FREQUENTIS puts its proven Voice Communication, Recording and Networking Systems into Operation at the DFS’s Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH ACC in Langen

DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH (DFS) has worked with voice communication and other ATM systems from Frequentis for over 25 years. This successful, long-term cooperation reached new heights recently, with the implementation of a state-of-the-art DIVOS 3 log voice recording system.

The switch to the new system was synchronised with the transition to the Frequentis “ISIS-XM G5” voice communication system. The combination of new systems introduces numerous technological innovations which will see improvements in operational efficiency. The strong cooperation between DFS and Frequentis was reflected in the speed and ease with which the new systems and functions were specified and implemented.

The deployed recording solution is based on the latest release of Frequentis DIVOS 3 log. DFS and Frequentis worked together on the release to create one of the first and largest virtual voice recording systems ever seen in European air traffic management.

“In addressing our specific requirements, we have together come up with a brand new product for the ATM industry”, says Timo Mötz, Product Manager Voice Recording DFS. “What I particularly like about our collaboration is how the Frequentis experts provide an honest assessment of what’s possible and what’s really needed. They’re not just trying to sell a product. Instead, it’s about finding the best possible solution for the customer.”

The Langen ACC system is the largest DIVOS 3 log solution ever installed by Frequentis, with 3,760 duplicated recording channels. The fully-virtual recording system has been operational since March, 2013, and a second system with 3,500 duplicated channels is set to enter operation at the Munich centre at the end of 2014.

DIVOS 3 log supports recording of dynamically-assigned radios and features various innovative functions, such as Data Link recording and the ability to record any user in the DFS Alcatel PBX network via a centralised transfer point.

All these functions are hosted on a ground-breaking virtual server platform, where the virtualisation of the system architecture ensures exceptional availability and reliability. The virtualised deployment on blade server technology reduces the cabinet space by 70% compared to conventional recorder hardware. This new release of DIVOS 3 log also includes many usability improvements, a certified recording interface to the Alcatel omniPBX-called DR Link and the ability to record the DFS’s Data Link messages via the Data Link frontend processor.

The DIVOS implementation is a network-aware recording solution that fully supports the DFS VOICE-NET resource strategy. Given DIVOS 3 log is already scheduled for future deployment at all DFS ACCs, the system also provides the needed networking capability for central administration, investigation and monitoring, supporting the Single Sky Initiative and FAB.

“We are proud of the innovation and successful applications associated with our DIVOS 3 log product”, says Dietmar Jakubec, Head of DIVOS at Frequentis AG. “Much of this success is due to the highly-valued cooperation with DFS, whose input as a forward-thinking and industry-leading ANSP is important to the product development process”.

DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH

The DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH is a state-owned company, organised under private law, with approximately 6,000 employees. Every year, it coordinates around three million aircraft movements in German airspace. This makes Germany the country with the highest air traffic volume in Europe. DFS operates control centres in Langen, Bremen, Karlsruhe and Munich. DFS is also represented in the EUROCONTROL Centre in Maastricht and in the control towers of the 16 international German airports.