Driving change through innovation – PMR’s role in revolutionising transportation communications

Founded in 1979, RS Hill & Sons has evolved into a multifaceted business entity with interests ranging from Farming to Mobile Homes. However, it’s RS Hill Radio Communications that notably distinguishes itself. Prominent as the leading DMR tier three network in today’s market; RS Hill’s commitment to innovation and excellence in communication technology perfectly aligns with PMR.

THE CHALLENGES

RS Hill’s Radio Communications initially operated with a basic analogue system, catering to clients with fundamental call stack capabilities. Expanding its services, they secured contracts with some of the major public transport groups, including First Group.

When RS Hill secured a contract with First Bus in 2017 for a DMR tier three network, it marked a significant milestone in their trajectory. However, it was not without its challenges. The required frequency crucial for the implementation of the network was unavailable within the existing range, presenting an obstacle that would only be overcome through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships.

THE SOLUTION

Collaboration with PMR and Tait Radio

Facing the frequency challenge, RS Hill sought collaboration with Tait Radio and PMR to develop a customised solution. Tait Radio were the only manufacturer willing to undertake the task, and collaborated with RS Hill and PMR to build the network from scratch.

Technical excellence with user-friendly interface

PMR adapted its SafetyNet solution to replicate the functionality of the previous BCX Vigilant system, ensuring a smooth transition for users.

Despite the technical superiority of the new system, PMR ensured that it closely resembled the old system’s interface to facilitate ease of use for drivers and operators during the changeover. This strategic decision minimised training requirements and operational disruptions.

THE RESULT

Deployment and expansion

PMR’s collaboration with Tait and RS Hill’s Communications resulted in the successful deployment of six regional linked sites offering coverage through southern and central England, resilient DMR mobile voice and data capabilities, superb SafetyNet PC despatch and a Mobile POC App (Tait radio, Team PTT). This marks a significant milestone in the project’s journey. The continuous evolution of the system reflects RS Hill’s commitment to innovation and excellence in meeting the evolving needs of its clients, with PMR playing a crucial role in enabling this growth.

Barry Turner, RS Hills’ Operations Manager, praised the invaluable contribution of PMR and Tait Radio to the project’s success.

“The system is continuously evolving and getting bigger. RS Hill and Sons could not have done that without PMR and Tait’s working relationship, which is solid and sound. It’s a great project to work on.”

CONCLUSION

PMR products deployed clear and safety critical communications for the 100km2 London Array windfarm, located twelve miles from the Kent coast. Providing reliable communications is pivotal in facilitating the seamless interaction of the many personnel as they move around the vicinity.

We were tasked with facilitating three pivotal elements:

• Reachability

• Response

• Robustness

THE CHALLENGES

Turbine towers are constructed of steel and therefore create an almost impenetrable Faraday cage which prevents radio signals from outside transmitting within the tower structure. Once inside the turbine, technicians lose the ability to communicate.

THE SOLUTION

To ensure radio coverage both inside and outside the turbine towers we had to develop a system that provided a dedicated radio channel optimised to work inside each turbine and link it to the main site-wide TETRA system using a Gateway Repeater.

When a radio user moves in the tower, a location beacon is detected which automatically switches the radio to the turbine channel. When they leave and enter a vessel, the radio detects another beacon which switches it back to the main Tetra network.

THE RESULT

We created seamless communications between the operational teams and across a site; both outside and inside the tower. Additionally, they can now identify who is inside the tower or on a vessel by tracking the radio as the user enters or exits the tower.

CONCLUSION

PMR Products provides for critical communications at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff.

CLIENT

The 74 500 capacity Principality Stadium is the national stadium of Wales. Located in Cardiff, it is the home of the Wales national rugby union team but is also used for many other events including football matches and music concerts.

BACKGROUND

Safety is critical at the stadium, which required a robust communication solution to replace the existing analogue two-way radio system.

SOLUTION