MST Global releases underground communications platform

FUSION Voice offers an in-vehicle radio that can operate in VoIP mode from the underground WiFi network and, at the push of a button, operate via the UHF or VHF radio system that may be in place. Developed in partnership with Tait, the unique platform is a powerful communication device to work on sites with mixed communication systems between the surface and underground. 

FUSION Voice enables access to reliable, dedicated voice communication over WiFi networks from inside a vehicle. Built with the assistance and coordination of Tait and MST engineering teams, MST's communication-over-WiFi capacity was integrated with the Tait UnifyVehicle platform to form one, in-vehicle, push-to talk unit. 

The unit offers something that has been missing from the market as more mines and tunnels look to replace leaky feeder with WiFi networks, with FUSION Voice being a VoIP equivalent of a traditional mobile radio. There is no compromise on usability – FUSION Voice is easy to use, easy to install and power up, and has a 6 m cable for mounting the control head, housing a loud 3W built-in speaker. The ruggedised form factor is fit for purpose in underground conditions. A WiFi antenna is included and mounted on top of the vehicle to extend coverage. Built on proven hardware, FUSION Voice can operate on any 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, and is specifically optimised for roaming on the MST IMPACT software network, supporting central configuration. The same unit can then be switched to operate on most UHF or VHF radio systems. 

Through intelligent software solutions, MST will continue to create value for underground mining and tunnelling customers on this powerful and unique platform. Additional functionality will be available in the future via simple, over the air, software upgrades. 

Increasing safety via reliable, multi-platform communication, FUSION Voice can be used for push-to-talk operation with MinePhones, providing 32 channels (30 PTT, one Broadcast and one Emergency). It enables greater productivity, as well as safety, by extending site-wide communications. 

The development of FUSION Voice reaffirms MST's commitment to increasing productivity and safety in underground environments through the continued development of superior, ground breaking unified communications technology. 

“Tait are proud to be working with MST to provide new solutions for customer’s business challenges,” said Bruce Magee, General Manager for Mining, Oil and Gas at Tait Communications. “The Tait UnifyVehicle platform provides more connectivity options and edge computing power for customers. MST have used both aspects to deliver FUSION Voice." 

FUSION Voice will be launched officially at AIMEX 2017, MST Booth 4136. 

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/product-news/23082017/mst-global-releases-underground-communications-platform/