RadioComms Asia-Pacific Sep/Oct 2012

When rapid response and secure communication is critical, Crown Castle towers above the rest

Tower Leasing Coverage Over 1700 towers and rooftops across Australia Proven leader Over 200 organisations use our sites Easy to work with Flexible commerical terms Customer focus Crown Castle works closely with customers to provide the infrastructure solutions you require

CONTACT SALES HOTLINE

1800 309 578

Email: salesaus@crowncastle.com www.crowncastle.com.au

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More room to move at 6 RadioComms Connect radio@work 8 Power and Water’s telemetry system 10 16 26

contents

on the cover

Radio Comms Asia-Pacific September/October 2012

ditor’s omment

Deriving from the Greek words tele (remote) and metron (measure), telemetry is used for meteorology, space science, motor racing, medicine, law enforcement and wildlife monitoring - just to name a few.

The importance of this technology is shown on page 32, where we look at how data logging and telemetry units have been used to monitor NSW’s most important

on your wavelength ill critical communications W be vital for our future?

Tags help kiwi recovery

32 ‘Spiders’ keep an eye on water behaviour 38

ec

Frogs answer node problem

catchments. By connecting to orbiting satellites and using data compression technology, data from remote sites - with limited view of the sky and no NextG service - was sent within seconds to be analysed by the catchment authority.

We also look at how telemetry was used in a study to improve the population growth of a rare kiwi species on page 26.

Radio tags were attached to the legs of the Little Spotted Kiwi and their nesting habits and behaviour were studied to create a population recovery plan for the NZ

42 10 minutes with Ian Miller

Department of Conservation.

Speaking about population growth, as the year speeds ahead we are getting closer to the ever-growing RadioComms Connect event in December.

It burst the seams of Etihad Stadium last year, with over 700 participants attending and exhibition stands lining the walkway, and has now moved to the much larger Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year’s event is set to be twice the size, with all the major players getting involved.

ARCIA’s annual gala dinner has also grown out of its home and will move to the MCEC. This year’s dinner is expected to be a highlight of the event, with plenty of time for networking over a few drinks.

I am looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and maybe a few new ones too! To find out more information on the event and dinner, head to page 6.

Hope you enjoy this packed issue and, as always, if you have any thoughts, concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Kylie Rhodes, Editor rc@westwick-farrow.com.au

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

3

on the cover

K

enwood NX-220/320 VHF and UHF 5 W radios provide a full-featured digital portable radio solution to enterprise, local government and SMR subscribers. The latest NEXEDGE portables have a newly designed compact platform with all of the RF specifications and MILSTD 810 and IP54/55 ruggedness of the company’s flagship NEXEDGE models.

The range comes in three user interface configurations, including the first non-display model for users that need a limited number of channels or trunked talk groups. True to the company’s multisystem migration-ready tradition - analog, NXDN convent ional and NXDN trunking are included in all models and include the latest V2.5 enhancements such as overthe-air programming (OTAP) and enhanced audio refinements.

The range was designed to provide advanced communication solutions that meet the needs of private enterprise and public sectors. It includes features such as FM analog at 25 and 12.5 kHz channels, NXDN digital at 12.5 and 6.25 kHz channels and compliance with current frequency assignments, and can be converted to very narrow bandwidths.

An advantage for users is the ability to migrate from their current analog system to the wider service of NXDN, which is said to fulfil spectrum requirements. The NXDN protocol used by the portables is compatible with other companies’ products that conform to the mandatory features and standard optional features specified by the NXDN Forum.

The digital radio technology can operate on narrowband frequencies, making it two to four times more spectrum efficient than the current 25 kHz analog network.

4 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

A.B.N. 22 152 305 336 www.westwick-farrow.com.au Head Office Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street, (Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 Australia Ph +61 2 9487 2700 Fax +61 2 9489 1265 Editor Kylie Rhodes rc@westwick-farrow.com.au

Another feature is the sound quality, and because of AMBE+2 vocoder voice compression technology, the portables offer good clarity at varying signal strengths, even in fringe areas.

The radios have a digital mode and an analog mode, so it is possible to gradually convert systems currently in use from analog to digital.

No special peripheral equipment is required for 6.25 kHz operation; standard LMR facilities can be used as they are.

Other features include: 136-174, 400-470, 450-520 MHz models; 260 Channel/Group ID with 128 Zones (LCD models); 64 Channel/Group ID with 4 Zones (non-LCD models); 12-key keypad models available; 8-character alphanumeric aliases display; backlit LCD with backlit keys; zone/channel number voice announcement; 500 mW speaker audio; VOX (voice operating) ready; MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G; MIL-Spec speaker mic options available; NXDN digital air interface; AMBE+2 vocoder; NXDN scrambler included; over-the-air alias; digital conventional mode; digital trunking mode; multisite IP network compatible; conventional IP network compatible; 25 and 12.5 kHz channels; QT/DQT/ DTMF/2-Tone; 5-Tone software option; voice inversion scrambler (16 codes); MDC-1200; PTT ID ANI; emergency status; radio check; intrinsically safe option; SGS USTC(ANSI/UL913) Confirmation with KNB-40LCV 7.4 V/2000 mAh Li-ion IS battery; IS/I, II, III/1/C,D,F,G; NI/I, II, III/2/A,B,C,D,F,G option.

JVC Kenwood manufactures a range of consumer electronics and communications products including car entertainment and radio communications systems.

JVC Kenwood www.kenwood.com.au

Technical Advisor Mike Smyth Chief Editor Janette Woodhouse Publisher Geoff Hird Art Director/Production Manager Julie Wright Art/Production Tanya Scarselletti, Jeanette Teuma Colleen Sam Circulation Manager Sue Lavery circulation@westwick-farrow.com.au Copy Control Mitchie Mullins Advertising Sales VIC, SA, WA - Lachlan Rainey Ph 0402 157 167 lrainey@westwick-farrow.com.au NSW, QLD - Lisa Gilbert Ph 0414 283 933 lgilbert@westwick-farrow.com.au New Zealand - Gemma Burr Ph 0800 442 529 gburr@westwick-farrow.com.au USA - Huson International Media East Coast Ph +1 212 268 3344 West Coast Ph +1 408 879 6666 ralph@husonusa.com UK - Huson International Media Ph +44 1932 56 4999 gerryb@husonmedia.com Asia - Lachlan Rainey Ph +61 (0) 402 157 167 If you have any queries regarding our privacy policy please email privacy@westwick-farrow.com.au Subscriptions: For unregistered readers, price on application

March 2012 total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust + NZ) 4,306 (81% personally requested) Print Post Approved PP247345/00004 ISSN No. 1448-9201 Printed and bound by Pegasus Print Group +61 2 8822 0716 All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide.

Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

www.radiocomms.com.au

More room to move at RadioComms Connect This year’s RadioComms Connect will be bigger and better than ever with more room at Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre.

AT A GLANCE…

Kylie Rhodes

Where Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre When 4-5 December Day One - 9 am to 4.30 pm; Day Two - 9.30 am to 4.00 pm Time Exhibition-only passes are available and are free for end users if registered before the event.

W

e’ve been growing and growing for the last five years and now we’ve finally decided to leave our old home at the Etihad Stadium and move so that our 70 exhibitors and 115 stands can show all the latest technology in radio communications at RadioComms Connect.

So this year you will find us at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre where there will be not only systems and components on show, but delegates will be able to take part in the many technical papers being presented.

This year’s theme will be ‘The Future of Professional Radio Communications in Australia’, which will explore the rapidly changing environment of the radio communications industry. There will be a great range of speakers at the conference, held in conjunction with the exhibition.

This theme will also run throughout the conference where the streams will include training and education, utilities, networks and infrastructure, mining and resources, and public safety. Keynote speakers will include Prof Hugh Bradlow, chief technology officer of Telstra, and Peter Clemons from Quixoticity.

In his presentation, Clemons will be asking, “Is critical communications vital for our very future on this planet?” He will also discuss developing winning strategies for critical communications in a time of rapid technological change.

A changing technological landscape is a significant topic, and this will be covered in a paper by Dr Irena Atov, technology manager of Reliability Engineering Group at Telstra. She will look at the diversity of perspectives for success in the current environment.

6 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

Marta Fontecha, transport area manager at Teltronic, will discuss how to achieve sustainable railway projects by selecting the right wireless technologies and Brendan Woods, manager of EME Design and Engineering at UGL will cover the important topic of communications compliance and safety in his presentation.

Personal security communications and incident detection and management will be discussed by Dietmar Shcops, director of international sales at Funkwerk Security Communications, and Des Bahr, CEO of APCO Australasia, will talk about how to integrate conventional radio and LTE in the public safety sector.

Two presentations will look at professional mobile radio. John Yaldwyn, chief technology officer of 4RF Communications, will speak about the future of PMR in Australia and the data communication system manager of QR National, Alvin D’Mello, will discuss how to understand and secure PMR’s vulnerabilities.

The Country Fire Authority’s radio replacement project will be featured in a presentation by Doug Booth, project director, about the challenges of technology change in a complex operational environment.

Other speakers at the conference will include representatives from Codan, Tait, Auria Wireless, RMIT, Simoco and Motorola. A series of workshops will also run on various topics, with one being ‘IP for Land Mobile Radio Technicians’.

The ARCIA gala dinner will also move from the Crown Casino to the MCEC. Over 500 guests are expected to attend, where awards will be presented to members of the industry.

The prestigious awards that will be given out on the night will be the Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarship, Life Member of ARCIA, the Peter Wallace Award and, of course, the Jonathan Livingston Seagull Award.

The event is organised by WestwickFarrow Media in conjunction with the Australian Radio Communication Industry Association (ARCIA) and has partnered with Auria Wireless.

Looking forward to seeing you all at the show!

For more information on RadioComms Connect, please email lcrossley@westwick-farrow.com.au.

For more information on the annual gala dinner, please contact info@arcia.org.au.

Venue details The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is the first and only ‘six star green star’ environmentally rated convention centre in the world, located on the banks of the Yarra River. It is a short walk from Melbourne’s central business district and 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport.

The MCEC features 52 meeting rooms, a grand banquet room and a plenary that can be divided into three self-contained, acoustically separate theatres. The exhibition centre features 30,000 m2 of purpose-built clear-span exhibition space, meeting rooms, a 466-seat auditorium and the Clarendon Room with views over the Yarra River.

For more information please visit http:// www.mcec.com.au/company-info/.

www.radiocomms.com.au

2012 List of exhibitors Exhibitors with stands booked as Radio Comms Asia-Pacific went to press included:

3M 4RF Communications AA Radio Agilent Technologies Airwave Solutions Australia Anritsu Auria Wireless Benelec BluFi Wireless Australia C4i Cistech Solutions Codan Radio Communications Control Synergy CRS Accessories CX Distribution & Cassidian Daniels Electronics Ltd Data Over Radio DPMR Association Electrodata Recorders Funkwerk Security Communications GmbH General Dynamics C4 Systems GMG Solutions & Sepura Harris Corporation Hytera Communications Co Ltd Icom Australia Pty Ltd ICS Industries IPMobileNet JRD Communications Logic Energy Master Communications & Electronics Pty Ltd

McKay Associates MiMOMax Wireless Mingara Australasia Pty Ltd Motorola Solutions Nexion Data Systems Omnitronics Pacific Wireless Communications Panorama Antennas Polar Electronics Powerbox Radixon RF Industries RF Technology RGL Rohde & Schwarz Rojone Schneider Electric Simoco Australasia Pty Ltd Spectrum Engineering Australia Step Global Survey Technologies Inc Tait Radio Communications Telephus TeleResources TRBONet UGL Vertel Vicom Xworks Zantech ZCG Scalar Zetron

For more information on the exhibitors, visit http://radiocommsconnect.com.au/pages/exhibitor-list. www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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@work

RADIO Project: Power and Water’s telemetry system Application: Remote water monitoring and control

Pervasive Telemetry has filled the need of monitoring sites and gathering data over the wide area of communities in Australia’s Northern Territory by supplying remote monitoring, control and telemetry solutions to Power and Water Corporation (PWC).

