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Regal Electro Endurogel battery series

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The power-charge Endurogel series is said to deliver a full life at 30°C. It includes a Catalyst life extender in the head space of the Endurox-Cel (AGM) and Endurogel VRLA batteries resulting in longer operational life while low maintenance and inherent safety features are retained.

In normal operation, hydrogen and oxygen gases build up in the head space of a cell (between the plates and the cap). Oxygen reacts with the plates while hydrogen, which has the smaller molecule, is released out of the battery. Effectively this water loss in time causes ‘dry out’ and is accelerated at higher temperatures.

The Catalyst facilitates the recombination of hydrogen and oxygen and returns them to the cell as water. The benefits of this include lower float current requirements, less oxidation, lower thermal generation and longer life.

Microwaves for WAN networking

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Microwaves have become part of our everyday life and are in wide use from ovens to message carrying. This article takes a broad look at these useful waves and how they can be used for WAN networking.

Microwaves represent a small segment of the electromagnetic spectrum generally considered to cover the frequency range of 1 to 30 GHz. The equivalent wavelength range is 300 to 10 mm. The derivation of the term microwave may be lost in the mists of time but probably had its origin in the early days of radio when wavelengths of some tens of millimetres were considered ‘micro’ with respect to the wavelengths of metres to hundreds of metres then used. In more recent years, microwave technology has been extended to higher frequencies, up to 300 GHz (1 mm) where it is designated as millimetre wave.

When considering other frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum, microwaves approximately occupy the middle region of the spectrum. Typically the electromagnetic spectrum below the microwave region is occupied by TV and FM broadcasters and various UHF (ultrahigh frequency) satellite and communication systems. The electromagnetic spectrum above the microwave region is used for infrared systems and then gradually merges into the visible light region.

Choosing the right networking technology to improve productivity and reduce operational expenses has become more important for many organisations. The benefits microwave technology offers organisations requiring broadband WAN networks are: reliability, flexibility, cost-effective bandwidth and rapid deployment. Investing in microwave technology offers users the opportunity to control their networks, a luxury not extended to users of its wired counterpart.

As microwave frequencies are quite high, a large amount of information can be attached (modulated) onto the microwave carrier. Modulation techniques vary but in general there is a trade-off between how much information can be packed into a given bandwidth and the susceptibility of the information to noise and interference. A data rate of 100 Mbps can be compressed into a bandwidth of 28 MHz. A 20 GHz spectrum allocation could easily accommodate 50 channels whereas at 500 MHz one or two such channels would occupy far too much relative bandwidth to be acceptable. Consequently, microwaves are suitable for communication systems requiring moderate to large data rates, 2-100 Mbps. For data rates lower, <1 Mbps, lower frequency systems generally prove more cost-effective whereas for higher data rates, >200 Mbps, optical networks are clearly preferred.

The limited spectrum available below the microwave segment makes lower frequencies more suitable for low data rate communications and the antenna size constraints strongly favour non-directive or point-to-multipoint communications. The microwave sector, on the other hand, has the flexibility of point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and mobile communications with data rates from around 100 Kbps to 100 Mbps, depending on the application. With the exception of some very short-range applications, optical systems invariably use guided (ie, optical fibre) wave technology and so are particularly suitable for high-capacity point-to-point communications.

Apart from atmospheric absorption peaks around 50-60 GHz, microwaves travel through the atmosphere almost as well as through free space. Smog, cloud and mist have very little effect, unlike infrared signals that can be completely absorbed under these conditions. This is a key advantage of ‘free space’ microwave systems compared to higher frequency infrared and optical ones. Rain and atmospheric effects associated with ‘path deflection’ or ‘ray bending’ may be significant factors over long paths (~>10 km) and/or at higher frequencies (>10 GHz) but these effects can be properly accounted for in the design of a microwave system.

EMClarity microwave links have been designed for distances of 500 m, 2 km, 5 km, 15 km, 25 km, 35 km and 50 km using a range of antennas that include planar array, and 600 mm, 1200 mm and 1800 mm parabolic antennas.

