Smart Grid Solutions Archives - Council Rock Enterprises, Inc.

Protected: RF Coverage Private LTE Performance Pilot

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 18:21:10 +0000

The post Protected: RF Coverage Private LTE Performance Pilot appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Stay Always-On, Always-Connected with Dual Modem, Dual SIM Industrial Router

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:52:03 +0000

Stay Always-On, Always-Connected

with Dual Modem, Dual SIM Industrial Router

By Scott Burk

Keep two LTE radio connections active simultaneously and eliminate the need for switching between carrier SIM cards with dual modem technology. Plus, allow users to enjoy greater throughput by distributing traffic over two simultaneous LTE radio connections rather than one. Combine data channels and avoid carrier switches while staying always-on, always-connected.

This article provides a brief overview about these Dual Modem Technology features:

Wireless-to-Wireless Failover and WAN redundancy

Wireless-to-Wireless Failover

For true Wireless-to-Wireless or Cellular-to-Cellular Failover, it is necessary to connect two carriers simultaneously. Two active connections make dual modem industrial routers particularly beneficial to utilities that require always-on, always-connected connectivity to their critical assets for their SCADA networks. If one network connection fails, the switch from one wireless carrier to another occurs automatically. Additionally, data traffic can be load-balanced across both active questions, or if one connection has greater throughput than the other one, traffic can be groomed accordingly to prioritization, and bandwidth needs.

Using simultaneous connections utilities are able to build a more resilient network, ensuring their needs for critical communications with minimal delay are met—Scott Burk, Sales Director

WAN Redundancy

Utilities can further enhance their failover capacity by using three WAN connections simultaneously. With assets in wireline or fiber locations, utilities can take advantage of the dual-modem, three-WAN simultaneous-connection feature. The diversity in technology AND providers creates the greatest uptime by using a wired connection plus two LTE connections from different cellular service providers.

Increased Bandwidth

By simultaneously operating both modems in a dual modem industrial router, utilities can increase their network bandwidth for high-definition video applications by combining the data throughput of their WAN connections. The device SIM management services allow IT professionals to monitor data usage for costly overages or increase data when usage is high.

eSIM More Secure For Private Wireless

An embedded SIM or eSIM replaces the need for physical SIMs inside a dual modem industrial router. Quickly activate and switch cellular carrier services through eSIM software programming. There is no longer a need to physically obtain, configure, or insert a SIM into the device. The network is more secure because an eSIM cannot be used by another device to access the network, preventing theft and compromise.

Auto Carrier Selection

Auto carrier selection allows a wireless dual modem industrial router to detect the carrier of an installed SIM or eSIM, load the correct firmware and configuration settings automatically, then connect to the network. A backup carrier can be configured through the use of a dual SIM or eSIM enabling the dual modem industrial router to fail over automatically in the event of a network outage by the primary carrier.

Don't worry about stranded assets or disruptions in the field.

Contact Council Rock

Let us help you understand the TELiG E1500-L and the technology choices available for a dynamic, expandable network.

The post Stay Always-On, Always-Connected with Dual Modem, Dual SIM Industrial Router appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Extend range and reach with certified High-Power CBSD Category B devices for critical infrastructure expansion

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 17:58:34 +0000

Extend range and reach with certified High-Power CBSD Category B devices for critical infrastructure expansion.

By Scott Burk

Make sure your mission-critical business runs better with High-Power connectivity.

This article is ideal for Smart Grids, Smart Energy, Smart Industrial, Smart Cities, and Smart Transportation exploring private network deployments.

Why are certified High-Power devices beneficial for smarter networks?

INCREASED CAPACITY: As bandwidth consumption increases, HP CBSDs help Wide-scale Industrial IoT (IIoT) use cases avoid congestion by addressing device density and times of high utilization
HIGHER THROUGHPUT: HP CBSDs can operate at the highest possible modulation levels to allow the fastest data transmission rates for peak performance
EXTENDED COVERAGE: High-power signal transmissions work well with non-line-of-sight conditions to increase coverage. Reduce overall tower CAPEX requirements by eliminating the number of towers and infrastructure costs needed for area coverage.

High-Power CBSDs provide seamless connectivity and high bandwidth for mission-critical applications across large coverage areas.

Use Cases for High-Power CBSDs

SMART TRANSPORTATION

Add wireless capacity in dense–potentially harsh–outdoor settings such as transportation intersections for vehicle prioritization, wrong-way detection, and more to increase safety for the traveling public.

WIDE RURAL AREAS

Deploy CBRS in conjunction with the C-Band to significantly boost capacity in rural markets that span wide open areas. Mobile networks providing highly reliable, high-bandwidth connectivity help manage the large amounts of data necessary for safety-enhancing and productivity-increasing applications such as Mining.

SUPPORT FOR RENEWABLES

Rather than use insufficient Wi-Fi in industrial applications, enterprises can deploy their own private LTE networks by using HP CBSDs in conjunction with the CBRS spectrum to increase capacity. Wind and Solar farms, for instance, use private wireless solutions based on LTE and 5G, which can be expanded to support digital agricultural use cases.

Reduce infrastructure costs

High Power CBSDs require roughly half as many eNodeB's to cover the same distance
Utilizing a high-speed data connection over CBRS as opposed to trenching and deploying fiber optic
Complementing your fiber deployments with CBRS to ensure an “Always-On” connection to your field assets
Install an All-In-One outdoor antenna for a significant cost savings per utility pole

The Council Rock Solution

TELiG E1200 High-Power CBSD Category B Device

Is your organization planning for the grid of the future? We can help. Easily deploy the TELiG E1200 rugged outdoor CBSD/CBRS solution with Zero Touch Provisioning from either our cloud-based or on-premise ViSTA® Device Management platform. Get seamless connectivity and high bandwidth for mission-critical applications across large coverage areas with multiple carrier options.