PWC provides electricity, water supply and sewerage services to almost 80,000 users across the state - an area of more than 1.3 million square kilometres.

It provides services across varying environments, from the tropics to the deserts. It is one of the largest businesses in the Northern Territory, employing over 1000 residents.

PWC Remote Operations is responsible for 72 communities and 33 outstations across the state. Based at its headquarters in Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, the many communities they provide services to are small and varied.

Accessible only by 4WD or light aircraft, the high cost of visiting these sites results in insufficient data being gathered for effective system diagnosis, infrastructure and maintenance planning.

While supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) is used extensively in urban areas, the high cost of installing these systems and bringing the information back for analysis from remote areas meant that PWC had to look at alternatives to get the information it needed quickly and cost-effectively.

By condensing traditional SCADA components into a single device using the 3G, GPRS or satellite data networks, Pervasive Telemetry was able to provide a remote telemetry solution otherwise out of reach. It specialises in small/medium remote monitoring, control and telemetry solutions in the form of AgentG2.

AgentG2 is a remote monitoring and control service which provides continuous, real-time monitoring and control of remote assets and infrastructure on a web browser or web-capable mobile phone.

It provides immediate notification of outof-range situations, security breaches and equipment failures.

The device was built using technologies more accessible and flexible than the proprietary technologies used by traditional SCADA providers.

By wiring in its existing pumps and level sensors into the AgentG2, it gave the company real-time ‘situational awareness’ of its asset states. A trial installation occurred just before Easter when reduced staffing numbers would put a strain on resourcing. By being able to securely log on and view this data remotely, management quickly found a fault in the system that greatly reduced water security.

A field engineer was sent on site with a replacement part and the communities’ water security time was greatly increased.

Implementing the solution has allowed not only the company to centralise and streamline its data collection and reporting, but also allowed it full transparency on the sites it manages. All permissioned staff have live and historical telemetry visibility through a web browser in the field or back at base, using a range of devices from computers, tablets and mobile phones with no need for per seat licences or proprietary software/hardware.

Due to the simplified structure of the solution, all infrastructure between the AgentG2 through to the data storage and reporting can be hosted centrally.

Changes to programming and alerting can be done remotely and reports and alerts sent automatically to management via email or SMS. Since the implementation, PWC has increased the number of agents in the field, reducing the need to visit on site outside of scheduled maintenance visits. Staff are able to view all connected assets at a glance, freeing up funding and resources, and are better equipped and informed.

The company is now able to focus on providing not just infrastructure services to remote Indigenous communities, but ongoing sustainability and water conservation education in the Northern Territory.

"Implementing the solution has allowed not only the company to centralise and streamline its data collection and reporting, but also allowed it full transparency on the sites it manages."

Pervasive Telemetry Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q466

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www.radiocomms.com.au

Codan acquires Daniels

Cars to ‘talk’ to one another?

C

N

odan Limited has acquired Daniels E l e c t r o n i c s L i m i t e d , d e s i g n e r, manufacturer and supplier of land mobile radio communications (LMR) solutions in North America.

The acquisition, which is scheduled for completion on 17 August 2012, comprises an upfront cash payment of AU$24 million with the possibility of AU$1.9 million in additional payments if certain earn-out targets are achieved over the next 18 months.

“The acquisition of Daniels begins a transition for Codan beyond solely HF systems to a communications solutions provider.

Daniels provided the opportunity to enter the LMR market with a competitive and established product line,” said Kevin Kane, president and general manager, Codan Radio Communications Division.

EC Laboratories’ vehicular communication system has become part of the European Commission-sponsored research project DRIVE C2X to make traffic and transportation safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly.

On 5 July, visitors from all over the world experienced how cars signal each other information on potential traffic hazards such as an approaching emergency vehicle or obstacles on the road in a 20-minute demonstration tour at the Dutch Integrated Testsite for Cooperative Mobility in Helmond, the Netherlands.

For instance, a car approaching the end of a traffic jam can warn all following drivers in real time about the hazard. A construction site can signal its position to all cars in the vicinity, or drivers can see the speed limits and other road signs in their dashboard display in addition to the ones by the roadside.

The vehicular communication system, including the LinkBird-MX communication platform and C2X-Software Development Kit, is part of the DRIVE C2X vehicle reference system.

“NEC’s participation in large-scale European trials is the result of more than a decade of innovation in vehicular communications, developing research ideas and successfully bringing them onto reliable pre-commercial platforms,” said Dr Heinrich Stuettgen, vice president of NEC Laboratories Europe.

The trial event demonstrates nine applications for safety and traffic efficiency. It also provides insights into the test management centre and procedures for Car-2-X (Car-to-Car and Carto-Infrastructure) communications.

© iStockphoto.com/derrrek

Crown Castle acquires towers

C Daniels provides a broad range of land mobile radio communications used by specialised market segments, such as public safety, which require high-performance and high-reliability private communications networks. Its clients include fire services organisations, police, ambulance and other emergency service providers, military, forestry organisations, highways and road contractors, and mining and exploration companies.

“Land Mobile Radio is an outstanding complement to Codan’s existing product line, distribution network and customer base.

Many of Codan’s customers already require solutions in addition to HF products and most of our existing distributors are already active in the LMR market. Daniels’ value proposition of interoperability and low power consumption technology is ideal for emerging international markets,” said Kane.

“Originally a family-owned business, Daniels is very happy to be acquired by an Australian company that shares a similar history and culture and that will continue to grow the opportunities for our LMR products,” said Daniels Electronics president and COO Robert Small.

10 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

rown Castle Australia has acquired towers from Aussie Broadband and iiNet furthering its reach into regional South Australia and Victoria.

Since coming to Australia in 2000, the company’s portfolio has grown to over 1700 towers and rooftop sites and is now one of Australia’s largest independent tower operators.

Crown Castle managing director Roger Hawke said, “These acquisitions allow us to further support our customers as they look to expand their networks throughout those markets.”

The company has based its business on the principle of co-locating multiple organisations on its towers, reducing the cost of deployment and improving speed to market for radio communications users.

Hawke said, “Crown Castle is currently building new towers for government, emergency services organisations, a mining company as well as co-locating new equipment from various radio communications operators on our national network of sites.

“We are constantly growing the number of premium wireless sites and have, for example, worked with three different government agencies in Western Australia to assist in providing a shared, purpose-built, secure network.”

The company is involved in the WA Police (WAPOL) Regional Radio Project and has had a mixture of co-location on existing Crown Castle sites as well as new tower builds where no suitable sites currently exist.

Hawke commented, “The WAPOL project will upgrade and expand the existing Police Regional Radio Network in rural and remote Western Australia, providing mobile digital radio coverage to over 18,000 square kilometres statewide and Crown Castle is delighted to be a part of this critical community service project.”

He said that users retain ownership of their equipment and antennas and control their own shelter and power needs. “Within the emergency services agencies, this is an important factor where certainty and reliability is paramount.”

www.radiocomms.com.au

Award success for Sepura

C4i signs $2.2m PIC grant with defence force

C

4i has signed a $2.2m Priority Industry Capability (PIC) grant with the Australian Department of Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO).

The signing of this grant coincided with another award for the company ’s SwitchplusIP communication system, for an advanced IP-based communication system to be delivered to an international customer as part of an air surveillance system, from an American defence contractor.

Sepura wins the FCS 2012 Gerald Davies OBE Award for Business Innovation (pictured from left: Rebecca Greenall, marketing manager, Guy-Franck Nakach senior VP Sales & Marketing and Steve Barber, head of product strategy).

S

epura was presented with the Gerald David OBE Award for Business Radio Innovation for its STP8X intrinsically safe ATEX/IECEx-certified TETRA radio.

The Gerald David OBE Award is from the Federation of Communication Services (FCS), the industry’s main trade association, and was presented to Sepura at the FCS award ceremony in London. Its purpose is to recognise and reward manufacturers, integrators or developers for significant innovations in radio communications.

$$$

Guy-Franck Nakach, senior VP Sales & Marketing at Sepura, said, “ We are delighted to have won this award. In another remarkable year for the company, it is testament to the dedication and commitment of all our employees that we have been recognised for our innovation. It underlines our commitment to continually push the boundaries of development and enhance our contribution to the global TETRA industry.”

Growth investment in 4RF RF Limited has received an investment from private equity fund Fortissimo Capital. As a result, the company will expand its workforce and accelerate the company’s product development and sales globally.

The company, headquartered in Wellington NZ, develops and manufactures radio communications equipment for utility, public safety and oil and gas applications. With this funding, its users in more than 130 countries are said to benefit from a greatly accelerated company growth plan, with an expanded product range and faster time to market.

Ian Troughton, CEO of 4RF Limited, said, “We are seeing a huge demand for our products, and in the last year our sales have increased by nearly 60%. We are absolutely thrilled that a leading growth investor in the world’s second largest venture capital market, and indeed the recognised home of wireless technology, has chosen to invest in 4RF. This investment by Fortissimo marks the end of a process that we started almost a year ago.”

4RF is accelerating its growth in three ways: speeding up the development and launch of next-

www.radiocomms.com.au

© iStockphoto.com/David Gunn

4

generation products through a doubling of its R&D team; adding new variants to the existing product range to address new geographies; and growing sales, marketing and systems engineering to support new business.

Yuval Cohen, founding and managing partner of Fortissimo Capital, said, “We are delighted to have found in 4RF a company that has developed a family of world-class wireless products that can address a large and growing global market. 4RF has a great management team, products of a supremely high standard and blue chip customers throughout the world. We have huge growth expectations for 4RF and we look forward to working closely with the team over the coming years.”

The minister for the DMO, Jason Clare, said, “This is an investment in cutting-edge defence technologies developed here in Australia. It involves defence working directly with some of Australia’s most innovative defence companies to develop technologies for the Australian Defence Force.”

Over the next 18 months, C4i will develop capabilities core to both its product and key defence interests.

“C4i has invested over 20% of its revenues in research and development activities over the last two years and this grant allows us to continue the high level of investment to maintain our current competitive edge both locally and internationally,” said Peter Harrison, C4i’s managing director.

APCO moves office

A

PCO Australasia has moved office.

The move is expected to open up new possibilities for the organisation.

The new office is located at: 4 7 - 5 1 L i l l e e C r e s c e n t , Tu l l a m a r i n e , Victoria 3043 All other contact details have remained the same, including phone numbers, email address and fax number.

For more information, visit www.apcoaust.com.au.

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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Prime contractor for Tasmanian IVIS rollout

Innovation Centre unveiled

T

he Sigtec Group has been successfully selected as the prime contractor for the trial and subsequent rollout of the In Vehicle Information System (IVIS) over the next 12 months for Ambulance Tasmania.

The system is aimed primarily at supporting operational staff with management of patient care, improved duress capability over the 3G network, as well as providing an increased level of operational information to the State Communications Centre as part of an automated process. It is planned that the IVIS will be established in new vehicles as well as retrofitted to other vehicles before the end of 2013.

