Challenge

The Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA), spanning an area of 22 to 30 square kilometers, was relying on a Proxim wireless solution to backhaul video traffic for their surveillance network. However, the authority faced persistent issues with technical support and the limited manageability of the existing system. This created a need for a more reliable, scalable, and easier-to-maintain solution capable of supporting their high-end surveillance cameras across the vast zone.

Solution

EnGenius was invited to conduct a Proof of Concept (POC) using the EOC655-C18 outdoor wireless solution. HFZA also evaluated the EnGenius SkyPoint Network Management System (NMS) for its centralized management capabilities. The successful POC demonstrated the platform's ease of use, performance, and manageability, paving the way for a full-scale redesign of their wireless infrastructure.

The final design featured a hybrid Point-to-Point (PtP) and Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) architecture.

Key highlights of the solution include:

• Strategic Deployment: 110 EOC655-C18 units were deployed across the Free Zone.
• High-Capacity Backhaul: The system was designed for integration with Hikvision surveillance cameras, with each camera tower requiring a minimum of 60 Mbps bandwidth. In several cases, wireless links were optimized to deliver data rates exceeding 200 Mbps.
• Advanced Features: (Learn More>)
  • Dual 5 GHz radios and an integrated 18 dBi directional antenna for high-capacity connectivity.
  • Automatic RF Corrections, involving real-time RF environment monitoring and adjustments for optimal performance and enhanced network stability.
  • Integrated GPS for real-time and precise mapping, aiding in optimal network planning and swift issue location.
  • Quality of Service (QoS) management capabilities to prioritize critical video traffic for essential surveillance applications.‍
  • "Dying Gasp" power failure detection for rapid outage response.

• IP67-rated casing for superior environmental protection
• ‍Advanced Surge Shielding (robust up to 6KV surge defense) ensuring extreme durability.
• Uncompromised Security, including AES-256 encryption, for maximum data protection.

‍Product Implementation

The EnGenius team conducted comprehensive site surveys across all required camera tower locations to create a high-capacity, cost-effective design.

The deployment was further simplified by features like the dedicated 2.4 GHz radio for easy discovery and configuration via the SkyConnect mobile app, which also utilizes AP's built-in compass sensors for accurate antenna alignment.

During the implementation phase, hands-on training was provided to the client’s technical staff. This training covered the physical installation and alignment of the EOC units as well as the configuration, monitoring, and fine-tuning of the wireless links using the SkyPoint NMS.

This enabled the Hamriyah Free Zone team to manage and maintain the network independently after deployment.

Result

• Enhanced reliability and uptime for surveillance traffic.
• Centralized visibility and manageability through the SkyPoint NMS, which also leverages integrated GPS for precise issue location when network problems occur.
• Improved overall network performance, with multiple high-throughput links supporting real-time video streaming.
• The Hamriyah Free Zone Authority expressed strong satisfaction with the solution’s performance and the quality of support provided.

Conclusion

The successful deployment of 110 EnGenius EOC655-C18 units and the SkyPoint NMS has provided the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority with a robust, high-performance, and centrally managed wireless backhaul for their critical surveillance operations. This upgrade, featuring advanced RF management, enhanced durability, and robust security, not only addressed their immediate challenges of reliability and manageability but also equipped them with a scalable infrastructure ready to meet future demands, ultimately enhancing security and operational efficiency across the expansive Free Zone.

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