It is well known that microwave energy interacts with the human body with the physiological effects ranging from sensible heating through to increased cancer risks. Based on worldwide convention, Australian health authorities recommend a maximum exposure level of 10 mW/cm². Since the equipment provided by EMClarity relies more on receiver sensitivity than on transmitter power to meet performance objectives, this recommended safety level may only be exceeded when very close to and directly in front of a typical antenna. Since these are mounted on towers and/or on top of buildings, the microwave energy presents no danger to the public.

Microwave systems are inherently secure by virtue of the directive nature of the beam (in point-to-point systems), the typically high level modulation and the low power levels used. If high security is essential then encryption can be added with only a minimal impact on the overall data rate.

As a wireless communication method microwave may be subjected to some interference from its surrounding environment. This, however, can be minimised through the design of hardware and network design and implementation.

Often when microwave performance is impeded, it is due to the terrain or atmospheric effects. The operation of a microwave communication system is fundamentally dependent on a direct ‘line of site’ from the source to destination. A direct line of site can be interpreted as a transmission path with no obstructions, buildings, trees or other obstacles that could potentially interfere with the microwave transmission.

If no direct line of site is possible from the source to destination then the microwave link cannot be reliably established between the two endpoints. However, the propagation path can be broken into smaller more direct paths to produce a virtual line of site from the source to destination. This process uses repeaters that are microwave relays for receiving and transmitting signals along a propagation path. The use of repeaters makes it possible to transmit data from A-B where no direct line of site is possible by introducing steps A-C-D-...-B, where each smaller step has a direct line of site to the next step.

Microwave wavelengths are about the same size as everyday objects. This has implications both for how microwave circuits are constructed and how microwave energy interacts with matter. For example, it is possible to make highly directive antennas of a reasonable size enabling microwave beams to be pointed precisely and to operate over very long distances. The beam shaping characteristics of microwave antennas offer one of the key advantages of microwave communications systems compared to lower frequency systems.

Finally, the background ‘noise’ from natural sources has a distinct minimum around microwave frequencies. This microwave background radiation is at a very low level and the peak in the energy occurs at around 280 GHz, thus the low background noise means that microwave receivers can be made very sensitive and will work well with very long signal levels. Consequently, this reduces the need to use high-power transmitters and highly reliable microwave systems can operate over distances of 20 km, say, with transmit power levels less than 1 W.

With proper design, microwave systems offer bit error rates (BER) and overall reliability approaching that of optical networks but in a much more flexible format. Whether a particular communication application is best served with VHF/UHF, microwave or optical, the decision depends on an interactive mix of factors such as data rates required, system configuration (eg, point-to-point, point-to-multipoint), regulatory constraints, existing infrastructure, availability and cost of sites, geography and so on. In most modern networks, some combination of all three technologies is typically used and EMClarity has configured its microwave systems to offer options for integration into existing WAN networks.

ARCIA NSW Industry Dinner

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Industry leaders from across the country came together in Sydney for their first networking event in 2012. Both members and non-members were invited to ARCIA’s NSW Industry Dinner and Networking Event, which was held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre on 9 February.

As attendees enjoyed a three-course meal overlooking Darling Harbour, Christian Kelly welcomed the diners and talked about making the regional dinners into annual events, so radio professionals can keep in touch, update each other on latest product innovations and greet newcomers into the radio family.

Neale Joseph, from Motorola Solutions, spoke about the future of the radio communications sector and how it compares to other industries, including cosmetics, that need to evolve to stay current in today’s fast-paced world. He mentioned that the industry is suffering an “image crisis” and needs to encourage young people to get into the field to keep it alive. He also commented that there are three main components that need to be strongly looked at: product innovation, service innovation and spectrum requirements.

Chris Kelly also talked about encouraging students into the field and announced that four scholarships will be awarded to exceptional apprentices and workers per year. A Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarship was awarded on the night to James Duncan.

Lindsay Nolland from Kenwood was generous enough to award an audio system as a lucky door prize.

Future ARCIA regional industry dinners will be held in Brisbane in April, Perth in June and Adelaide in September. The Annual Industry Gala Dinner will be held in Melbourne in December.

For more information, please visit the ARCIA website.

