Digi Gateways Enable Wildfire Emergency Detection Systems

Detecting and Reporting Wildfires Requires Reliable and Constant Connectivity

A leading manufacturer of perimeter wildfire detection systems has created a solution that detects and reports wildfires to local authorities and area residents to protect homes, property, and people. This solution can save thousands of lives while allowing individuals and businesses to secure their properties and allowing first responders to prevent further spread and damage. However, for the solution to work the way it's designed, it requires constant, reliable connectivity.

The Challenge

Securing Data Communication in Remote Areas

Wildfire detection systems are deployed in remote areas where wireline data communication is unavailable. In the past, the organization used satellite technology to connect its systems. However, the system was slower than desired, and it could take as long as an hour for an alarm to reach authorities. In fire protection, early detection is critical. Satellite coverage is also not available in many regions.

"We spent a lot of time trying to fix our previous systems," said the President of one detection system manufacturer. "We spent more time fixing than selling products because of connectivity issues. We needed a more robust and reliable solution than our previous system."

The Solution

Digi IX15 Gateways and Remote Manager Provide Connectivity and Seamless Integration

The company previously worked with Digi on a new system connectivity method that used XBee ZB modules to connect fire detection sensors utilizing a ConnectPort X4 gateway. Today, that organization would more than likely select the newer and more powerful Digi IX15 gateway. The Digi IX15 can broadcast sensor information back to the network in real time via cellular or satellite. Alerts can easily be set up for notifying authorities, landowners, and other individuals using Digi Remote Manager, Digi's public cloud platform-as-a-service (PaaS) that makes it easy to integrate information into a company's back-end systems. Authorities are now alerted of a fire within a matter of seconds.

Using Digi Remote Manager, the system can be easily configured to meet each customer's unique needs. For example, the system can now send alerts directly to volunteer firefighters' cell phones and pagers if an alarm is triggered. It can also be programmed so specific firefighters, city officials, and area residents are notified in real time of an incident. If a fire occurs, the system can send alerts to first responders, Fire Mapping, and data visualization in real-time to their command centers, vehicular computers, and PDAs. This allows firefighters to vacate the area if a wind shift puts them in danger.

"Prior to Digi Remote Manager, the alarms would come to us and we would dispatch them ourselves," the President and CEO said. "With Digi Remote Manager, the customers' equipment is securely hosted on the Digi Remote Manager network allowing us to monitor the equipment easily without maintaining the servers. It gives me peace of mind knowing that the equipment is backed by a company with the resources we couldn't even think about. I know that if there is an issue, there will be a quick recovery."

Digi products and the Digi Remote Manager web-hosted service also allow for system expandability and modifications based on customer needs. For example, cameras could be added to the network in state parks where monitoring for remote drug activity is a concern or used to monitor pipeline equipment in oil and gas applications.

The Results

Quick Deployment, Simple Configuration, and Superior Technical Assistance

"When discussing fires where property and lives are at stake, you can't afford to play with second best. We chose Digi because their system was easy to deploy and highly reliable. We can now provide customers with an off-the-shelf solution," the President and CEO said. "A customer tells us what their communication system requirements are and what radio frequency to use, and we get the right module from Digi, and the customer is up and running in a matter of days."

The new system can be programmed in the field from a laptop, and Digi Remote Manager allows for easy system configuration once the system is established.

The company leader credited Digi's first-rate technical and customer support: "I have never had this level of support from a technology vendor in my years of developing products. When I had the fire detection idea, other vendors asked me to pick a technology, and they would ship it to me. Digi listened to what I wanted to do and worked with me on developing a solution. Digi has provided suggestions and worked closely with me as a partner in developing this product. Digi provides a level of support from a technology provider that I have never experienced before. This support has allowed me to approach and secure business from organizations that I would never have been able to approach before."

About USAT

Device Provisioning, Activation and Installation Services

USAT specializes in designing and deploying mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for organizations of all sizes — complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts. Our team not only helps you select, provision, and activate devices, we make sure they work in practical applications and real-life situations.

For over 25 years, USAT has provided mobile communications solutions for various retail applications across the USA. With our extensive catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments — you can count on us to get and keep you connected.

Better mobile connectivity translates to less manual equipment maintenance, reduced downtime, and an overall increase in your business's ROI. Contact the experts at USAT to learn how our wireless networking solutions can help meet your organization's exacting needs.