The National Response Centre (NRC) and Mobile Communication Systems Pty Ltd (MCS) have partnered to provide the utility industry affordable access to digital radio technology as well as call centre and dispatch capability.
The partnership is growing. A water and several gas utilities have been connected to the EDACS network and services through NRC - the enclosed Channels Magazine feature article describes the formation of this exciting business relationship.
Currently, 19 sites provide EDACS coverage within Victoria. Further expansion is planned as customer requirements are ascertained. Predominantly a Victorian state wide network, coverage also extends into SA and NSW. Coverage east of Gippsland is planned but not yet completed.The network is designed for utilities and delivers integrated voice, data and SCADA services over a single network.
The technology is a secure, digital, multi-channel radio platform offering high reliability and redundancy, and enhanced features. This is backed by 24x7 support, and service levels required by "essential" service organisations.
The network provides coverage on a local, regional or state-wide basis. A feature not previously available on competitive networks is wide area voice, where mobiles are able to talk and listen over a range of hundreds of kilometres.
Each Utility has access to one or more private "workgroups", which can be configured to the operational requirements of the business. All conversations within workgroups are private, and cannot be overheard by other users of the Network.
The network is "feature rich", and caters for multiple call types. In addition to group calling, individual or "one on one" calling allows two mobiles to talk privately. Other features include "calling party identification" and a pseudo paging system whereby the mobile sounds a "ring" alert when a call is missed. The name of the missed caller is displayed on the mobile screen.
Hand held units are supplied for specialised crews such as Reservoir and Pump Station staff. Vehicle mounted mobiles are available for field personnel. As most water authorities have their own SCADA systems, remote points that are uneconomical to monitor can be cost effectively connected to the network.
Control dispatch consoles can be located anywhere, enabling efficient access to multiple work groups (via "group scan") and field mobiles. Encrypted speech is available for those requiring high levels of security.
Specialised features are available for remote control of pumps and other mechanical devices by providing the equivalent of a telephone line.
The network is available at a monthly rental including Terminals (Office or vehicle mounted radios or portables and Network airtime fee) - capital outlay is not required.
Rates vary according to client coverage requirements, starting at $85 per month for vehicle radios to $135 per month for full coverage and network features.
SCADA Terminals, including airtime, are approximately $45 per month, including the radio but not the RTU.
All licences are carried for the Network and use of the spectrum is included in the monthly access fee.
Arrange an NRC site visit and demonstration of EDACS network capability by contacting Shane Rayner on 9411 3100.
