Radio Communication Crucial for Digital Transition

Q: Why is radio communication key for facing an event like a pandemic?

A: Radio communication has been evolving since the dawn of the digital era. It has been prominent in the movement toward progressive digitalization. This tool now encompasses more than voice. It includes data, video and intersystem interaction, where radio communication systems interact with other systems in an industrial operation. Today’s radio systems communicate with cellular systems or with machinery, for example. Thanks to intersystem communication, radio communication is vital in the measurement and transmission of numerous variables, like vibrations, temperature changes and engine shutdowns. Equipment and machinery can communicate important information to managers. That has proven to be invaluable for enhancing productivity, Additionally, it has boosted safety in industrial settings, as radio communication systems can raise an alert related to intrusions in a very short period of time, for instance.

Some companies in the mining industry have implemented radio communication systems that are interlinked with other systems in their operations. They have started the transition to industry 4.0. During the COVID-19 health emergency, these companies are reaping the benefits of their investments. They are experiencing higher productivity and safety. Their management teams can be remotely connected by linking radio and smartphone systems. A manager in a city office can have accurate, real-time information about what is happening at a mine in the middle of the sierra. When mobility is hampered, this type of communication is key. The companies that have invested in this have seen their market competitiveness increase as a result.

Q: What systems are used by miners that have not yet transitioned to modern radio communication systems?

A: Most miners that continue to use traditional technology for communication purposes rely on analogic systems. In Mexico, there previously were legal restrictions against the use of some types of wavelengths. The mining industry did not invest in new radio communication systems because they would not have been able to implement them in their operations. Recently, this obstacle was removed, but some companies have difficulty leaving their comfort zone.

Q: Why have you chosen Motorola as your preferred partner in Mexico?

A:  Our technical committee evaluates every innovation that is released to the market. It has judged that Motorola is ideal for the mining sector. Motorola has the technical capacity to service each industry specifically. It has an area exclusively dedicated to mining that provides us all the technical support we need when we implement demanding projects.

An example of Motorola’s commitment to innovate is MOTOTRBO, the company’s new digital line. These radios let developers add licenses depending on the market’s needs. Developers around the world can create applications on Motorola’s platforms. The radios are customizable. For example, we can add GPS systems to the radios for remote monitoring of the radio user’s location in the mine. The radios have a fallen-man feature: if the user stops moving for a certain period of time, an alert goes off. The system freezes all voice inputs from non-selected users, so as to not saturate the system, and it only allows a predefined user to speak.

Q: What innovative application have you added to the Motorola systems that you provide to the Mexican mining industry?

A: We have added a Russian-made feature called Trbonet. As I have already mentioned, many mines still use traditional radio systems. Trbonet has a module that enables smooth analog to digital migration and can support both digital and legacy systems during the transition period. This helps miners track their assets inside a mine where GPS may not be available. Trbonet is fully compatible with indoor tracking solutions based on iBeacons. Another module triggers different types of alerts on alarms sent by sensors installed in the mine. The dispatcher is able to send a telemetry command from the console to a remote location to open or close gates, activate elevators or set off an alarm.

Q: How do you service mines that are not easy to access due to their remote location?

A: We have been working with several mining companies over a period of more than 30 years. Previously, we would constantly visit the mines located in remote areas to service our equipment. This was costly. Therefore, we decided to train the mines’ personnel. As they gradually became more proficient in providing maintenance for our equipment, we limited ourselves to just providing them with spare parts. We come in only when major repairs are needed. This has allowed us to build stronger relationships with our clients. This approach helps us to improve our customer service and really add value to where it is most needed, where technical expertise is highest.

Delta Solutions has over 30 years of experience in communications, cybersecurity, localization and vehicle equipment. It distributes world-renowned brands.