Distributed components in the Project54 system

The Project54 system integrates in-car based electronic systems, software and user interfaces. It also allows officers to access the in-car system using handheld devices. The Project54 system software implemented in the car is completely modular and is based on Microsoft's Component Object Model (COM). There is a main executable application and individual applications that control in-car electronic devices or provide other services. A simple modular COM architecture was developed for a handheld device in order to allow communication with the in-car Project54 system. Both, the in-car and handheld systems use a messaging scheme that allows one-to-one communication between applications. There is a proxy application on both sides that allows the communication among components via a wireless network. The system is currently being installed in 75 NH State Police cruisers.