Mobile Netze
Festnetz
Gebäude
Heat, moisture, extreme soiling – establishing a WLAN connection in a dam pressure line for a revolving cleaning robot was a real challenge under these conditions. The Network 41 team was able to meet this challenge.
“Can you do it?” That was the simple request we received in autumn 2018 for a very unusual assignment. The team at Network 41 had to admit that we had never been asked to do anything like this before. However, Tim Hagedorn and his team were keen to take on the challenge. Using a robot, a specialist company was tasked with cleaning a dam pressure line measuring around one kilometre in length. As this was the first time the line had been cleaned for 80 years, it was clear that a lot of dirt would have collected there.
Long distance
The robot was to be controlled via a WLAN connection. A fibre-optic line was quickly ruled out due to the adverse conditions. “We thus had to establish a point-to-point connection with the base station over a very long distance in the pipe,” comments Tim Hagedorn. The fact that the robot revolved around its own axis during cleaning also complicated matters further. “We found a special antenna on the European market that met our requirements and also worked when revolved,” explains Tim Hagedorn.
The first part of our task was thus accomplished. The robot, which was attached to a winch and worked slowly downwards through the vertical pipe, created a mixture of water, steam and dirt in the form of metal debris during cleaning. Despite these conditions, the signal had to be ensured at all times. Following a successful test run carried out in the laboratory at the start of 2019, the system was then installed in Maloja.
Watertight electronics
Operation went off without a hitch and the customer was very satisfied with the results. To ensure this, the Network 41 team had taken another precautionary measure. As condensation would have built up in the pipe due to the high temperatures if the robot came to a standstill, the entire electronic system was packed in a watertight container.
The assignment has now been completed, with cleaning of the pipe taking around two months. Work was carried out around the clock in two 12- hour shifts. During cleaning, the pressure line had to be taken out of operation. Time is money, as they say, and nowhere was this more true than here. Breakdowns had to be avoided at all costs. “Everything worked perfectly as planned,” comments a satisfied Tim Hagedorn, looking back at this unusual assignment.
The SBB has commissioned Network 41 to replace the visual display panels at Zurich main station. The new system will ensure travellers throughout the station can find the right departure times and platforms.
Anyone who uses public transport will have seen the digital display panels in SBB stations. They provide departure times and platforms for departing trains plus additional information. The old display panels in Zurich main station are no longer fit for purpose and need to be replaced. Network 41 has been mandated by SBB Region Ost to assume the overall management and electrical planning for this major project.
Coordination between stakeholder groups
“We have to replace over 80 display panels”, says Gregor Felder, project coordinator for electrical planning at Network 41. We have to build new mounting panels for some of them and we’ll put the rest up on the walls. Besides dismantling the old monitors and putting up the new ones, Network 41
will plan and coordinate the exchanging of the hardware and replacement of the current copper cables by fibre optic cable for the supply line. This will ensure secure forwarding of the data from the central station depositary to the monitors.
The three-person Network 41 project team has put together the installation schedule, which will now be reviewed by the client. The project does not pose any major problems from a purely technical and practical perspective, however it is not a conventional proposition. As project coordinator Gregor Felder points out: “Zurich main station is a very sensitive location with large visitor streams and specific processes.” As a result, the project has a relatively large number of stakeholder groups: besides the client, there is the Change Team that is involved in all structural amendments in the station area, the station manager and the station architect. As overly lengthy outages are not acceptable, good cooperation with the technicians and manual workers is a priority. There is also the Canton Zurich Blindenverein (Association for the Blind), as the new display panels must not disadvantage the visually impaired.
Another special feature of the project: every location has its own specific features, meaning we have 80 individual plans, some of which need other participants, such as structural engineers, glaziers or tenants.
Implementation must be planned
These challenges make precise planning all the more important. The deployment of manual workers needs to be closely coordinated. A logistics concept will ensure that the right material arrives at the right place at the right time. Intervention applications must be issued plus access requests for the requisite rooms behind the scenes, structural calculations are also required for the construction site.
Once the construction programme has been approved, Network 41 will request offers for the works and organise the coordination with electricians, metalworkers, architects, tilers and materials suppliers until the SBB TC connects the servers.
Work will start in August 2019 and is expected to take one to two days per location. Most of the work will be at night to minimise disruption. The work is scheduled for completion by December 2019, followed by the acceptance inspection, the safety verification and handover to the SBB.
Network 41 has equipped a single-family home in Schenkon with video surveillance and an alarm system. The owner can now rest easy that his home is safe from uninvited guests around the clock.
The goal of businessman Beat Sieger was to protect his property in Schenkon against burglaries. Network 41 suggested an all-round solution containing a burglar alarm and video surveillance system. A total of nine cameras were installed and linked together via the installed alarm system. The cameras are installed discreetly on the façade under the roof. They monitor the entire area surrounding the house and guarantee seamless surveillance of all entrances.