Support for shared commercial use of the 3.5 GHz Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) for fixed wireless broadband services
Over-the-air CBSD Handshake Equipment Authorization Procedures for SAS
Power over Ethernet (PoE) for ease of installation
CAT B CPE-CBSD power up to 38 dBm EIRP
All in one IP67 enclosure and integrated high gain 15dBi MIMO directional antenna. Simplifies installation and turn-up.
Interoperable with all of the FCC-approved Spectrum Access System (SAS)

CONTACT US and be the first to receive sample unit(s) to test & evaluate this first-of-its-kind High Power CBSD designed & manufactured in the USA.

Council Rock is an award-winning Industrial IOT engineering firm with expertise in enterprise-grade wireless broadband and IoT solutions plus extensive experience supporting private network design and deployments. Learn more about how to use CBRS spectrum to deploy a private LTE network for mobility, extreme link-layer reliability, and predictable latency.

Subscribe to learn more about mission-critical high-power connectivity.

The post Extend range and reach with certified High-Power CBSD Category B devices for critical infrastructure expansion appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

CBRS for Intelligent Transportation

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 19:25:46 +0000

CBRS for Intelligent Transportation:

a new, scalable strategy that doesn’t require costly upgrades to legacy systems.

Modern ITS networks are coping with an increased need for critical data transmission as Big Data has created an influx of information from a wide variety of technologies. Applications processing this data into useful and critical information require the transmission of data between the site where the data is collected and the location where this data is processed and stored. Address the latest challenges in managing the flow of Big Data by adding CBRS to your Intelligent Transportation network stack.

Why Intelligent Transportation is eager to deploy its OWN Private CBRS LTE network:

Take full advantage of True Edge Computing by processing critical data without the need for fluctuating cellular connectivity
Avoid the security challenge of data flowing up to the cloud
Keep critical data secure, protected, and on-premise by controlling the environment
Alleviating severe network congestion through priority and preemption
Enable up to 10x wider coverage with enough power to penetrate inside structures
Easily expand your network by adding antennas to a building or tower
Eliminate recurring data costs for all equipment communicating over CBRS to Carriers by making high-bandwidth applications more affordable
CBRS Relies on LTE for communication–cellular technology does not require line-of-sight

Scalable, Reliable | Private CBRS LTE network for Intelligent Transportation

Enhance your Intelligent Transportation network incrementally. CBRS allows overlaying a private cellular network on top of an already existing fiber optic or cellular network. There is no need for Transportation Enterprises to dive head first into a complete overhaul of its infrastructure. Private cellular with CBRS can offer coverage in locations not serviced by traditional carrier networks, filling gaps in the network and providing critical redundancy in areas where uptime is paramount.

Deploy a single CBRS base station

Expand existing network reach and provide coverage for several miles in all directions by deploying a single base station. CBRS base stations are best mounted high on a tall tower or building. Unlike wireless systems, CBRS leverages LTE as its primary communication protocol and does not require line of sight to receive radios. It is critically important to get an accurate signal propagation model ahead of any deployment to understand what level of performance can be expected. Be sure to consult structural engineering and permitting specialists to help you with a successful deployment.

A single CBRS base station, within a 2- to 4-mile radius

Connect several Private CBRS LTE network base stations

Face new capacity demands and combine CBRS with other wireless communication technologies to connect several base stations and cover even larger areas. Take advantage of narrow E-Band channels with higher system gain, combined with rain-resilient microwave bands such as 11 or 13 GHz, and other wireless options to deploy much longer high-capacity paths.

Where fiber ends, CBRS continues

Fiber may be in use for dense urban areas but often doesn’t reach the surrounding suburbs. We still need to know what’s happening with traffic at suburban or rural intersections. A private CBRS LTE network provides the option to offer service effectively to rural and suburban markets without the time, expense, and inconvenience of tearing up roads to extend fiber. CBRS is also an excellent option for costly fiber network redundancy. Rather than install multiple, geographically diverse cable routes, create a CBRS safety net so that if something were to happen to the primary fiber cable, service to customers would not be interrupted.

Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average cost of laying fiber is about $27,000 per mile.

Adopt a cost-effective modular approach to important connectivity by connecting your Private Cellular CBRS deployment directly to existing fiber infrastructure. Make sure critical real-time traffic and travel information flows seamlessly from a wide variety of remote field devices and traffic control centers, back to the head end of the Traffic Management Center.

Affordable | Private CBRS LTE Network for Intelligent Transportation

Avoid exorbitant data costs with your own private CBRS LTE network

Modern Intelligent Transportation networks have high uplink data consumption rates in order to facilitate real-time communications between a wide variety of remote field devices and traffic control centers. With a private CBRS LTE network, stream high-resolution CCTV video from dozens of locations via a single base station with NO data costs. Stand up your own private LTE Network using CBRS and avoid strict data plans that are expensive and offer minimum flexibility.