ZCG Scalar CM162AIS marine deck-mount antenna

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The ZCG Scalar CM162AIS marine deck-mount antenna is factory-tuned for the automatic identification system (AIS) that operates in the VHF frequency range of 161.9 to 162.1 MHz.

A single 1.4 m white fibreglass radome antenna delivers 2.1 dBi gain while 300 mm of white RG58 low loss cable that exits from the ferrule is fitted with an n-type male connector, allowing for easy installation.

The marine AIS VHF radio broadcast system transfers packet data via a VHF data link, enabling AIS-equipped vessels to connect with shore-based stations and send and receive identification information. This can be displayed on an electronic chart, computer display or compatible radar - improving situational awareness and assisting in collision avoidance. It can also be used to aid navigation by giving location information as well as providing information on buoys and lights.

The AIS Class A is mandatory for vessels over 300 gross tonnage while the Class B has been developed for work- and pleasure-craft and has limited functionality.

The antenna is tuned to operate both with both Class A and B systems and there are two models to choose from, depending on the vessel’s requirements.

The CM162AIS is the standard model with a white delrin ferrule and the MM1 folding deck mount is constructed from toughened plastic. The base folds down in two directions and also swivels in the opposite plane by loosening the stainless steel pivot bolt. This allows the antenna to be mounted in a variety of positions on any flat surface and at any angle.

The CM162AIS-SS is said to have greater durability and strength with a chromed brass ferrule and an MM2 stainless folding desk mount.

MiMOMax UHF antenna combiners

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

MiMOMax has released a range of compact wide-band, rugged, T-style antenna combiners to its wireless linking solutions. The UHF antenna combiner enables compact high-gain antenna solutions to be built without the use of bulky frequency selective phasing harnesses.

The combiners are designed specifically with MiMOMax antennas in mind; however, they can also be used to combine antennas from any other manufacturer.

The initial antenna combiner covers 390-500 MHz frequency range and combines two 50 Ω antenna feeds. With a continuous power rating of 100 W (average) and a return loss of greater than 20 dB and forward loss of less than 0.1 dB, the antenna combiner has a good impedance match over the whole band, thereby ensuring optimum transmitter and receiver performance. With amplitude balance better than 0.1 dB and phase balance less than 3˚, the antenna combiner provides a suitable antenna combining solution.

The antenna combiner allows multiple antennas to work with medium diameter cables fitted with type N connectors. It is waterproof, provided the associated connectors and cables are adequately sealed.

Narda Safety Test Solutions PMM 9180 EMI receiver unit

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Narda Safety Test Solutions has released the EMI receiver unit PMM 9180 which extends the frequency range of the digital EMI receiver PMM 9010 up to 18 GHz for measurements of EMC emissions in full compliance to CISPR and MIL-STD standards.

The receiver features modularity that allows the main unit (10 Hz - 30 MHz) to be extended in frequency to 3 GHz (PMM 9030), 6 GHz (PMM9060) and to 18 GHz with the recently released model PMM 9180 by simply adding one of these external modules.

All these modules are EMI receivers, fully compliant to CISPR and MIL-STD standards. Small-sized and lightweight, these modules can be easily installed inside the anechoic or shielded chamber, directly connected to the measuring antenna and fixed to the mast by means of an adapter. The connection with the main unit PMM 9010 - which remains in the instruments room - is made by high-speed digital link via fibre-optic cable. Up to four hours of continuous in-room operation are provided by the plug-in, rechargeable Li-ion battery.

Additional features include: elimination of signal loss due to the coaxial cable and to the connections; improvement of the receiver dynamic range without needing preamplifiers; improvement of the overall uncertainty; elimination of interfering signals that may be picked up along the coaxial cable path; elimination of scattering phenomena due to the coaxial cable; calibrations of the coaxial cables are not needed; in comparison with the coaxial cables, the unpaired flexibility of fibre-optic allows for easier installation even in the same path of power cables and reaches long distances (up to 100 m).

The PMM Emission Suite software is supplied with the receiver and allows for complete control of the tests, including mast and turntable functions.

Aeroflex 802.11ac measurement suite

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Aeroflex is adding 802.11ac support to its PXI 3000 series test system to facilitate the worldwide growth of 802.11ac wireless local area network (WLAN) mobile devices.