© iStockphoto.com/Scott Kochsiek

M

12 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

Gary Starr, managing director, Motorola Solutions Australia and New Zealand, said the centre would enable partners and users to tap into the company’s global investment in R&D. “The Innovation Centre is where our customers, developers and distributors can collaborate on developing relevant technologies for the local market,” said Starr.

“We look forward to welcoming more of our partners to the Innovation Centre and using our collective experience and strong partnerships to help solve technology challenges for our customers.”

Perth supercomputer to unlock universe’s secrets

T

he Pawsey Centre supercomputer, to be installed at the Perth site, will be focused on supporting the data-intensive science to be carried out using the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) and Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) at radio telescopes.

It will also support other research areas including geosciences, nanotechnology and biosciences.

The value of the supercomputer purchase represents $33m of the $80m Australian Government SuperScience initiative to establish the Pawsey Centre. Two smaller supercomputing systems have already been established at Murdoch University and the University of Western Australia and the construction of the data centre to house the new petascale supercomputer is already underway at the Australian Resources Research Centre (AARC) in Kensington, WA.

© iStockphoto.com/luismmolina

The contract has been funded by the Australian Federal Government and will include an in-vehicle computer with the ability to download all call-taking information from the Medical Priority Dispatch System including vital safety information. Additionally, this system will include automatic vehicle location (AVL) to the communications centre via a routable database, where the closest crew can be identified from the time it takes to travel on the road.

S i g t e c ’ s m a n a g i n g d i r e c t o r, J o h n Thompson, commented, “We are looking forward to the new rollout of the IVIS project and we wish to develop a strong business relationship with Ambulance Tasmania. The new contract shows the commitment of the two parties to work together to achieve an invehicle information system that is world’s best practice and one that AT will be proud to use.”

Ambulance Tasmania CEO Dominic Morgan commented, “This project is a significant step for our organisation, not only moving us in line with our other state counterparts, but, on many instances, moving ahead in the technology that will be accessible to our crews to improve patient care,” he said.

otorola Solutions has opened its Innovation Centre in Melbourne, creating a dynamic hub to showcase its technologies and solutions.

The centre was officially opened by Victorian Minister for Technology, The Hon Gordon RichPhillips.

The centre is a place where Motorola Solutions’ partners, software developers and users can access a range of the company’s current and upcoming technologies, stimulating collaboration, innovation and discovery of how these can be deployed to benefit businesses and services.

The installation of the supercomputer will occur in two phases scheduled for June 2013 and June 2014. iVEC and the CSIRO will manage the installation of the systems.

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Handheld radio with in-built GPS

Software suite

The IC-F4263D-H handheld radio combines a rugged, waterproof and dust proof construction with an in-built GPS receiver and IDAS technology.

IDAS, the company’s digital platform, is based on NXDN Frequency-Division Multiple Access (FDMA) technology. This provides users with an advantage, especially when operating on an ultranarrowband 6.25kHz bandwidth, as it provides two distinct channels in each 12.5 kHz slot, rather than one channel with two time slots.

In addition to being MIL-STD 810 approved, the radio is also rated to IP67 ingress protection standards, making it not only dustproof, but also waterproof to a one-metre depth for 30 minutes.

The radio has a backlit dot-matrix LCD, 14-pin accessory connector and rechargeable lithium-ion battery (10+ hours typical use). The in-built GPS allows users to send position information with voice or data messages to dispatch stations with compatible third party software installed.

The radio features 512 channels with 128 zones and is switchable between 5, 2 and 1 W. The internal speaker has an audio output power of 800 mW. A lone worker function is included, which sends an emergency signal if the radio is not operated within a designated timeframe.

A dedicated emergency button is also included and emergency signals can be sent with GPS data, alerting dispatch stations to the position of the radio.

Other features include multiple scan functions, voice scrambling for secure communications and two- and five-tone signalling, for selective calling, silent stand-by and radio stun/kill/revive functions. The radio is also MDC1200 compatible.

Developed as an aid to assist less experienced users, the easyTest Tools suite has been released for the ‘E’ series range of master cable and antenna analysers.

With this tool, users can easily create, deliver and display work instructions on any ‘E’ series unit. Direct benefits include accurate testing, repeatable results and less rework.

The suite allows experienced users to create automated set-ups and procedures on their PCs. The files can then be delivered by email or other electronic means and display work instructions on any Site Master or Cell Master ‘E’ analyser. The files provide step-by-step instructions for both the test set-up and instrument operation for novice users of the equipment.

All of the set-ups, procedures and images used in an easyTest procedure are placed in one file, an ETT file, making distribution simple. Modified firmware in the instrument recognises this file type and works with it.

Easy distribution by electronic means allows procedures to be kept current.

Simply pressing an icon on the instrument menu allows novice users to start the procedure. Once started, set-ups recall automatically, putting the instrument into the proper mode for the measurement. Images display hook-up instructions and prompts let end users know if they need to press any buttons. Test results are automatically saved.

These features make getting test results with cable and antenna analysers quick, reliable and simple. Included with the suite are a set of sample procedures, allowing users to build up their own procedures by modifying the supplied samples.

Icom Australia Pty Ltd

Anritsu Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q710

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R096

Approved test leads SilverLine TuffGrip test leads are now qualified, by Anritsu, for use with the Site Master cellular infrastructure test equipment.

The leads allow users to make and break RF connectors quickly and easily with one hand.

The leads are available in 1.5, 3 and 5 m lengths with either N Type or 7-16 DIN connector configurations.

The 7-16 DIN male connector configurations include the OneTurn coupling nut feature for extra fast attachment to site cables.

Rojone Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q821

14 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

www.radiocomms.com.au

RadioComms Connect

Will critical communications be vital for our future?

Collaboration on technical standards and lobbying for harmonised spectrum are two of the major challenges facing the critical communications industry over the next decade or so, writes Peter Clemons*. In this article, he looks at the road ahead and considers some sombre forecasts, as a precursor to his upcoming presentation at RadioComms Connect.

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strong, critical communications ecosystem capable of influencing the evolution of standards-based (ie, 3GPP LTE Advanced) next-generation mobile broadband services is needed from TETRA, P25, TETRAPOL associations and agencies in the public safety and emergency services.

The US is currently leading the way, having assigned spectrum and money to a nationwide 700 MHz public safety broadband network based on LTE. The TETRA + Critical Communications Association (TCCA) has set up a Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG) to partner with other agencies around the world such as NPSTC/NIST, PSC-Europe, APCO International and the TETRAPOL Forum and a number of equipment manufacturers are partnering to develop, market and sell solutions.

In spite of these important steps, the experience of previous failed attempts to create a common, interoperable global standard for the industry suggest that caution is required and that the road ahead will be long, painful and treacherous. Several companies are likely to falter along the way and commercial interests, the excessive, rigid enforcement of intellectual property rights (IPRs) and conflicting requirements and objectives will probably slow down the process and make the final cost higher than anticipated.

Strong leadership, clearly articulated goals, fair access to technology by a broad and vigorous ecosystem and sensible compromises by all parties will be needed to allow the creation of a basis for the 16 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

new information societies and economies which will emerge over the coming 20 years.

Over the past 20 years or so, commercial mobile operators successfully developed a highly profitable business based on best-effort, mass-market voice and SMS. More recently, the deployment of UMTS/HSPA networks and the massive adoption of smartphones has driven growth in internet access and data applications.

However, it is now becoming clear that this commercial 2G/3G mobile communications model will no longer work in the emerging 4G/5G world where applications become critical and real time: an indispensable extension of the user’s life itself.

Historically, it has been annoying not to get a signal when calling up a friend on a mobile phone; as soon as these same mobile operators take on QoS contracts for critical national infrastructure, intelligent transport systems or the National Health Service, we are looking at very different business models and potentially life-threatening scenarios.

Commercial operators are looking for the new revenue streams available from providing high-speed data services to professional users, as subscriber growth stalls in the developed world amid continued downward pressure on prices for voice and SMS. These global ventures still have a lot to learn before we can entrust them with the task of running a mission-critical network: more lobbying, marketing and technicians will not solve the problem.

Welcome to the future of communications, which will be critical communications!

In the critical communications industry, we have decades of experience running such services.

We understand that networks must be built for coverage first and then with sufficient capacity for peak-hour traffic with further reserves for an emergency. Radio sites must be protected against physical and virtual attacks. Redundancy and resilience must be built into the network design. There must be back-up power for perhaps several days in remote areas and a decentralised architecture to allow local site operations to continue even when the link to the central node is down.

Efficient group call and direct deviceto-device communications capabilities are standard services in PMR networks and must be included in any future standard for critical communications broadband. The networks of the future that will not be able to fail will look very much like those networks which the PMR industry have been building and maintaining for decades.

The critical communications industry therefore has a role to play in educating profit-seeking, best-effort commercial mobile operators how to cope with the true mobile revolution that is approaching fast but that could still be derailed if governments and users do not feel confident enough to hand over important sections of the economy and everyday life to publicly quoted multinationals satisfying the needs of their shareholders first and the wider public second. www.radiocomms.com.au

RadioComms Connect

Governments and regulators will have to be strong enough to make sure the right incentives are in place for all participants to provide and receive secure services in an increasingly global, interconnected ‘virtual marketplace’. Commercial operators can teach the PMR industry how to be more innovative and imaginative; the PMR industry can teach commercial operators how to make their networks more secure, resilient and feature-rich for professional users.

The PMR industry is coming together to defend its interests; eventually, the whole communications industry will be forced to come together to deliver fully integrated, next-generation services.

In fact, as we move into an increasingly virtual, interconnected, data-rich age, let me repeat that all communications tend to become critical. 21st-century societies and economies will come to depend on the soon-to-be-built 4G/5G ‘Internet of Everything’ providing the majority of basic and advanced goods, services and applications in the fields of security, government, commerce, finance, travel, logistics, transport, healthcare, infotainment and other aspects of our daily lives.

The critical communications ecosystem has emerged over several decades to provide secure solutions for public safety, emergency and other vital services which form the backbone of modern societies.

This ecosystem is now available for the wider communications industry to exploit for the common good.

The understanding that a common standard - LTE - will be the portal to this society also opens up a window of opportunity for global cooperation: a unique opportunity that must not be squandered.

We do not have much time to start reversing the negative trends of recent decades.

Two hundred years of industrial capitalism have left their mark on our world.

Our carbon footprint still shows no signs of slowing down.

As the global human population goes beyond 8 billion, perhaps towards 10 billion, by the middle of the 21st century, we are transforming our environment and using up natural resources at an ever-increasing rate. Technology can be our saviour or our executioner. This time we must get it right.

Solutions must work together, across sectors and borders, across continents; throughout real worlds and virtual worlds.

We need integrated solutions that are resilient enough to withstand all possible forms of attacks, both natural and man-made. www.radiocomms.com.au

This requires some serious thinking and a new form of global cooperation that does not appear to exist at the moment.

The education systems that we put in place now for our children and grandchildren will have to produce the right solutions for their time, not ours. We must stop stealing resources from future generations and find a way to start giving back what we have taken.

As the already-mentioned converged mobile broadband networks are powered up and start to be used by billions of humans, machines and devices, energy generation and distribution grids around the world will be strained to breaking point by a potentially limitless demand for power from a growing, more interconnected, technology-dependent global population living closer together in megacities.

Unless smarter technologies are introduced to avoid wastage and increase the availability of renewable energy sources, electricity blackouts will become the norm in the future, following on from a series of high-profile grid failures across North America and Europe in recent years.

