarX is currently available as part of Paradigm's LifeLink service.

LifeLink is a fully managed end-to-end global tracking and alert service. The service uses rugged, proven solutions for remote operations, and integrates global positioning GPS/Galileo together with Iridium for global coverage (including polar and high latitude regions).