Seamless Field Connectivity for SEMRECC: Peplink and Starlink Integration in Emergency Operations

In public safety operations, staying connected is critical for effective decision-making and team safety. Facing unpredictable conditions and limited infrastructure in the field, the Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communications Center (SEMRECC) needed a more dependable solution. By leveraging Peplink technology, SEMRECC now maintains seamless connectivity even in remote environments where traditional networks often fail.

Challenge

Operating in remote and harsh environments presents significant connectivity challenges for SEMRECC’s emergency response operations. Traditional cellular networks are often unreliable or unavailable in remote or disaster-affected areas, making it difficult to establish stable communications for incident command and real-time coordination.

Without a resilient and rapidly deployable network, teams face delays in data transmission and limited access to mission-critical applications. These connectivity limitations posed serious operational risks—reducing situational awareness, slowing emergency response, and ultimately compromising team safety.

Solution

To overcome these challenges, SEMRECC deployed a portable hybrid network system integrating MAX BR1 Mini 5G and Starlink Mini. The solution mounts on a lightweight tripod next to a rescue vehicle, with the Starlink dish on top, and a weather-resistant enclosure that houses the MAX BR1 Mini 5G, battery, and other components—creating a compact, self-contained communications hub.

The system leverages Peplink SpeedFusion Hot Failover technology, seamlessly switching between 5G/LTE and Starlink networks to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in austere environments.

Powered by a high-capacity battery, the solution supports up to 12 hours of runtime. Weighing under 15 pounds, the entire unit is easy to carry, set up, and redeploy, allowing SEMRECC teams to establish a mission-ready field network within minutes of arrival.

Result

With the Peplink hybrid solution in place, SEMRECC has significantly improved its field communications through reliable, high-speed connectivity. Delivering 150–300 Mbps of consistent throughput, the system supports high-bandwidth applications such as live video streaming, VoIP, and GIS mapping—enabling teams to stay connected beyond traditional coverage areas.

Thanks to seamless connectivity and real-time information, the solution enables emergency teams to respond swiftly, coordinate effectively, and protect public safety during critical operations.

Deployment

MAX BR1 Mini 5G

  • Installed in a portable enclosure connected to a Starlink Mini
  • SpeedFusion to failover between cellular and Starlink
  • Compact, rugged design optimized for rapid field deployment