Strata Worldwide recently unveiled DigitalBRIDGE Plus+, a new solution that the company said will improve existing leaky feeder systems by digitizing the network and expanding connectivity capacity in the mining and tunneling industries. The solution, produced through an established partnership with Australian-based RFI Technology Solutions, enables mines to upgrade their existing leaky feeder systems to achieve digital high-speed Ethernet capabilities without losing very high frequency voice communications.
Underground mines require reliable 24/7 communication systems throughout the infrastructure to ensure smooth operations and optimized safety. Leaky feeder systems are an important part of keeping two-way communication channels available at all times.
DigitalBRIDGE Plus+ uses bidirectional line amplifiers with Ethernet so mines can interface with their existing fiber networks to inject high-speed Ethernet data to their leaky feeder network. DigitalBRIDGE Quadports can then be placed anywhere along the cable, with each providing four power-over-Ethernet digital ports for the attachment and powering of Ethernet devices, according to the companies.
“The solution will change the way mines use leaky feeder systems,” said Mike Berube, CEO at Strata Worldwide. “With the use of a leaky feeder cable, along with the high-quality line amplifiers, DigitalBRIDGE Plus+ delivers DC power, high-speed digital data and a full spectrum of VHF radio frequencies all over a single coaxial cable.”
