Hypha Introduces Vehicle-as-a-Node Tech

We like to think our local law enforcement has all the latest gadgets and technology to prevent and solve crimes and respond to emergencies. At the Police Fleet Expo in Orlando this week there certainly was plenty of gear including radios, displays, keyboards, cameras, radars, and tracking devices along with ballistic glass, PIT maneuver bumpers, weapons storage, and brakes - lots of brakes. Notably, only one company was showing advanced connectivity technology integrating satellites: Hypha.

Australia-based Hypha, which formally began U.S. manufacturing late last year, and is pushing the concept of vehicle-as-a-node by integrating cellular and satellite technology with the help of routers from Peplink to support first responders of all kinds throughout the U.S. as well as around the world. By fusing satellite and cellular connectivity along with Wi-Fi and GPS, Hypha is transforming vehicles and vessels into mobile network hubs ensuring ubiquitous connectivity.

There were other multi-modal connectivity solutions on display at the event from resellers pushing devices from Aviat Networks and Ericsson's Cradlepoint. But Hypha was the only exhibitor with an explicit Starlink proposition - Hypha has been a Starlink reseller for many years.

With dashcams and bodyworn cameras proliferating throughout law enforcement, to say nothing of fixed cameras and drones, the demands on connectivity are intensifying. Arguably police radios ought to be integrated along with satellite and cellular connections.

Vehicle-mounted satellite antennas while not ideal are a precursor for what will be, within a few years, nearly universal vehicle-based satellite connections. In the meantime, integrated Starlink Minis will have to suffice.

Police may not necessarily be the tip of the spear for first responder satellite deployments. Firetrucks and ambulances may be a higher priority in the short term. It all comes down to mission critical solutions where the failure of connectivity cannot be tolerated.

The Hypha exhibit at PFE was a reminder of how quickly satellite connectivity for vehicles is sneaking up on the wider vehicle industry. The company is leading the way. We'll soon see who will follow.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roger Lanctot is president of the Mobile Satellite Users Association and CEO and Founder of StrategiaNow Consulting. Roger draws on 30+ years’ experience in the technology industry as an analyst, journalist and consultant. Roger is a graduate of Dartmouth College. His 190,000 followers on LinkedIn reflects the influence of his insights and perspectives on automotive and transportation technology, policy, and strategy.