Methods for implementing a talkgroup call in a multicast ip network

Abstract

Systems and methods for implementing dispatch calls using IP multicasting protocols are disclosed. The methods include utilizing a payload multicast group address for distributing payload, and utilizing a control multicast group address for distributing control messages to members of the talkgroup in a single-zone (FIG. ). A zone controller dynamically identifies payload and control multicast group addresses and sends them to participating sites . The participating sites issue Join commands to associated network devices to receive payload and control messages addressed to the respective payload and control multicast group addresses. There is further disclosed a system and method for implementing dispatch calls for members in multiple zones (FIG. ). Zone controllers separately identify control multicast group addresses and send them to affiliating devices in their respective zones. A controlling zone controller dynamically identifies a payload multicast group address that is used by participating devices in both zones. The participating sites issue Join commands to associated network devices to receive payload messages addressed to the payload multicast group address and control messages addressed to their control multicast group address.