MdN4G
MdN4G is a “secure network in a box” providing 4G cellular communication rates of up to 150/50Mbps for 32 users within a 2km coverage area.
Cohort plc company SEA is showcasing an enhanced secure voice and data communications system for remote applications such as offshore ships and platforms at Offshore Europe 17.
SEA’s 4G Man-Portable Mobile Data Node (MDN4G), combined with the L3 TRL Iguana network security device, is a rugged-ized Long Term Evolution (LTE) small cell “network-in-a-box” that provides the connectivity needed to operate smart phone or tablet based solutions where regular networks are unavailable or unreliable.
A suitable backhaul link (eg satellite or network) permits the system to link to standard onshore mobile networks and communications. If used with suitable ATEX zoned handsets, the system can be used throughout offshore installations and can be used in any location where there is a requirement for a secure network for voice, video, image or data sharing.
A new regulation recently introduced by Ofcom allows this product to be used with 3G and 4G devices offshore, with a connection back to shore, without the need for a wireless telegraphy licence.
Offshore oil and gas installations are categorized as part of UK critical national infrastructure (CNI), which also need robust defense against cyber attacks. The L3 TRM Iguana network security device provides advanced government grade hardware encryption. Integrated with the MdN, SEA can provide a high grade secure point to point network, essential for use in offshore oil and gas voice and data communications.
MdN4G is simple to deploy, providing a “Switch on and Go” capability, and is compatible with a wide range of commercial off-the-shelf cellular devices. It is a low Size Weight and Power (SWaP) design that is simple to operate, which allows rapid deployment at low cost when compared with alternative critical communication solutions.
Features
•4G connectivity
•Low power
•Light weight
•Small footprint
•Modular
•Flexible Backhaul
•Basic setup 2km coverage
•Enhanced setup >10km coverage
•Integrated meshing
•Resilient local communications
•Operational in 2 minutes
SEA’s MdN4G is a “secure network in a box”. MdN4G offers not only a secure network but is rapidly deployable and is activated and operational in 2 minutes with its “switch and go” functionality.
MdN4G operates as a standalone network for local communications or with its flexible backhaul can connect to wider area networks via wired, wireless or satellite links for global connectivity. Its integrated meshing capability also makes it easy to forward wider network access to all meshed nodes and devices in the network.
MdN4G is a ruggedized system for challenging, edge of network or infrastructure-denied environments. Its low power requirements means MdN4G can be powered from a variety of sources, including renewable energy power supplies. It is light weight with a small footprint and so is extremely portable to ensure rapid deployment in any location or situation.
Global coverage, exceptional portability and ease of use of both MdN4G and its small, light weight satellite terminals makes it possible for MdN4G to exploit the full operational potential of mobile devices.
Technical Specifications
•3GPP release 9/10 feature set
•2X2 MIMO
•2 x 1W transmit power
•Max 32 concurrent users
•Supports all standard EARFCNs up to 3.8GHz
•TDD or FDD up to 20MHz BW
•Built in GPS
•1Gb ethernet backhaul port
•IP67 rated
•Supply voltage 9-36 VDC
•Dimensions 194mm x 188mm x 49mm
•Optional MiniPCIe LTE modem for meshing or concurrent network scan
•Integrated mounting points for simple platform fit
•Full featured web interface for local or remote administration and configuration
Benefits
•Secure private access
•Uninterrupted coverage
•Expandable network
•Global connectivity
•Rapidly deployable
•Highly portable and truly mobile
MdN4G offers secure, uninterrupted, rapidly deployed 4G cellular communications for:
•Defence
•Policing & Emergency Services
•Oil & Gas
•Disaster Relief
Steve Hill, managing director of SEA commented: “MDN4G is already attracting considerable interest from sectors such as the emergency services and the military. It is also ideally suited to the offshore sector where users need high data rate communications with assured connectivity.”