RadioComms Asia-Pacific Jan/Feb 2013

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on your wavelength 6 Busiest, biggest and best event of 2012

8 16

contents

on the cover

Radio Comms Asia-Pacific January/February 2013

A new era of safety for miners

ec

ditor’s omment

Communications in the mining and industrial resources industry is absolutely paramount for the safety of workers both underground and above.

The industry is risky and fraught with dangers, as we have seen in highly televised mining accidents such as the Beaconsfield disaster in 2006.

The tragedy, which killed one worker and left two trapped under loads of rubble,

19 ARCIA announces latest

scholarship program

reminds us that without critical communication to the surface, miners can be left trapped underground until rescuers

23

positive feedback

can hear and locate them.

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Using RoIP as part of a disaster recovery plan

and other functionalities are now avail-

34 radio@work RoIP network for emergency services

Man-down, hot-mic mode, GPS tracking able on two-way digital radios to locate, contact and help a worker in a dangerous situation, such as a miner who has fallen into a pit or is trapped underground.

On page 16, we feature an article about how digital radio can help both in lone worker situations and on mining and industrial sites using these functionalities.

Also, in case you missed the event, a review on the RadioComms Connect conference and exhibition that was held in Melbourne at the end of last year is featured on page 8.

As it’s been said every year, the growth of the radio communications event has been amazing, which reflects how the industry has been thriving over the last few years.

ARCIA held another fantastic industry gala dinner in conjunction with the event and is again holding its regional dinners around the country in 2013, starting with NSW on 14 February. For more information, email info@arcia.org.au.

If you have any comments, ideas or queries about our magazine or website (www.radiocomms.com.au), please don’t hesitate to contact me on (02) 9487 2700 or rc@westwick-farrow.com.au.

Hope you all have a successful and productive 2013.

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

www.radiocomms.com.au

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

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on the cover

W

ith today’s organisations demanding technology that offers advanced flexibility and integration, radio manufacturers such as Icom are continually raising the bar when it comes to two-way radio equipment and solutions.

Icom’s range of digital communications solutions are beneficial for many types of business applications and offer full turnkey solutions, flexible migration paths and advanced functionality.

Digital radio systems offer many advantages over analog.

Although output power remains constant, digital signals can effectively be received over greater distances and remain audible right up to the fringe of the transmission range. Analog signals, however, will deteriorate the further away they get from the point of transmission. Signals are also much clearer on digital radio and provide added security through advanced encryption methods.

The IDAS dPMR (digital Private Mobile Radio) system, which will be released in Australia this year, specifically targets highly functional solutions by using low-cost and low-complexity technology.

It is a narrowband (6.25 kHz) FDMA system that is 100% digital and has many forms of voice and data applications.

IDAS dPMR has been jointly developed

by Fylde and Icom to an ETSI standard and is designed to be a digital version of MPT1327.

Given this background, current users of MPT1327 systems can enjoy no downtime when upgrading, as the Multilingo controller developed by Fylde is capable of operating on mixed-mode analog/ digital. This also means that analog systems can be upgraded to digital as little as one radio at a time.

4 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

The dPMR protocol provides a 1000-site capacity, with up to 60 channels per site and up to 500,000 subscriber IDs. The system software also includes AVL, despatch and integrated call analysis and reporting, making dPMR more versatile. With dPMR offered in three different modes - direct peer-to-peer (Mode 1), conventional repeater (Mode 2) and multichannel, multisite trunking (Mode 3), it is flexible enough for any business application or size.

Whereas dPMR targets existing MPT1327 systems of any size, IDAS NXDN is a robust solution for any small to medium-sized organisation.

It has a 16-site capacity, with up to 30 channels per site and up to 60,000 subscriber IDs. It is capable of operating in a peerto-peer, single-site or multi-site set-up, in either conventional or trunked forms. Like dPMR, it also has mixed-mode operation, making migration from analog systems very flexible.

Both systems have GPS integration, allowing position information to be sent to despatch stations. This creates safety and productivity in the workplace, as up-to-date location data is available should an emergency situation arise. Like all Icom radios, the suite of digital products provided are all manufactured in Japan to strict quality standards and carry MIL-STD810 and high IP ratings. This makes dPMR and NXDN systems capable in demanding applications such as mining, construction and public safety, in addition to being suitable for the harsh environmental conditions of Australia.

For more information, or to find out how Icom can make a positive impact to communications, productivity and safety in your organisation, please feel free to contact us or log on to our website.

Icom Australia Pty Ltd www.icom-australia.com

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 Baracz rc@westwick-farrow.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.lockwood@husonmedia.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

September 2012 total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust + NZ) 4,184 (83% 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.

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Simoco launches Xd range and new website

Sepura secures Norwegian police contract

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imoco has launched its Simoco Xd range of mobile radio products based on the international DMR standard.

As a complete end-to-end DMR system it includes base station/repeater, mobiles and portables as well as integrated IP dispatching. The range has DMR Tier II (conventional radio) with a software upgrade option to the DMR Tier III (trunked radio) standard.

© iStockphoto.com/Erik Khalitov

Simoco CEO Ian Carr commented, “Simoco Xd builds on our success in IPbased infrastructure which is proven with our Xfin range of solutions deployed in some of the largest of modern trunked networks across the globe. With a complete digital solution, we can now offer the same no-compromise approach to reliability, scalability, ease of deployment and reduced lifetime operating costs for users demanding reliable, instant communications, for mobile workers; with ease of deployment and flexible options for migrating to a digital network.

The launch coincides with the company’s expansion of its brand, which sees UKbased Team Simoco renamed to become Simoco EMEA, reflecting its user presence across the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions. The Australian distribution and services business ComGroup will undergo a rename and become Simoco Australasia.

Together with the already established Simoco Americas business, these changes align the Simoco brand across all of the Simoco Group companies.

The brand is supported with the launch of the Simoco global website, which provides more detailed product information and support from one global platform structured to deliver regionally specific content to clients and partners.

6 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

S

epura radios have been selected by the Norwegian police to help renew its radio communications system.

The Nødnett (emergency network) contract, which covers the first two phases of the project, was awarded to VHF Communication AS, Sepura’s long-standing partner in Norway.

VHF won the police tender for the first three phases of the Nødnett rollout (including the greater Oslo area) and will be the sole supplier of radio terminals for Phases 1 and 2. These phases include the STP9000 handportable radios, as well the SRG3900 mobile radio, which will be installed in cars, boats and motorbikes in a variety of configurations. The radios will be used by selected police districts

and were chosen because of their robustness, usability and high quality.

Commenting on the deal, Lars-Magnus Gustafsson, Sepura’s business development manager for Scandinavia, commented, “This is an important step for Sepura. We are already market leaders in Sweden and Denmark, so it is not surprising that the quality, reliability and excellent feature-set that Sepura’s radios offer appealed to the Norwegian police.

“The STP9000, with its choice of user interfaces, IP67 environmental protection rating and outstanding audio clarity, is already proving popular around the world and I am particularly pleased that the Norwegian police have recognised its benefits and have selected it for this project.”

Digital communications for Colombian Red Cross

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he Colombian Red Cross is the core part of two-way communications in the event of an emergency in Columbia.

The organisation was looking for a safe and efficient communication that can integrate © iStockphoto.com/ Yong Hian Lim communication networks of different cities for simultaneous communications.

The non-governmental organisation undertakes humanitarian missions and is part of the largest humanitarian network in the world: the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, present in 186 countries. It interacts with various governmental and private institutions, and in some cases runs its own communications systems to be able to cope with emergency situations together with them.

Hytera DMR RD98X repeaters were selected because of their coverage, IP interconnection and continuous cycle and power capacity fully compliant to DMR digital

standard. The organisation migrated its analog VHF network to a digital one in stages as it was established in seven departments of Colombia, supporting events and emergency situations that occur at each site.

T h e P D 78XG -V1 portable terminals and MD78XG -V1 mobile terminals were selected for different teams to realise simultaneous and point-to-point communication with a high level of protection, location information of the terminal to be delivered on the screen and larger coverage for longer communication distance between each other.

The Summit of the Americas was a suitable location to test the network and identify its strengths and weaknesses. Hytera digital radios were configured and used 24 hours a day for the 7-day event to ensure total coverage and no lapse in communication with Bogota via IP interconnection that allowed two different networks to be connected for follow-up and monitoring of the work.

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Motorola Solutions named City Surveillance Partner of the Year

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otorola Solutions has received the 2012 North America City Surveillance Partner of the Year award by Axis Communications during the seventh annual Axis Channel Convergence Conference (ACCC) held in Chicago.

Motorola received the honour for its commitment to providing real-time video intelligence (RTVI) for public safety agencies. The award mentions the company’s city surveillance technology in and around the city of Chicago.

In addition to Chicago, the company has implemented video solution projects in cities across the country including Los Angeles, Atlanta and Cleveland, as well as projects around the world. The video solutions provide first responders a real-time, 24/7 visual of their communities. Cameras are positioned in strategic locations throughout the city to provide video back to a command centre.

Scott Dunn, director of business development, Axis Communications said, “We are pleased to be working with a world-class organisation such as Motorola Solutions in the city surveillance space, a segment where high-quality, reliable IP video is absolutely critical for law enforcement and government agencies. Their expertise and experience working with law enforcement uniquely positions them as a partner that can deliver Axis’ solutions to provide a safer city environment for everyone.”

