Beaming Internet Across Woronora Dam

Overview

SECURE A COM was approached with a complex and unique task: to provide internet connectivity across Woronora Dam, specifically from the shore to a pontoon in the dam’s centre, and then extending from one pontoon to another. Commissioned by the Department of Defence, Australian Defence Force (ADF), this project required a high level of technical expertise, precision, and problem-solving skills. The job was particularly challenging due to environmental factors such as water, UV exposure, and the need for precise alignment of equipment.

The Challenge

This task involved creating a reliable network that could transmit internet signals across Woronora Dam, connecting multiple pontoons used by the ADF. The primary challenges included:

• Signal Transmission Over Water: Beaming internet signals across open water presented unique obstacles, including potential interference and the need for exact equipment alignment.
• Environmental Factors: High UV exposure and windy conditions posed a risk to the cabling and equipment, potentially leading to degraded performance over time.
• Previous Failures: Before SECURE A COM was engaged, other companies had tried and failed to establish a reliable connection due to the complexity of the setup and the stringent requirements of the ADF.

The Solution

To overcome these challenges, SECURE A COM developed a structured approach, divided into three phases: Initial Setup and Configuration, Installation and Testing, and Final Configuration and Completion.

Phase 1: Initial Setup and Configuration

1. Security Clearance and Site Assessment: Upon arrival, we secured clearance from on-site security and connected with the Department of Defence representative to discuss the project. A thorough assessment of the dam’s layout and the technical requirements was conducted to determine the best locations for the equipment.
2. Device Configuration: Using high-powered directional antennas (Nano Beams), the devices were configured to beam internet signals across the dam. The equipment was set to the highest power level to ensure stable connectivity over the required distance of several hundred meters.
3. Network Design: We established a point-to-point wireless bridge that would shoot the internet signal from the shore to the first pontoon, and then relay it to the second pontoon.

Phase 2: Installation and Testing

1. Strategic Installation of Equipment: The antennas and supporting equipment were installed at precise locations on the shore and pontoons to ensure optimal signal strength and alignment.
2. Testing and Validation: Rigorous testing was conducted to confirm the effectiveness of the setup. A speed test showed a consistent 23 Mbps, mirroring the internet speed available onshore, validating that the connection was strong and reliable.
3. UV Protection for Longevity: To prevent degradation of the Cat 6 cables due to UV exposure, the cabling was protected with a UV-resistant conduit, ensuring the setup would withstand the environmental elements and have a longer lifespan.

Phase 3: Final Configuration and Completion

1. Final Device Configuration: All devices were finely tuned, and the network layout was made neat and secure, ensuring that all components were correctly aligned and functioning as intended.
2. Project Completion: Once all tests confirmed that the system was fully operational, the setup was finalised, delivering seamless internet connectivity between the shore and the pontoons in the middle of the dam.

Conclusion

The successful completion of this project highlighted SECURE A COM’s technical expertise and ability to solve complex networking challenges in demanding environments. Where other companies had previously failed, SECURE A COM’s meticulous approach and specialised knowledge allowed us to implement a solution that met the exacting needs of the Australian Defence Force.

Key Takeaways:

• Reliable Connectivity Across Challenging Terrain: Successfully established a stable internet connection across Woronora Dam, overcoming environmental and technical challenges.
• Expert Problem-Solving: SECURE A COM’s ability to deliver where others couldn’t showcases our position as industry leaders in advanced networking solutions.
• Enhanced Equipment Longevity: By incorporating UV protection, we ensured the setup was not only functional but also durable against the elements.

This project underscores SECURE A COM’s reputation as a trusted provider of internet, phone, and data cabling solutions, capable of tackling the most difficult and unique challenges. If your operation requires a tailored approach to internet connectivity, contact us to learn how we can help.

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