Countries such as China and India will have to manage increased demand in a manner that respects the environment.

This is where innovative new forms of thinking could make breakthroughs in renewable energy with enormous repercussions.

Interoperability has been a big driver for the standardisation and digitalisation of emergency services communications in recent times. TETRA and P25 have been developed to allow multiple agencies across wide geographical areas to communicate seamlessly with each other.

Fully integrated, IP-based and increasingly mobile command and control centres are allowing major incidents and day-today operations to be handled by public safety authorities in a more efficient way than ever before.

The critical communications industry is already looking at the best way of incorporating new phenomena such as social media, crowd-sourcing, predictive analytics and others into existing work practices in order to serve the public better.

Smarter forms of processing information quickly and accurately will be required to police the smart cities of the future. Our industry must be preparing for this challenge now by testing out new applications without waiting for the nextgeneration networks to be built.

It is not sufficient for standards bodies and companies to develop new technology standards, introduce them before they have been fully tested and then just

accept the consequences of poor coverage, poor network quality and breaches of security.

We need to educate our leaders, decision-makers and the wider public, laying out all the options and probable outcomes. A critical communications world is based on increased social value, which may be harder to measure than naked monetary value, but equally as important.

The next 20 years or so are critical, as they will define the future we face. How smart are we? If we get this next revolution right - avoiding guillotines and global conflicts - then we can look forward to long, satisfying lives for the majority of the world’s steadily increasing healthy and well-educated human population.

If we screw up and fail to factor in the enormous potential downside of rapid technological change, then the legacy we will be leaving our children and grandchildren will be a poisoned chalice.

Can we grasp this opportunity to create a fairer world? My bet is that we will muddle our way through a series of environmental, technological and financial crises before emerging - out of necessity - into a more enlightened, cooperative world than the one we are currently living in.

However, without joined-up, robust, interconnected, affordable critical communications networks supported by a more transparent political class and civil society, a positive end-game is far from certain.

This framing of an imminent, dramatic future bearing down upon us will lead me to pose an even more dramatic question at this year’s RadioComms Connect event held in December: “Is critical communications vital for our very future on this planet?”

*Peter Clemons, former director and board member at TETRA + Critical Communications Association and former director of Communications at Teltronic SAU, set up a UK-based company, Quixoticity Ltd, to focus on developing solutions to the challenges facing the global critical communications industry.

As managing director of Quixoticity, Peter is working together with forward-looking, ideas-driven organisations to deliver the next generation of critical communications solutions.

Quixoticity www.quixoticity.com

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

Interference and direction analyser

Cable assembly

Narda Safety Test Solutions has equipped the IDA-3106 interference and direction analyser with additional functions that allow fast and reliable localisation of interference and unknown signal sources.

It is now possible to localise pulsed or sporadic signals using a horizontal scan for direction finding. The spectrogram display shows the variation of the spectrum with time. Deviations from a reference trace can be seen at a glance using the delta spectrum display.

The analyser offers a special max hold algorithm for localising unknown sources with a horizontal scan.

This allows the instrument to also produce a polar diagram from pulsed and cyclic or sporadic signals and to determine the direction of signals that have hitherto been difficult to localise, such as radar installations or intermittently used walkie-talkies.

The analyser records up to 400 compressed individual spectra for the spectrogram display and shows the signal strength in colour. This visualises the variations in the spectrum with time, which can give information about the type of signal, so that industrial control equipment with cyclical signals, mobile communications services using frequency hopping, stationary transmitters and sporadic emitters can all be distinguished from each other.

The latest feature is the ability to save spectra as reference traces and display the current spectrum as a difference or delta spectrum. In this way, deviations from the normal status, such as new sources in the communications band or an unusual state in an industrial plant, can be seen immediately. The instrument display is designed for outdoor use and can be switched for optimum visibility in daylight, normal lighting or darkness.

Optimised antennas which can be inserted vertically or horizontally in the ergonomically formed handgrip are available for different frequency ranges.

As a handheld device for on-site use, the unit weighs less than 3 kg including battery. The antenna and handle draw their power supply from the basic unit and thus weigh less than 1 kg. The rechargeable battery can be hot-swapped without interrupting operation.

WL Gore has added a rugged 18 GHz cable assembly to its Phaseflex microwave/RF test assemblies range.

It is specifically engineered for high-throughput production test applications in the wireless infrastructure market.

The connectors on these assemblies minimise failure by incorporating maximum strain relief at the point where the cable and connector meet. The assembly’s internally ruggedised construction is more durable, delivering crush resistance of 85 kg/cm.

Available in 1.0 and 1.5 m lengths, with both SMA and N-type male connectors, the assembly is easier for the operator to use because it is small and lightweight and can be connected and disconnected manually.

The assemblies withstand 100,000 flexures at a minimum bend radius of 2.4 cm.

WL Gore & Associates Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q822

Digital radio test system

Aeroflex has released the 3550 Digital Radio Test System with a colour touch screen.

Designed for PMR, public safety and other land mobile radio applications, the test system quickly isolates problems and assesses performance in AM/FM radios, with options for P25, DMR, NXDN and dPMR radio systems. It is lightweight for field-testing and features 4.5 h of continuous operation with its internal battery.

The test system allows the user to test all aspects of the radio system - the transmitter, receiver, cables and antennas - with features found in benchtop equipment and also meets MIL-PRF-28800A specifications for humidity, shock and vibration with an operating range of -0 to +50ºC. Specifications include: phase noise of -95 dBc/Hz; RF signal generator level accuracy of ±1.5 dB; FM deviation meter accuracy of 4%; -140 dBm spectrum analyser.

Narda Safety Test Solutions GmbH

Aeroflex Asia Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R110

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R143

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www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

M2M wireless

Wideband amplifier

The 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi access point to provide M2M equipment with wireless networking capabilities has been launched.

This industrial-grade wireless access point is the first fruit of B&B’s October 2011 acquisition of Quatech, whose Airborne wireless networking devices feature Wi-Fi connectivity technology to network-enable industrial M2M devices.

The latest product is in two forms: an embeddable module (APMG-Q551) allows original equipment manufacturers to Wi-Fi-enable their own products so they can either serve as self-sufficient M2M wireless communications hubs or tie into existing wireless networks; an external ethernet access point (APXG-Q5420) provides the same functionality in a ruggedised stand-alone box and adds serial device server capability as well.

The technology allows the access-point-equipped device, whether it’s the external APXG or an OEM’s device fitted with the APMG, to become the centre of its own self-sufficient Wi-Fi network.

The external APXG is equipped with a typical ethernet port, plus two serial ports not typically found on wireless access points.

With the ability to connect and route between any of its ports, the APXG can serve as an access point (handling up to eight simultaneous client connections) or as a bridge (tying Wi-Fi devices into ethernet networks), while simultaneously serving as a serial device server (bridging serial devices into either wired or wireless LANs.)

The YSF-322 is a wideband amplifier module, matched to 50 Ω in/ out impedance and has built-in input and output DC blocking capacitors. It uses E-PHEMT technology to allow it to work with a single positive supply voltage.

It has a high gain of 20 dB, high IP3 (+35 dBm) and PI dB (+20 dBm and low noise figures of 2.8 dB) and a ±2.2 dB flat response over a 900 and 3200 MHz range.

B&B Electronics

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N913

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R013

www.radiocomms.com.au

Clarke & Severn Electronics

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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NEW White Papers

now available online!

Unified communications eBook Unified communications (UC) has many potential benefits for organisations, including cost savings through the use of IP telephony as well as streamlined communications between staff members and customers. This eBook features several articles on emerging movements in UC - download now!

Business impact of application performance problems Issues with the performance of business-critical applications can cause deterioration of an organisation’s business performance.

Slow applications that support key business processes can cause revenue loss and a decline in customer satisfaction and employee productivity. To ensure you’re informed, be sure to read this white paper.

The evolution of VoIP and the emergence of unified communications as a service Redefining your existing communications, automating business processes and unifying them all into 21st-century communications technology is bound to create a set of challenges. In this white paper we discuss the emergence of UCaaS and help you decide which UC model is right for you.

Building a storage environment for super-efficiency The growth of stored data is being driven by a need to leverage new data sources (web-based social media, for example) to create new business opportunities. The current ways of managing data in this environment are not sustainable, however, so IT administrators must therefore respond by becoming more efficient.

For these and more White Paper downloads, visit www.radiocomms.com.au/white_papers

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INDUSTRY TALKING ARCIA is made up of elected committee and ex-officio members who are actively engaged in the Australian radio communications industry.

They bring many years of knowledge and expertise to the association without personal financial gain.

ARCIA recently held elections at the Annual General Meeting in August and the following individuals were elected for FY13: President: Chris Kelly Vice President: Martin McLeod Secretary: Bob Rogers Committee Members: Ian Miller; Anthony Blyth; Hamish Duff; Jeff Perry; Devran Roberts; Jim Simpson; Chris Stapleton The association would also like to welcome Andrew Findlay and Rob Howes as new committee members.

ARCIA committee and ex-officio members work on behalf of the association’s members on issues where they believe the industry should be protected or represented and are elected based on their interest to best serve the industry as a whole. The association welcomes regular comments and suggestions from its members to ensure the committee continues to fulfil its role.

I would like to make special mention of departing committee members Alistair Tibballs and Melanie Arnott. Both members need to be acknowledged for their dedication and commitment to the association. Alistair’s role as treasurer was pivotal in the association’s early years of development and later as it grew nationally. Melanie joined ARCIA in recent years and helped it gain solid ground in Western Australia. It is the dedication of our volunteers that allows us to continue to serve the industry as a whole and we thank Alistair and Melanie for their solid contributions.

In other news, the ARCIA Annual Report is available now and has been sent to all members. The report covers the association’s activities and achievements for FY12. Please contact info@arcia.org. au for a copy.

As a snapshot, in 2011-2012, ARCIA, on behalf of Tait Communications, awarded the Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarship to James Duncombe from Mastercom in NSW, Nick Gallagher from Nixon Communications in Queensland and Dylan Bucktrout from Mobile Masters in Western Australia. The scholarship is intended to provide encouragement to students or apprentices who are undertaking specialised training within the radio communications field. In order to continue to provide encouragement to students or apprentices actively pursuing study leading to a career in radio communications, four Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarships will be awarded in FY13 thanks to the support from Tait Communications, Omnitronics and RadioComms Connect 2012.

As well as viewing the latest Annual Report, we encourage you to visit the ARCIA website to see how to apply for the scholarship, nominate peers for the annual Industry Excellence Awards, keep up with the industry and social news, contribute to industry surveys, and view the advantages of membership and accreditation.

Christian Kelly President Australian Radio Communications Industry Association

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Collinear antennas

Software-defined HF radio

The COL45 series of Meander collinear antennas have been specifically designed for UHF applications requiring high performance, strong bandwidth and good PIM specifications.

The design allows multiple half wave elements to be stacked without the variations in cable lengths and mechanical joints which have typified the construction techniques in high-gain collinear antennas. With each dipole element being printed on a single-sided PCB, the susceptibility to passive intermodulation is reduced.

Features include: good bandwidth and full band coverage; internally DC grounded for lightning protection; tightly controlled radiation patterns; PIM rating -150 dBc; also available with N connector.

RFI Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q852

EMI test receiver The R&S ESR EMI test receiver is available in two different models for frequencies ranging from 10 Hz to 3 or 7 GHz to meet the requirements of users who perform EMC certification on commercial equipment. It covers all commercial standards relevant for test houses and EMC labs used by electrical equipment manufacturers and their suppliers.