Bruce Brda, senior vice president, Global Solutions and Services, Motorola Solutions said, “Many government agencies are realising video solutions can improve the overall safety and effectiveness of public safety workers.

Motorola Solutions’ end-to-end approach with video is helping keep communities safer across the globe.”

C4i acquired by ITT Exelis

© iStockphoto.com/Craig DeBourbon

T

he Longreach Group has signed a share purchase agreement with US-based ITT Exelis for the acquisition of C4i Pty Ltd. The finalisation of this sale is subject to Longreach shareholders voting in favour of the transaction, which is scheduled for the end of January 2013.

“C4i’s interoperable communications solutions and engineering talent will complement Exelis’s strong and successful record of integrating, deploying and operating large-scale communications networks for our air traffic management, commercial and defence customers,” said Michael R Wilson, president of Exelis Information Systems.

“This acquisition expands our portfolio of critical infrastructure solutions, builds on our

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presence in Australia and brings us closer to our customers and markets of interest.”

“C4i has been working with Exelis for a number of years on a variety of projects, including air traffic management solutions, air defence applications and network on the move projects. We are excited about this transaction as it provides the financial credentials to allow us to pursue larger projects and access greater markets for commercialising our already successful product range,” said Peter Harrison, managing director of C4i.

Post the sale concluding, C4i will continue its existing business plans with its current product development roadmap and sales focus in air traffic management, defence, public safety and resources sectors.

Wireless communications platform for spaceflight development © iStockphoto.com/Natalia Lukiyanova

T

he US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) recently selected Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) to provide a flight low-rate crosslink wireless communications platform for the System F6 Program.

The program, which is envisioned to culminate in an on-orbit demonstration in 20152016, is designed to validate a new space mission concept in which a cluster of smaller, wirelessly connected spacecraft replaces the typical single spacecraft carrying numerous instruments and payloads.

This ‘fractionated’ architecture may enhance survivability, responsiveness and adaptability compared to the traditional monolithic spacecraft. The SwRI K-band radio is a core element of the open source F6 Developers Kit (FDK), which allows any spacecraft to participate in an F6-enabled cluster.

The wireless crosslink radio incorporates a continuously active communications channel with availability and latency via a time division multiple access (TDMA) protocol to provide a solution for a variety of mission communications needs.

Unique to the radio is a core architecture that accommodates a continuous data link among the cluster members and also supports inclusion of third-party, point-to-point, high-rate data links.

The SwRI-developed F6 Wireless Inter-Module Communications System (F6WICS) protocol incorporates a data link layer ready for integration with higher level network protocols to allow distributed computing with mechanisms for maximising bandwidth allocations.

“As a non-profit organisation, Southwest Research Institute is suited to support the DARPA System F6 FDK through the development of the K-band crosslink solution,” says Dr Mark Tapley, a staff engineer in the SwRI Space Science and Engineering Division and principal investigator for the wireless system.

“System F6 is truly a game-changing paradigm for space missions that has broad applicability across not only national security programs, but also traditional scientific missions in which mission durability, reconfigurability, distributed measurements and expandability are enabling technologies.”

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

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Kylie Baracz

With a new home and added workshops, RadioComms Connect has beaten all records and firmly implanted itself as the must-attend two-way radio event of the year.

D

elegates were given more ‘breathing space’ at the new home of the event, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event grew to the stage where it needed to leave its old residence, Etihad Stadium, to accommodate 2012’s almost 1000 attendees representing 16 countries.

Two well-attended workshops demonstrated, beyond doubt, the interest in radio over IP (RoIP) technologies.

These first ever events, held by RMIT and Ericsson, showed there is a real need for information on these topics.

The RMIT workshop was full to capacity and very well received, and there was an avalanche of positive feedback from the Ericsson presentation. More workshops are planned for the 2013 event, which will be held later this year.

Paul Stathis, CEO of BICSI South Pacific, again took the reins of the conference as chairman, introducing 8 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

keynote speakers Professor Hugh Bradlow and Peter Clemons.

Bradlow spoke on how ‘not all networks are created equal’, which happens to be the slogan of the organisation he represented - Telstra. He spoke on how the company is looking to create a network to provide coverage and capacity to uptake new technology and to support new services such as M2M, QoS and QoE. Clemons expanded on his idea of developing strategies for critical communications in a time of rapid change. He spoke about our ever-changing world and how this will affect technology and radio communications in the future.

The other 32 presentation streams over the two days were also very well attended, with keynote presentations filling the 400-seat plenary.

The speakers covered a wide range of topics, from underground mining communications to safety and compliance to PMR’s vulnerabilities.

Chris Chapman from ACMA discussed the all-important upcoming changes to the 400 MHz band in his presentation ‘400 MHz and beyond’. He spoke about the challenges the regulator had coming up with the review and tried to quash fears that 10 MHz is not enough for public safety agencies in the 800 MHz band.

“The ACMA decision on dedicated mobile broadband spectrum in the 800 MHz band (combined with spectrum identified in the 4.9 GHz band and the harmonised government spectrum in the 400 MHz band) provides for the creation of a truly capable, multilevel, topology network which will meet the needs of PSAs into the future. And the ACMA has now been fielding queries from many of our counterparts around the world on our insights and the established evidence base,” he said.

The display of equipment by 85 exhibitors almost filled the 2400 m2 space.

The partner of the event, Auria Wirewww.radiocomms.com.au

RadioComms Connect

less, and platinum sponsors GMG/Sepura, Hytera, Harris Corporation, CSE/Cassidian were well represented.

The catering and coffee seemed to keep everyone buzzing, with both days attracting large crowds of visitors.

The success of the event was underlined by feedback from visitors and exhibitors. Among the comments were: “I thought the workshop session was worthwhile and the quality of the conference overall was excellent,” Emsada Babic, Department of Police & Emergency Management, Tasmania. “[It was an] opportunity to see the vision of the industry and where it is going and to benchmark against technology and ideas,” Geoff Hongell, Woodside.

“Overall [it was] a fantastic event.

Once again the variety of attendees gave us a great opportunity to promote our brand and products to a broad crosssection of the community. For attendees to be able to view and experience the variety of technology available to them all under one roof, must assist them in their decision making,” Doug Bowden, Sepura.

ARCIA again held its now well-known industry dinner and networking event on www.radiocomms.com.au

the Tuesday night. The plenary theatre at the MCEC was dazzling with all the stars from the radio communications industry.

Around 550 radio professionals attended this year’s annual ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner, held for the first time at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Graeme Bowman, Australian comedian and keynote speaker, was the MC for the night and also acted as a British guest speaker and impersonated David Attenborough.

Christian Kelly, chairman of ARCIA, and Ian Miller spoke about the association’s plans to reinvigorate the Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarship program, allowing state finalists to attend the annual RadioComms Connect event and speak at their state’s industry dinners.

For more information about the scholarship program, visit page TK. The association’s history project was given a boost with an exhibition of radios from the 50s, 70s and 80s.

Industry members’ excellence was rewarded, with Fritz van Enk receiving the highly coveted Jonathan Livingston Award.

Award Winners • Apprentice/Trainee Award: Nathan Leonard from RFI • Professional Sales Award: Matt Burleigh from Communications Australia • Customer Service Award: Geoff Syms from Simoco • New Talent Award: Jay Pinder from Sepura • Technical Excellence Award: Shaun Campbell from Zetron • Engineering Elegance Award: Matt Botherway from PWC and Daniel Chivell from Telstra • Community Service Award: Phil Proctor from Victoria Police The association will be again holding their regional industry dinners, starting with NSW on 14 February at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The Melbourne event was organised by the WF Events team.

For more information about the dinner, scholarship program and history project, please visit www.arcia.org.au. For more information about last year’s and 2013’s conference and exhibition, please visit www.radiocommsconnect.com.au.

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

Communication device for high-noise environments

Software defined radio Codan Radio Communications has released its Envoy software defined radio.

The HF radio provides differentiated capabilities such as an icon-based, full-colour user interface, along with multiple-language variants.

The USB smartloader and IP connectivity enable remote operation and configuration of the radio.

Codan Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S418

The CavCom communication system has been specifically designed to enable clear communication in challenging high-noise environments that also require head and face personal protection equipment (PPE). Adaptable to all PPE, each system consists of a control unit, radio adapter, ear set and handheld two-way radio.

The system uses ‘talk-through-your-ears’ technology where the ear set device fits entirely into the operator’s ear and does not require a headset or boom microphone.

It also features noise filtering to enhance speech in noise while muting background sound.

With an intrinsic safety rating and remote push to talk (PTT) buttons for hands-free operation, the device provides good hearing protection - NRR 29 - for the highest noise environments. Additional hearing protection for extreme noise environments is possible as PPE can be worn over the ear set without breaking the ear seal.

The ear sets weigh less than 56 g, are easy to fit and are comfortable to wear. The system can also adapt to any two-way radio system, which means users are not required to replace existing radio communications.

Blackwoods Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S253

GNSS receiver module Trimble’s Buffalo B1919 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver module provides L1 frequency GPS and GLONASS, using the NMEA protocol from two serial ports and a PPS timing output. Buffalo can acquire and track GPS and GLONASS separately or use a combined solution of GPS and GLONASS. Galileo support will be available through a firmware upgrade.

