FEATURE
Hybrid satellite communications
Seamless Communications for Mining Operations Via Satellite
If well deployed , multiple satellite networks and terrestrial connections , which act as the single point of contact for the entire network , through seamless communications , can achieve high end to end performance in any mining environment worldwide .
By Nick Barnes
It is hard to ignore the rise to prominence of satellite-terrestrial hybrid connectivity as one of the critical enablers of efficient communications in modern remote mining areas in the past decade . Interestingly , this is the face of other ‘ tried and tested ’ conventional techniques which enjoy wide usage . Satellite-terrestrial hybrid connectivity involves the combination of Very Small Aperture Terminal ( VSAT ), and terrestrial services , based on either Multi-Protocol Label Switching ( MPLS ) or Post Office Protocol ( POP ). With keen interest , it is hard to resist the urge to find out what is behind this phenomenon . When asked about what could be driving increase in the adaptation of satellite-terrestrial hybrid -enabled communications in a survey , providers of hybrid satellite communications packages more or less pointed to similar factors .
The need for reliable communications The significance of satellite-terrestrial hybrid communications becomes better understood when one looks at the need for reliable communications to drive operations and how the satellite as a means fills void . Reliable connectivity gives decision makers in mining companies the ability to make effective and timely decisions .
In particular , reliable communications serves a number of critical purposes in mining operations , mainly :
• Enabling the connection of mines , which are located in remote areas , to the outside world as well as machine to machine networks ;
• Improving site safety and security ;
• Facilitating the provision of internet access .
Perfect fit for communications in mines Providers of satellite-terrestrial hybrid communications , share the view that satellite would be perfect fit for the scattered nature of Africa ’ s mining operations , mainly due to the following factors : Short lead time ; No need for infrastructure ; and connection of scattered operations under a single platform .
i . No need for costly infrastructure There is no need for time-consuming and frustrating process of developing land-based infrastructure . This makes satellite communications comparatively cost effective .
ii . Short lead time By eliminating the need for costly landbased infrastructure , satellite offers the benefit of a short lead time . In this way , it enables a mining company to have efficient and cost-effective communications . iii . Single management hub ( no need for infrastructure ) Broadband internet , delivered through satellite , connects scattered mining operations together under a single management hub . This is possible through uniting high-capacity very small aperture terminal ( VSAT )/ MSS Satellite connectivity resources to provide a single , seamless network experience . For instance , through MPLS connection , a mine can be able to get satellite connectivity between production sites and hybrid satellite / terrestrial connectivity to its headquarters in the UK .
What mines would need The service providers indicate that mines operating in remote areas with poor signal would need the following to fully exploit the benefits of broadband satellite internet : the assurance of more broadband , single provider for all terrestrial and hybrid networks , and most of all reliability . Most importantly , mine operators need the confidence of assistance , should there be any issue with connectivity .
More relevant and integral If well deployed , multiple satellite networks and terrestrial connections , which act as the single point of contact for the entire network , through seamless communications , can achieve high end to end performance in any mining environment worldwide . What makes satellite communications all the more relevant is that currently mining is undergoing a revolution , with equipment automation becoming integral , and advanced communications is pivotal .
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