The receiver has diagnostic tools such as spectrogram display, real-time spectrum analysis and IF analysis to help developers detect and eliminate EMI. It features time domain scan, an FFT-based receiver technology said to allow it to perform measurements up to 6000 times faster than other EMI test receivers. This measurement method is suitable when the DUT can only be operated for short periods for testing, eg, in the automotive and lighting industry.

The spectrogram function displays the analysed spectrum over time and records measurements for up to five hours, allowing developers to detect sporadic interferers.

The frequency mask trigger responds to specific events in a spectrum. If the mask is violated, a trigger is activated. The measurement is stopped, and the user can analyse the exact cause and effect of the interferer.

The persistence mode allows users to clearly differentiate between pulse interferers and continuous interference. It displays the probability distribution of occurring frequencies and amplitudes in various colours, making it possible to detect interferers that are hidden by broadband signals.

The receiver also provides a conventional stepped frequency scan so the user can compare it with existing results. The software can be used to remotely control the receiver and integrate it into EMC systems for automated measurement sequences.

The Envoy software-defined HF radio provides the ability to add capabilities to the radio through software upgrades in a commercial platform.

The icon-based user interface incorporates a highresolution, colour, graphical user handset for radio operation and control while the IP capability allows seamless integration of the radio into communications networks, making HF more accessible.

The radio provides users with advanced internal features such as automatic link establishment, encryption, high-speed data, GPS and IP interface.

Codan Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q619

GSM/GPRS modules Telit’s xE910 module range, based on the land-gridarray form factor, provides identical form factor compatibility between software and hardware versions across a host of possible cellular technologies such as GSM/GPRS, UMTS/HSPA and CDMA/ EVDO. The modules can be controlled using the standard AT command set.

The HE910 features three global, high-throughput (HSPA+ 5.76/21.0), penta-band variants and six local, lower throughput (HSPA 5.76/7.2), three-band variants.

Designed for mobile computing, in-car telematics, PDAs, e-readers, tablet PCs and consumer mobile health devices, the module also allows users to select specific features such as data only, data/GPS or data/voice/GPS. Additionally, the module provides 2G coverage with quad-band GPRS and EDGE class 33 as well as Rx diversity options.

For applications where UMTS is not required, the GE910 is a quad-band GSM/GPRS module for 2G M2M applications. The DE910 EV-DO and the CE910 1xRTT module serves CDMA markets as well.

The module range is also suitable for embedded tracking applications.

Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Pty Ltd

Glyn Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R136

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q621

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

Lightning protector

Oscilloscopes

The Times-Protect LP-GPX-05-T highperformance lightning protector is suitable for protection of GPS receivers requiring up to 5 VDC power to be supplied on the centre pin for L1, L2 and L3 bands.

While the RF path is DC blocked, the biased DC voltage protection circuit uses solid state protection technology to provide good surge performance.

The range is a bidirectional filterbased design exhibiting suitable insertion loss and return loss characteristics from (1000 to 2000 MHz).

The white bronze-plated construction of the protector eliminates potential galvanic corrosion issues and provides long life in hostile environments. The fully weatherised housing is rated to IP65, allowing for outdoor installations.

Rojone Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q775

RFID antennas Laird Technologies has released its RFID antenna range with a focus on UHF RFID antenna solutions.

The antennas can be used in a variety of markets including telecommunications, mobile communications, network equipment, automotive, industrial and instrumentation, aerospace, defence, medical and consumer electronics.

Tekdis Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q742

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The LeCroy WaveAce 1000 oscilloscope has a sample rate of up to 1 GS/s with 2 Mpts of memory in 2-channel models from 40 to 100 MHz. The WaveAce 2000 delivers sample rates of up to 2 GS/s and 24 kpts of memory and is available in 2- and 4-channel models from 70 to 300 MHz. Both scopes feature a large 7″ widescreen display and debug tools such as 32 automatic measurements, waveform maths capabilities, pass/fail mask testing, large internal storage, remote control and waveform recorder.

Integration with LeCroy’s logic analyser and waveform generators provides expanded debug and testing capabilities.

Vicom Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R015

www.radiocomms.com.au

Spectrum analysers The Signal Hound spectrum analyser and measurement receivers are compact and simple to use.

They are suitable for general lab use, electronic repair technicians, engineering students, ham radio enthusiasts and electronics hobbyists, and have good sensitivity, strong accuracy and dynamic range.

With the built-in RF preamplifier, RF attenuator and temperature compensation, quick, accurate RF measurements can be made in the lab or in the field.

If the Signal Hound tracking generator is connected to the spectrum analysers, it becomes a scalar network analyser, suitable for tuning filters, measuring insertion loss and amplifier gain. A directional coupler can be added to measure return loss.

N EW

newproducts

Clarke & Severn Electronics Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R002

Marine articulated mount The MAM2 is specifically designed to provide a method of deck mounting a number of RFI mobile antennas which have a 1/2″ TPI threaded. This allows antennas to be mounted on caravans, motor homes and marine vessels.

Features include: allows antennas to be laid down when not in use; antennas can be adjusted to accommodate non-level mounting surfaces; suitable for marine, caravans, motor homes, hire equipment and freight vehicles; compatible with a range of antennas including the CD2100/2200, CD5000 and CD900 series.

RFI Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q863

Oscilloscope with built-in spectrum analyser Tektronix has introduced what it claims is the first oscilloscope with a built-in spectrum analyser. The mixed domain instrument can capture time-correlated analog, digital and RF signals for a complete system view of a device.

Both the time and frequency domain can be seen in a single glance. View the RF spectrum at any point to see how it changes with time or device state. The instrument is available in four analog channels with 500 MHz or 1 GHz bandwidth models and 16 digital channels and 1 RF channel.

www.powerbox.com.au

TekMark Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R016

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

USB power sensors The U2020 X-series 18 and 40 GHz USB power sensors have peak and average power measurement capabilities of a power meter. The compact sensors allow engineers to test devices faster and with greater efficiency and accuracy.

The device’s measurement speed (3500 readings/s or higher), along with its internal zero and calibration function, enables users to maximise test efficiency and reduce the cost of test in areas such as high-volume component manufacturing.

The series is supplied with built-in trigger functions that allow accurate triggering of small signals close to the signal noise floor. The trigger-out port allows users to perform data logging while the video-output feature gives the flexibility to use the USB sensors with an oscilloscope as an alternative method to display pulse signals and measure pulse parameters.

With a compact USB form factor, these sensors operate without needing a power meter or external power supply.

Agilent Technologies Aust Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q376

Testing Wi-Fi Fluke Networks has released version 2.0 of the software that powers its AirCheck Wi-Fi tester.

The tester features a one-button autotest that automatically conducts wireless tests for interference, network quality and rogue access point detection to more quickly and consistently validate wireless network performance, and discover security threats and other issues.

In addition to the autotest feature, the tester also provides increased visibility of client devices, such as laptops and printers, and lets users track them, making it easy to identify and solve wireless connectivity problems.

It includes an onboard security configuration feature that lets users configure the tester on the fly to access secure networks, without having to use a PC. Fluke Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q947

Satellite data logger A low-power solution for remote monitoring and data logging has been released which uses the Iridium satellite network Short Burst Data (SBD) service for automated data delivery.

The microSpider satellite is suitable for applications such as environmental, industrial or infrastructure monitoring where other forms of communication are not available.

As with all Halytech products, the satellite’s configurable I/O combined with Modbus and SDI-12 compatibility provide flexibility for use with a broad range of instruments. All products include an onboard web server which allows the user to view and configure all parameters without special software or licences.

Halytech Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R134

24 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Dual-sided in-ear headset

RF vector signal transceiver

PWC has released the Peltor OraTac, a dualsided in-ear headset said to provide clear communication with level dependent function (similar to situational awareness) when attached to professional twoway radios.

Designed when large cups are unable to be worn, it helps provide protection from high noise in a variety of environments and from impulse noises when they occur.

The system comprises an in-ear headset with PTT adapter and a quick disconnect cable. The cable connects to individual radios and can be switched when a radio is purchased. It is available for most professional analog and digital radios and meets standards PPE directive 89/686/EEC EMC directive 2004/108/EC.

The NI PXIe-5644R RF vector signal transceiver, a software-designed instrument, combines a vector signal generator and vector signal analyser with a user-programmable FPGA into a single PXI modular instrument.

Engineers can transform the vector signal transceiver into a new instrument or enhance its existing functionality using NI LabVIEW system design software. The new VST is suitable for testing the latest wireless and cellular standards such as 802.11ac and LTE. Features include: up to 6.0 GHz frequency coverage and 80 MHz instantaneous RF bandwidth; performance for testing wireless standards such as 802.11ac and LTE; fast measurements; built on FPGA technology programmable with LabVIEW; easily expands to support multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) configurations or parallel testing in a single PXI chassis.

Pacific Wireless Communications Pty Ltd

National Instruments Australia

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R132

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R105

TX4800 25 watt VHF/UHF commercial radio Ingress protected to IP67 500 channel / 50 zones MDC1200 compatible signaling

www.radiocomms.com.au

CR013B

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SYDNEY (02) 9879 8888

MELBOURNE (03) 9558 9999

BRISBANE (07) 3278 6444

PERTH (08) 9455 5744

ADELAIDE (08) 8234 2633

AUCKLAND (09) 274 0955 www.gme.net.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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C re

telemetry & site monitoring

dit n :A

dre igb wD y

Tags help kiwi recovery

Cred

it: Sue Keall

Kylie Rhodes

Radio tagging is being used to discover how inbreeding contributes to the fate of a rare species of kiwi in New Zealand.

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ew Zealand has around 1600 Little Spotted Kiwi, residing on seven offshore islands and also located at Zealandia eco-sanctuary in Wellington.

Helen Taylor, Researcher and PhD student at the Victoria University of Wellington, is studying the rare species to see what effects inbreeding has on the future of its population. She is able to do this by attaching Sirtrack V2L 152A radio tags to the birds to monitor the population.

Chick timer software, supplied by WildTech, sends data back to Taylor

Credit: Andrew Digby

26 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

"We had a couple of tags fail once they were on birds, but we've always been fortunate enough to be able to retrieve them and fit the birds with working replacements."

about the tagged birds’ activity patterns and incubation status of the eggs. She believes without this software she would have to spend many hours of observation, which can be expensive and timeconsuming.

The radio tags are small (31 x 21 x 16 mm) and are able to be attached to the bird’s leg. They are 2-stage transmitters, powered by a 3.6 V 3 P/N cell.

They have an internal antenna and are therefore protected from being broken off. Hospital baby arm bands are used to attach them, with black tape wrapped around them to hold them securely.

“The fitting of the tags this way has been successful for over 25 years. The tags also go through a lot of tests for power output at Sirtrack before they are sent to the user,” said Chris Milne from Sirtrack, which supplied the tags.

Taylor added, “We needed a 2-stage transmitter to run the chick timer software, but the tag also needed to weigh around 12-13 g. Little Spotted Kiwi are the smallest of the five species of kiwi and so cannot wear the larger tags that the bigger species can handle.

“We also wanted a tag with an internal antenna rather than a whip-tail as we’d seen the whip-tails break off in previous studies. In the end, Sirtrack ended up modifying an existing tag to meet our specifications.”

Male kiwis are the ones fitted with the radio tags as they have the responsibil-

ity of sitting on the egg once it has been laid by the female. The data is significant as it shows the activity of the male from initially sitting on the egg to nesting with the chick around a month after it hatches.