Powerful | Private CBRS LTE Network for Intelligent Transportation

A private CBRS network enhances these forward-looking technologies for transportation safety and mobility by utilizing the powerful edge computing capabilities of the TELiG E1500

Intersection Health

Intersection Network Connectivity | Securely connect legacy traffic hardware
Intersection Analytics | Traffic analytics, including alerting for intersection anomalies or issues
Automatic Clock Sync | Keep corridors of lights coordinated by auto-syncing their internal clocks

Traffic Improvement

Signal Timing Updates | Upload your own signal timing plans or let ThruGreen’s AI make auto-adjustments
Virtual Detection | Give citizens more green lights by sharing vehicle location data with your lights
Intersection Data Relays | Make your grid smarter by sharing detection information between adjacent intersections

Vehicle Prioritization

Emergency Preemption
Transit Signal Priority (TSP)
Government Fleet Priority

Intersection Analytics

Live Cabinet Status Dashboard
Live Detection & Phase Monitoring
Battery and Power Systems Monitoring
Live Alert Notifications

CBRS and Wrong-Way Detection

Wrong-way detection systems use radar sensors to detect wrong-way vehicles. A traffic camera can recognize if a vehicle is going in the wrong direction, sends information wirelessly to the nearest traffic management center, and triggers a signal to avoid a collision. But, if the camera has to process by sending cellular data up to the cloud, what happens if there is a loss of network connectivity?

The latest data from AAA shows, on average, there were 500 people killed each year in wrong-way crashes from 2015-2018, for a total of more than 2,000 deaths in that span.

When wrong-way detection technology is done at the edge using a Private CBRS LTE network, the camera can process instantly without the risk of unstable connectivity. Wrong-way driver alert systems are 80% effective in stopping wrong-way drivers, resulting in safer mobility for the traveling public.

Get CBRS for Intelligent Transportation and deploy a private LTE network for mobility, extreme link-layer reliability, and predictable latency.

Council Rock is an award-winning Industrial IOT engineering firm developing creative solutions for Intelligent Transportation that keep us safe and secure. Learn more about how to use the CBRS spectrum to deploy a private LTE network for mobility, extreme link-layer reliability, and predictable latency.

The post CBRS for Intelligent Transportation appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Use Cases for True Edge Computing

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 19:06:22 +0000

True Edge Computing

3 Enterprise Mission Use Cases

The Bandwidth Limitation Problem and The Edge Computing Solutions

Edge Computing is a platform independent of the cloud. For this reason, and as more people use mobile computing and the number of cloud-reliant IoT devices rise, networking bandwidth is greatly strained. The volumes of data used for analytics, machine learning, and automation can result in expensive costs to transport data to central locations for processing.

Edge Computing addresses these issues by processing data closest to where it is created. Consequently, it dramatically reduces the need to transfer data back and forth.

Edge Computing offers five notable benefits that resolve the bandwidth limitation problem:

5G networks promise all these five benefits because they are built on and take advantage of edge computing architectures known as Multi-access Edge Compute (MEC). Enterprise mission-case use cases are being realized using edge computing, enabling improved business outcomes. Here, we examine the business cases for edge computing and its benefits for enterprises across various industries.

1. Edge Processing Applications for Intelligent Transportation Systems

Modern mobility requires the output of data in real-time to execute critical applications.Today’s Intelligent Transportation Systems can take full advantage of True Edge Computing by processing critical data without the need for fluctuating cellular connectivity or latency risks. The TELiG E1500, for instance, enables cities to seamlessly automate their traffic management plans, perform analytics, process probe data, and more, all at the edge on a single device.

Edge-Processed Analytics

Wrong-way driving systems provide one example of critical analytics that can be performed at the edge to reduce risks to the overall systems’ performance. Video data that must be processed by migrating to the cloud is exposed to failure if network connectivity is lost or latency issues delay preprogrammed response actions. When done at the edge, this same data is processed quickly without reliance on the network, improving uptime for this critical application.

Avoid and control exorbitant data costs

As device implementation expands so do our capabilities to dynamically respond to changing traffic conditions using this influx of additional data. As more and more data is moved over the network, data costs can be unpredictable and expensive, with single locations utilizing upwards of $1,000 in data costs each month to stream and process video and other data. Control unexpected data costs and add efficiency to budgetary planning by processing data at the edge, eliminating unexpected, unnecessary expenses

2. Edge Computing Benefits for Solar Energy

Solar energy and edge computing technologies are joined by the hip. Solar energy grids are power supply networks that rely on digital communications technologies to analyze and react to usage fluctuations. As the number of households and businesses that use solar energy rises, so does the demand for a more robust and field-based monitoring system.

Solar grid benefits from Edge Computing include:

Energy Saving

Edge Computing plays a critical role in supporting smart grid applications such as grid optimization and demand management. For example, an Edge Computing system can use IoT devices and sensors to help a solar energy grid manage energy across enterprises, factories, offices, plants, and neighborhoods.

An Edge Computing platform is capable of tracking and monitoring energy usage in real-time and visualizing it on dashboards. These features can help power distributors manage energy consumption and set up system policies to manage consumption and implement energy usage limits.

Battery Optimization

Solar grids rely on batteries to store the energy needed when the sun is not shining. Batteries are perhaps the costliest of all elements that make up solar power systems. In this regard, power suppliers rely on task-level technologies that optimize battery performance and extend battery life in a Task Offloading process.

Task offloading takes into account Depth-of-Discharge (DoD) constraints to optimize the amount of power each battery or battery rack stores and discharges. Edge Computing provides the processing efficiency and the analytics bandwidth required to optimize power batteries through task offloading and other methods in different locations.

Predictive Modeling

Predictive modeling plays a crucial role in the management of decentralized energy grid systems. Intense computing is required to predict models of uncontrolled variables such as solar power generated and energy consumed by groups of users over a specific period. Other variables that must be factored in predictive modeling include power generation trends and weather forecasting.

The processing capacity of Edge Computing makes it easier for power generators and distributors to accurately model power demand and supply based on these variables. Because Edge Computing is field-based, systems can be installed at the site of power generation and data processed and made available on the cloud.

3. Edge Computing Benefits of Hot Standby/Redundancy

Components such as audio/visual switches, servers, desktop computers, backup hard drives, and network printers must always be powered and on standby. The failover systems that ensure their reliable and secure operation similarly need to be robust and ready to take over in case of device or system failure.