Day/night camera
Sectors in the area monitored by the camera that lie outside the property boundaries are blacked out when the data is saved and are not visible. This means that the neighbours are not affected, although Beat Sieger did nonetheless inform them of his plans beforehand. Public areas are also not recorded or are blacked out. The recordings are stored for a defined period. The owner can also decide for himself whether he wants to save certain sequences for a longer time.
When selecting the cameras, a model was chosen that can record in daylight and at night. Finding the correct motion detection settings is always tricky when it comes to video surveillance. While persons should be detected reliably on one hand, the cameras shouldn’t record stray animals or each tree movement caused by a gust of wind.
Smartphone app
The entire system – burglar alarm and video surveillance system – is connected to an external alarm centre. Thanks to an app on his smartphone, Beat Sieger can also keep a close eye on the situation at all times. He is able to see when something happens back home and then decide on which measures are necessary. Does an alarm need to be sounded, or is it just a cat caught on camera? The system is also integrated into the housing technology, is protected against vandalism and also works autonomously for a certain time if the power supply fails.
Maintenance contract with Network 41
The whole process – from the first visit to planning, installation and putting the system into operation – took around four months. Since April 2018, home owner Beat Sieger can now sleep in peace or go on one of his hunting trips to Austria without worrying about what is going on back home. He signed a maintenance contract with Network 41, thus ensuring that the system works correctly at all times. Network 41 is responsible for system updates, inspections and cleaning work. Beat Sieger also doesn’t have to worry about the alarm transmission, which is taken care of by qualified partners in the security sector.
Network 41 has made it possible: right on time for the opening of the new FHNW campus in Muttenz, 3,700 students and 800 employees will enjoy excellent mobile phone reception throughout the entire newly constructed facility. This is due to the work done by a team under project manager Rafael Dos Santos to install mobile phone stations.
FHNW (University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland) is expanding its Muttenz campus. The new facility will go into operation at the start of the autumn semester, having cost CHF 300 million to build and offering a surface area of some 34,500 square metres. Network 41 was responsible for ensuring consistent mobile phone reception in every corner of the building: the team installed eleven radio units in the 16 storeys, along with more than 200 aerials.
This large-scale project involved a number of challenges, as project manager Rafael Dos Santos explains: "The sheer dimensions of the project meant we had to be very flexible." Based on their considerable experience and existing expertise, the mobile phone specialists were able to tackle these challenges very effectively.
Consistent reception
Planning of the building started in 2015. Network 41 was commissioned by Swisscom to ensure good mobile phone reception throughout the building. The project manager explains: "In buildings where a high density of people is expected and where modern building methods provide excellent insulation, the regular network from outside is insufficient." Only an internal network with in-house aerials is able to ensure consistently adequate reception.
The team faced a new situation right at the start of the project. Normally, Rafael Dos Santos' team provides network reception for existing buildings. "This means we can take measurements on site so as to determine the locations and output levels of the aerials." In Muttenz the preparations had to be carried out based on construction plans. The situation was further complicated by the fact that the project phase was very lengthy and involved ongoing adaptations. "We had to communicate closely with our direct customer, Swisscom, as well as with our end customer, the building contractor." The team always approached its partners proactively to obtain important information. Rafael Dos Santos is full of praise for his team members: "Our on-site staff are skilled at getting hold of the right people in the right phase and establishing contact."
Smooth process
Looking back over the project, Rafael Dos Santos is very satisfied – after all, Network 41 was absolutely reliable in terms of scheduling, too: planning of the mobile phone station started at the same time as construction planning in 2015. Initial contact was then made with the end customer so as to obtain the layout plans and other details. Extensive adaptations were made in 2017. After this, the network calculations were made, Swisscom carried out its review and finally the realisation phase was implemented involving procurement and installation of the hardware. The start of construction for the Network 41 technicians was in October 2017. For a period of four months they fed in the cables as required and installed the aerials and mobile phone components. The systems were then installed and commissioned in February and March 2018. After this, the final documentation was compiled, the start-up was implemented and final measurements were carried out. Rafael Dos Santos is pleased with what his team has achieved: "There were very few final adjustments to be made – which is impressive considering the scale of the project and the fact that we had to base our planning on experience rather than actual on-site measurements."
According to the Network 41 project manager, an average of five people were required on site for this project at any given time – with up to ten at peak times. This was one of the biggest projects carried out by the Mobile In-House Team, involving installation of more than 200 aerials – and everything in customary Network 41 quality, of course.
Solid, thick walls. Working in tunnels under the surface of the water – with one foot in Switzerland and one in Germany. The construction of an in-house mobile communication facility at Laufenburg power station posed a number of particular challenges for Network 41 employees.
Laufenburg power station stands imposingly in the middle of the Rhine. Its solid walls and towers give it the appearance of a fortress. The Swiss-German border runs right through the middle of it. Network 41 employees were confronted with a number of challenges on this assignment. Swisscom commissioned a new in-house mobile communication facility – and installation work was to adhere to the rigorous safety regulations that apply in the power plant.
