TETRA standards chose the TimeDivision Multiple Access (TDMA)method from the beginning. TET-RA implements four time slots,i.e. communication channels,within the same 25 kHz radiochannel. This is equivalent to 6.25kHz per channel. Thus, TETRAcan provide 16 communicationchannels in 100 kHz spectrum.As mentioned earlier, TETRA supportsfull duplex communicationconnections and can interoperatewith fixed and mobile phonesthrough the gateway. The TETRAmechanism uses Time DivisionMultiple Access (TDMA) tosimultaneously distribute a timeslot channel for voice servicesand another for sending andreceiving data. TETRA terminalscan process data applicationswhen receiving or sending voice.TETRA’s complex modulation anddemodulation mechanism supportsa 128-bit encryption key,making it extremely difficult toillegally intercept communicationdata. Audio performance remainsstable and excellent within thenetwork coverage, optimizinguser experience. During trunkedmode operations (TMO), TETRAcommunications can be theoreticallysupported within a network.For a four time slot TETRAsystem, the maximum theoreticalcommunication range is 58 km,though terminals and base stationRF performance limit the rangein practice. TETRA uses a nonconstantenvelope modulationscheme that offers greater efficiencythan an APCO25, DMR orFM system scheme.Advantages of TETRATETRA adopts the latest digitalmodem technology. It brings thefollowing advantages:• Versatile functionalities forvarieties of user demands• Overall dispatch management• Reliable and diversified dataapplication• Fast call response• Open Standard, interoperablewith other radio systems,matured multi-manufacturersleads to cost competition, andhence, cost reduction• Working Interoperability Certification• TETRA handsets are less expensive• Spectrum Efficient (TDMATechnology) - simultaneousaccess for four users in 25KHz channel bandwidth• Higher data rate up to 28.8Kbps - suitable for real-timeSCADA data communicationapplication requirements• These advantages maximizethe usability and security ofTETRA productsIn general, TETRA systems providesafe and reliable communicationsto large groups of usersand are capable of offering anend-to-end service. Currently,KOC is exploring the possibilitiesof TETRA deployment in thecompany. Deploying the TETRAsystem at KOC will also providethe company the feasibility ofinterconnection between KOC,KNPC, other K-Companies andother government sectors (MOI,MOD, MOH, Fire Departments,etc.). Such interconnection withother entities will help the companycombat emergencies anddisaster in a more efficient manner.Also, the availability of fast,reliable, safe communication willhelp the company to achieve its2030 strategy. •46 April-June 2012
Meningitis: Information and PreventionWhat is Meningitis?Meningitis is an inflammation ofthe meninges, the membranes thatcover the brain and spinal cord.Most cases are caused by bacteriaor viruses, but some can be due tocertain medications or illnesses.Bacterial meningitis is rare, but isusually serious and can be lifethreateningif not treated right away.Viral meningitis (also called asepticmeningitis) is relatively commonand far less serious. It often remainsundiagnosed because its symptomscan be similar to those of the commonflu.Symptoms of MeningitisMeningitis symptoms vary, dependingboth on the age of the patientand the cause of the infection. Becausethe flu-like symptoms can besimilar in both types of meningitis,particularly in the early stages, andbacterial meningitis can be very serious,it's important to quickly diagnosean infection.The first symptoms of bacterial orviral meningitis can come on quicklyor surface several days after signsof an infection. Common symptomsinclude:• Fever• Lethargy (Decreased consciousness)• Irritability• Headache• Photophobia (Eye sensitivity tolight)• Stiff neck• Skin rashes• SeizuresHow Does Meningitis Spread?Most cases of meningitis — bothviral and bacterial — result from infectionsthat are contagious, spreadvia tiny drops of fluid from thethroat and nose of someone whois infected. The drops may becomeairborne when the person coughs,laughs, talks, or sneezes. Theythen can infect others when peoplebreathe them in or touch the dropsand then touch their own noses ormouths.Infections most often spread betweenpeople who are in closecontact, such as those who livetogether or share eating utensils.Casual contact at school or workwith someone who has one of theseinfections usually will not transmitthe infectious agent.PreventionRoutine immunization can go a longway toward preventing meningitis.The vaccines against measles,mumps, polio, meningococcus, andpneumococcus can protect againstmeningitis caused by these microorganisms.Many of the bacteria and virusesresponsible for meningitis are fairlycommon, so good hygiene is animportant way to prevent infection.Wash your hands thoroughly andoften, particularly before eating andafter using the bathroom and avoidclose contact with someone whois obviously ill. Not sharing food,drinks, or eating utensils can helphalt the spread of germs as well.In certain cases, doctors may giveantibiotics to anyone who has beenin close contact with the personwho is ill to help prevent additionalinfections.TreatmentBecause bacterial meningitis canbe so serious, it's important to seethe doctor right away. If bacterialmeningitis is diagnosed — oreven suspected — doctors will startintravenous (IV) antibiotics as soonas possible. Fluids may be given toreplace those lost to fever, sweating,vomiting, and poor appetite,and corticosteroids may help reduceinflammation of the meninges, dependingon the cause of the disease.The complications of bacterial meningitiscan be severe and includeneurological problems such as hearingloss, visual impairment, seizures,and learning disabilities. The heart,kidneys, and adrenal glands alsomight be affected, depending on thecause of the infection. •April-June 201247