In partnership with Pactel International, Rural Tech Development delivered a wireless solution capable of providing uniform coverage across PNG LNG’s 9000 Man accommodation 1.2km2 camp. The solution was designed to improve the worker’s quality of life and supports voice calls via secure VoIP Payphones and Internet services via personal devices and the Internet cafe.

Utilizing multiple bandwidth reserves and a carrier-grade cost efficient Newtec platform, Pactel provided a 10Mb satellite link, while Rural Tech managed the complete system design, installation and layout onsite.

“Coverage penetration was and still is particularly challenging due to the geographical spread of the camp as well as limitation on access points location”, said Shahram Honarzad (Shaz), Technical Director at Rural Tech Development.

“We didn’t want to risk having poor and uneven coverage in certain areas, so we had to reconsider the original WiFi system layout and add additional access points where the coverage was particular poor—a system layout comparable to a multi-story hotel building”, added Mr Honarzad. Extending on the hotel network analogy, Rural Tech have developed a centralised management and billing system: every worker can purchase a pre-paid internet and VoIP card. To ensure maximum efficiency and seamless operation, Pactel completed the project by integrating its value-adding services such as bandwidth acceleration, application filtering & QoS.

“Retaining quality personnel while sustaining costs are the two primary challenges our customers in the resource industry are faced with. The PNG LNG project was another opportunity for us to provide a responsive welfare network to address these challenges as well as strengthen our market position in PNG”, said Nick Miller, Sales Manager of Pactel International. “I thank Rural Tech Development for their responsiveness and professionalism throughout. It was their expertise in the PNG LNG venture and local presence that made this project possible”, added Mr Miller.