“The data-usage in the first weeks is already 4 times bigger than expected and 8 times bigger than the previous solution due to the quality and reliability of the network!”
Based in Harlingen from 1993, JR Shipping Group operates its own fleet, comprising container feeder, multipurpose and offshore service vessels, and provides all-round ship management services to third parties. With its compact organisation ashore that is always on the ball, the short sea shipping company focuses on maximum safety and efficiency.
Challenge: The Need for Network Visibility
At sea, it is possible to have cellular connection within the first 12 miles. However, the quality of the connection strongly depends on the alignment of the antenna, cable and router (above and below deck equipment).To properly set up cellular connectivity at sea, ships require network visibility of cellular coverage and signal strengths of the available bands (EDGE, 3G, 4G). Once in port, network congestion adds another challenge to achieving the best connectivity. Without the ability to quickly detect and switch to the best channels, connections at port can become slow and unreliable.
Solution: Full Visibility using InControl
- Make sure the vessel has the best reliable Internet connectivity at sea and in port.
- Provide insight in the connections data-usage, users, connected equipment, access points, etc.
- Provide quick access onto the vessels LAN to adjust or manipulate settings
- Provide pro-active support to all vessels.
As the system integrator, Oceansat needed a single-brand integrated solution where they can monitor and control the entire TX and RX chain from Vessels LAN to the Internet. They needed to manage the antennas performance or at least measure it. They needed a router and a management system that enabled them to easily access and support the vessel and their network.
Using InControl2 and the built-in captive portal, OcaeanSat was able to get all the necessary insights, support and visibility. As an added touch, they customized the splash page of the captive portal to match the look and feel of their brand, giving users user the feeling that they are in the office, while at sea. With complete visibility for all the vessels, the information between OceanSat, the JR Shipping, and their vessels were aligned like never before.
In total, 25 vessels were equipped with the Peplink solution in a period of 2 months.