The product has an onboard lownoise amplifier that is compatible with both active and passive antenna implementations. It includes an onboard RTC and TCXO. The receiver also has built-in antenna detection for open and short circuit conditions.

The modules match the footprint of Copernicus II and Condor C1919 GPS receiver modules, providing an upgrade path for existing designs.

The module’s 28 reflow-solderable, surface-mount edge castellations provide an interface for designs without the need for I/O and RF connectors.

The receiver features powerful positioning performance in a 19 x 19 x 2.54 mm package.

Step Global Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S214

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Handheld antenna and cable analyser The handheld analysers from the Rohde & Schwarz ZVH series, with their compact form factor (194 x 300 x 69 mm) and lightweight construction (3 kg), are specifically designed for use by field engineers, helping them to locate cable faults and connection losses and carry out antenna matching, reflection measurements and power metering.

With a maximum spurious signal level of 17 dBm, the units are provided with a choice of 100 kHz to 3.6 GHz or 100 kHz to 8.0 GHz frequency ranges and have a 100 dB dynamic range. They provide either single- or two-port vector network analysis plus directional power measurement (compatible with GSM/EDGE, 3GPP WCDMA, LTE, DVB-T and DAB wireless standards).

The rugged units are supplied in robust, splash-proof housing suitable for demanding outdoor environments. A 4.5 h battery life enables them to undertake extensive periods of testing between recharges, while a builtin GPS receiver allows accurate location-finding. Each analyser has a user interface that consists of a 6.5″ colour LCD with VGA resolution and easily accessible function keys.

The analyser’s ability to preprogram test routines means it is possible to ensure that engineers execute tests in the same way. This can help to shorten test times and improve consistency levels.

Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S061

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Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

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newproducts

Satellite messaging

Digital radio test set with MIMO support

The Cerberus global communication system enables outdoor enthusiasts to maintain contact with family and friends.

The system records a traveller’s location as frequently as every five minutes and sends real-time notifications via satellite to the monitoring station.

Unlike emergency position-indicating radio beacon and personal locating beacon systems, it allows the traveller to send check-in messages to update those at home at any point. In addition, the system alerts the traveller of approaching severe weather or geopolitical events occurring in the area.

Integrated into the device is a Gore protective vent that equalises the housing’s internal pressure, eliminating vacuum and preventing premature failure of the seals. At the same time, the vents prevent water, dust, dirt and other contaminants from entering the housing.

WL Gore & Associates Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R409

IP68 rated connectors Harwin’s HotShoe connectors are a rugged and fast mating connector system for docking and charging.

Available in eight, 12 and 16 positions, they are rated to 1 A per contact, making them suitable for applications that require a high number of mating cycles.

Fabricated using durable moulded plastics, the connectors are designed to be mounted behind panels and provide solder cup for 26 AWG cable or PC Tail contacts. The connectors are robust, ensuring continued reliability on the combat arena or in less harsh environments.

These connectors are used in medical and military applications and are also suitable for use in portable equipment where separate battery modules are used, for data transfer docking stations, battery charging and data communications equipment. Other applications include thermal imaging cameras, in-vehicle detachable equipment and handheld scanners.

The connectors enable rapid and simple connection, suitable for field mating, but also tolerate mating misalignment and resist dust, water, and chemical ingress to IP68 at 1.5 m depth for 2 h both mated and unmated.

They have durable spring-loaded contacts capable of 10,000 cycles, which maintain a positive contact force against the mating half of the connector.

Clarke & Severn Electronics Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S516

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Aeroflex has added support for 4x2 multi-input multi-output (MIMO) to the 7100 digital radio test set for the R&D testing of LTE user equipment. 4x2 MIMO is used to provide improved throughput in good signal conditions and improved resilience in poor signal conditions.

When the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the user equipment is good, the device can make use of spatial multiplexing, where multiple information streams are transmitted simultaneously to improve throughput. When the SNR is poor then transmit diversity is employed. This is where a single information stream is distributed across separately encoded antenna ports to reduce the variations in SNR experienced by the user equipment, thus improving the cell coverage. Measurements are made both at the base station and at the user equipment, and these are used to determine how many streams can be supported in the prevailing signal conditions.

Option 7100-111 is a software licence that enables 4x2 MIMO functionality and can be enabled in the field. Testing can be controlled using either command line interface (CLI) control or programming via Remote API. This software supports 4x2 MIMO measurements on LTE in FDD mode with bandwidths of 10, 15 and 20 MHz. It is planned that 1.4, 3 and 5 MHz bandwidths will be added.

Fading and additive white gaussian noise (AWGN) measurements are supported, using the optional integral fading and AWGN generator, with configurable crosscorrelation between streams.

This release of the software supports open loop spatial multiplexing, with closed loop planned to be included in the next release.

Aeroflex Incorporated Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S058

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newproducts

Low PIM jumper cables

PIM test analyser

Microlab has extended its range of JP/JR/JS series jumper cables.

With an operating range of DC to 3 GHz, the cables are suitable for all telecommunication applications in the frequency bands between 380 and 2700 MHz. The jumper cables are available with N and DIN 7/16 connectors, both as straight and rectangular types.

Available connector combinations are: JP straight (m)/straight (m); JR straight (m)/rectangular (m); JS rectangular (m)/ rectangular (m).

The ruggedised cables have tri-metal plated connectors made to MIL-C-39012 specifications.

The cables have been developed to provide both low loss and low PIM characteristics.

Cable lengths of 0.5 m and 1 m are available from stock. Other cables lengths are available on request in 10 cm increments.

Anritsu has introduced the PIM Master MW82119A, a highpower, battery-operated, portable, PIM test analyser.

The analyser has 40 W testing and distance-to-PIM (DTP) in a compact housing suitable for difficultto-access sites, such as remote radio head (RRH) installations and indoor distributed antenna systems (DAS).

Six models are available to address major frequency ranges, including the upper and lower 700 MHz bands, 850, 900, 1800, 1900 and 1900/2100 MHz. All six analysers have DTP technology, allowing tower contractors, maintenance contractors and wireless service provider field technicians to pinpoint the location of PIM problems, whether they are on the tower or outside the antenna system.

The analyser is designed to withstand transportation shock, vibration and harsh outdoor test conditions associated with cell site deployment, installation and maintenance.

Testing is simplified by the analyser’s ability to save and recall test set-ups for standardised testing, and limit lines can be set for visual and/or audible pass/fail criteria.

Line sweep tools can be used to manage measurements and generate reports that combine VSWR data as well as PIM data into a unified site report. PIM measurements can be tagged with the GPS location when the analysers are equipped with the GPS option.

RF Parts Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S056

Anritsu Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S479

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14 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

• Accelerometer for screen rotation and electronic compass • Certified Trusted Processing Module • IP65 Rated • 8 hour battery life • Vehicle Mounting

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newproducts

Land mobile antenna G M E ’s A E 4 0 1 8 K 3 heavy-duty 477 MHz antenna is equipped with a heavy-duty elevated feed base coupled with a stainless steel parallel spring and the AE4018 fibreglass whip.

Features of the antenna include: ground independent; heavyduty elevated feed; 640 mm fibreglass collinear 6.6 dBi gain removable whip; electropolished stainless steel parallel spring (BSW thread); 4.5 m of low-loss coaxial cable with PL259 adapter; overall height 1000 mm; suitable for all types of mounting locations.

Component accessories available include: ABL017 heavy-duty elevated feed assembly; AE4018K 640 mm fibreglass collinear 6.6 dBi gain; AS003 stainless steel parallel spring.

Console system Zetron’s DCS-5020 console system now includes IP capabilities, an interface to Motorola’s MTM5400 TETRA radio, improved console development features and improved language support.

Other features include the ability to use RoIP technology to connect console positions over an IP network; a TETRA radio interface that connects to Motorola TETRA radios and uses the PEI standard; an updated console development environment; and updated language-support tools that allow the console to use advanced graphical user interface features. They also fully support unicode.

Zetron Australasia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R459

Standard Communications Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S489

RF amplifier Available to rent, the ENI 604L 4 W wideband 1 GHz RF amplifier is a linear wideband RF power amplifier.

Extended performance typically gives saturated output to a maximum of 16 W at 10 MHz and 12 W at 100 MHz. Features include: saturated output 7 W 0 dBm input; 4 W output at an input of 0.13 mW from 0.5 to 1 GHz. TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S035

www.radiocomms.com.au

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

15

A new era of safety for miners Digital radio and its plethora of safety features may be the next best thing for mining and industrial communication.

Bevan Clarke, general manager, Professional Commercial Radio, Motorola Solutions

A

s a team leader, the safety of the team is always a first priority. So picture this scenario: an alarm sounds one of the team members has collapsed in a pit. The radio on his hip has moved to a horizontal angle which has triggered an alarm at the main site office.

The site’s other radios are busy with chatter about the day’s work, but the radio system’s inherently ruthless preemption guarantees that the ‘man-down’ signal gets priority and the team leader is immediately alerted to the accident.

The alarm signal activates the site’s incident management plan, which includes tracking team members’ locations via GPS at all times. Using the console, the leader can locate where a team member

16 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

in distress is located - the mapping application has zoomed in so the spot can be easily pinpointed - and the leader is also able to find the nearest supervisors and dispatch them via radio to help the team member.

Does this sound like something you can do with your radio system today?

The importance of being digital When it comes to communication across Australia’s business sectors, from ports to security and airports - radio is king.

