Chicomm Blog

Body-worn cameras are now standard in many police departments. They help build trust, increase accountability, and improve officers' and public safety. But agencies often overlook one aspect of body camera programs when budgeting: the cost of storing the video.

Many departments find that storage is the single most expensive part of their body camera system. Without a plan, storage costs can quickly escalate out of control. This blog explains why that happens and what your agency can do to stay ahead of it.

In the aftermath of 9/11, FirstNet was established to give public safety professionals access to a dedicated communications network built to meet their mission: saving lives, solving crimes, and protecting communities.

Operated through a public-private partnership between the federal government and AT&T, FirstNet is the only nationwide wireless broadband network built for first responders, with first responders.

In an emergency, every second matters — and FirstNet ensures that first responders have reliable, secure access to voice, data, video, and location services when they need it most.

Every moment matters when you’re in public safety, and having reliable, versatile communication tools is essential. The Motorola APX 8000 is built with public safety in mind, providing the features you need to stay connected, secure, and ready to respond in any situation. This radio combines unmatched interoperability, ruggedness, and a host of advanced features designed to meet the demands of critical environments. Here’s what sets it apart in 2025.

Staying compliant with FCC regulations is critical for anyone using VHF/UHF two-way radios. The FCC continues to crack down on unauthorized radios, enforcing rules that impact which radios are sold, imported, and used in the U.S.

If your radios aren’t compliant, you could face interference issues—or even fines. Here’s what you need to know about the latest rules and enforcement trends.

Investing in two-way radios, dispatch consoles, and other communication technology is a critical decision for businesses, public safety agencies, schools, healthcare facilities, and industrial operations. Ensuring these devices are covered under the right warranty can mean the difference between long-term reliability and unexpected costs.

However, not all warranties offer the same level of coverage. Understanding the terms, limitations, and benefits of equipment warranties is essential for making informed purchasing and maintenance decisions, no matter what your industry.

When it comes to secure communications, two-way radios remain the trusted standard for public safety agencies. But can they be hacked?

The short answer: Yes, but only if security measures are weak or outdated.

While cellphones and internet-based communication tools are far more frequent targets of cyberattacks, two-way radios are not immune. Hackers can intercept unsecured transmissions, disrupt emergency operations, and even impersonate first responders on radio channels. Fortunately, modern encryption and advanced security measures make hacking nearly impossible—when the right safeguards are in place.

Ensuring safety in schools, hospitals, and public spaces is more challenging than ever. Security teams, administrators, and operations managers must balance incident prevention, real-time response, and documentation for legal protection.

The Motorola V200 Body Camera is built to meet these needs, providing frontline employees with an instant connection to security teams while offering livestream video, recorded evidence, and encrypted data storage.

Guests expect it, federal law requires it, and protecting guest confidentiality is critical for building trust and avoiding negligence claims. Hotels that prioritize data security and privacy also build trust, enhance their reputation, and create loyal customers.

With technology playing an increasingly central role in hospitality operations, guest confidentiality now extends beyond room privacy to safeguarding personal data, securing communications, and preventing unauthorized access.

Here’s why hotel guest confidentiality matters and how modern communication technology can help you make it happen.

Two-way radios are essential for reliable communication, but they can come with a lot of questions. What’s the difference between VHF and UHF? How far can they reach? Do you need an FCC license? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most frequently asked questions about two-way radios, so you can make the most of your equipment.

With Illinois’ body camera mandate officially in effect as of January 1, 2025, public safety agencies are entering a new era of transparency and accountability. For those still navigating the process of adopting body cameras, now is the time to ensure you have the right tools, policies, and training in place to meet compliance standards while maximizing the benefits these devices can provide.

We're here to help you understand the mandate, how to choose the right body camera solutions, and what steps to take to set your team up for success.