Hatched chicks are taken away to be measured and weighed, and unhatched eggs are also taken to be studied to find out why they failed.

Overall, Taylor believes there haven’t been many problems with the tags.

“We had a couple of tags fail once they were on birds, but we’ve always been fortunate enough to be able to retrieve them and fit the birds with the working replacements that Sirtrack has supplied.”

She believes tagging on the females may be able to provide a fuller picture of the problem.

“We do see females remaining in the same area as the nest and we see and hear family groups together once the chick is hatched. It is, however, only the male who ever sits in the nest with the egg and who remains in the nest with the chick for around a month after it hatches.

“It would be great to have tags on females to get a fuller picture of their movements during the nesting season, but obviously that would double the cost of the project.”

Taylor’s PhD funding is for three years and the results of the study will feed into the New Zealand Department of Conservation’s Kiwi Recovery Plan.

The recovery plan lays out management actions for all five species of kiwi to ensure they have the best possible chance of success in the future.

Taylor concluded, “I recently came to the end of my first field season and have just finished fitting all the birds with tags for my second field season, which will run from now until Feb/Mar 2013.” www.radiocomms.com.au

Registration NOW OPEN — Early bird closes 31 October 2012

4–5 December 2012

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With a sharp focus on industry end users and their needs, as well as the application of currently available technologies now and into the future, this year’s conference offers two solid days of learning and an exhibition where you will find everything you’re looking for.

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Speakers include: Prof. Hugh Bradlow – Chief Technology Officer, Telstra Chris Chapman – Chairman and CEO, Australian Communications and Media Authority Peter Clemons – Managing Director, Quixoticity Alvin D’Mello, Data Communications System Manager, QR National Doug Booth – Project Director, Country Fire Authority Dietmar Schoeps – Director, Funkwerk Security Communications Marta Fontecha – Transport Area Manager, Teltronic Des Bahr – CEO, APCO Australasia Industry & Technology Focus: • • • •

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newproducts

Remote environmental monitoring system

UHF/VHR handheld transceiver

M a d i s o n Te c h nologies and CoastalCOMS have partnered in developing a turnkey environmental and security monitoring solution.

The solution incorporates the Madison rapid deployment camera and CoastalCOMS’ federated cloud solution, designed to be deployed without the need for any fixed cabling infrastructure.

It provides real-time video streaming and storage saved locally or in the cloud - with secure viewing via a user’s computer or smart device.

The PT4200 is a high-quality, 16-channel, 4 W UHF/VHF handheld transceiver equipped with CTCSS/DQT encoder/decoder functions to prevent interference from other transceivers operating on the same frequency.

Features of the transceiver include: 16 channels (15+ scan); PC programmable; low battery indication; programmable channel spacing; panic alert siren; channel busy lockout; time-out timer; squelch level; robust design; 1200 mAh (1800 mAh also available); Li-poly battery with belt clip; 6-way multicharger (optional); emergency audible alarm.

BluFi Wireless Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R206

Madison Technologies Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q871

Visit and buy Online

http://shop.wirelesstech.com.au Bonded Wireless Links

Mobile Location

Data Center Our Technology Partners

The Pepwave MAX is a reliable, easy-to use Internet load balancing and WAN bonding solution. Capable of connecting up to 7 Internet connections, the Pepwave MAX can load balance among multiple links, such as DSL, cable, WiMAX, LTE, and 3G, to increase Internet bandwidth and reliability.

Links can be bonded using our site-to-site VPN bonding technology, which aggregates the bandwidth provided by multiple links and becomes one big pipe while providing seamless session failover. With their increased speed and reliability, these new lines can replace existing remote data delivery method such as Satellite, Microwave.

 Faster Wireless Internet with Bonding  Reliable Internet Access with 4G, 3G Everywhere  Increased Bandwidth Enable New Applications  Replace Traditional Wireless Delivery

Wireless Tech (Australia) Pty Ltd +61 2 8741 5080 | sales@wirelesstech.com.au

28 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

www.radiocomms.com.au

I C O M 6 5 0 - A d _ R a d i o C o m. p d f

Pa ge

1

newproducts

Tracking generator Anritsu has introduced a tracking generator for its Spectrum Master MS2711E, MS2712E and MS2713E models that enhances the overall performance of the handheld analysers, while making it easier and faster for field technicians to conduct additional measurements.

With the tracking generator installed, the analysers can be used by service providers, R&D engineering, contractors, installers, public safety organisations and broadcast stations to conduct accurate measurements and improve efficiency when deploying, installing and maintaining networks.

The tracking generator is designed with a CW generator that covers a frequency range of 500 kHz to either 3 GHz (MS2711E), 4 GHz (MS2712E) or 6 GHz (MS2713E). The analysers with the tracking generator have an output power range of -50 to 0 dBm, and output flatness of ±1.0 dB (max), ±0.3 dB (typical).

Nominal step size is 0.1 dB with the tracking generator installed in the analysers.

A power accuracy procedure has been included in the tracking generator that ensures accurate measurements are made. The user-enabled procedure removes inaccuracies caused by temperature variations, while enhancing overall output power flatness across the frequency band.

The generator has a user interface that is said to be user friendly and the touch screen uses images and graphics to visually guide the user on which parameter to enter and how to enter it, eliminating the complexity associated with some tests.

In Safe Hands Communications play an essential role in keeping your mine site operations safe and productive, especially when working in hazardous environments.

With Icom’s range of radio communications equipment, which is based on 50 years experience in the industry, we’re confident you’ll be in safe hands.

Anritsu Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q051

NXDN

™

Demo RF amplifier Polyfet has released its demonstration RF amplifier, the TB221.

It was designed and built to demonstrate the GaN device GX242 putting out 60 W across 200-2000 MHz with 10 dB gain typical.

The operating voltage is 48 VDC and the complete data package can be viewed or downloaded from the ‘Designs’ section of the Polyfet website.

Mostyn Enterprises (Technologies) Pty Ltd

To discover how Icom can offer a complete solution, email our Land Mobile Specialist via lmr@icom.net.au

www.icom.net.au ICOM 650

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q820

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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1 2 / 0 6

newproducts

In-flight antenna Cable-based antennas or leaky feeders have been introduced to improve signal propagation without increasing the amount of hardware required on an aircraft.

Suitable for both wide-body and single-aisle passenger aircraft, the antennas provide reliable access to different wireless protocols so passengers can connect to in-flight entertainment, internet servers and email accounts.

The cable-based antennas are installed along the length of the cabin ceiling, and with signal propagation occurring every metre along its length, passengers have reliable access regardless of their location. Signals are transmitted via a signal network computer and outside antenna to satellites that connect to the worldwide network.

Unlike typical broadband technology that requires separate hardware for each type of wireless access, this antenna requires only one set of hardware to service the entire aircraft.

This antenna sends and receives signals in frequencies ranging from 400 MHz to 6 GHz, which makes it compatible with numerous communication standards, including Bluetooth, DECT, DECT2, Global Star, GSM, Iridium Sat, MMS, PDC, TETRA, UMTS, WLAN 802.11 a/b/g, and WiMAX. WL Gore & Associates Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R014

PERVASIVE TELEMETRY

30 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

4 GHz oscilloscope A 4 GHz model has been added to the Rohde & Schwarz RTO oscilloscope family. Together, the RTO1044 and RT-ZD40 differential probe (4.5 GHz bandwidth) are tools for developing digital, analog and RF designs.

The latest oscilloscope has 20 GSps sampling rate and addresses a wide variety of applications: The RTO1044 is suitable for analysing fast signals and steep edges.

It can handle different data interfaces up to a data rate of 1.6 Gbps and can also be used to test fast clock signals up to a frequency of 800 MHz. User benefits of the family include: high sensitivity and measurement accuracy of typically low-amplitude <1 V signals. Due to the extremely low-noise front end, the full measurement bandwidth of 4 GHz is available at even the smallest scaling (1 mV/div).

The 10 GHz single-core A/D converter provides dynamic range (ENOB >7 bit). Another characteristic is the high acquisition and analysis rate of 1 million waveforms/s.

The digital trigger system can accurately pinpoint narrow glitches (down to 50 ps) and their origin. An adjustable trigger hysteresis allows users to optimise the trigger sensitivity to the signal characteristics.

The combination of fast FFT analysis, high dynamic range and a wide bandwidth makes the 1044 suitable for frequency domain measurements: when verifying circuit designs and during debugging, even sporadic EMI interferers can be detected. The spectra of up to four RF signals can be seen in parallel and phase coherent.

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oscilloscopes feature touch-screen operation and the screen, with its semitransparent dialog boxes, drag-and-drop measurement windows, configurable toolbar and preview icons with live waveforms allows users to accomplish even complex measurement tasks quickly.

Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q823

Two-way radio The Motorola MTP850Ex TETRA ATEX and IEC Ex is a suitable two-way radio for environments containing potentially explosive gas and dust.

Features include: IP64 (Cat 2) rating; can be operated in gas zones 1 and 2 classified hazardous areas (Ex ib IIC T4); can be operated in dust zones 21 and 22 classified hazardous areas (Ex tD A21 IP6x ib D21 T90°C).

TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q474

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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telemetry & site monitoring

‘Spiders’ keep an eye on water behaviour Data-logging and telemetry units are helping Sydney Catchment Authority keep a close eye on NSW’s most important catchments.

S

ydney Catchment Authority (SCA) manages and protects the city’s drinking water catchments and associated infrastructure and supplies bulk water to its customers, which include Sydney Water and a number of local councils. With more than four million people relying on SCA for their water, it is essential that the authority keeps a close watch on the behaviour of the catchment and the quality of the water.

ALS Environmental, through its field services office, provides specialist services to SCA to monitor and analyse many aspects of the catchment. Occasionally, when faced with a challenge, ALS’s Monitoring and Technical Services Group needs to devise new methods to take measurements or find a way to send data from remote locations.

One such challenge arose when SCA wanted to measure water level and quality at a number of points along the Warragamba River where there was no GSM or NextG coverage.

While there had been a satellite system used there in the past, it was very expensive, provided data only once a day and was somewhat unreliable. ALS Environmental approached Halytech for a solution and was told that, with a little work, the Spider Satellite data logger would be suitable.

32 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

"[The company] developed a data compression technology which reduced the data to be transmitted to very small packets which, once communications with a passing satellite has been established, can be delivered in a few seconds."

“The Spider is an extremely versatile device and we have customised it to suit the requirements of many of our customers,” said Steven Palos of Halytech.

“Working with ALS was easy as they knew what they wanted and trusted us to come up with a solution.”

A significant part of the challenge was that the river was in a deep ravine with a relatively small view of the sky.

For a geostationary satellite system to be useful, it needs to be visible from the site from where data is to be collected. In a steep-sided ravine such as Warragamba River, it is sometimes difficult to get access to a suitable geostationary satellite.

An orbiting satellite on a network such as Iridium is constantly moving

and completes its orbit in about 100 minutes. In order to be able to communicate reliably, a ground station must be able to ‘see’ the satellite for enough time to transmit its data. At some locations on Warragamba River, the window of opportunity is very small, increasing the possibility that data transmission will be interrupted when the satellite passes from view.

Halytech developed a data compression technology which reduced the data to be transmitted to very small packets which, once communications with a passing satellite has been established, can be delivered in a few seconds. This makes it possible to get good quality data from remote sites having poor sky access with great reliability. The chosen site for the initial trial was regarded by ALS and SCA as the most difficult site in the catchment.

