Building or remodeling a center for 911 dispatch, utilities, transportation, or security is not something you do every day. Control room projects are critical but not common. In fact, given that technical furniture consoles generally are made to last 10 to 20 years, you may be involved in only 1 or 2 console purchases in your entire career. As a result, we know you have questions. To help, I’ve rounded up the most common questions we encounter and provided quick answers along with sources for more information. As always, feel free to reach out to Xybix with any questions.
1. What should we look for in a console? With so many vendors and features, it’s hard to know what you really need to look for. To help, we’ve created a comprehensive checklist of features and services that you can review and prioritize. Sit-to-stand flexibility, ergonomics, and equipment handling are no-brainers while other options may be negotiable depending on needs and budget.
2. Will our Motorola system and pedals work with the console? Most consoles designed for PSAPs are compatible with your Motorola radios, monitors, computers, and foot pedals. At Xybix, we understand the equipment and can accommodate your needs, whether it’s a dual surface, hanging computer, computer storage cabinet, eight-monitor array, or additional training workspace. When it comes to space under the desk, Xybix meets the OSHA standard for leg clearance and offers plenty of room for the pedals as you can see here. To ensure that your Motorola systems are up and running 24/7, our installers excel in live cutovers. Xybix offers options and customization for the needs and equipment of all types of centers—for example, designing a monitor array and floor plan that allow security to view wall screens in addition to multiple monitors.
3. Should the consoles be made of steel or wood? The answer is that consoles should be made of both wood and steel. Xybix believes in using the right material for the job. So panel frames, lifts, monitor mounts, and work surface supports are made of cold hard steel. Desktops, work surfaces, and cabinetry are made of warm comfortable wood. More important than the material, however, is the third-party testing and the warranty. Xybix consoles pass rigorous strength and stability testing from the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA), and all manufactured parts bear a lifetime warranty. Find more details on steel vs. wood here.
4. How long does it take to get new consoles and remodel a center? The short answer here is that you can get new consoles from Xybix in about 12 weeks if all your ducks are in a row. If you’re just replacing consoles, the funding is secured, and you can make a quick decision on a vendor, consoles, layout, and more, it can happen fast. In most cases, however, new consoles are part of a larger remodel that may include all new office furniture along with a new floor plan, paint, carpet, and electrical. Larger remodels or new buildings often take up to a year or longer, depending on internal processes and deliberations. This may seem like a long time, but remember you’ll likely get 10 to 20 years out of your new consoles/workstations even with 24/7/365 use. Learn about the steps involved here.
5. What are the top trends in center design? We all know that computers are shrinking while monitors are growing in both size and numbers. While these factors impact the console itself, other technology advancements impact the design of the entire center. A few notable trends from the last 5 years:I wouldn’t be surprised if each answer here brought up 5 more questions related to your center. We know every community—and therefore every dispatch center—has unique needs. We’re happy to talk, learn about your center, discuss your challenges and opportunities, and work together on solutions, whether you need to new consoles now or in 10 years.
Give us a call—we’re here to help.