Devices using the standard are believed to have a six times increase in network speed over 802.11n, as they use a less congested portion of the spectrum, have a wider bandwidth and use different digital modulation techniques.

The series supports transmitter and receiver testing within one compact PXI modular RF test system, and is designed for use by silicon vendors, WLAN board integrators, consumer electronics device manufacturers and contract manufacturers who need to perform RF parametric tests on devices during manufacturing.

The modules support wideband signal analysis and generation for frequencies up to 6 GHz, covering the bandwidth and frequency requirements of 802.11ac. Modulation schemes are supported, from BPSK to 256QAM. Testing 256QAM demands lower error vector magnitude within the test equipment.

The PXI Studio application software provides a graphical user interface to generate and analyse 802.11a,b,g,n and AC signals. IQCreator application software provides a graphical user interface to create WLAN 802.11a,b,g,n,ac arbitrary waveforms for use in PXI 3000 modular instruments.

The same analysis and waveform generation application software can be expanded to support a range of other communication standards on the same system hardware including WiMAX, Bluetooth BR/EDR/LE, ZigBee, FM and all 2G, 3G and 4G cellular standards. Remote programming user interfaces are available to support integration into automated test systems.

TechRentals FW Bell 5180 Gauss/Tesla meter

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

TechRentals has introduced the FW Bell 5180 Gauss/Tesla meter into its test and measurement rental fleet.

The meter is a magnetic measuring device with digital signal processing that works in either sensitive laboratory environments or rugged industrial settings.

It has built-in software which eliminates complex calibration.

The meter has Gauss, Tesla or ampere/meter read units; detachable transverse probe and zero gauss chamber; corrected analog output (±3 V FS); and USB communication port.

Climate protection event

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Harting Technology Group and the ‘climate protection companies’ were present with a stand at the launch event of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce in Berlin. The theme for the year was ‘Energy and Raw Materials’.

Harting board member Dr Frank Brode (5th from the right) met Dr Philip Rösler, the Minister of Economics (6th from the right), at the ‘Energy and Raw Materials’ event.

Harting became a member of the ‘climate protection companies’ last year. However, environmental and climate protection have been a key part of everyday working life at the company for decades. Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly practices became part of the company philosophy in 1996.

Dr Frank Brode, management board member for new technologies at Harting, got the opportunity to speak to Dr Philipp Rösler, the Federal Minister of Economics and Technology, and Hans Heinrich Driftmann, president of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, at the event. The climate protection companies have been recognised as ambassadors for energy efficiency and climate protection by federal government and the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce on account of their performance in terms of operational energy efficiency.

In his opening speech, Dr Philipp Rösler set out federal government’s concept for a change in energy policy which is based on the key areas of extension of the energy network, construction of new power plants, expansion of renewable energies, an increase in energy efficiency and a strengthening of research capabilities.

“This concept has a European dimension and requires the support of society as a whole. In this respect, Harting is well positioned thanks to its sustainable energy concept and research on technologies to replace vital raw materials and it will make a significant contribution,” explained Dr Frank Brode.

HP/Agilent 8648D-1E5 4GHz signal generator

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The HP/Agilent 8648D-1E5 4GHz signal generator (9 kHz to 4 GHz) supports AM/FM/phase modulation with ±1 dB accuracy up to 2.5 GHz.

The device has 300 storage registers with the sequence and register numbers displayed. Up to 10 sequences are available with 30 registers each.

It features: optional 1E5 high-stability timebase (<±0.1 ppm/yr), 0.001 Hz resolution, output range from +10 to -136 dBm and weighs 8.5 kg.

Sepura to show TETRA radios at IWCE

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Sepura will be exhibiting at the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE). This year’s show takes place on 22 and 23 February in Las Vegas, USA.

Over 6400 technology professionals from a diverse group of industries including government, public safety, transportation and utilities from all corners of the continent are expected to attend this show.