The same can be said for almost any mine site in Australia.

More to the point, most mines still use tried and trusted analog radios.

Why? Because they’re reliable, resilient, easy to use and ubiquitous. An investment in a radio network is also nothing if not long-term, typically 10, 15 or even 20 years. Indeed, analog radio has travelled a long road and been given many facelifts along the way.

The evolution to the next stage of radio - digital - has been happening steadily for a long time now and is no longer new, but since many mines are only now nearing the end of their current radio network life cycles, it is still foreign in many places. Many of those mines are either switching directly to digital or implementing a longer-term hybrid solution to make the most of their existing networks with

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Mining and industrial communications

analog-compatible digital handsets.

The importance of being digital can’t be overstated, especially when it comes to industry safety.

More simultaneous talking paths are possible with digital radio and information such as GPS tracking, active status alerts and text messaging can be easily combined into a single digital radio channel.

One button-press and site supervisors can keep all team members connected. Where voice is not an option, text can be substituted, from one-to-one to one-tomany, all from the same handset.

When it comes to improved productivity digital also shines through.

A shift worker can rely on an extended 12-hour battery life to see them through their day’s duties without having to return to base to swap batteries.

The noise-cancelling qualities of digital radio and improved user range are other important reasons why more miners are choosing digital today.

But perhaps the most important features of digital radio are those that don’t require any human intervention at all.

Back to the pit Within 30 seconds of the colleague falling down the pit, the man-down alarm triggers and raises an alert.

Man-down alarm timings can be customised to suit each mine’s requirements and even be set differently for different individuals. For example, alarms can be triggered with a set of accompanying text information on a person’s vitals or with details on what the person may have been doing and how to best respond.

In addition, since the radio has builtin GPS which is connected to the inherent alarm system, it provides users with another layer of protection. This can be combined with customised mapping sowww.radiocomms.com.au

lutions that add a rich layer of information in emergency situations.

Consider the following demonstration: As the command and control operator alerted to the alarm, the user ID on the team leader’s radio display tells them that the person in distress is Bill.

The leader first listens to the ‘hot’ radio feed to see if they can hear any ambient noise in Bill’s environment that might provide more information. They hear nothing, so they radio the designated first aid crew to describe the scenario.

“Tony, the man-down alarm on Bill’s radio has triggered. I can see on our site map that he is in coal pit X. No ambient sounds to give me an indication of his condition. Please send a crew immediately.”

“Loud and clear Bevan. We are en route.”

“Thanks mate, I will continue to try to reach him by radio to get more information. I’ll keep you updated.”

Knowing now that a crew is en route, the team leader uses the ability to actively force Bill’s radio into ‘hot’ microphone mode, thereby giving him the opportunity to communicate with me if he is conscious.

“Bill, your man-down alarm has triggered. I am going to force your radio into hot mic mode which will give you 15 seconds to describe the situation to me if you can.”

“Bevan, I have fallen into the coal pit, I can’t move or reach my radio, but I think my leg is broken.”

“Loud and clear Bill. We know where you are and the rescue crew is on its way.”

With this extra information, the team leader (Bevan) can radio the first aid crew again and ensure they have a stretcher ready to help Bill get out of the pit safely.

The digital divide As with any technology, there is some homework to be done before committing to an investment.

There are many digital radio technologies out there - some are proprietary and some open standard. There are some key advantages to choosing an open standards technology, not least a large, harmonised market supported by multiple vendors, which leads to more innovation, increased competition, lower prices, a greater choice of products and a much greater choice of applications for the end user.

Within this open standards arena there are three leading digital radio technologies - TETRA, DMR and APCO P25. TETRA has nearly two million users in over 100 countries, while DMR now has more than one million users (although DMR started shipping 10 years after TETRA).

These open-platform standards, while helping extend radio frequency coverage underground and on remote sites, have their own strengths and weaknesses.

Depending on the application, location, site size and budget, the right digital

“More simultaneous talking paths are possible with digital radio and information such as GPS tracking, active status alerts and text messaging can be easily combined into a single digital radio channel.”

technology for one may not suit another.

As for cost, this relates very much to the coverage required and the user density. For example, in rural or less populated areas TETRA may require more sites to provide similar coverage to DMR. In an urban or built environment, TETRA may provide more capacity than DMR. The type of environment can often be decisive in the choice of technology.

However, TETRA is almost infinitely scalable, so if coverage is needed over a larger area then it might be the only realistic choice.

As the booming trend in mine site automation continues (driverless trucks for example), mine sites are investing in technologies that will help them to manage much larger amounts of data. This is where wireless technologies including 4G mobile broadband and similar mobile technologies will become critical and complementary assets alongside digital radio. This will help miners to harness greater capabilities to communicate with and control remote applications such as real-time video surveillance or to remotely access critical telemetry data.

Regardless of the individual choices made, it’s clear that the importance of radio for communications won’t go away anytime soon and that digital radio with its advanced capabilities is the key to unlock a new era of improved safety and productivity benefits.

Motorola Solutions Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S645

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

17

newproducts

Land mobile handheld radio FDP Radios and BayCom Communications have released the FDP UHF land mobile handheld radio.

Following on from the FDP UHF CB handheld, the device is aimed at the land mobile/emergency services market.

Features of the device include: compact size; fully type approved and C ticked for land mobile use; 80-channel UHF CB approved; full 400 to 480 MHz transmit and receive coverage; 128 programmable channels; wide and narrowband programmable; Hi/Lo power software programmable (1/5 W); standby time of up to 100 h; 1500 mAh Li-ion battery included; splash and shower proof; CTCSS and DCS programmable; comes with desktop charger; complete with mains and 12 V adapters; additional waterproof pouch.

Entry-level mixed domain oscilloscopes Tektronix has expanded its MDO4000 series of mixed domain oscilloscopes to include two entry-level models.

RF technologies are being integrated into everyday applications from apparel tags, to livestock monitoring clips, price displays on store shelves and short-range wireless remote control of household objects. While many of these are lower-performance applications, the addition of RF makes debug challenges greater than ever.

BayCom Communications Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S235

Portable radio with full keypad Sepura has launched a full keypad version of its STP8X series of intrinsically safe, IECEx/ATEX-approved handportable radios.

The addition enables users to source both full- and reduced-keypad ATEX radios from one manufacturer.

The STP8X has a full and tactile keypad that allows easy access to the functionality on the radio, even with gloved hands. For example, it enables users to undertake ad-hoc dialling.

It also features a user interface which provides three different presentation styles, designed to minimise training costs and appeal not only to existing trained Sepura users, but also to untrained users who are perhaps more familiar with smartphones rather than a professional TETRA radio.

Aligned with the existing radio and its range of approved accessories, the addition is rugged and robust.

The range meets both the demands of v6 of the IECEx/ ATEX standards and the IP67 rating, while providing clear communication, fundamental to user safety.

Other safety features include man-down capability which facilitates local and over-the-air alerts.

The range is able to withstand harsh, hazardous dust and gas conditions, providing suitable communication to users in sectors such as fire and rescue, oil and gas and open-cast mining.

The models provide a low-entry-point solution that allows engineers to capture time-correlated analog, digital and RF signals for a complete system view, saving days or even weeks of debug time.

The MDO4014-3 and MDO4034-3 models provide four analog channels, 16 digital channels and one RF channel. The models have lower analog bandwidth of 100 MHz or 350 MHz respectively, sufficient for many embedded designs incorporating RF. The RF frequency range for both models extends from 50 kHz to 3 GHz. The range has the tools of the MSO4000B series mixed signal oscilloscopes along with an integrated spectrum analyser, providing time correlated analog, digital and RF signal acquisition in a single instrument.

This allows engineers to debug entire wireless-enabled embedded systems with one tool that operates with the familiarity of an oscilloscope.

In addition to the models, the company also has the TPA-N-PRE preamplifier for use on all MDO4000 series oscilloscopes. The preamplifier accessory lowers the noise floor of the RF channel, enabling engineers to see low-level signals without reducing dynamic range.

National Wireless

Tektronix Southeast Asia Pte Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S296

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S610

18 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

www.radiocomms.com.au

Training and education

ARCIA announces latest scholarship program For several years, ARCIA has offered annual scholarships and these have been named in honour of Sir Angus Tait, the New Zealand inventor and pioneer who played a huge role in the development of the radio communications industry in Australasia.

T

hese scholarships were initiated to encourage degree or diploma students to undertake a radio communications subject within their course content and encourage them to continue on and find employment within the radio communications sphere.

The scholarships were also broadened recently to include apprentices and trainees to benefit a wider spread of industry recipients.

It was suggested by Devran Roberts of CA Bearcom that perhaps a new perspective was needed with regard to the scholarships.

The new scholarships, announced by Ian Miller at the ARCIA annual gala dinner, will provide regional scholarship winners a chance to visit RadioComms Connect, with the national winner going on to visit an international radio event such as CommunicAsia.

The state winners will be chosen from: • New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory • Queensland • Victoria and Tasmania • South Australia and Northern Territory

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• Western Australia These five regional scholarship winners will be awarded a ‘delegate pass’ for RadioComms Connect to attend with full delegate status with access to sessions of their choice. As part of the regional scholarship award they will have accommodation and basic expenses supplied as well as perhaps a travel subsidy. The winners will also attend the ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner to be presented as the Sir Angus Tait Regional Scholarship winners.

