Mining Publication: Technology News 547 - Cost-Effective, Off-the-Shelf Wireless Links for Surface Integrated Mine Emergency Communications

A surface network system using off-the-shelf components, consisting of two Motorola Canopy Subscriber Modules (SMs), one Canopy Access Module (AP), associated antennas, and legacy video converter, successfully established strategic communications links in a limited mine-simulated environment. When needed, the system could be expanded with additional hardware to establish a communications path over greater distances to link multiple communications devices and other monitor and control devices and their data to a command center (CC). A person with experience in aiming antennas and configuring wireless local area networks would be capable of setting up a secure system in a timely manner, and also address issues relating to obstructions due to local topography and foliage. The CC would be the hub of a secure centralized communications system that could link all the communications devices, data sources, and control functions. In a situation where the normal communications between the surface and underground are interrupted and an alternative communications path to the surface is established, the technology provides a least-cost solution for connecting the alternative communications path to the CC.