Aqura Technologies (Aqura), a Telstra Purple company says it has announced it will design and deliver an advanced Private 4G network for Pilbara Ports Authority (PPA) in Port Hedland.
It notes the new standalone broadband network will support PPA’s extensive marine digital platforms, enhance worker mobility, and provide seafarers with independent high-speed connectivity when visiting the Port of Port Hedland.
“The solution Aqura has designed blends that are the best in operational network capability with enhanced user experience, accessible across the extensive Port of Port Hedland and efficiency initiatives,” Alan Seery, Aqura Chief Operations Officer (COO), says.
“Our installation of Private 4G at the Port of Port Hedland will leverage the expanded capabilities of Private 4G that will assist the PPA in driving safety, productivity, and efficiency initiative,” he adds.
The Aqura COO also notes the communications network is upgradeable to 5G, and that it offers more control and flexibility to support Industry 4.0 use cases, as well as other technologies such as IoT.
He says the importance of the technology solution is that it adds value and provides access to real-time operational data, environmental monitoring, and production improvements.
Aqura adds that Private 4G requires the delivery of several prioritised services for a range of different end-use cases.
The network leverages the embedded Quality of Service capability and high throughput of 4G.
Additionally, it is dimensioned to ensure that the extensive marine sensors network that the PPA utilises has reliable and robust connectivity to guarantee vessels can safely sail through challenging waterways in the area.
This private network will also enable PPA staff to access their corporate and operational systems reliably and securely from anywhere across their extensive port operations, which enhances productivity and improves access to digital safety systems and procedures.
Aqura will leverage its Complete Access Network platform to deliver a secure, user-friendly service for seafarers. This will allow them to make voice or video calls to loved ones, watch their preferred streaming service, or just browse the internet or social media from their own devices.
The Telstra Purple company adds that this is how the service will benefit seafarers when they are on vessels at berth or at anchor.
For more information on the Pilbara Ports Authority, click here.