Law enforcement officers accustomed to using smartphones with wireless devices in their personal lives are itching to use the same type of technology on duty. And manufacturers of headsets, microphones, and wireless devices are working to meet that challenge.
Although they aren't as sexy as the other contemporary tools of law enforcement that make more headlines like body-worn cameras and high-tech forensics equipment, no technology is more vital to your mission than your communications equipment.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) conference, which was held Oct. 22-26 in Chicago, appeared to focus on officer protection. View this photo gallery for 16 innovative products that caught the attention of POLICE Magazine's reporters. And read our feature, "IACP 2011 Highlights," for 12 more products. Photos by Mark W. Clark.
Advanced communications systems for tac teams now include throat mics, nearly invisible wireless earpieces, and everything in between.
Here's a quick look at some of the latest and greatest products that caught the eyes of our staff as they walked the aisles of the show.
The use of headsets is prevalent in all law enforcement operations. And whether the needs are tactical or administrative, cops all want the same things from a headset: clear communications, comfort, and durability.
There were law enforcement exhibits in the lobby, in the hallways, in the meeting rooms from one end of the rambling convention center to the other. And they had a lot of great products on display. Here's a look at our favorites from this year's SHOT.
Yes, the age of the tactical robot has truly arrived. So it's little wonder that robots were some of the stars of the show floor at the recent TREXPO West trade show in Los Angeles.