Long-Range Wireless Connections For Culver City SCADA Communication Network.

Long-Range Wireless Connections For Culver City SCADA Communication Network.

Introduction

YesTechie implemented a solution using Ubiquiti’s wireless Point-to-MultiPoint and Point-to-Point technology, delivering fast, secure, and dependable connectivity that addressed the city’s geographical and infrastructural challenges, even in hard-to-reach areas.

Client Overview

Culver City, a California municipality, oversees vital infrastructure systems, including its SCADA Communication Network, which enables real-time monitoring and control of services like water management and energy distribution. The network’s effectiveness relies on reliable, uninterrupted connectivity, essential for public safety and operational efficiency. However, geographical and infrastructural challenges in hard-to-reach areas hindered traditional solutions, driving the need for an innovative approach from YesTechie.

The Technical Challenge

Culver City’s SCADA Communication Network required robust, uninterrupted connectivity to monitor and manage critical infrastructure, such as water pump stations. Upgrading the network faced significant challenges:

• Geographical Barriers: Pump stations are dispersed across the city, including remote and elevated areas in the surrounding hills.
• Cost Constraints: Laying fiber optic cables was impractical due to vast distances, rugged terrain, and high costs.
• Connectivity Needs: A wireless solution was required to link these points to a central hub and Culver City Hall.

Solution Designed by YesTechie

YesTechie selected Ubiquiti’s UISP 60 GHz Wireless technology for its ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency connections over long distances, ideal for Culver City’s challenging terrain. The solution utilized the following Ubiquiti equipment:

• Wave AP (Total throughput: 5.4 Gbps)
• Wave Long-Range (Total throughput: 2 Gbps, Max. range: 8+ km)
• airFiber 60 Long-Range (Max. throughput: 1.95 Gbps, Max. range: 12+ km)
• UISP Switch Pro for the central hub
• UniFi Switch Pro 8 PoE for connecting remote nodes

Implementation

Three Wave APs were configured and installed at the central hub to serve as primary PtMP access points, connecting six remote sites. Wave Long-Range units were deployed at remote locations to establish reliable links to the central hub. Despite the challenge of mounting antennas on towers over 100 feet, preconfiguration and testing ensured a seamless installation. A redundant PtP link using two airFiber 60 Long-Range units was also deployed to connect the central hub to City Hall via fiber, enhancing reliability.

Results and Business Impact

The wireless solution delivered a high-performance SCADA network with significant benefits:

• Cost Savings: Choosing wireless over fiber optic installations saved Culver City an estimated $200,000 in upfront costs, with a scalable design for future expansion.
• Reliability: High-capacity encrypted radios and failover mechanisms achieved over 99.9% uptime, ensuring continuous monitoring across six pump stations.
• Performance: A 2 Gbps wireless backhaul over 3.5 miles provided a 10x speed increase, reducing latency and improving response times.
• Security: End-to-end encryption protected sensitive data, meeting municipal standards.
• Efficiency: Faster data access enhanced management of water and energy systems, supporting public safety.

This project showcases a successful blend of innovative technology and practical outcomes, delivering a resilient, secure, and cost-efficient SCADA network that empowers Culver City to meet its infrastructure demands effectively.

Conclusion

The Culver City SCADA Communication Network Upgrades project delivered a reliable, high-performance wireless solution tailored to the city’s unique challenges. YesTechie’s use of Ubiquiti’s technology ensured enhanced reliability, security, and scalability, while providing a flexible backbone for future expansion. Completed on time and performing flawlessly, this project highlights YesTechie’s expertise in complex IT solutions. Contact us today to explore how we can support your IT goals.