Edge Computing is the ideal hot standby and redundancy platform to use in both small and large scale applications for five main reasons:

Offers instantaneous failover support
Capable of simultaneous transmission where required
Always On - Always connected to power and network
Ability to separate traffic to take advantage of LTE Band attributes
Promises Five 9's connection redundancy

Council Rock's Approach to Edge Computing

Council Rock is a leading engineering company focused on empowering Industrial IoT with a full suite of communication solutions. Their unique Edge Computing platform is designed with a focus on critical infrastructure applications with the latest technologies in hardware and software. Here is what makes their Edge Computing different and better:

Hardware:

Multi-Mode Communications
Precision GPS provides sub-millisecond resolution event timing
Future proof modular hardware design with ample memory, storage, and processing power built into every end-user device we sell
TELiG High-Power CBSD CAT B – first of its kind

Software:

Embedded edge-based computing
Open interface based Industrial IoT platform available in multiple deployment modules
Embedded DERMS interfaces IEEE2030.5 for renewables integration
Enhanced security
Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

Edge Computing is a game-changer

Edge Computing is a revolutionary paradigm that has already impacted many industries, including IoT, autonomous vehicles, smart grids, traffic management systems, and 5G, among others. However, the robustness and capabilities of Edge Computing platforms are largely dependent on the company that is developing and rolling them out.

Council Rock’s powerful Edge Computing is a game-changer. As an agile company, its system is built on a business-first approach and comes bundled with the right solutions to empower critical infrastructure across industries. Contact CouncilRock’s Sales Experts for more information or try before you buy.

Stay up to date by joining our list.

The post Use Cases for True Edge Computing appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

3 Goals Utilities Achieve with LTE Wireless Private Networks

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 18:56:56 +0000

3 Goals Utilities Achieve with LTE Private Wireless Networks

By Todd Owen

There is no doubt that the utility industry in North America is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. As various technologies on which they depend evolve, so do they. Internet of Things, smart power grids, cloud services, and private networks are on top of the list. These are the most transformative technologies bringing improved reliability, affordability, and convenience to utility provision today.

However, of all the transformative technologies, the most notable today are private networks. A dependable and secure wireless connectivity is critical for utilities. For this reason, utility companies have had private wireless networks for decades and strive to keep up with their improvements.

A lot can be said on the benefits of LTE private networks to utilities, but you would only need to know how these companies benefit from understanding why these networks are the future of utility services. Here are the top three goals that utility companies achieve by investing in LTE Private Networks.

1. Seamless IT/OT integration

Modern utility companies have to grapple with the problems of two worlds:

The first is the physical world with electromechanical machines, manufacturing systems, and industrial equipment. This world relies on and deals with operational technology (OT) systems.

The second is a newer IT world of servers and data storage, information transmissions, networks, and data processing devices.

The convergence of operational and information technologies (OT and IT) has led to the need for seamless integration in utilities. The handful of companies that have taken steps to integrate OT/IT has discovered the boon of efficiency that it brings.

LTE Private Networks help utilities streamline their internal processes and enhance data connectivity integration. FCC’s ruling to open up opportunities for advanced connectivity for utilities in 2020 opened the floodgates for broadband data platforms to develop and deploy modern and faster connectivity platforms. These platforms, such as LTE Private Networks, are presently driving digital transformations in the utility sector.

The benefits of LTE Private Networks to utilities extend beyond faster and more dependable data transfer and operational efficiencies. They also bring such benefits as:

Lower overall operational costs, thanks to more efficient processes.
They have improved customer satisfaction. New service innovation and faster response times also improve customer retention.
Better predictive maintenance systems go a long way to prevent costly asset failure and parts replacements.
Seamless connectivity has led to new business models within the utility sector.
The convergence of OT/IT has made it more practical and easier to manage, monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot operational and information systems datasets on the same platform in real-time.

LTE Private Networks have unlocked the full potential of data for utilities that have invested in them. Highly-connected and innovative utility companies keen on adapting to the fourth industrial revolution realize the role played by connectivity in creating new business models and meeting customer expectations.

2. Enhanced SCADA and End-to-End Encryption

LTE networks have brought mainstream technologies to the utility sector. As a standard connectivity technology adapted for commercial markets, it allows for backward and forward compatibility. As a result, private LTE networks offer greater benefits for utilities regardless of the nature of devices they use or their data transfer needs.

Different utility companies have different connectivity and data transfer needs. The services of natural gas, electricity, sewerage and dams companies are classified as ‘basic,’ and their communications are considered mission-critical. In their modernization efforts, utilities that rely on SCADA applications will find it easier to integrate their devices and protocols safely into LTE Private Wireless networks.

Data security concerns are on top of the reasons for businesses and organizations to invest in private networks. The right private wireless networks for utilities are those that offer fully encrypted end-to-end service. This will decrease the potential for any malicious attacks on the service in the first place.

Proper data and device security are essential for any utility service. The network should have proactive security measures such as encrypting and managing local credentials and securing sensitive data and their backups.

As cyber attackers become more sophisticated, network defenders create and deploy ever-more effective and powerful mechanisms to counter them. The ideal LTE Private Wireless Networks for utilities should feature tools to prevent, discover, forestall, and recover systems from security incidents.

Unsurprisingly, LTE is security-focused by design. It features robust and up to date security features classified into five distinctive layers:

User domain security
Application domain security
Network domain security
Network access security
Network visibility and security configuration

As evidenced in these security layers and features, security was a core tenet in creating LTE networks. It allows more granular control of a private network, making stand-alone security between connections practical. Utilities with an LTE Wireless Private Network have less to worry about security-wise compared to those relying on public LTE or other wireless network types.

