**Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Expands into Emergency Dispatch Sector**

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL), based in Pullman, has ventured into the emergency dispatch sector by developing a land mobile radio solution aimed at enhancing the safety of emergency responders. This initiative originated when SEL engineers identified challenges faced by the regional 911 dispatch center located in proximity to their campus, specifically WHITCOM. The dispatchers at WHITCOM required improved network security, better data regarding the status of radios, and enhanced timing precision to address safety concerns for first responders in the Palouse region.

To tackle these issues, SEL engineers created a device that integrates a networking switch, a real-time automation controller, and a precise satellite clock. A prototype of this solution was successfully tested by WHITCOM during the previous summer, in collaboration with Whitman County Emergency Management.

Historically, SEL has focused on designing and manufacturing digital relays and control systems for the global power industry.

For more information, you can watch a video detailing the new solution [here](https://selinc.com/highlights/whitman-county-emergency-communications/).