Ask the Expert with Fern Communications

In this month’s ask the expert we speak with Fern Communications Technical Director, Clive Cushion. Responsible for the design of the compact and innovative portable repeaters, Clive explains how their repeater architecture creates greater security and reliability making it easier and simpler for teams to communicate over historically problematic environments such as wide areas, tunnels, and high-rise building, with limited intervention to go live.

Can you tell us about Fern Communications and the core values of the organisation?

Fern Communications Ltd was formed in 2002 by Jennifer and Clive Cushion, we specialise in offshore communications and hazardous environment communications. From knowledge gained from working within these areas we could see that specialist communications equipment was lacking and set about designing and manufacturing our own products.

The core values of the company are:

• Vision Statement  – Clear, reliable, safe communications whatever the environment.
• Mission Statement – Progressive integration of emerging technologies designed and developed by innovative people.
• Value Statement – Respect, encourage and include.

How do you feel Fern Communications portable repeater technology has supported the wider variety of solutions now offered in the voice & data radio communications industry?

In 2020 we introduced the FRWD-1 Fern Coms DMR repeater. We have designed the unit to be able to be integrated into the wider digital spectrum of products available. Fluidity and the ability to adapt quickly to customers requirements allows Fern com to constantly innovate and keep looking forward with our product development.

What gap in the UK repeater market does Fern strive to address?

Our repeaters are specifically designed with harsh environments in mind, so they fulfill the customers expectations and beyond. With in-depth knowledge of the environments our products are used in allows Fern Com to keep innovating and improving the products organically.

Can you tell us a little about yourself personally and your background before Fern Communications?

I started out as an Industrial designer which took me all over the world in my 20’s designing and over seeing the manufacture of communications products from mobile phones to LMR radios. This experience was invaluable for me when we started Fern Com. By gaining the expertise of designing products and the manufacturing processes involved allowed Fern Com to conduct our own product development inhouse and eventually lead to us launching our first product in 2007 the FRX-1 the world’s only portable ATEX repeater.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Passing the necessary physical requirements to go offshore. Testing and demonstrating our products in some of the world’s most hostile environments from 150km from land in the North Sea in a winter storm, to 50-degree deserts in the middle east and 2km underground in a Mexican gold mine are but a few that come to mind.

And the most rewarding?

Seeing our products making a difference in the field for what they are designed for. And having a team of dedicated engineers to allow fern Com to keep on innovating.

And finally, your favourite quote?

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts”

Developing strong relationships with our suppliers is of paramount importance to Radiocoms Systems Ltd

As the UK’s leading voice and data radio communications partner, we pride ourselves on keeping our finger on the pulse in regards to the latest products, solutions and innovations. This allows Radiocoms Systems to deliver to you, our clients tailor-made, innovative communication solutions that provide a clear, measurable return on investment.

Radiocoms Systems Ltd are the Uk’s Distributor for Fern Communications repeaters. To discuss this solution with us for your organisation contact us here >