Tag Archives: MC2

Strata Worldwide’s MC2 certified for underground coal mine use

Coal technology, Communications in mining, IoT, Mining safety, Mining services, Mining software, , , , , , ,

Strata Worldwide says its StrataConnect second-edition Miner Communicator (MC2) has won IECEx Intrinsically Safe approval, paving the way for it to be used in underground coal mines.

The StrataConnect MC2 (Part No SCT-MC2-03) is an underground personnel communication and location tracking device that operates on the StrataConnect™ wireless mesh network – formally known as Strata CommTrac. Released last year, the unit is designed specifically for harsh underground environments and provides personnel with two-way text communications, real-time location tracking, and both critical alert and response functions, the company says.

Communication messages include peer-to-peer or group texting and can be sent between units underground or to the user interface at the surface. Users have access to a full employee contact list and the ability to create personalised groups, while a full, hard-button QWERTY keyboard and large display screen facilitate fast and easy message reading and response, the company says.

“Miner location tracking is continuously active,” Strata said. “The units ping nearby communication nodes every 60 seconds for monitoring both location and direction of travel. Personnel can utilise the MC2 to locate fellow workers underground.”

The MC2, which is automatically functional on all StrataConnect wireless networks, is worn in a pouch on the user’s belt. Green LEDs on all four corners indicate the receipt of incoming messages, while red LEDs indicate an emergency notification. The device can also be used to send emergency alerts to dispatch if immediate assistance is needed.

Strata says battery life ranges between 24 and 48 hours, depending on use. Recharging takes around four hours, including the automatic update of contact lists which are done at this time.

Strata Worldwide enhances personnel tracking in underground mines

Communications in mining, IoT, Mining people, Mining safety, Mining services, , , ,

Strata Worldwide has released the StrataConnect™ second-generation miner communicator (MC2) as it looks to improve communication with and tracking of personnel in underground mines and tunnelling sites.

The MC2 device operates on the underground StrataConnect wireless mesh network, formally known as Strata CommTrac.

Strata said: “Designed specifically for the harsh environments in the mining and tunnelling industries, the Strata MC2 provides two-way text communications, real-time personnel location tracking and both critical alerts and response functions for workers.

“Its comprehensive physical redesign and enhancements were geared towards simplifying usability and expanding device functionality.”

Modeled after today’s smartphones, the MC2 has a full, hard-button QWERTY keyboard, a large display screen with multiple character sizes, and an easy-to-navigate operating system, according to Strata.

Its features include one-on-one or group text messaging, the ability to access a full, automatically updating contact list, data storage for up to 500 messages and a rechargeable battery that lasts through multiple shifts. MC2 also provides critical alerts and response capabilities for workers in the event of an emergency, has an audible alarm that ensures miners know when a message has been received and comes equipped with clearly distinguishable emergency messages that allows miners to easily respond with their condition, the company said.