“As one of the world’s leading suppliers of TETRA equipment, Sepura is looking forward to further showcasing its extensive and proven range of professional TETRA radios for the Americas market at IWCE,” says Jens Thostrup, senior vice president at Sepura. “Our radios have been adopted worldwide by all the sectors addressed by this exhibition, so we feel very confident in our offering to America, one of the fastest growing regions for TETRA.”

The company’s radios are said to be robust enough to cope with tough working conditions and TETRA voice and data communications can help improve team working, customer service, safety and productivity in harsh and hazardous terrains and large, single-site operations.

“Listening to our customers, understanding their needs and providing attentive, highly responsive customer support has driven our success in TETRA,” adds Thostrup. “This, combined with our strong network of local partners, has proved a compelling proposition and we intend to replicate this winning formula in North America where we are actively looking to expand our distribution channel.”

Thostrup concludes: “Sepura is [a suitable] partner for public transport operators, utilities, mining and more in the region. We are committed to continuing investment in new solutions for these important market sectors.”

Icom IDAS dPMR Mode 3 software system

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Icom Australia is releasing the IDAS dPMR Mode 3, jointly developed by Icom and Fylde Micro as a means to upgrade existing trunked MPT1327 networks to digital.

The system offers a fully scalable solution, from peer-to-peer communications right up to trunked networks of up to 1000 sites. By connecting communications systems over IP, this gives organisations worldwide communications coverage.

The system is provided with a Fylde MultiLingo controller so communications systems can be upgraded one radio at a time. The controller acts as an interpreter between different protocols.

With the control software, terminals can be set up to only connect to the network at certain times and includes features such as automatic vehicle location (AVL).

The system will be available in mid-2012.

Powertec Telecommunications wideband antenna range

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The range of wideband antennas from Powertec Telecommunications is suitable on all range of 3G frequencies in Australia. The antennas are also suitable in remote areas where coverage is at a minimum and where voice and data applications are critical.

The Yagi directional-type antennas are suitable for mobile broadband routers that enable data transmission over the mobile network.

The company also has a wideband range of antennas for marine applications where obtaining information like weather forecasts is required. The range is suitable at mine sites, oil rigs and remote accommodation.

Canare mini 75 Ω coax connector range

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Canare has announced a range of mini 75 Ω coax connectors designed to DIN 1.0/2.3 standard.

The small size makes the connectors suitable for routers or switchers where space is at a premium and reliability is critical.

The design also features a ball lock mechanism to smooth connection with the receptacle and ensure the connector remains firmly locked in place.

DMR Association welcomes Harris as member

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The DMR Association has added Harris Corporation (US) as a Category 1 member.

“With Harris’s membership confirmed it is further testament to the growing worldwide market appeal of DMR technology. With over one million DMR radios sold worldwide, I am confident that the present success will soon be followed by others and that our association will keep on growing stronger. Our goal is to reinforce DMR’s position as the most widely supported 21st-century digital radio standard for business and a growing membership helps us do that,” said Mario Micheli, chair of the DMR Association.

Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries.

Headquartered in Florida, the company has about US$6 billion of annual revenue and about 17,000 employees - including nearly 7000 engineers and scientists.

Hart 1523 NATA precision handheld thermometer

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Available to rent, the Hart 1523 NATA precision handheld thermometer accurately measures, graphs and records PRTs, thermocouples and thermistors, using a wide measurement range.

It performs laboratory measurements, field applications and data logging, documenting up to 25 readings, ready for easy retrieval.

It is virtually insensitive to environmental temperature, measures PRTs up to ±0.011°C and has multiple probes to suit various tasks.

Anritsu S332E Site Master multipurpose instrument

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +1100

The Anritsu S332E Site Master with indoor/outdoor mapping and AM/FM/PM demod and analysis measures return loss, VSWR, cable loss and distance-to-fault. It is available to rent.

It is also used for indoor/outdoor coverage mapping by wireless service providers, contractors, aerospace and defence, military and public safety.

The instrument includes software containing DTF and Smith chart tools, and features: DANL -152 dBm; 100 kHz to 4 GHz spectrum analyser; GPS receiver; AM/FM/PM analyser; night-time display.

Agilent U1230 handheld digital multimeter range

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

The U1230 range of handheld digital multimeters provides features that simplify everyday tasks even when working in dark and noisy conditions.