One of the five will be announced as the overall winner of the Sir Angus Tait Memorial Award. This award winner would be provided with a trip to either IWCE or CommunicAsia for the following year, with travel and accommodation expenses, together with a delegate pass for one or two days supplied as part of the award conditions. The SAT winner would then be coached as to what to expect at the event and mentored regarding the most suitable sessions to attend given the level of interest shown by the nominee.

During the next year, the SAT Memorial Award winner would be coached to give a

© iStockphoto.com/Daniel Laflor

full presentation at RCC on their perspective of the event they attended, and what items and trends they could see that were of interest to the Australian radio communications market.

The regional winners (including the SAT overall winner) would also be requested to give a five- or 10-minute presentation at their relevant regional industry dinner to highlight the opportunities for young people to enter the industry and what can be achieved.

For more information on the regional scholarships, please visit the ARCIA website or contact info@arcia.org.au.

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

19

newproducts

INDUSTRY TALKING

DECT headset DW Office is a single-sided DECT headset. Calls can be made in high definition for voice clarity.

ActiveGard technology is present to protect hearing.

The headset can be connected to both desk phone and softphone.

Other features include: a comfortable design; choice between ear hook and headband style; user interface that mutes microphone and adjusts volume up or down; 8 h battery life in wideband sound mode and 12 h in narrowband sound mode; fast charging; long-distance wireless range up to 180 m; protects hearing against acoustic shock and sudden sound surges; noise-cancelling microphone; desk phone or softphone; easy pairing.

Syntec International Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S332

Compact ethernet radio modems The compact, longhaul WL series of ethernet radio modems is designed to help users build networks quickly and efficiently.

The upright units have a narrow footprint - only 40 mm wide - and incorporate a range of models including a 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 900 MHz option. The high-throughput modems provide effortless connectivity for line-of-sight distances from 5 to 20 km.

All models have a standard in-built routing function and black/white list for controlling traffic. A built-in signal strength tester measures both bandwidth and the signal strength between two radios. In addition, all units include dual diversity antenna connections and a choice of different antenna accessories to provide reliable wireless connectivity.

The digital I/O connection can be configured for either/ or option. The WL series provides remote wireless I/O mapping where up to 31 x I/O units can be daisy-chained to a transceiver at each end. A selection can be made on digital, analog and combinational input and output types of I/O units.

The 2.4 GHz model can be set up in a mesh network topology providing redundancy and greater reliability for industrial ethernet devices. Each transceiver also has a built-in conversion for serial Modbus RTU to Modbus TCP. DIN rail mounted and operating from 10-30 VDC, the plug-and-play WL models provide easy configuration due to the built-in web browser and feature LED status indicators. The series is suitable for use in any industrial and water-treatment plant, factory or mine site as well as in any remote-monitoring application.

Weidmuller Pty Ltd

Welcome to the new year - a time to reflect on the achievements of the last year and a time to set goals for the new one.

The highlight of the year for ARCIA was the Annual Gala Dinner and in particular it was gratifying to see the growing membership and the almost 550 people who enjoyed a marvellous networking opportunity in conjunction with RadioComms Connect.

Attendance at the dinner continues to grow as does the number of nominees for peer recognition through the Industry Excellence Awards. The following people should be very proud that their colleagues nominated them for recognition and we look forward to even more nominations this year: Apprentice/Trainee Award Nathan Leonard from RFI - Winner Jared Rogers from JRD Community Service Award Phil Proctor from Victoria Police - Winner Bob Rogers from JRD Doug Bowden from Sepura Martin Cahill from PWC Customer Service Award Geoff Syms from Simoco - Winner Ian Holt from RF Industries Natasha Traynor from RFI Rachel Hill from CSE-Comsource Shyam Cheruvillil from Polar Electronics Engineering Elegance Award Mathew Botherway from PWC/Daniel Chivell from Telstra Winners Alex Kanikevich from Vertel Neil Thompson from Communications Australia Stephen Pattinson from JRD Group New Talent Award Jay Pinder from Sepura - Winner Amy Baxter from CSE-Comsource Caroline Seawright from JRD James Kelly from JRD Professional Sales Award Matt Burleigh from Communications Australia - Winner Danny Quagliani from AA Radio Doug Bowden from Sepura Jamie Baker from RFI Johnny Van Rooyen from Trans Communications Murray Sadler from Telstra Technical Excellence Award Shaun Campbell from Zetron - Winner John Matheson from RFI Michael Merritt from AA Radio Rod Brown from Ambulance Service NSW Rodney Oliver from JRD Nominations will be open on the website www.arcia.org.au. Here’s to a successful year for you and the industry and another round of networking events throughout the country.

Christian Kelly President Australian Radio Communications Industry Association

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S609

20 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

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newproducts

Wireless module Laird Technologies’ RM024 range-amplified multipoint (RAMP) wireless module is backward compatible with the LT2510 module and also offers an RF front end for improved sleep, an improved link budget and a switchable antenna output.

The modules provide robust wireless communications for applications requiring wireless transport for serial data for machine-to-machine applications, sensing and control networks, and long-range, low-bandwidth digital signage.

The module features a frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) protocol for good interference and multipath immunity. The module’s server/client architecture allows for more than 16 million clients to be addressed and communicating within a network.

It is available in two maximum conducted output powers: 125 and 50 mW. The two versions differ not only in transmit power consumption but also the number of RF channels available. Differences between the two versions, where applicable, will be denoted based on part number.

Spectrum analyser The Anritsu MS2712E 4 GHz spectrum analyser with tracking generator is suitable for field testing of spectrum monitoring, broadcast proofing, RF and microwave measurements, Wi-Fi and wireless network measurements.

2000 traces and set-ups can be stored on board or on a USB flash drive.

Other features include: tracking generator -50 to 0 dBm in 0.1 dB steps; dynamic range 102 dB; DANL -162 dBm.

Control Synergy

TechRentals

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S218

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S546

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Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

21

Mike Smyth, specialist technical writer

The local bicycle shop was an important part of my life as I became interested in all things electronic and electrical and especially radio. In common with many other young lads, I would join a procession of other young lads as we all swung our accumulators about like so many handbags as we descended on the bike shop to get the wet batteries recharged.

For these batteries, a modern version of the original Leyden Jar, were vital not only to us dabblers but to the huge number of battery-powered family radios that were far more common than those that worked off the mains. These accumulators, although expensive initially, were far cheaper to run to power the valve filaments.

Dry batteries did not have the current capacity to power the valves long term. On the other hand, the accumulators were capable of providing 2 V at up to 2 A continuously and ensured that the rather inefficient valves of the day had enough emission to provide a reasonable volume of sound for the listener.

The accumulators were about 23 cm tall by 5 cm square and made of thick, acid-resisting glass. Sometimes a hydrometer was fitted so that the owner could see the state of charge. On the top were two heavyduty terminals, red and black with a bleeder valve in the middle. For its size it was quite heavy, so to make it portable a strong wire handle that could be laid flat against the glass was let into the neck. In fact, it was a miniature car battery.

Because these wet cells usually had to visit a bicycle shop weekly, most households had at least two of them as the charging took several hours and was seldom completed the same day of delivery.

Meanwhile, by comparison, the high-tension battery made up of 1.5 V dry cells wired together in a slab, whose output was 120 V, lasted many weeks or months, which was just as

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well because they were not cheap to replace.

But then there was a third power source needed. Simply called a grid bias battery, it was much smaller than the HT one and again it was a composite of small 1.5 V cells to make up a nominal 9 V. However, it was tapped at 4.5 and 7.5 V to suit the grid requirements of different valves that in those days were almost all directly heated.

The accumulators would not, of course, be sealed, otherwise there would be no escape route for the hydrogen gas generated. And the sulfuric acid, although diluted, was still corrosive - enough to play havoc with the French polished surface on which most of the radios sat.

Usually there was no room inside the cabinet for any of the batteries so they had to sit outside, usually behind and out of sight.

At the time it seemed quite normal to take a discharged accumulator to a bicycle shop for treatment.

But on reflection, why a bike shop and not an electrical or radio shop?

In those days the only batteries sold by bicycle shops were the dry batteries for the front and rear lights of the heavy iron steeds. Maybe it was just free enterprise at its best, but even that came to an end with the advent of cheaper mains-powered radios and their widespread adoption - free of the tedious batteries.

For those who persisted with battery-operated equipment, there came the ‘battery eliminator’ but that is another story.

“At the time it seemed quite normal to take a discharged accumulator to a bicycle shop for treatment. But on reflection, why a bike shop and not an electrical or radio shop?”

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

23

newproducts

Wireless testing amplifier M i l m e g a’s A S0728 p ro duct range was designed to cover the test requirements within the wireless testing frequency bands.

The 700 MHz to 2.8 GHz amplifiers are available in 25, 50, 100 and 170 W P1 dB power levels.

Westek Electronics Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S501

DMR system Simoco has released its Simoco Xd range of mobile radio products based on the international DMR (digital mobile radio) standard.

As a complete end-toend DMR system, it includes a base station/repeater, mobiles and portables as well as integrated IP dispatching. The range provides DMR Tier II (conventional radio) with a software upgrade option to the DMR Tier III (trunked radio) standard.

The radio has the benefits of the ETSI digital radio standard such as increased capacity, interoperability with other DMR vendors, improved audio in high noise environments, all combined with IP connectivity.

