Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD)

Keystone’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system is a comprehensive dispatching software application specifically designed for local and county public safety agencies. The system provides complete event tracking, from the time of the original call, until the time when it’s complete. Each transaction in the software is automatically time-stamped with the date, the time and the operator ID of the user entering the transaction. Offering unlimited features, Keystone’s CAD system provides the ideal software solution for all of your dispatching needs.

When searching for a computer aided dispatch solution, one of the most important features to consider is versatility. Keystone understands that every agency operates differently, and that no one way is the ‘right’ way. That’s why all of Keystone’s applications are designed to be extremely flexible and are able to support both single agency and multiple agency / jurisdiction communication centers. CAD can be easily modified to fit the specific and/or changing needs of public safety agencies. Keystone’s software is release controlled, meaning the functionality one customer requires is made available to our entire customer base, if desired. Keystone believes in helping our customers learn how other agencies operate so they can make informed decisions regarding best practices for their agency’s needs.

Another important quality a CAD system should have is a solid reporting system. A set of standardized management and statistical reports are made available to all customers. Clients are also able to create their own customized reports using our easy-to-use report writing application.

Application Features

  • Multiple Monitor/Split Screen Support
  • Drag and Drop Mouse Functionality
  • User Configurable Buttons/Filters/Colors/Sounds
  • Automated Background Searches
  • Automatic Date/Time Stamping
  • Various User Configurable Late/Warning Timers
  • Email Alerts and Notifications
  • On-line Messaging and Chat (IM) System
  • Station Rip & Run
  • Officer/Unit/Station Logs
  • Geobase Verification
  • Unit/Station/Hospital/Towing Recommendations
  • Daily/Master Coverage Plans
  • Web/Document Linking
  • Hazardous Address/Person Files
  • Ten Level Run Cards
  • Closest Unit Dispatch Capabilities
  • Full Audit Trails
  • Real-time Data Redundancy to Backup Server/Disaster Recovery Site
  • Data Sharing
  • Archiving
  • Premise Histories
  • Station Toning Interface
  • Platinum Certified Interface with Medical, Police, and Fire ProQA (Priority Dispatch)
  • Mobile/Laptop Interface
  • NCIC/SCIC Interface
  • Mapping
  • Alpha Pager Interface
  • Alarm Panel Interface
  • E-911 Interface
  • Automated Vehicle Locator (AVL) Interface

E-911

E-911 is an interface that connects an Enhanced 911 system to the CAD system. As the call taker or dispatcher answers emergency calls, CAD receives automatic caller location (ALI) and phone number information (ANI) from the E-911 system. Using a ‘hot-key’ command, the CAD application automatically fills out the call taker’s entry screen with the incoming data. The ANI / ALI data may also be transferred to the Mapping system, which automatically zooms to the caller’s location.

Alarm Panel

Alarm Panel is similar to the E-911 interface in its functionality. Alarm Systems are connected to the CAD system. When an alarm is activated, the alarm system is notified and, in turn, sends a message to CAD. The operator looks at the message and can start a call for service which will load all applicable data into the event entry screen.

NCIC / SCIC

NCIC / SCIC enables communication between CAD and State and National Crime Databases. All driver’s license, vehicle registration and warrant checks entered into the system are automatically transferred to the State Crime Information Center and the National Crime Information Center computers for processing. This prevents the dispatcher/user from having to enter this information a second time. A response is sent back to the CAD system with any pertinent data.

MOBILE

CAD has the capability to interface with our in-house mobile application installed on laptop computers in public safety vehicles. Officers communicate with dispatch by pressing the appropriate status change buttons or by typing messages directly into the laptop, thus eliminating voice over radio transmissions. Officers may also create self-initiated calls or query state and local computer systems about information on warrants, vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses.

Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL)

AVL is generally used with a mapping system. A transmitter is placed in or on public safety vehicles. Radio signals pick-up the location of the transmitter and transfer this information to the mapping system where the unit can be monitored.

Mapping

Mapping is done through our in-house mapping application and connects a high-end Geographic Information System (GIS) with the CAD system. The application captures, stores, retrieves and geographically maps incident and unit locations in real-time.

Alpha Pager / Email

Our Alpha Pager/Email interface allows CAD to automatically page or email an individual or group of people, depending on the personnel required for a specific incident.

Station Toning

Station Toning connects CAD to station toning equipment, such as Zetron™ Model 26 and MAX Solutions. This toning interface sends the appropriate activation codes to a radio encoder which opens station pagers and sounds alert tones so that units and stations may be dispatched. This prevents the dispatcher from having to manually alert stations.

PRO-QA / Medical Priorities

ProQA is software created by Priority Dispatch that provides dispatchers with a Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS™ ), as well as a solution for police and fire. It offers time-critical instructions to a caller, helping to preserve life until first responders arrive on the scene. When an emergency call enters the CAD system, the call information is transferred electronically to the ProQA software. Dispatch recommendations are transferred back to CAD so that appropriate units may be put enroute. Post-dispatch and pre-arrival instructions are determined using surveys included in the package.