According to Anthony Skinner, ALS Environmental’s Sydney manager, “The Spider Satellite is the primary data logger and telemetry device on all priority one sites not covered by NextG.” Referring to the first site, he went on to say, “We haven’t missed a single data point from that site in six years.”

Impressed with the performance of the Spider satellite, ALS installed six more at other sites along the river.

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Point-to-point microwave link The Aprisa range from 4RF includes the XE point-to-point microwave link and the SR point-to-multipoint radio.

The XE is a flexible point-to-point microwave link, available in multiple frequency bands below 3 GHz, providing up to 65 Mbps capacity.

It provides capacity and reliability over long-distance paths under difficult conditions.

The SR is a point-to-multipoint SCADA radio. Its features include: configurable as base station, remote unit or repeater; AES 256 encryption as standard; two x 10/100 Base-T ports, one x RS-232 port; 136-174 MHz and 400-470 MHz licensed spectrum bands; 9.6 Kbps in 12.5 kHz channel, 19.2 Kbps in 25 kHz channel; integrates with the XE point-to-point radio.

4RF Communications Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R182

Š iStockphoto.com/Tim Starkey

Confident of the abilities of the satellite to deliver data from the remotest of sites, ALS again employed the product for the monitoring of thermistor chains used to measure water temperature in Warragamba Dam. One of the challenges faced in implementing this solution was the need to gather data from more than 60 thermistors.

At the time, the satellite could handle only eight channels but Halytech was able to increase this to 65.

Mounted on rafts, the satellite read data from the thermistor chains using the SDI-12 protocol and sent it to ALS over the Iridium network. Arriving every hour into a Hydstra system, the data was checked for quality and uploaded to a web portal for use by SCA as required.

Halytech Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R108

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

Masterful … is one way to describe Anritsu’s new Spectrum Master family of portable Spectrum Analysers, with coverage up to 43GHz.

The new ‘C’ series Spectrum Master family features five models from 9 kHz to 9, 13, 20, 33 and 43 GHz, with a broadband preamplifier that works all the way to 43 GHz, excellent phase noise and dynamic range. The new fast sweep selection gives an unprecedented sweep speed of around 17 seconds for a 43 GHz span with 30 kHz RBW, obliterating previous conventional measurement time over this span.

With coverage from L band through K band and right into Q and U bands, these five new models deliver amazing performance, offering the widest frequency range of any portable spectrum analyser platform.

Contact Anritsu today to find out more about the new C series Spectrum Master family of high performance Spectrum Analysers.

Discover What’s Possible™ Freecall 1800 689 685 au-sales@anritsu.com

34 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

Marine transceiver Icom has integrated a GPS receiver and DSC functionality into the IC-M91D marine handheld radio.

The Float’n Flash feature, included with the radio, has had a minor upgrade. As soon as the radio hits the water, it will flash from the screen, keypad and distress button as well as emitting an audible tone, all while floating face up, making it easy to retrieve the unit in low-light situations. The man overboard feature also allows storage of the position of the incident for future use.

Fifty waypoint memories can be stored into the transceiver and a compass and navigation to a waypoint feature are also included. Additional DSC functions allow the user to send individual, group, all-ships and test calls to those in transmission range. For individual and group calls, up to 100 Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers can be stored.

The user interface features the same menu system as the IC-M423 fixed-mount VHF, and a directional keypad and multipurpose function buttons are included.

The device features an IPX7 construction, making it waterproof to a 1 m depth for 30 min. With a 700 mW internal speaker and active noise-cancelling, which claims to eliminate up to 90% of background noise, all transmissions will be loud and clear. The included 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 8 h of typical use.

The radio also features 55 marine channels, multiple scanning options, instant access to channel 16 (calling channel), dual- and tri-watch functionality and AquaQuake draining system, which clears water out of the speaker grill. An optional waterproof speaker/microphone is also available.

Icom Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q494

Test mobile with added eICIC support Aeroflex has added support for enhanced Inter Cell Interference Cancellation (eICIC) to the TM500 test mobile platform. eICIC is a technique specifically designed to improve the overall performance of heterogeneous network (HetNet) deployments and is one of the main features specified for LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) in 3GPP Release10.

The main application of eICIC is to improve cell edge performance and coverage in HetNet deployment scenarios where nodes of different types macro-, micro- and picocells - have coverage areas that partially overlap.

This enhancement allows engineers developing and testing LTE base stations (eNodeB) to integrate and validate the eICIC feature and to verify the advantages of heterogeneous deployments.

The test mobile’s support for eICIC measurements, which applies to both FDD and TDD, includes logging the eICIC-specific protocol messages and physical layer measurements.

Aeroflex Asia Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q708

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Base station Simoco has released the SB2025NT base station that combines the P25 base station, IP-network interface and traffic management functionality into a compact two-rack-unit chassis.

Featuring processor-controlled GPS synchronisation, auto set-up and remote management, the base station is easy to deploy and manage. Each unit accommodates a GPS receiver to provide the timing source throughout the network and up to 32 base stations can be connected together via IP links.

The network interface is DFSI compliant with dispatch consoles and applications such as AVL systems and voice recorders.

The integrated traffic manager provides the synchronisation and supervisory functions through the network and can be duplicated to provide distributed resilience of these functions.

The base station also incorporates an RSSI voter which can operate in talk-through mode with simulcast transmit.

Receiver selection or voting is conducted in the digital domain within the traffic manager. The IP data packets contain both the received audio and signal quality information together, greatly reducing voter rise time.

Frequency bands for the base include VHF, UHF and 700 MHz. ComGroup Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q858

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

35

newproducts

Multipoint digital link radio The multipoint digital link (MDL) is an ultra-spectrally-efficient, low-latency, point-to-multipoint IP full-duplex digital radio designed for mission-critical supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) applications.

It provides up to 320 Kbps raw data rate in 25 kHz channel with typically less than 25 ms latency. Using a proprietary random multiaccess protocol, the base radio unit can support up to 1020 remote radio units.

The MDL solutions operate in licensed frequency bands between 369-470 MHz and 806-960 MHz. The IP radios also support legacy asynchronous serial RS232 radio terminal units by means of optional terminal server software and are designed to provide reliable and secure communications over long paths in harsh environments.

MiMOMax Wireless Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q931

Monitoring wireless LANs Fluke Networks has released another version of its wireless local area network (WLAN) security and performance monitoring solution, AirMagnet Enterprise, Version 10.

It has a software sensor agent, letting users use both software and hardware sensors to optimise cost, deployment and security monitoring.

Organisations can now turn a Windows PC into a software-based WLAN sensor. This deployment option lets network professionals choose between standard hardware sensors, which are the core technology for monitoring WLANs, and a software alternative for multisite healthcare, retail and concession operations needing basic PCI or HIPAA compliance monitoring.

The software sensor is one of several new capabilities included in AirMagnet, which also includes performance monitoring and WLAN platform support.

The software agent incorporates the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rogue detection and performance management capabilities to ensure the highest levels of security.

This version of AirMagnet also features a management screen that provides a consolidated view of all data and controls to simplify investigation and containment of rogue devices.

In addition to the software agent, version 10 also features what it is claimed to be the first automated health check capability for proactively monitoring WLAN network health from the end-user device to the cloud.

Network professionals can now pinpoint root cause issues, such as wireless authentication failures, download speed degradation and application system outages, before they impact the organisation.

Fluke Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q946

36 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Portable radios

MIMO antennas

Mototrbo 4000 portable and mobile radios provide voice quality, extended battery life, increased capacity and large-application developer programs allowing businesses to collaborate and communicate.

The DM 4000 and DP 4000 series professionaltier radios can be used in tough environments and are available in both full keypad with colour display and non-display models.

A day/night-mode feature changes the screen and illuminates icons for enhanced clarity in the dark and bright environments.

The radios have a feature that automatically adjusts the radio’s volume and can be used in high-noise environments.

Features such as voice announcement allow for audible confirmation of channel and zone changes, and one-touch access buttons provide quick access to favourite features.

Integrated GPS enables organisations to easily locate mobile workers.

Integrated Bluetooth audio allows users to connect Bluetooth audio accessories without an external adapter. Wireless earpieces allows employees more mobility and discreet communication. The radio also supports Bluetooth data connectivity to wirelessly transfer data between the radio and other devices such as barcode scanners, mobile computers and mobile printers.

The series also includes IMPRES smart audio accessories, batteries and chargers, remote speaker microphones and carry accessories.

CommScope’s Cell-Max MIMO antennas include multiple features that help operators use their spectrum efficiently when enabling wireless voice and data traffic.

The antennas are dual-polarised for high capacity across an ultra wideband range of 698-2700 MHz. They include: audible mounting brackets that provide an audible click for each 2.5° horizontal or 5° vertical adjustment, making proper installation and alignment easier; compliance to the International Electrotechnical Commission’s 60068-2-6 standard for vibration testing; good passive intermodulation performance for minimising network distortion.

Motorola Solutions Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q549 www.radiocomms.com.au

CommScope Solutions Singapore Pte Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q478

ECLIPSE 2 Range of digital products DIGITALLY SMART POWER AMPLIFER FM and Linear mode Digitally Controlled Power Amplifier

Key Features  Integrated Digital RFT controller supporting full control and monitoring the 16 parameters and alarms over LAN (SNMP v2c)  Input monitoring ensures no key up without RF Input.  Remote IP control using Ethernet (set or adjust your power remotely)  Quick key up response 2 msec  Closed loop control ensuring set output constant (multi environment compensating i.e. component variance, power, temperature, component ageing etc

 High RF shielding and isolation  Monitors antennae reflection and performance remotely over extended periods  5 temperature sensors to monitor heat generation internally  Automatic shut down on triggered events (adjustable)  50 Ohm output  Adjustable over entire frequency band without tuning (no sub bands)

 60 Watts or 130 Watts Output Power at VHF and UHF  45 Watts or 80 Watts Output Power at 800 Mhz  Can operate in linear mode at reduced power  Choice of enclosure 4RU in sub rack or 2RU  Upcoming models to 250 watts and beyond

RF Technology Tel 02 9484 1022 www.rftechnology.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

37

research

© iStockphoto.com/Mariya Bibikova

Frogs answer node problem How can network nodes be coloured with the least possible number of colours without two consecutive nodes being the same colour? A team of researchers have found a solution with the help of some special tree frogs.

M

ale Japanese tree frogs (Hyla japonica) have learnt not to use their calls at the same time so that the females can distinguish between them.

Scientists at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia have used this form of calling behaviour to create an algorithm that assigns colours to network nodes - an operation that can be applied to developing efficient wireless networks.

These male amphibians use their calls to attract the female, who can recognise where it comes from and then locate the suitor. The problem arises when two males are too close to one another and they use their call at the same time. The females become confused and are unable to determine the location of the call.

Therefore, the males have had to learn how to ‘desynchronise’ their calls or, in other words, not call at the same time in order for a distinction to be made.

“Since there is no system of central control organising this desynchronisation, the mechanism may be considered as an example of natural self-organisation,” explains Christian Blum. With the help of his colleague Hugo Hernández, such behaviour provided inspiration for “solving the so-called ‘graph colouring problem’ in an even and distributed way”.

In the same way, the researchers have devised an algorithm for assigning colours to network nodes, ensuring that each pair of connected nodes is not the same colour. The end goal is to generate a valid solution that uses the least amount of colours.