The base station/repeater networks can be connected over an IP backbone without the need for additional control or switching equipment, and the entire system, including terminals, can be software upgraded to Tier III. This provides integration of network management, dispatching, SIP telephony and third-party voice and data applications across a wide area network.

The range has ‘man down’ and GPS tracking, so is suitable for missioncritical and hostile environments.

The base station is a single common hardware platform supporting analog, DMR Tier II and DMR Tier III modes, VoIP telephone connectivity as well as open standards applications. The SDB670 can be interconnected over an IP backbone to form wide area radio systems without any additional or centralised switching components.

Digital portables in the range have ‘lone worker’ features where the handset is equipped with GPS and a man down feature which can give the operator early warning of a potential safety incident.

For in-vehicle and other applications, the digital mobiles have the same range of features as the portables. The optional control head is designed to push instant messaging, dispatch, telemetry and control applications out to the mobile user.

The systems can be supplied preconfigured to order.

ComGroup Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S123

24 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

www.radiocomms.com.au

2013 APCO Australasia Conference and Exhibition Date: Tuesday 12 - Thursday 14 March 2013 Venue: Adelaide Exhibition Centre

© iStockphoto.com/Luis Pedrosa

APCO Australasia’s 2013 annual conference and exhibition will be held over three days and will incorporate networking events, professional development workshops, interactive forums, discussion groups, speaker presentations and an extensive and innovative exhibition hall showcasing the latest in communications, technology, vehicles, equipment and services available for government and public safety.

IPR100

IPR400

The 10th annual event has the theme of ‘Breaking the status quo: freedom to try new thinking’ and is expected to attract over 1000 professionals from the AsiaPacific region and further abroad, working in fields such as police, fire services, ambulance and health, state emergency services, government (all levels), defence, counterterrorism, security, mining, banking and finance, water and utilities, and IT and communications.

For the first time an exhibitor stage will be available, which will allow delegates and expo visitors an introduction to an array of public safety solutions.

The APCO Australasia Awards will be presented at a gala dinner function held

in conjunction with the conference on the Wednesday night.

The awards showcase the best of the public safety sector, celebrate the best in emergency management and reward hardworking members and professionals who have gone above and beyond in pursuit of service, innovation and communications excellence.

Award categories include: • 2013 Communications Award • 2013 Public Safety Award • 2013 Young Public Safety Innovation Award • 2013 Emergency Management Resilience Award For more information on the events and the awards, please visit www.apcoaust.com.au/2013.

RADIO OVER IP FOR DISASTER RECOVERY Create True Flexibility on your Network

By connecting a network using Radio over IP (RoIP), organisations are provided with increased flexibility and choice to meet the extra demands when disaster strikes.

Creating these RoIP networks is simple, even with analog radios, with the use of gateways like the IPR Range. Contact Omnitronics today to learn more.

www.radiocomms.com.au

Challenging Communications Boundaries

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

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

omn_15962

For example, Radio over IP can be used to increase radio coverage, connect multiple backup dispatch locations & systems and add telephone capabilities.

Furthermore, system integrators and technicians can remotely configure the network from any location through their web browser, allowing as many radio resources as possible to be allocated to the emergency.

25

newproducts

Two-way radio

Wireless system-on-module

The D2W360° is a portable two-way radio with a strong and lightweight build and functionality.

Other key features include: password protection; two programmable keys; monitor; low/high power select; emergency alarm; scan; BCL; time-out timer; low-battery indicator; programmable VIA PC; wired clone; CTCSS/DCS; DTMF encode; battery save; IP54 rated.

The radio comes with a desktop charger, power supply, antenna, belt clip and hand strap.

Bluegiga Technologies’ APx4 is a low-power wireless systemon-module that has integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, ARM and Linux.

The small form factor, low-power system-on-module includes the wireless connectivity standards 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0. It is based on Freescale’s i.MX28 processor family and runs an embedded Linux operating system based on the Yocto Project. In addition to integrating the 454 MHz ARM9 processor, the wireless connectivity technologies and Linux operating system, the device also includes several built-in applications, such as the 802.11 and Bluetooth 4.0 stacks, Continua v.1.5-compliant IEEE manager and many more. This combination provides a suitable platform for designing multiradio wireless gateways.

The software can be easily extended or tailored customising the Linux operating system with applications.

The motherboards for the APx4 can be easily extended to include almost anything from 3G modems to ethernet and audio interfaces to touch-screen displays. The device is suitable for applications requiring wireless or wired connectivity technologies and the processing power of the ARM9 processor, such as health and fitness gateways, building and home automation gateways, M2M, point-of-sale and industrial connectivity.

The development kit contains a full hardware development platform for APx4 as well as an SDK, which allows applications to be compiled for the APx4 Linux operating system.

BluFi Wireless Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R651

Test mobile support The TM500 test mobile now supports full protocol stack UE (user equipment) emulation that enables network testing and measurements for the DC-HSUPA (Dual Cell High-Speed Upload Packet Access) standard specified in 3GPP W-CDMA Release 9.

The support allows a UE to simultaneously transmit data over two independent enhanced uplink data channels, boosting both the uplink data rate and the network capacity, enabling maximum per-UE uplink data rates approaching 23 Mbps.

The test mobile enables 3G infrastructure equipment manufacturers to perform rigorous performance testing of their DC-HSUPA base station, speeding up the development of infrastructure equipment and its deployment in networks.

Aeroflex Incorporated Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S428

Glyn Ltd Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S404

Hearing protection The Sonomax Self-Fit custom hearing protection range is a self-fitting system.

The custom-fitted earplugs are comfortable, personalised and easily insertable. They are available at different levels of attenuation for noisy environments where communication is required.

By using the F-MIRE SonoPass software, employers can quantify and track hearing protection performance by conducting a function test that generates a corresponding PAR (personal attenuation rating).

Typical applications for the earplugs include manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, petrochemical, construction, military or any high-noise industrial or entertainment environment.

Other features include: made from hypoallergenic silicone for extended re-usability and lowest life cycle cost; shaped to the ‘earprint’ for maximum comfort and noise-blocking acoustic seal; easy-grip handle for ease of insertion; red and blue colour integration for easy left and right visibility; can be fully tested for reported verification (SonoPass); detachable cord with nametag clip eliminates risk of snagging and helps prevent loss; metal detectability - approved for food processing environments (optional).

Sonomax Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S635

26 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Lightning and surge protection Times Microwave Systems has introduced the Times-Protect LP-18-400-N series of DC pass RF lightning and surge protection products with a frequency operating band from DC to 6000 MHz. The bidirectional design with either a type N male or type N female connector on one end can be directly attached to LMR-400 cable via the same standard EZ non-solder interface used on other EZ-400 non-solderstyle connectors and uses the same CST-400 prep tool and either the CT-400/300 crimp tool or combination of the HX-4 crimp handle and Y1719 (0.429″ hex) crimp dies for installation.

The protector which handles up to 150 W of RF power and allows for up 72 V of DC voltage to be supplied on the centre pin of the coaxial cable eliminates the two connectors normally needed, thereby reducing insertion loss and return loss, and lowering cost. The series provides an RF equipment protection solution for any application requiring RF only or RF plus DC voltage and current to power tower top-mounted electronics. The LP-18-400-N body is IP67 rated, making it suitable for outdoor as well as indoor installations, and its white bronze-plated housing ensures durability and long life.

Rojone Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S644

RF driver amplifer Richardson has released a 1/2 W RF driver amplifier from Analog Devices.

The ADL5324 incorporates a dynamically adjustable biasing circuit that allows for the customisation of OIP3 and P1 dB performance from 3.3 to 5 V, without the need for an external bias resistor.

This creates the opportunity for dynamic biasing of the device where a variable supply is used to allow for full 5 V biasing under large signal conditions and then reduced supply voltage when signal levels are smaller and lower power consumption is desirable.

The amplifier covers the frequency range of 400 to 4000 MHz and requires few external components to be tuned to a specific band.

Additional features include: gain of 14.6 dB at 2140 MHz; OIP3 of 43.1 dBm at 2140 MHz; P1 dB of 29.1 dBm at 2140 MHz; noise figure of 3.8 dB; SOT-89 package, MSL-1 rated; ESD rating of Âą3 kV (Class 2).

Wireless Components Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S502

www.radiocomms.com.au

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

27

Radio over IP

Using RoIP as part of a disaster recovery plan © iStockphoto.com/James Thew

With so many natural disasters in recent years (the Christchurch earthquakes, Qld floods and Black Saturday bushfires to name a few), organisations are now thinking about how to maintain their communications networks during these times, when they are needed most.

K

eeping the radio network up and running not only ensures a quick and efficient response, it also helps keep field personnel and community members as safe as possible.

No longer does this just apply to emergency services but also to utilities, transportation, resources and all other groups that support the affected communities.

Maintaining communications during and following these events takes a lot of planning and can prove quite difficult due to the number of unknowns. Radio over IP (RoIP) is a useful tool to provide organisations with the flexibility to adapt to a range of situations quickly and easily.

In simple terms, RoIP is a method to interconnect radio systems and operators together over existing IP infrastructures such as private LANs or VPNs. Radio repeaters, dispatch consoles and other devices are connected together using an IP gateway, each with a unique IP address. The technology is well proven, having been used for many years now, right around the globe.