The U1231A, U1232A and U1233A models are 3½-digit, 6000-count DMMs designed for installation and maintenance work in electrical, HVAC and utility settings. In dark spaces or at night, a built-in flashlight lets the user illuminate the work area while making measurements.

In noisy environments, the series enhances continuity measurements with a unique combination of alerts - loud beeps and a blinking backlight display.

The DMMs provide non-contacting AC voltage detection, helping users safely detect and avoid hot wires and alerting them with beeping/blinking alerts. All models are housed in compact, ergonomic cases and have an easily accessible control dial.

Canare BCP-B 75 Ω BNC connector range

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +1100

Canare has released a range of 75 Ω BNC connectors designed to offer good 3 GHz performance.

The BCP-B series BNCs exceed the 3 Gbps HD-SDI requirements specified in SMPTE424M and are designed specifically to achieve performance-optimising cable matching.

The design features an elongated sleeve, rugged die-cast body to reduce both weight and cost, gold-plated centre pin with snap-lock and an alignment mark on the shell to allow simple visual confirmation that the connector is correctly in place.

ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:25:03 +1100

What a night: close to 500 industry professionals and end users gathered at the end of day one of RadioComms Connect to celebrate all that is good within and about the radio communications industry in Australia. This annual event, fast becoming an institution, was once again the winner.

The Industry Excellence Award presentations are always a highlight of the evening. In 2011, the most prestigious honour, the Jonathon Livingstone Seagull Award, saw Craig Ross awarded for his significant service to industry, through which he has made huge contributions to charity. One such contribution, highlighted by Ian Miller of ARCIA, was Craig’s efforts to refurbish and donate preloved radio pagers to the Cancer Ward at the Melbourne Royal Children’s Hospital where they were used by parents with children either in the hospital or awaiting procedures, so that they could be contacted and kept informed, enabling families to lead as normal a life as possible.

Martin Cahill, of Pacific Wireless Communications, was also recognised for his involvement with both the radio communications industry over many years and with ARCIA. On the night, Martin received Life Membership of ARCIA for his efforts, some of which are reflected in the growth of the association in recent years. For Martin, his motivation and belief in what was previously seen as a flagging industry are well rewarded when he sees the progress that has been made.

The night was also a showcase for the young, as Dylan Bucktrout was awarded a Sir Angus Tait Memorial Scholarship and Theo Goslett from ComGroup was awarded the Apprentice Trainee Award.

Mobile Masters offered Dylan an apprenticeship in December 2010 and throughout his work Dylan had expressed a keen interest in and passion for learning about the radio industry and is currently studying Certificate 3 in Electronics and Communications at polytechnic.

Theo was awarded for his attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills. In addition to being moved to the Victoria engineering and product development team after only 12 months, he has been recognised by his managers as having potential to become a leader of the future.

Another newcomer to the industry, Elisha McCann from Kenwood, was awarded the New Talent Award. Elisha was nominated for her dedication in providing excellence in service to her dealer channel, always going above and beyond in her level of service.

Other talented and respected award winners on the night included:

Jamie Baker, RF Industries, who received the Peter Wallace Award for his commitment to the industry. Many have come to rely on Jamie and his genuine and helpful advice; Damien Tyrell, the Professional Sales Award for his role at Motorola within the national minerals and energy sectors; Vanessa Rayner, Customer Service Award for her professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond for her customers at Mobile Masters; Nigel Porritt, AA Radio Services, the Technical Excellence Award for demonstrating his skills and talent in many different technical facets of the radio industry over many years and Neil Sutherland, the Engineering Excellence Award for his work at Nixon Communications, including the design and development of a proactive test station for the mining sector.

With both the ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner and RadioComms Connect a sellout this year, the strength felt within the industry about what it has to offer end users is clear. It appears to be a community full of passionate individuals who truly care about what they do and how they do it and, in the end, that can only benefit those looking for radio communication solutions.

Next year the dinner moves to a new home, ready for an bigger night with entertainment, awards and plenty of time for networking with industry colleagues, old and new.

For complete information on the 2012 ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner, see arcia.org.au.