Case Studies > GeoNet Turns to Control Synergy and FreeWave for Seismic Monitoring

GeoNet Turns to Control Synergy and FreeWave for Seismic Monitoring

Customer Company Size

Large Corporate

Region

Pacific

Country

New Zealand

Product

FreeWave Radios
FreeWave M2M Communication Solutions
FreeWave Serial Data Radios

Tech Stack

M2M Communication
Serial Wireless Data Radio Technology

Implementation Scale

Enterprise-wide Deployment

Impact Metrics

Customer Satisfaction
Digital Expertise
Innovation Output

Applicable Industries

National Security & Defense
Telecommunications

Applicable Functions

Field Services
Quality Assurance

Use Cases

Remote Asset Management
Predictive Maintenance
Real-Time Location System (RTLS)

Services

System Integration
Hardware Design & Engineering Services

About The Customer

GeoNet is a collaborative project between the New Zealand Earthquake Commission and GNS Science, aimed at building and operating a modern geological hazard monitoring system. The project involves a network of geophysical instruments, automated software applications, and skilled staff to detect, analyze, and respond to various geological hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, landslides, and tsunamis. GeoNet's mission is to provide crucial information to help people and researchers live safely near the active Pacific-Australian Plate boundary that passes through New Zealand. The monitoring system is essential for safeguarding the population and the local economy from major geological events.

The Challenge

GeoNet faced the challenge of accurately monitoring seismic activity in New Zealand, a region prone to frequent and significant earthquakes. The existing wireless M2M communication network was sparse, with limited monitoring capabilities. To enhance the accuracy and reliability of seismic monitoring, GeoNet needed to upgrade its systems and infrastructure. The goal was to provide real-time data on seismic activity and ground movement to protect the population and the local economy from potential hazards.

The Solution

GeoNet turned to Control Synergy, an Australian-based channel partner of FreeWave, to facilitate the implementation of advanced control systems technology. FreeWave's M2M networking solutions were chosen for their ability to operate effectively in the 900 to 928 MHz spectrum, making serial wireless data radio technology the best fit for seismic monitoring applications. FreeWave's serial data radios feature a separate diagnostic port for real-time remote diagnostics and setup, offering long-range communication up to 60 miles with clear Line of Sight (LOS) and the ability to extend through repeaters. The backward compatibility of FreeWave's wireless M2M solutions allowed GeoNet to integrate the new technology seamlessly with its existing M2M communications network.

Operational Impact

GeoNet successfully deployed FreeWave's wireless M2M communication devices across New Zealand, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of seismic monitoring.
The solution provided real-time data quality improvements for both GPS and seismic monitoring, even in harsh weather conditions.
GeoNet's seismic monitoring infrastructure has expanded significantly, with hundreds of FreeWave radios now in operation.
The deployment has enabled GeoNet to report remote seismic monitoring data more effectively, contributing to improved public safety and awareness.

Quantitative Benefit

GeoNet collects and analyzes data from more than 15,000 earthquakes per year.
FreeWave's radios provide long-range communication up to 60 miles with clear Line of Sight (LOS).
GeoNet has deployed hundreds of FreeWave radios over the past fourteen years.