By using this method of interconnecting radios, it is easy to add-in additional devices and/or sites across vast geographical areas very quickly and cost effectively. So when disaster strikes, organisations can quickly ensure the network is ready to face the challenge.

28 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

There is a range of different scenarios in which RoIP can improve disaster recovery efforts which will be discussed throughout this article.

Complete network coverage with improved reliability One of the key findings of the Royal Commission into the 2009 Victorian Bushfires was that communications were hampered by the poor coverage and number of radio ‘black’ spots over regional areas. This was amplified all the more by the fire and smoke.

This lack of coverage caused significant concern about the safety of the personnel on the front line who need to be constantly made aware of changes in conditions.

By using RoIP connections, it is much easier to remove these black spots. In the past, adding additional repeater locations to a network was quite a costly exercise as this often meant requiring leased lines and microwave links.

Now with RoIP, the cost is significantly reduced as existing IP infrastructures are used.

The interconnections between radios and consoles also become more reliable since they form a part of a mesh IP network. This provides an inherently resilient infrastructure that is not subject to a single point of failure.

Multiple dispatch locations RoIP also enables the use of multiple dispatch and management locations.

These can be placed wherever they are required whether they are for day-to-day operations or as a backup site.

The importance of this is evidenced by the response to the Queensland floods of 2011 where the ability to provide backup dispatch locations proved invaluable, especially in the hardest hit places such as Townsville.

By having multiple locations available, if the main site is out of operation, a backup site can instantly be put into operation by connecting to the central radio management system via a RoIP link.

These backup dispatch locations can take a variety of forms such as: • Permanent backup locations with touch-screen consoles and/or rugged non-PC based consoles.

• Portable dispatch consoles in the form of a laptop that can be taken to any temporary location.

• Full dispatch capabilities within incident control vehicles that can be deployed to where they are needed most.

• Or any combination of the above.

Operators are able to maintain the same functionality no matter where they are. This could be within the same district or on the other side of the country.

With RoIP, distance is no longer an issue. www.radiocomms.com.au

Radio over IP

IP phone connectivity By including SIP signalling protocol on a network, radio channels are also able to be accessed from phones. Supervisors and managers can directly speak to the personnel in the field from their SIP-enabled phone.

Many smartphones now have SIP applications which can be downloaded, effectively using phones as radios. Supervisors no longer need to be bound to their desks to stay in touch. They can communicate on their radio network from anywhere and without needing to be in close radio proximity.

Repeater Sites

RoIP Gateway

RoIP Gateway

Managing backup systems Sometimes, having multiple dispatch locations is not enough. For example, if a communications centre itself is compromised in some way then access to the radio network may be impacted.

RoIP enables organisations to provide complete redundancy on their central radio management system by creating regular, whole-of-system backups to a second system at a differing location. In the event of an outage, remote operators can almost seamlessly connect to the backup system which will maintain copies of all their current settings.

RoIP facilitates this redundancy by providing multiple paths to repeater sites and by replicating received audio at multiple dispatch locations, including the backup system.

Once again, this backup location could be anywhere. For example, many national organisations have a number of communications centres across the country. In this situation, network control for Brisbane could be backed up to Sydney and then accessed from there in the event the Brisbane centre’s system is inaccessible.

Remote configuration and monitoring Often in emergency situations, systems may need to be reconfigured to meet the increased, immediate demands. By including a dispatch system that can be remotely configured over IP, system integrators and technicians can now access the server from any remote location through a web browser.

Areas of a radio network can also be isolated so that the increased radio traffic that occurs during a disaster incident is not broadcast to areas which are not required to be involved. This avoids unnecessary radio traffic in these areas.

For example, in the event of a fire, radio resources can be reallocated to where www.radiocomms.com.au

Portable Dispatch Consoles Backup System

Field Office

they are required most, on the frontline.

Meanwhile, radio traffic to other coverage areas is minimised to only include traffic that is relevant to that area.

This remote configuration ability also means a more immediate response as integrators do not need to travel to the communications centre, whether it is a distance away or the centre is not accessible due to safety concerns.

Additionally, the health of the system can be monitored in real time to ensure it is operating efficiently while under increased pressure.

Cross-departmental communications Collaboration between organisations can often mean the difference between lives lost or saved. Not only do emergency services need to communicate between each other but also many other services that support the community such as utilities and transportation.

However, many of these organisations will be working on different systems which can make this difficult. This could be differing frequency bands (UHF, VHF, air-band, marine-band etc) or differing protocols (analog, P25, DMR, TETRA).

By choosing the correct VoIP connectivity device and network management system, organisations can ensure interoperability between all of these mediums and therefore those organisations they need to collaborate with.

Also, by using the remote configuration mentioned previously, these communication channels can be quickly and simply set up from any location.

The importance of a disaster recovery plan for communications is not disputed.

Central Dispatch

“By using this method of interconnecting radios, it is easy to add in additional devices and/or sites across vast geographical areas very quickly and cost effectively.”

This is emphasised in a previous article of this publication where Garry Kerr, manager of system support services at the Queensland Department of Community Safety, mentioned that in response to the Queensland floods of 2011, “While some sites lost serviceability during the cyclone, the Queensland Department of Community Safety’s business continuity planning, incorporating the use of redundant radio services and dedicated incident channels, allowed the operational divisions to continue their service delivery to the communities, without compromise.”

By including RoIP as part of a network infrastructure and in a disaster recovery plan, an organisation will be given flexibility to meet the increased demands and pressures of a disaster, reliably and safely.

This is all done by keeping everyone connected, from the personnel in the field to the dispatch operators to the supervisors and managers and to other organisations you are collaborating with.

And perhaps most importantly, RoIP provides organisations with the ability to quickly adapt their communications network to meet the unknown challenges a disaster could bring.

Omnitronics Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S431

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

29

newproducts

GNSS receiver The NV08C-CSM is a fully integrated multiconstellation satellite navigation receiver. It is compatible with GPS, GLONASS and future Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) Galileo and Compass as well as satellite-based augmentation systems (SBAS) EGNOS, WAAS and MSAS. Specifically designed for use in LBS and M2M applications, the device has a small form factor and good performance.

It offers high sensitivity and high-performance acquisition and tracking, combined with low power consumption.

It also features assisted GPS/GLONASS/Galileo (A-GNSS), dead reckoning and power-saving functionalities. Applications include IVSS, navigation, asset tracking, surveillance and security.

Featuring two RF channels (GPS and GLONASS) and three-stage SAW filtration for better noise immunity, the product provides a variety of interfaces, flexible power supply options and a supply voltage for an active antenna.

The compact and fully featured GNSS receiver can be integrated on a 2- or 4-layer PCB with minimum additional passive components.

An evaluation/development kit is also available to enable developers to quickly familiarise themselves with the NV08C-CSM’s features and functionalities.

M2M Connectivity Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S611

Two-way satellite tracking device The DeLorme inReach is a satellite communications solutions with twoway SOS alerting and personal text messaging with message delivery confirmation features.

The remote GPS follow-me/find-me tracking and locating feature makes it suitable for an exact location to be monitored in real time.

It can be turned on or off to ensure routes are known.

It can be used to aid rescuers and to create maps among other features. It also supports a wireless connection with compatible Android and Apple smart mobile devices.

The device is compact, lightweight, waterproof, buoyant, impact-resistant and can maintain satellite signal lock even in difficult GPS environments.

It operates over the Iridium satellite network, providing global two-way satellite communications, high network reliability and low-latency data links, even in areas outside of traditional cellular coverage.

RF switch matrix Mini-Circuits’ USB-8SPDT-A18 is a general purpose USB-controlled RF switch matrix containing eight electromechanical SPDTs, absorptive failsafe RF switches constructed in break-before-make configuration and powered by 24 V DC with a switching time of 25 ms typical.

The eight absorptive switches allow for a large number of presets, such as dual transfer switches, 2 in/8 out, an SP9T, or 2 in/6 out plus an SP3T. Any design configuration can be saved, with all jumpers and switch states clearly indicated for quick recall and setup or as a handy reference when working on future projects.

The RF switches can be operated in all these configurations remotely using the supplied GUI program, or programmed by the user using the included API DLL com object. They also operate over a wide frequency band from DC to 18 GHz and have low insertion loss (0.2 dB typical) and high isolation (85 dB typical), making the switch matrix suitable for a wide variety of RF applications.

The switch matrix enables testing of multiple parameters or multiple DUTs in a single pass, without stopping to connect/disconnect cables.

A software CD, USB cable and 24 V DC power are also included.

Clarke & Severn Electronics Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S503

Bluetooth HCI module Bluegiga Technologies’ Bluetooth Smart Ready HCI module BT111 is a low-cost and ultrasmall HCI module designed for applications where both Bluetooth classic and Bluetooth low-energy connectivity are required.

The BT111 module integrates a Bluetooth 4.0 dual mode radio, HCI software stack, USB interface and an antenna. The module is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems and Microsoft and BlueZ Bluetooth stacks, and offers OEMs a way to integrate Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity into their applications.

The module has +8 dBm transmit power, approximately -90 dBm received sensitivity and dimensions of 13.05 x 9.3 x 2.3 mm with an integrated chip antenna. It will also be Bluetooth, CE, FCC, IC, South-Korea and Japan qualified, and offers proven radio operation and minimal qualification costs.