As Blum outlines, “This type of graph colouring is the formalisation of a problem that arises in many areas of the real world, such as the optimisation of modern wireless networks with no predetermined structure using techniques for

"This type of graph colouring is the formalisation of a problem that arises in many areas of the real world, such as the optimisation of modern wireless networks with no predetermined structure ..."

reducing losses in information packages and energy-efficiency improvement.”

This study falls under the field of ‘swarm intelligence’, a branch of artificial intelligence that aims to design intelligent systems with multiple agents. This is inspired by the collective behaviour of animal societies such as ant colonies, flocks of birds, shoals of fish and, of course, frogs.

Polytechnic University of Catalonia http://www.upc.edu/

newproducts Sector-sculpting antennas A range of sector-sculpting antennas is available from CommScope, which now pairs products from Andrew Solutions with Argus Technologies.

The company’s 2x9 multi-beam antenna provides the power of 18 beams into a single antenna to provide capacity-optimised coverage throughout a venue served by a DAS. It features two rows of nine beams each covering both high and low seating areas in locations with as many as

38 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

10,000 to 100,000 spectators. One row of beams tilts upward 4° and the second row tilts downward 4°.

A beamforming technique suppresses noise between the sector to enable high-performance and optimum capacity management. The antenna is MIMO-compatible.

CommScope Solutions Singapore Pte Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q328

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Wireless link for DMMs

Wi-Fi and WiMAX combiners

A wireless connectivity solution that links up to three handheld digital multimeters to smartphones, tablets and PCs allows remote viewing and control from up to 10 m.

The core of the connectivity solution is the U1177A, a compact Bluetooth wireless adapter that plugs into any of the company’s 11 handheld DMMs. The solution includes two free mobile applications based on the Android operating system - one for basic monitoring and another for data logging.

The ‘mobile meter’ application enables real-time interaction with connected DMMs on the screen of an Android-based smartphone or tablet.

The ‘mobile logger’ application simplifies data logging and remote monitoring. The company also offers a free data-logging application that runs on Windows-based PCs.

Microlab has released a range of Wi-Fi and WiMAX combiners: BK-28N. The ‘tuned-by-design’ components combine or separate WLAN and WiMAX in the frequency range 2.4 to 3.8 GHz with frequencies between 5.15 and 5.85 GHz. With a signal loss of only 0.3 dB in the lower bands and 0.5 dB in the higher bands, the range has efficient signal handling.

Special low-loss strip lines achieves good loss values.

The Wi-Fi/WiMAX injector-diplexers have low passive intermodulation (PIM) values of -150 dBc (measured with 2x20 W carrier signals). For an additional testing charge, these components are also available with a PIM value of lower than -160 dBc. The units are rated for average powers of up to 20 W per band.

Agilent Technologies Aust Pty Ltd

RF Parts Australia Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q819

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R080

SIMPLE SETUP OF RADIO IP SOLUTIONS? It is Possible!

www.radiocomms.com.au

configuration tool where everything can be setup and maintained from one central controller.

Additionally, as a show of our commitment to working with you, training and support agreements are available.

Contact us today to learn more about the DX-Altus and how we can help you get the best out of your Radio IP infrastructure.

Challenging Communications Boundaries

East Coast Sales: +61 7 3369 5733 West Coast Sales: +61 8 9445 2633 sales@omnitronics.com.au www.omnitronicsworld.com

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

omn_15838

At Omnitronics, we understand that there are many challenges associated with implementing IP solutions.

Over the years, Omnitronics has built a wealth of experience and developed the technology and tools to make this as easy for you as possible, whether you are a Dealer, Integrator or End User.

The new DX-Altus Radio Management System has been created with all this in mind. A key highlight being the simple browser based monitoring and

39

newproducts

Noise-cancelling headset CRS Accessories has released a heavy-duty, over-the-head, noise-cancelling headset with either inline PTT or earmuff PTT to suit all two-way radios. The dual-muff headset is suitable for the manufacturing, mining and other industrial groups.

The boom microphone is fitted with a high-performance dynamic microphone and the headset is manufactured standard with the positive action earmuff PTT. When the large high-quality inline PTT button, which has a metal clip securely fastened on the rear, is plugged in, it cancels out the earmuff PTT. This product has been manufactured with strain relief, meaning that all the pressure is placed on the Kevlar reinforced cable. If the cable gets caught, the strain relief prevents damage occurring to the earmuff, which can be an expensive repair.

Other features include: interchangeable radio interface cable allowing one headset to suit different radio models. This also allows change-out of the main cable in the event the cable is damaged; choice of earmuff PTT or inline PTT; AUX input jack that allows for input of secondary audio device such as MP3 or scanner; dynamic noise-cancelling microphone with 300° flexibility; NRR 24 dB; waterproof and dustproof PTT; standard foam ear pads (ability to upgrade to gel ear pads).

CRS Accessories Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N735

Communications service monitor

The IFR 2945B communications service monitor, available to rent, is suited to the testing of two-way radios and trunking repeaters, allowing verification of performance and rapid diagnosis of faults.

The monitor includes a combination of test instruments such as a full-performance spectrum analyser, oscilloscope and tracking generator.

‘Live’ look and listen provides easy monitoring and real-time adjustment ability. Capturing transients on the rising or falling edge aids fault finding, while the automatic harmonic analysis allows a rapid check that the transmitter is not producing any large harmonics.

Features include: frequency range 400 kHz to 1.05 GHz; accurate power measurement to 150 W; rapid refresh rate; graphical test reporting; 50 kHz digital storage oscilloscope with anti-aliasing.

TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q950

Wireless ethernet radios AvaLAN Wireless Systems’ highspeed outdoor industrial wireless ethernet radio system with a built-in 3-port POE switch has been released.

The company has expanded the 100 Mbps wireless radio product range to include two units that incorporate an 802.3 AF Power over Ethernet 3-port switch. This allows system integrators to place a single wireless ethernet radio at a location and provide power and data connections for up to three ethernet devices, such as megapixel IP cameras. 48 VDC power is provided to the three devices via unused wires in their data cables.

They are fully compatible with the other models in the AW58100 range and allow users to build line-of-sight, point-to-point, point-to-multipoint or mesh wireless ethernet connections that link ‘fringe’ IP devices, such as video

40 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

surveillance cameras or other devices needing robust and secure high data rates.

The radios are packaged in rugged and weatherproof die-cast aluminium enclosures and are available in both directional and omni-directional antenna configurations.

Using MIMO technology and a user-friendly robust interface, the range provides a high data rate through a combination of multiple spacial streams and higher-level OFDM modulation.

The AW58103HTS directional flat panel antenna version provides two 90° polarised 23 dBi gain units and is intended to serve in point-to-point bridge configurations or as a subscriber unit in point-to-multipoint connections. The omni-directional unit provides two 6 dBi gain antennas and is designed to serve as a multipoint mesh node.

National Surveillance Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q706

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Wi-Fi modules The embedded WiFi modules, Bluegiga WF111 and Bluegiga WF121, are suitable for embedded applications requiring small, reliable, long-range Wi-Fi connectivity in an easy-tointegrate surface-mount package.

Both modules use Cambridge Silicon Radioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UniFi CSR6031 chipset which has good RF performance, low power consumption and compact size.

The WF121 is a stand-alone Wi-Fi module, providing a fully integrated 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n radio and IP stack in a 15.4 x 26.2 mm footprint. It is designed for embedded applications requiring simple, low-cost/low-power wireless TCP/IP connectivity with flexible interfaces for connecting a wide variety of peripherals. The module also comes with Wi-Fi software to manage connectivity functions such as Access Point discovery, association and connection establishment. It also supports BGScript programming language enabling developers to embed applications directly onboard the module in matter of hours.

The WF111 is a fully integrated 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n module, providing a small size Wi-Fi solution for devices that run a Linux operating system on ARM or x86 processors with an SDIO interface. It offers all of the benefits of an optimised wireless module in a surface-mount package.

Glyn Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q740

Panel antenna A wideband and rugged panel antenna has been released, designed to operate in the licensed frequency range of 806-960 MHz for radio sites that encounter ice, snow and strong wind loading of 630 N at 160 kph.

Offering 16 dBi antenna gain and providing both vertical and horizontal polarisations, the antenna is suitable for a wide range of radio applications including MiMO. It includes two female type N connectors and twin vertically spaced adjustable clamps and weighs 7.5 kg including mounting brackets.

The panel antenna is supplied with fully enclosed radome, suitable for harsh weather conditions.

MiMOMax Wireless Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q662

www.radiocomms.com.au

Sept/Oct 2012 - RADIO COMMS

41

10 minutes with…

Ian Miller “These days, there are too many grumpy grey-haired old men like me around that are quietly disappearing and that is the challenge for the industry,” said Ian Miller, ARCIA enthusiast and consultant for Orange Horizons, when he talked to Kylie Rhodes about his past and radio’s future.

Ian Miller, consultant for Orange Horizons and Australian Radio Communications Industry Association committee member.

He has 40 years industry experience in radio communications.

42 RADIO COMMS - Sept/Oct 2012

Encouraging people into the radio industry and training them to take on technician roles are problems Miller is very much aware of. The change in the manufacturer’s role from selling its wares to becoming a warehouse entity has put pressure on training people to become dealers of its products. However, Miller says, once the older generation start disappearing, this might force the market to pay for the training of the next generation.

He says the simple fact is that “we are not charging enough for what we do and only by being realistic on prices can we get back to being proud of what we do in this industry. We have to learn to value our time and charge for it. There needs to be a complete change in thinking.”

He blames the industry for not attracting young trainees because it hasn’t sold the message about radio. Students still believe that since the mobile phone has come out, radio is dead. Classes are being abandoned and so the classes are being disbanded, he says.

“In Victoria, the government has cut nearly $300 million out of the TAFE system.

So unless you can get 25 bums on seats to run a course, they don’t do it. I think what will happen in future is the technicians and salespeople will do an electronics course and some way, maybe through distance education, will pick up radio.”

Although significant changes to training have changed the way people get involved with the industry, Miller is positive about the future.

“The industry is pretty resilient. I’m confident that it will go on and will be great and I’d like to think there are young people coming into the industry now that in 40 years’ time will be in the same position I’m in. They will hopefully say they’ve had a ball and loved every minute of it and have created the same environment for the ones to follow.”

However, 40 years ago when Miller came into the industry, it was a very different scene. He began his working life training as a technician with the Postmaster-General’s (PMG) Department, now called Telstra. His first two years studying were spent training as a telephone technician and only in his third year was he able to specialise in radio.

He then worked on the ABC’s two-way radio and broadcast transmitters and did the studio work for radio and television. He travelled all around Victoria, spending six weeks in a different location as part of his job. Over the years, he worked with a variety of companies in the radio communications industry and from 1999 to 2010 he was a co-owner of AA Radio Services.

Looking back he says: “I’ve been lucky to work in this industry. Transmitters are always in the highest location, either on the tallest building or on the biggest hill, and I got paid to look at all this wonderful scenery as part of my work. Just as enjoyable has been working with people in the industry and the job satisfaction I’ve received, helping people solve their communication problems.”

After four decades in the radio industry, Miller is not set to hang up his hat yet.

He will be continuing as a consultant with his company, Orange Horizons, and will remain as a committee member of industry association ARCIA. “I feel like I have some knowledge to give back. I still want to be involved in the industry association because I do very fervently believe that it will be a critical part of the industry over the next two or three years. Maybe I will learn to put down the microphone and start to relax a little bit and back out, but I don’t want to. I would like to help people within the industry and customers in general, and try to give back to the people who have given to me.” www.radiocomms.com.au

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