The Phocus Array™ is a unique IEEE 802.11 compliant access point featuring a phased array antenna. Based on Fidelity Comtech’s patented Flexible Vector Modular Technology™ (FlexVMT), the Phocus Array™ is an eight-element phased array antenna capable of adapting its pattern on a packet-by-packet basis. This smart antenna technology is ideal for high “multipath” environments, such as in constantly shifting container yards, because some of the antenna elements in the circular array are able to capture the signal even if others do not.
The Phocus Array – Holophane integration kit provides several advantages over dedicated antenna towers that have traditionally been used. First, the container terminal operators typically have existing light poles ideally located to provide wireless coverage, thus saving the port the expense of erecting new poles for wireless equipment. Also, the Holophane light ring can be lowered, eliminating the need for a crane or manlift when servicing or inspecting the wireless equipment.
At the Seafreight Agencies terminal, information identifying a shipping container’s number, location and final destination are captured by mobile workers using handheld wireless devices. These transmit the information to the Navis terminal operating system via the Phocus Array™ wireless network, improving the flow of goods and services through the terminal.
The Seafreight installation is the first to take advantage of an existing Holophane high-mast light system. In May of 2011, Fidelity Comtech introduced an integration kit specifically for this purpose. The kit provides a secure mounting bracket to attach the Phocus Array™ access point to the Holophane high-mast light ring. The integration kit also includes a Phocus Array™ ready power cable that replaces the light fixture’s original power cable and is strung into the light pole during installation. The new cable includes all of the conductors for the Phocus Array™ and the lights in a single assembly. “
The Phocus Array - Holophane integration kit ensures a seamless, fast and economical deployment of the wireless system,” says Joe Carey, president of Fidelity Comtech. “Like all terminal operators, Seafreight needed 802.11 wireless coverage for their new terminal area at Port Everglades. They wanted a solution that could be implemented quickly and provides exceptional wireless coverage in the shifting container stacks.”
According to Danny Ferrer, equipment & operations manager, Seafreight Agencies USA, Inc., Fidelity Comtech’s Phocus Array™ will maximize space utilization within the terminal, as well as improve on operational efficiency. “When it comes to the flow of information in and out of our Terminal Operating System, it allows us to get as close to ‘real time’ as possible,” says Ferrer. “Combined with the use of hand-held technologies, Fidelity’s Phocus Array allows us to gain coverage throughout every inch of our yard space, thereby greatly improving our ability to maintain accurate inventories.”
It extends our coverage to and from the berthing area within Port Everglades making our operational tasks (loading and discharging of vessels) seamless and instantaneous,” noted Ferrer. “This quick flow of information translates into many efficiencies, including instant and accurate access for our customers related to the status, location, and availability of their shipments, etc. It also constitutes a reliable solution when dealing with adverse weather, including hurricanes, as Fidelity’s systems have been tested and certified to operate under extreme conditions through their involvement
