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NextiraOne’smobile data networking provides ideal communications solution for Steinbach’sAustrian Logistics Centre Vienna– 16 March, 2010. NextiraOne,Europe’s leading expert in communications services, has implemented a wirelessdata network for Steinbach’s logistics centre in Schwertberg, Upper Austria.The innovative solution, based on Mesh Wireless LAN technology, will helpimprove operations in the company’s 15,000 m² warehousing facilities, withspace for some 9,000 pallets. In addition to itscore business in the processing of wool, Steinbach also specialises in a widevariety of leisure activities and has a comprehensive range of products foroutdoor pools and swimming baths. Salesthroughout Austria are handled from the Schwertberg site, the company’slogistics centre. Modern, highly efficient warehouse management allows thistraditional, family-owned company to locate and access the different productsquickly and deliver them promptly. In order tooptimise its logistics operations, Steinbach decided to refresh its existingdata network by implementing a completely mobile solution, integrating all itsdata devices, including laptops and scanners. Information on incoming andoutgoing goods is captured through these mobile devices and data is processedin real time. NextiraOneconducted a site survey in order to specify the coverage needed, data rates,network capacity, accessibility and quality of service (QoS). The company thenplanned and designed a mixed wireless LAN infrastructure, taking into accountthe limitations of the building. Thesolution was able to ensure an optimum cost efficiency combined with the bestnetwork performance for Steinbach. The warehouse hallswere equipped with the new Mesh WLAN technology, as installing cabling wouldhave been extremely disruptive in halls filled with products. Meshed networksare particularly suitable for older or existing buildings where laying newcabling would be very costly or even impossible. The access points of a MeshWLAN communicate with one another via radio signal and therefore need only anelectrical supply. With the implementation of 802.11n transmission ratesadditional data volumes of up to 300 Megabits can be carried. Standard WirelessLAN networking is installed in the office buildings. The 80 Steinbachemployees now work using their mobile devices connected via around 50 accesspoints throughout the warehouses and across the site. The management of thishigh performance Alcatel-Lucent technology is handled via the central WirelessLAN controller, which controls and manages all the functionality of the WLANnetwork and the access points. The controller is managed directly bySteinbach’s IT team. “Technology mustadapt to the conditions and requirements of the individual company, not theother way around. Our aim as the solutions integrator is to plan and implementthe best customised solutions for our customers,” explains MargareteSchramböck, Vice President NextiraOne Germany & Austria. Peter Steinbach,General Manager of Steinbach GmbH, is convinced of the value of the newtechnology: “Our warehouses are amongst the most modern in Austria and are atthe heart of our operational activity. We needed a highly flexible solutionthat would optimise our operations without affecting the day-to-day running ofour full warehouses. The implementation of a mixed mesh WLAN and wireless LANsolution shows the flexibility of the technology and of our partner,NextiraOne, in adapting to our requirements.” |