USDOT logo

Smart Communities Resource Center

header design
abstract network diagram

Interoperable Connectivity Resources

IC page header

Interoperable connectivity is the use of a variety of wireless communications technologies to improve situational awareness between vehicles and physical transportation infrastructure as well as pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users. When integrated into a vehicle (cars, buses, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles, etc.) or into infrastructure, these solutions can deliver significant safety improvements and help communities move toward the goal of zero roadway fatalities. These technologies also offer the potential to enhance mobility and reduce transportation’s impact on the environment.

Interoperable connectivity refers not only to the 5.9 GHz spectrum dedicated for ITS communications but other spectrum outside the dedicated 5.9 GHz spectrum that allows for seamless communication between vehicles to everything (V2X) in the transportation ecosystem.

Standards and interoperability are the foundation for interoperable connectivity solutions, as well as security where each message is trustworthy through immediate authentication that includes privacy protection.

Available Resources

The U.S. DOT compiled resources to assist in the deployment of interoperable connectivity projects. These resources are aligned with the systems engineering process to help users find relevant materials based on if they are planning, designing, implementing, testing, or operating and assessing an interoperability project. Access these resources below.

The U.S. DOT compiled resources to assist in the deployment of interoperable connectivity projects. These resources are aligned with the systems engineering process to help users find relevant materials based on if they are planning, designing, implementing, testing, or operating and assessing an interoperability project. Access these resources below.

design
Planning and Business Case Development

Planning and Business Case Development

Before an interoperable connectivity project is greenlighted, a business case must be made, and the project needs to be incorporated into the transportation planning process. This section includes resources on how to incorporate interoperable connectivity into the transportation planning process. It also includes resources to support benefit-cost-analysis and information about funding for interoperable connectivity projects.

View List of Resources

Concept Development and Foundational Project Planning Documents

Concept Development and Foundational Project Planning Documents

Successful interoperable connectivity projects address real-world challenges. This section includes resources that can be used to develop successful interoperable connectivity concepts for smart communities. It also includes example foundational project planning documents including Data Management and Privacy Plans, Safety Management Plans, and other relevant project planning documents.

View List of Resources

design element
Standards, Requirements, Architecture and Security

Standards, Requirements, Architecture and Security

Standards and interoperability are the foundation for interoperable connectivity solutions. This section includes information about interoperable connectivity standards and architectures. It also includes information to ensure interoperable connectivity projects are secure – including information about the Security Credential Management System (SCMS). Finally, it includes resources about requirements used to provide the foundation for the deployment of interoperable connectivity projects.

View List of Resources

Detailed Design

Detailed Design

Design for interoperable connectivity projects is based on requirements. This section includes design resources including example system design documents.

View List of Resources

design element
Implementation, Field Installation and Open-Source Tools

Implementation, Field Installation and Open-Source Tools

Once designed, the next step is to develop and install interoperable connectivity infrastructure in vehicles, in the field, or at a facility. This section includes resources to help deployers install and deploy equipment. It also includes resources related to open-source tools that can be used by practitioners to advance their interoperable connectivity projects.

View List of Resources

design element
Certification and Testing

Certification and Testing

Once equipment and systems are in place, the devices and components that make up the system must be tested to verify that they meet the system requirements. This section includes relevant testing resources, including test documentation. It also includes information about interoperable connectivity device certification.

View List of Resources

design element
Operations and Maintenance

Operations and Maintenance

Properly operating and maintaining interoperable connectivity technologies is critical to maximizing the project’s benefits. This section includes example resources to support maintenance and operations activities.

View List of Resources

Evaluation

Evaluation

Through USDOT’s support for several interoperable connectivity projects, the Department has gathered lessons learned that may benefit the broader transportation community. This section includes lessons learned as well as strategies for evaluating interoperable connectivity projects.

View List of Resources

Other Resources

Other Resources

This section includes additional resources that may be of interest. These resources include information about the Safety Band, relevant trainings, and resources from other interoperable connectivity projects and programs.

View List of Resources