A picture is worth a thousand words. This is often true - even in hazardous areas.
Taking a high resolution photo (or full HD video) of a fault or malfunction, and sending it directly to the control centre can streamline the actions needed to correct the fault, reducing the time to a fix, and potentially reducing the risk to the plant and people. Long phone calls or Push-To-Talk (PTT) conversations describing the problem are unnecessary since the control centre (and even remotely located experts) can inspect the problem without the need for them to be in the hazardous area.
Until now, "Ex" cameras intended for use in hazardous areas have been expensive, heavy, a potential security risk, and often limited in functionality. With the introduction of Smart-Ex® 01, these limitations disappear.
Unlike standalone "Ex" cameras, Smart-Ex® 01 combines the camera/video function with the ability to securely communicate these images wirelessly over WiFi and 4G/LTE networks (when you want to) to authorised users.
Other advantages include:
- Integrated GPS and RFID: attach a geo-location reference to the pictures/videos, aiding future diagnosis/correction tasks
- Integrated Bluetooth connectivity: interact "live" with remote experts in noisy environments using Bluetooth headsets
- Front-facing camera and touchscreen: see and be seen, allowing you to interact with others located remotely on video calls
- Small, lightweight and very robust
- ATEX/IECEx/NEC approval: can be used in most hazardous areas
- Programmable Hardware keys on both sides of the Smart-Ex 01 to trigger the camera/video recording
When combined with MDM (Mobile Device Management) or "Kiosk mode" software, Smart-Ex® 01 offers a more prudent investment and future-proof option compared to traditional "Ex" cameras. Such software can be used to limit the functionality on the device - starting with only the camera functions enabled, but gradually enabling more functions as your needs change and grow. IT security and data quality is also enhanced using this software, since users can be prevented from changing system settings (date/time, ...) or attempting to install malicious software or firmware.
And, when combined with Bluetooth "BLE" beacons, Smart-Ex® 01 can be configured to automatically disable the camera in sensitive plant locations, and re-enable the camera in authorised areas - providing the convenience of a camera without the business risk.
To learn more, please visit the product page.