3. Robust and Resilient Private Network

Today, utility companies should invest in LTE Private Wireless Networks because they are robust state-of-the-art communication technologies that empower other advancements, including smart grids, cloud services, and IoT applications.

LTE private wireless networks offer many benefits to utility companies, the most notable being support for multiple applications on one technology platform. In addition, being a global standard, LTE Private Networks are future-proof, offer an increased capacity, and are resilient in the face of the rapid evolution of every other associated technology or device.

Once rolled out, an LTE Wireless Private Network offers utilities substantial benefits, top among them:

Robust and isolated security: A secure private LTE wireless network features end-to-end encryption that will not allow unauthorized devices to connect to it.

Comprehensive edge-computing capacity: Utility companies rely on isolated IoT and special-purpose devices to deliver services. It is critical that these devices connect to a local secure network. LTE dramatically improves the performance and potential of these devices and applications.

Reliability and low-latency: An LTE Wireless Private Network can provide a low-latency high-speed connection that enables real-time analysis and monitoring of devices. The utility company can personalize such a network to be backward-compatible for their current devices and forward-compatible for future upgrades.

Need to Know More?

An LTE Wireless Private Network should be a strong consideration for any utility company concerned with its networks, security, and processes. This is the ideal network protocol for applications and systems that demand speed, reliability, and performance.

Would you like to learn more about LTE Wireless Private Networks and practical use cases in your utility sector? Contact CouncilRock private LTE wireless experts today to learn more.

The post 3 Goals Utilities Achieve with LTE Wireless Private Networks appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

The TELiG E1500 High-Power Rugged Outdoor CPE-CBSD is CBRS-Certified for Critical Communications

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 18:54:59 +0000

Rugged Outdoor Device is CBRS-Certified for Critical Communications

The TELiG E1500 High-Power CAT B CPE-CBSD

By Todd Owen

Rugged outdoor CPE-CBSD, CBRS-Certified Solution

COUNCIL ROCK Enterprises, Inc., a leading designer, and developer of industrial private network wireless technology announced CBRS certification for its high-power CPE-CBSD Industrial Services Aggregation Router. The TELiG E1500 is a CAT18 LTE device capable of speeds up to 1.2 Gbit/s in the downlink and 150 Mbps in the uplink. Combined with its high processing power, the TELiG E1500 can perform true edge computing with fiber-like speed connectivity.

“As utilities build out their networks, the ability to use a high powered CPE-CBSD router anywhere along the grid and DER increases their coverage and reduces their CAPEX design for having to add additional base stations for coverage,” says Scott Burk, Sales Director – Industrial Markets, “we see CBRS being used for both critical and non-critical communications”.

Our modular design allows for multiple configuration options, network diversity, and technology evolution so operators can modernize and scale their IoT with ultra-high reliability and security. The TELiG E1500 is currently available in North America through COUNCIL ROCK distribution partners. If you would like to learn more about our platform, please get in touch with our sales team.

Get a copy of the press release

STAY IN TOUCH

Join our mailing list for twice-monthly updates about industry news, products, and services utilizing the latest LTE technology.

With CBRS LTE networks promising a more efficient, reliable, and resilient future, Council Rock has created a starter package for out-of-the-box functionality

Council Rock is the perfect partner for Electric Utilities, Smart Cities, and other organizations seeking to benefit from the performance, reliability, agility, security, and cost benefits of private CBRS LTE networks. Our rugged outdoor CPE-CBSD, CBRS-Certified solution can help you take advantage of the benefits of private CBRS LTE networks.

The post The TELiG E1500 High-Power Rugged Outdoor CPE-CBSD is CBRS-Certified for Critical Communications appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Powerful edge computing platforms empowering the performance of modern electric utility grid

Lisa Courtney-Holmes — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:36:00 +0000

A new class of Distribution Automation (DA) gateways, based on a powerful edge computing platform, using Private LTE communications

Is empowering the performance and resilience of today’s modern electric utility grid

Author: David Chauncy

The new CBRS band with its 150MHz of spectrum has opened tremendous opportunities for the design and deployment of Intelligent Distribution Automation (DA) gateways. Gateway devices use powerful edge computing capabilities that allow the grid to sense and respond in real-time to localized changes and may also leverage low latency CBRS and Private LTE communications to report the local performance to private cloud analytics to optimize overall grid performance.

Sense and respond in real-time plus report local information to optimize grid performance

Modern utility grids leverage powerful computing capability and communications to improve reliability, resiliency, and stability. However, the computing capability and communications constitute the infrastructure while sense and respond software applications running at the edge of the network, are what make the grid intelligent.

Sense and respond software applications running at the edge leverage artificial intelligence to:

Balance load generation and demand (Automated Demand Response)
Manage distributed energy resources (DER)
Provide power factor correction (Volt VAR Optimization)
Improve reliability and stability (Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration)

Grid Input Voltage

The advanced grid control software applications use sensor data and advanced analytics to create a comprehensive view of current and historic grid performance. The analytics then predict what is expected to happen in a given situation and make decisions based on a set of established business rules resulting in:

Improved reliability and resilience through real-time grid control
Shortening response times
Automating disaster recovery

Predictive analytics and decision making must be made at the edge of the network

To create an accurate real-time view of grid performance, a large quantity of sensor data is gathered from grid management devices at the edge of the network, such as:

Remote transmission switches
Automatic re-closers
Capacitor bank controllers
Substation load information monitors
Remote fault indicators
Voltage regulators

However, bandwidth and capacity limitations in the FAN can limit the amount of sensor data that can be transferred to a central control location. Therefore, predictive analytics and decision-making must be made at the edge of the network. Specifically, the communication equipment directly connected to the grid management devices must have sufficient processing power and memory to host these grid control software applications.

