Have you ever missed an important call or text because of a poor network connection? A call drops, an email gets stuck in an outbox, someone misses a “change of plans” text. People shout “no bars” as they scramble to find better reception or another way to communicate.
While a dropped call or a lack of data can be annoying for everyday people, the stakes are even higher for first responders, who rely on the same type of communications to save time while keeping us all safe. They need to send and receive critical information on the go, without interruption.
A Critical Connection
The instant communication we all need is possible because of something we can’t see: a stable network connection. Severe weather and natural disasters can disrupt connections. To prevent disruptions, telecommunications providers use rugged, specialized equipment.
A global telecommunications provider needed to improve protection for equipment that transmits radio signals for emergency services such as first responders, fire fighters and government agencies. In cases of earthquakes, fires or other emergency scenarios, the company needs its radio and Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless communication equipment to continue to function without interruption.
The provider needed customized cabinets to house all its equipment components. The cabinets would need electrical integration between units. The solution also needed seismic capabilities to protect the equipment during the event of an earthquake.
Complete, Custom Solution to Keep Things Running Smoothly
Since seismic protection was critical, the nVent team recommended nVent SCHROFF Varistar Cabinets. These cabinets have a heavy-duty frame which provides outstanding shock and vibration stability, shielding against high frequency interference. Varistar Cabinets are rated for resistance up to Bellcore Zone 4 according to Network Equipment Building Standard GR-63-CORE, which covers most active earthquake areas in North America. Varistar Cabinets can also withstand extreme temperature environments to help meet a telecommunications provider’s safety standards.
The nVent team’s support didn’t stop with recommending the right cabinets. They also helped the customer develop customized solutions to optimize performance. They designed a dedicated chassis that helped hold the high equipment payload and connect multiple units for a seamless final product. To provide optimal airflow throughout the cabinet, the nVent team created a custom housing for multiple circuit boards, also known as a card cage, for heavy electronic components.
Keeping You Safe Without Interruption
“By working closely with our customer, we were able to design a cabinet and chassis specifically for their needs so in turn, they can serve their customers and our communities,” said Michael Keller, nVent Senior Program Manager.
Today, the network provider’s customers continue to experience reliable service and first responders can exchange time-saving messages when minutes count. The resilience of this mission critical system is protected by a customized solution keeping it safe even when earthquakes strike.