No "Sat-Nav" fitted
We're discussing WMAS and the news report that a "Sat-Nav" fault caused the delay.
Let' recap and correct some wrong assumptions made by some posting on here.
1. "Sipura radio.... co-ordinates".... WMAS, like most other ambulance trusts - at that time - did not use the GPS data available from the Sepura (note correct spelling) handportables, and mobile radio sets. The destination of that data is set in the radio config, and at that time, the national model had it pointing to 0.0.0.0 ie: null.
2. "Wrong postcode"..... The command and control system sends co-ordinates to the "Mobile Data Terminal" in the vehicle, not post codes. The maps in the "CAD" are up-to-date Ordnance Survey maps which are regularly updated.
3. "Sat-Nav"..... WMAS use the Terrafix TVC3000 Mobile Data Terminal system. This is a touch-screen windows based system with it's own built in mapping and navigation system, not a Sat-Nav. No sucky on the windscreen £50 from Halfords jobby, £2500 of kit. Terrafix are famed for their GPS location services and are used by military and emergency services in many areas.
The TVC3000's mapping system is, in my mind, woeful. The map is always "North", and does not rotate to steer direction, which can make it confusing to read, especially if you are a solo operator. It has been known to mis-direct vehicles due to bugs in the software. Something they will strongly deny.
Since this case, WMAS have been rolling out a mapping upgrade to their vehicles, which includes a "steer direction" widget, though the map stays planted "north is up", it puts a little box on the screen which shows arrows of your next move.
I post this as an Anonymous Coward because I know too much, and I'd like it to stay that way!