A new class of telecommunications equipment is emerging for this purpose integrating communications, routing, security, and powerful computing capabilities into one device. In addition, it includes secure containers for end-user applications.

Control of distributed energy resources (DER)

One example of an edge computing application is the control of distributed energy resources (DER). The wide deployment of alternative energy generating equipment (primarily solar or wind) in private residences can create instability in the grid. This is a direct result of a lack of information the central generating station has about the performance of the DER. An edge computing application that encompasses advanced analytics and artificial intelligence can help to alleviate this problem commonly referred to as the “duck curve”.

Source: The original Duck Curve chart. Source: CAISO

The edge computing application can be programmed to:

Predict energy consumption for the home based on environmental conditions and historical data
Predict energy production based on the weather and historical trends
Formulate an estimate of whether there will be too much or too little energy produced from this DER
Maximize the use of local energy storage if available

The estimate of local production and consumption is then reported to the grid’s central generation control. The predictions reported from all of the DER devices can then be used to create a higher-level estimate of the amount of power that will need to be generated for the upcoming day. Further, the information about energy storage capabilities at the edge of the grid can also be used to initiate peak shaving algorithms in the DER.

A new class of multi-function communications devices includes powerful edge computing capabilities that significantly enhance grid efficiency and resilience

These devices integrate routing, security, protocol translations, along with ample memory and computing power. Utilities can then deploy advanced edge computing applications, based on artificial intelligence and predictive analytics that significantly enhance grid efficiency and resilience. Multi-function communications devices can also be used to simplify the integration of distributed energy resources and home-based energy storage. Learn more about how the innovation behind the TELiG E1500 is recognized for making an “IMPACT” on the Utility Industry.

At the forefront of championing stability in the grid of tomorrow

COUNCIL ROCK is committed to helping Utilities increase efficiency, reach green initiatives, and achieve enhanced energy storage. How do we do this? Through our range of proprietary edge technology, including the TELiG E1500 industrial routers. Versatile, dynamic, and innovative, the TELiG platform is highly scalable. You can apply technology to any production problem. Our engineers build custom software to meet specific needs. Now utilities can count on one reliable device to handle all systems and processes. Contact our experts to learn more about why the TELiG E1500 Industrial Edge Device’s peak load shaving, microgrid communications, backup power monitoring, and control are key to responsible energy consumption.

About the Author: David Chauncy, VP Products

David is responsible for all aspects of the design, development, and delivery of COUNCIL ROCK’s products. He is a technology innovator, holds numerous patents around wireless technology, and is a Distinguished Engineer from the Rochester Institute of Technology. LinkedIn

Joint projects promoting and contributing to sustainable, environmental, and socioeconomic development

Through its clean technology division, InverSOL, COUNCIL ROCK has established numerous joint projects with various communities. Learn more about how inverSOL donated a Lumen system–powered by the TELiG E1500 Industrial Edge Device–to a women’s community in Culebra, Puerto Rico to transform the entire island into a solar-powered municipality.

The post Powerful edge computing platforms empowering the performance of modern electric utility grid appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Industrial IoT Router TELiG is now FCC Certified for Anterix™ 900MHz

lacholmes — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 15:12:56 +0000

TELiG receives FCC Certification for Anterix 900MHz

The growing ecosystem of devices designed for networks using 900 MHz spectrum just got a great new addition

By Todd Owen

COUNCIL ROCK announces that its TELiG E1500 Industrial IoT Router has been certified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for operation on Anterix 900 MHz spectrum.

COUNCIL ROCK is a leading designer of industrial IoT solutions and is committed to offering the latest in LTE technology. The combination of advanced computing capabilities, multiple LTE network support, and a focus on security provide a unique offering in the market. Anterix is the largest holder of licensed spectrum in the 900 MHz band (896-901/935-940 MHz) throughout the contiguous United States, plus Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico.

“We are excited about our collaboration with Anterix and the opportunity to offer a licensed solution to Utilities across the United States”, said David Rodriguez, Council Rock’s Chief Executive Officer. “The leading-edge technology upon which the TELiG platform is designed, when used in conjunction with Anterix’s licensed broadband spectrum offering, can be a game-changer for Utilities. 900 MHz propagates exceedingly well and, when utilized with the latest COUNCIL ROCK technology, – affords Utilities the ability to build private networks to manage assets in a secure, multi-application environment. Our platform was designed to support DERM’s integration, Distribution Automation, AMI Backhaul, and Mobile Workforce environments.”

“The growing ecosystem of devices designed for networks using 900 MHz spectrum just got a great new addition with the FCC certification of COUNCIL ROCK‘s TELiG E1500 Industrial Edge Device,” said Carlos L’Abbate, Anterix’s Chief Technology Officer. “Anterix is excited to work with COUNCIL ROCK through our Anterix Active Ecosystem program to help utilities modernize their electric grids and transform the industry.”

COUNCIL ROCK is a Rochester, NY-based engineering company and is a leading designer of Industrial IoT solutions. The company also operates a renewables engineering business in Puerto Rico providing Smart Home Energy Systems to consumers and small businesses.

The post Industrial IoT Router TELiG is now FCC Certified for Anterix™ 900MHz appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

A Rugged and In-depth Look at our Rapid Deployment Cabinet

lacholmes — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 10:29:00 +0000

A Rugged In-depth Look

at the Rapid Deployment Cabinet

Integration, flexibility, and protection for your field communications assets.