The BT111 evaluation kit contains the following tools: BT111 USB evaluation board and SPI cable.

SatPhone Shop Pty Ltd

Glyn Ltd Australia

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S298

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S401

30 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Analog signal generators Anritsu has released an analog signal generator range with models covering the frequency bands of 100 kHz to 2.7 GHz, 4 and 6 GHz. Providing SSB phase noise performance of <–140 dBc/Hz (nominal) (100 MHz, 20 kHz offset, CW) and an output level setting range of –144 to +25 dBm (high output power option fitted), high-speed switching (<600 us) and (optionally) dual-independent RF outputs with versatile modulation functions, the MG3740A series is suitable for many applications.

Support is provided for AM/FM/ΦM/Pulse modulation functions as well as an option for expansion to dual internal modulation (AM/FM/ΦM) and single external modulation systems. Adding the digital modulation option provides a solution for testing public safety digital radio systems.

A GUI with hardware block charts depicted on-screen make it simple to grasp settings and signal paths at a single glance, and the GPIB, ethernet and USB interfaces provide choices for operation by remote control.

Anritsu Pty Ltd

Hearing protection headset with wireless connection The 3M Peltor WS Alert communication headset provides a wireless connection via Bluetooth to DECT or a mobile phone. The headset’s good noise attenuation, comfortable earphones and an ambient-noise compensated microphone provide Class 5 hearing protection for a noisy work environment.

The active-volume function ‘listens’ to surroundings and adapts to what it ‘hears’. Each ear shell has a microphone that captures all sounds.

The electronics inside analyse the information and process the sound before reproducing it to the ear.

A short, flexible antenna provides good reception and easy-to-handle volume control knobs for the radio and level-dependent functions.

3M Safety Products Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S211

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S257

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

www.radiocomms.com.au

CR013B

• • • •

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

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

31

newproducts

Multimeter-oscilloscope The UNI-T model UTD1025CL digital handheld oscilloscope from Power Parameters is battery operated with a 64k colour, 9 cm TFT display.

The instrument has a 25 MHz bandwidth and a 200 MS/s sampling rate, capable of accurately measuring signals with rise times down to 14 ns.

Tr i g g e r modes include edge, pulse, video and slope. The single-channel UTD1025CL multimeter portion can measure signal to 400 V AC and DC, current from 400 µA to 10 A AC and DC, resistance from 400 Ω to 40 MΩ and capacitance from 50,12 nF to 100 µF. The instrument is supplied with DC adapter, test leads, x10 and x1 oscilloscope probes, 10 A current divider, USB cable and software on CD. Power Parameters Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S640

32 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

Microwave analysers Agilent Technologies has announced 14 FieldFox handheld analysers that provide benchtop-instrument accuracy in field-test environments. Designed for harsh conditions and hard-to-reach locations, the analysers cover satellite communications, microwave backhaul, military communications, radar systems and a wide range of applications.

The microwave analysers can be configured as cable-and-antenna analysers, spectrum analysers, vector network analysers or all-in-one combination analysers. Each 3 kg package is available in four frequencies: 9, 14, 18 or 26.5 GHz. The microwave vector network analysers provide full two-port S-parameter measurements with a low trace noise of ±0.004 dB and dynamic range of 94 dB (up to 18 GHz). The VNAs offer QuickCal function which enables calibration without external accessories.

The microwave spectrum analysers provide amplitude accuracy of ±0.5 dB at power-up, with no warm-up required, allowing field users to precisely characterise transmitter power. They can de tect more signals in the band of interest with phase noise of -111 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset, and measure low-level signals in the presence of high-power transmitters with spur-free dynamic range of 105 dB. The combination analysers’ base function is cable and antenna analysis, and users can configure the instrument to do spectrum and vector network analysis as well. To further save space in a field kit, the analysers can be ordered with a built-in power meter, independent signal generator, vector voltmeter, interference analysis, variable DC source, frequency counter and built-in GPS receiver.

Agilent Technologies Aust Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S212

www.radiocomms.com.au

newproducts

Ultra-wideband antenna system CommScope’s Argus UltraBand is an ultra-wideband antenna system capable of supporting the four major air-interface standards in almost any wireless frequency range.

The system enables operators to reduce the number of antennas in their networks, lowering tower leasing costs while increasing speed-to-market capability.

It supports multiple frequency bands and technology standards from one antenna. For example, operators will be able to deploy LTE in 2.6 GHz and 700 MHz while supporting W-CDMA in 2.1 GHz from the same antenna.

The 10-port, 2.5 m antenna system uses pattern shaping technologies and supports MIMO implementation for advanced capacity solutions.

It provides a multiband solution, adding five lower frequency bands to support a total of nine frequency bands across the wireless spectrum: US700, EU digital dividend, US cellular and GSM900 for the lower bands and DCS1800, PCS, AWS, 3G and WiMax for the higher bands.

CommScope Solutions Singapore Pte Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S504

Wireless range for transport applications Acksys provides a range of ruggedised wireless equipment for industrial and transportation applications using the Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n standard in 2.4 and 5.x GHz bands.

This range features: ‘Aboard’ and ‘Road’ ranges for rail and road transport sectors; ‘Aboard’ products certified to EN50155; temperature hardened for -40 to +70°C operation (typical); environmentally sealed to IP66; lightning/surge protection built in; wide power supply voltage - typically +9 to +70 VDC; tough die-cast aluminium construction; easy mounting tabs for secure fixing in vehicles.

The system also has a removable ‘C-Key’ which stores all configuration data and allows instant equipment swap-out and data restore functionality.

The system includes point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and wireless mesh technologies and is suitable for long-range line-of-sight and non-line-ofsight operation. Applications include: access points, bridges, bridge-routers, repeaters and serial to wireless gateways.

It is capable of interface to truck telemetry and fleet management systems and can stream data from rolling stock to station; wirelessly connect RS232, RS422, RS485 serial equipment together; build a wireless bridge between a serial MODBUS network and MODBUS/TCP; wirelessly connect ethernet, MODBUS/TCP, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, DNP3 equipment.

Madison Technologies Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S448

www.radiocomms.com.au

Jan/Feb 2013 - RADIO COMMS

33

@work

RADIO Project: RoIP network for emergency services Application: Interoperability between analog and digital

A

© iStockphoto.com/BrooksElliot © iStockphoto.com/christian Lagereek © iStockphoto.com/Hugh Caton

n established emergency and security radio network was required to provide interoperability between analog and digital network elements. The network needed to improve command and control efficiency, add recording and logging capability, and integrate access to and from users on telephone networks.

Together with partners LSE in Sweden and Tecnicas Competitivas, TestAdvance devised a two-phase implementation.

Existing infrastructure had to be retained and operations maintained.

The network needed to be inherently robust without requiring redundancies in infrastructure. Future upgrades and expansions needed to be possible, but not incur any costs prior to their execution.

A modular and structured RoIP network was chosen to meet all these these needs cost effectively and efficiently.

Phase I comprised connecting existing TETRA and conventional radios to the IP network via a RoIP interface unit (RIU).

RIU’s are also used to provide access to PSTN and a VoIP telephone system.

Three SoftRadio operator consoles were installed at the command and control centre together with a central ‘VoiceLog’ application. Each SoftRadio console provides remote control of the TETRA radios via a virtual control head (VCH) on the console, access to the PSTN line and cross-patching between radios. Voice logging is available across all operator consoles.

Phase II of the project foresaw the integration of eight Motorola MTM’s with full VCH capability, five additional conventional PMR radios and an additional five telephone lines. Further operator consoles will be added to handle the additional traffic. Phase II also supported the integration of remote radio sites and mobile operator consoles, eg, for ad hoc network deployment in a disaster scenario.

The core elements of the system were the RoIP interface unit (RIU) and

SoftRadio operator console. The RIU connects a radio to an IP network via the radio’s baseband/PTT and (as available) the remote control head interconnect (VCH). The console is a Windows PC-based application - besides the PC and headset/mic, no additional hardware is required.

In the simplest form, the console connects to the same local LAN as the RIUs and radios. Further radios/RIUs and consoles can be added as needed.

Operator functions such as CrossPatch or GroupSend can also be added as needed. The network can be extended over WAN and internet. A network/ radio server manages full access, eg, to and from remote radios and operators.

All devices are self reliant and do not require a central ‘system’ or controlSW to operate.

Phase I has already provided the client with substantial improvements in network functionality and ‘operational readiness’. It links teams to each other and across organisations and radio formats. Individuals on the PSTN and cellular networks can be patched in. All communications can be recorded and logged for future reconciliation and, if needed, as evidence.

Throughout the system design and implementation of Phase I, the company worked hand in hand with its client in the Canaries and its partners in Sweden. The company contained costs and minimised lead times by avoiding overheads. Support was provided either from Sweden or Australia, making best use of the different time zones. Work continued with the client on Phase II which, due to the economic situation in Spain, has been experiencing substantial delays.

Indeed, this underlines the benefits of a modular and structured solution: Phase II can and will be deployed based on the user’s situation. Until then, Phase I is able to satisfy the user’s needs and objectives within the given constraints.

“Existing infrastructure had to be retained and operations maintained. The network needed to be inherently robust without requiring redundancies in infrastructure.

Future upgrades and expansions needed to be possible, but not incur any costs prior to their execution.”

TestAdvance Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S337

34 RADIO COMMS - Jan/Feb 2013

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