March 29, 2009 – Ethernet Direct provided HME-623, an Industrial Managed Switch with 6 port 10/100TX and 2 single-mode fiber ports, for a tunnel in Europe.The project took place in Northern Europe tunnel monitoring application. The development of new technologies for computers, image processing, communications, control, Ethernet, and system buses, has led to dramatic improvements compared to the old technology, making it possible to increase the reliability, communication speed, and flexibility of the monitoring and control systems used in tunnels.
The monitoring and control system is extremely reliable and can handle the high bandwidth of data associated with video surveillance systems, as well as use its redundant fiber ring configuration to support the control of ventilation, lighting, traffic control signals, and emergency telephones. With tunnel monitoring systems, tunnel controllers are now instantly alerted when an accident, fire, or other emergency occurs unexpectedly. This instant access to accurate data allows personnel to make the best decisions under both normal and emergency conditions. Data connections to night-watch and security centers are an important concern for the European society.
The Ethernet network in this project is built as a 100Mbps redundant single-mode fiber ring using HME-623 industrial Ethernet switches from Ethernet Direct. IP Control system and IP telephone system share the same network. The ring topology is used to maintain full operability in case of any link failure. There are a total of 14 TufTel VoIP Hotline emergency telephones installed in emergency cabinets every 125 meters according to EU stipulations. These telephones are for public use in case of an accident, fire breakout or other incidents that lead the vehicles to stop inside the tunnels.
When the handset is lifted off, the call is connected automatically via ISDN to the control center. The system is structured on a real-time monitoring network, and has comprehensive functions to manage both upper and lower networks. A reliable system using couple hundreds of HME-623 offered the best solution.
Major features of Industrial Managed Ethernet Switch HME-623
- Operational simplicity & superb hardware design meeting Industry standards
- Ability to structure a Redundant Ring with zero fault tolerance
- Fast recovery time for network redundancy in less than 200 ms
- Single-mode fiber distances to guarantee stable long-distance transmission
- Easy-to-use management interface for remote monitoring