Modern, deployable, wireless networking tech is capable of amazing things —if it can stand up to the environment in which it’s deployed. From electrical utilities to smart urban infrastructure, today’s wireless solutions power some of society’s most critical elements. While many of these networking solutions are built to take a beating and still deliver, it pays to have a rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure that can withstand the most extreme environmental conditions. The tasks entrusted to your applications are essential; make sure to protect your investment with a rapid deployment cabinet that’s built to last.

It Takes a Beating: the Rugged Outdoor Telecommunications Enclosure

A rapid deployment cabinet, also known as a rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure, is a durable, custom-made housing used to protect critical telecommunications, electrical and mechanical components from the elements. Telecommunications infrastructure is necessary for a wide range of critical functions including:

Utilities
Traffic lights
Oil and Gas Pipelines, wellheads
Wireless communications
Billboards and public signage
Emergency backup power

This list is only a cross-section. There are hundreds of unique mission critical communications applications that require protection from the harshest of elements. A rugged outdoor enclosure is designed to integrate these communications equipment and to shield them from the environment such as:

Rain
Snow
Ice
Flooding
Wind
Humidity
Dust and particulate
Temperature extremes

A custom-made rapid deployment cabinet (RDC) is capable of withstanding the most challenging climates on earth while ensuring that the crucial elements within remain safe and functioning seamlessly.

Rugged Exterior, Versatile Interior: Product Specifications

The rapid deployment cabinet gets its name from the ease of its installation. The rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure comes equipped with a versatile mounting kit that allows for pole or wall mounting. Custom mounting options are also available depending on the end user’s application and overall project needs. The ease of installation makes a rugged telecommunications enclosure extremely scalable, adapting easily to the future growth of your infrastructure.

While they come in a near-infinite amount of configurations, all base cabinets feature DIN rails for easy and versatile component mounting. Additionally, each unit is equipped with a battery management system capable of optimizing the life of your battery backup system. The battery management system enables seamless handoff in the case of a critical power failure and battery health information can be remote monitored at the end user’s discretion. This information will allow the end user to take a preventive battery maintenance approach.

The rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure comes with a full complement of high-quality electrical specs to ensure compatibility with most of the rigorous applications. The RDC features:

90-264VAC, 47 – 63Hz input power
480W @48 or 24 VDC standard output power
960W @48VDC optional output power
240W/10A @24VDC secondary output power
576 Wh capacity back up power
Sealed lead acid battery bank
Optional lithium battery bank

In terms of durability, the rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure lives up to its name. It can keep internal components fully operable in any type of climate with a temperature range of -40°C to +55°C and has an ingress protection rating of IP66, meaning the enclosure is completely impermeable to dust and pressurized water.

The rugged outdoor housing also comes with a number of fail-safe protections including:

Electrical overload
Short circuit
Thermal protection
Input undervoltage lockout
Output overvoltage

The battery backup management system features a hitless transition, as well as overcurrent, deep discharge, and reverse polarity protections.

The rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure also comes equipped with numerous wireless communication features to help you monitor the critical components housed within. Each unit features a 5dBi Multi-band MIMO antenna for bands 694- 960 MHz, 1710-2170 MHz, and 3300-3800 MHz, as well as a measuring and reporting system to help you keep track of your application’s performance. When paired with the TELiG E1500, the monitoring system is capable of reporting:

Battery voltage level
Load current consumption
Enclosure temperature
Battery charging current
Battery Health information

Additionally, these cabinets are fitted with a door tamper switch that features messaging alerts.

Custom-built enclosures are designed to meet most of your applications requirements, with minimal changes required which reduces the lead time.

The RDC comes in two standard sizes, each crafted from your choice of aluminum, carbon steel, or fiberglass. Basic sizing options include:

26 in. x 16 in. x 10 in
16 in. x 16 in. x 10 in
Custom-built enclosures specifically designed for your application

Outside the (Rugged) Box: Unique Applications

While RDC use is synonymous with electrical utilities like those listed above, we are living in an increasingly complex world powered in great part by the IoT, or internet of things. Given the rapid proliferation of new technologies, there’s an ever-expanding list of possible applications. Even if your company doesn’t explicitly deal in traditional applications like those listed above, you might still benefit from a rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosure. It pays to think outside the box, so to speak.

RDCs have found a home protecting all manner of automated sensors, from those that control traffic patterns, to those that power security systems. Automated sensors work so that people don’t have to, so they must be adequately protected from their environment.

Applications that are deployed in marine environments face some of the most consistently challenging environmental conditions on earth. Between rapidly-forming storms, constant moisture, and corrosive salt, rugged enclosures are perfectly suited for the demands of maritime applications.

We are experiencing a significant boom in the alternative energy sector. New technology built to harness renewable energy comes to market all the time. Renewable energy requires electrical infrastructure to capture its resource, infrastructure that is nakedly exposed to the elements. Rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosures are helping to move the renewable energy industry forward.

Finally, rugged enclosures help provide protection for valuable, sensitive equipment used by scientists for research purposes. By its very nature, scientific discovery explores hazardous environments and situations in an attempt to better understand them. For advancement to be possible, sensitive scientific instruments must be safe and secure.

Our goal is to safely and reliably deliver electricity to millions of our customers. With the help of Council Rock, we successfully built and deployed over a thousand telecommunications enclosures with the panel layout and design needed to keep our components cool & dry in summer and warm in winter.
⇒ Download Case Study

STAY UP TO DATE

Join our mailing list for twice-monthly updates about industry news, products, and services utilizing the latest LTE technology.

