SEA demos new connectivity tech
MdN4G is a lightweight (1.5kg) ruggedised Long-Term Evolution (LTE) small cell 'network-in-a-box'.
It operates like a WiFi hotspot but instead gives users a private Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE) enabled 4G network with a range of up to 5km. This provides a secure, resilient network to operate smart phone or tablet based solutions without compromise when regular networks are unavailable or unreliable.
The MdN4G system was recently trialled in several disaster recovery scenarios that highlighted the impressive flexibility of the innovative technology which SEA has developed in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space.
MdN4G can be used in any location where you need a secure network for voice, video, image or data sharing and the units can be linked together to increase coverage. The technology operates as a completely standalone 4G network that delivers feature-rich services for resilient local communications. Devices can also be connected to wider area networks via wired, wireless or satellite links for global connectivity.
In recent years, floods and storm damage in the UK have exposed the vulnerability of communications technologies in severe weather conditions. MdN4G offers a new solution that can be rapidly deployed to solve network resilience problems in a wide variety of scenarios.
Steve Hill, managing director of SEA commented: “We are very excited about the latest VoLTE version of our Mobile Data Node, the MdN4G. With its ability to support Mission Critical voice it is an obvious solution for disaster relief and first responder communications but we also see lots of future applications for the system.
"These could include resilience and coverage extension as a part of the next generation communication networks for the emergency services (police, fire and rescue, and ambulance). But also with its incredibly small size, low power, long range and ability to mesh it is extremely viable as a 4G comms payload for high altitude platforms. Innovative technologies like MdN4G will transform secure network connectivity in scenarios that were previously impossible to cover cost effectively.”
