Tetra replaces 1960s technology

Officers in the city have had five weeks' training in how to use the new "Airwaves" device, which uses the same technology as mobile phones.

The Tetra masts which make the system possible have led to protests in Cornwall, where the system has been up and running since April.

Plymouth is the first place in Devon to get the new system.

The whole of the county should be covered by the end of the year.

Technology safe

The force says it will allow officers to have uninterrupted communications for the first time and will lead to an improved public service.

Those in charge of the scheme say from an operational point of view the system has been introduced successfully in Cornwall with very minor teething problems.

However, there have been a number of protests in the Duchy from people worried about the health impact of Tetra masts.

Communications firm 02 Airwave, which operates the new technology, says while it accepts that nothing is totally risk free, it insists that Tetra technology is safe.