Rugged Adaptability With CBRS Integration

Rugged outdoor telecommunications enclosures help to ensure the continued utility of sensitive electrical and mechanical equipment in the harshest of environments and climates. Council Rock now offers a CBRS starter kit which combines the durability of our RDC units with the cutting edge wireless communication of TELiG E1500 and Airspeed 1030 so you can ensure the integrity of your on-site applications while maintaining the room to grow and scale as future opportunity presents itself. For more information on our CBRS solutions please contact us at (800) 866-0347.

Rapid Deployment Cabinet Product Overview

Learn more about how the Rapid Deployment Cabinet provides power, battery backup, and full electrical protection.

Assembly of the Rapid Deployment Cabinet

The Rapid Deployment Cabinet is an outdoor enclosure for your network communication device, providing power, battery backup, and full electrical protection. Easily install your device and remote provision, monitor, and manage your network. Standard design or customize to your unique specifications. See how we build them.

Todd Owen, VP Sales

Responsible for all aspects of sales, marketing, customer engagement, and service. Todd has several decades in industrial automation. Contact Todd directly for pricing.

Todd Owen, VP Sales

Responsible for all aspects of sales, marketing, customer engagement, and service. Todd has several decades in industrial automation. Contact Todd directly for pricing.

The post A Rugged and In-depth Look at our Rapid Deployment Cabinet appeared first on Council Rock Enterprises, Inc..

Smart Grid Solutions Archives - Council Rock Enterprises, Inc.

Protected: RF Coverage Private LTE Performance Pilot

Stay Always-On, Always-Connected with Dual Modem, Dual SIM Industrial Router

Stay Always-On, Always-Connected

This article provides a brief overview about these Dual Modem Technology features:

Wireless-to-Wireless Failover and WAN redundancy

Wireless-to-Wireless Failover

WAN Redundancy

Increased Bandwidth

eSIM More Secure For Private Wireless

Auto Carrier Selection

INFOGRAPHIC

Don't worry about stranded assets or disruptions in the field.

Contact Council Rock

Extend range and reach with certified High-Power CBSD Category B devices for critical infrastructure expansion

Extend range and reach with certified High-Power CBSD Category B devices for critical infrastructure expansion.

Make sure your mission-critical business runs better with High-Power connectivity.

Why are certified High-Power devices beneficial for smarter networks?

High-Power CBSDs provide seamless connectivity and high bandwidth for mission-critical applications across large coverage areas.

Use Cases for High-Power CBSDs

Subscribe to learn more about mission-critical high-power connectivity.

CBRS for Intelligent Transportation

CBRS for Intelligent Transportation:

Why Intelligent Transportation is eager to deploy its OWN Private CBRS LTE network:

Scalable, Reliable | Private CBRS LTE network for Intelligent Transportation

Deploy a single CBRS base station

​​A single CBRS base station, within a 2- to 4-mile radius

Connect several Private CBRS LTE network base stations

Where fiber ends, CBRS continues

Affordable | Private CBRS LTE Network for Intelligent Transportation

Avoid exorbitant data costs with your own private CBRS LTE network

Powerful | Private CBRS LTE Network for Intelligent Transportation

A private CBRS network enhances these forward-looking technologies for transportation safety and mobility by utilizing the powerful edge computing capabilities of the TELiG E1500

Intersection Health

Traffic Improvement

Vehicle Prioritization

Intersection Analytics

CBRS and Wrong-Way Detection

Use Cases for True Edge Computing

True Edge Computing

The Bandwidth Limitation Problem and The Edge Computing Solutions

1. Edge Processing Applications for Intelligent Transportation Systems

Edge-Processed Analytics

Avoid and control exorbitant data costs

2. Edge Computing Benefits for Solar Energy

Solar grid benefits from Edge Computing include:

Energy Saving​

Battery Optimization

Predictive Modeling​

3. Edge Computing Benefits of Hot Standby/Redundancy

Council Rock's Approach to Edge Computing

Hardware:

Software:

Edge Computing is a game-changer

Stay up to date by joining our list.

3 Goals Utilities Achieve with LTE Wireless Private Networks

3 Goals Utilities Achieve with LTE Private Wireless Networks

1. Seamless IT/OT integration

2. Enhanced SCADA and End-to-End Encryption

3. Robust and Resilient Private Network

The TELiG E1500 High-Power Rugged Outdoor CPE-CBSD is CBRS-Certified for Critical Communications

Rugged Outdoor Device is CBRS-Certified for Critical Communications

Rugged outdoor CPE-CBSD, CBRS-Certified Solution

Get a copy of the press release

STAY IN TOUCH

Join our mailing list for twice-monthly updates about industry news, products, and services utilizing the latest LTE technology.​

Powerful edge computing platforms empowering the performance of modern electric utility grid

A new class of Distribution Automation (DA) gateways, based on a powerful edge computing platform, using Private LTE communications

Sense and respond in real-time plus report local information to optimize grid performance

Sense and respond software applications running at the edge leverage artificial intelligence to:

Grid Input Voltage

Predictive analytics and decision making must be made at the edge of the network

Control of distributed energy resources (DER)

The edge computing application can be programmed to:

A new class of multi-function communications devices includes powerful edge computing capabilities that significantly enhance grid efficiency and resilience

At the forefront of championing stability in the grid of tomorrow

About the Author: David Chauncy, VP Products

Joint projects promoting and contributing to sustainable, environmental, and socioeconomic development

Industrial IoT Router TELiG is now FCC Certified for Anterix™ 900MHz

TELiG receives FCC Certification for Anterix 900MHz

A single CBRS base station, within a 2- to 4-mile radius

Energy Saving

Predictive Modeling

Join our mailing list for twice-monthly updates about industry news, products, and services utilizing the latest LTE technology.

Join our mailing list for twice-monthly updates about industry news, products, and services utilizing the latest LTE technology.