Particular importance is attached to operational reliability, occupational health and safety and environmental protection at power plants. Special rules also applied to work carried out close to electrical facilities as well as in very tight and noisy spaces – which was often the case at Laufenburg power plant, of course. "When the job was complete, the power plant management were very pleased with how the Network 41 team had gone about their work. Everything went smoothly and we met all requirements," says project coordinator Tom Schläppi.
Meticulous planning and a lot of experience were required to install the in-house facility in this labyrinthine building with six upper floors, an attic and a ground floor as well as five underground floors. The system was to be capable of transmitting both voice messages and data. In the end, 60 aerials, 50 HF components, 4 ERS systems and a base station were installed.
The SBB is renewing a number of stations on the line between Winterthur and Rapperswil. For six of the refurbishments and new facilities, Network 41 is responsible for the planning and site management of the technical installations.
Extended platforms, new customer centres, pedestrian underpasses – the SBB is investing heavily in updating the railway infrastructure in the Tösstal region. Refurbishment and new construction work always involves the installation of new facilities such as speakers, clocks, ticket and drinks machines as well as renewing the lighting. In some cases there is also a need for new engineering rooms, as well as new heating and ventilation systems or access control facilities.
"Work for the SBB is not something that comes up every day and it's very different from other assignments," says project coordinator Gregor Felder. "This applies in two ways. Firstly, special regulations apply to the SBB. Secondly, the employment contract is very interesting because the SBB hands over an entire project for independent completion."
The railway runs on 16 2/3 Hertz while the public power supply is 50 Hertz. This is why the earthing system has to be specially planned and designed so that no disruptions occur.
"Working with the SBB gives you insights into the diverse departments of the railway company – and that's really fascinating," says Gregor Felder. "Another thing that is different about working for the SBB is how contracts are awarded. The SBB pays close attention to quality and asks for references. The key factor is whether you have the key personnel to handle a project."
Planning the new installations at the stations is only part of the work, however. Coordination of all the installations is almost more demanding: orders have to be handled on schedule, and the installation teams have to be on site at the right time. Sometimes cranes and other equipment is needed which has to be specially connected to the earthing system. Safety regulations have to be observed at all times while the work is being carried out. Work on the railway tracks or electrical distribution units has to be announced several weeks in advance. "It's a real challenge to handle all these various elements," says Gregor Felder.
Network 41 has been working for the SBB in Tösstal since the beginning of 2015. Three Network 41 staff are mainly deployed to take care of this new construction and refurbishment work at stations between Winterthur and Rapperswil. The contract expires at the end of 2019.
Network 41 is playing an essential role in the broadcast of live ice hockey matches on the new UPC sports channel “MySports”. After the technology for the National League was upgraded last year, UPC now wants to equip twelve further sporting arenas with their own transmission networks this year.
With exciting goalmouth action, bone-crunching checks, commentary, interviews and analysis, the new “MySports” channel from UPC has quickly become a big hit with sports fans. The majority of airtime is dedicated to live games from the National League ice hockey championship. As there is a great deal of public interest in teams playing at the second level – the Swiss League – “MySports” has expanded its offering here.
Last year, UPC equipped all stadia in the top league with their own dedicated transmission networks. Now it is the turn of selected hockey arenas from the Swiss League. Network 41 has again been tasked with ensuring the internal lines and connections are implemented correctly. After all, the path of a signal from the stadium cameras to a TV back home is a long and complicated one.
At the heart of any live broadcast is the broadcasting truck. This is parked close to the stadium and connected to a TV compound. A kind of “pre-direction” takes place in the truck. After this, the prepared camera signal is transmitted to the provider room and from there on to the TV studios – in Erlenbach in the case of “MySports” – where any inserts or commentary are added. Only then is the finished product sent out for the viewer to watch in the comfort of their home.
TV providers attach great importance to having their own transmission networks. Therefore, UPC has equipped all stadia where matches are broadcast live with their own technology. Whilst the hockey arenas in the top division all have fibre-optic networks installed, this is not always the case in the Swiss League. “In general, the technical standards are very different,” explains Project Manager Philipp Renggli. For Network 41, this means that each project is planned and implemented individually. “We concentrate on the in-house areas,” explains Philipp Renggli. “We build the TV compounds for UPC and the installations in the provider room, and take care of all the cabling.»
Network 41 has worked closely with the client UPC for many years. “This makes our work a lot more straightforward,” says Philipp Renggli. Depending on the scope of the installations, two or three employees from Network 41 are on site for between two and four days per assignment. Usually, a project takes around two months in total from the first visit to the final handover.
“MySports” is planning to broadcast other sports in addition to ice hockey, including various ball sports. With this in mind, sports arenas across Switzerland are currently being brought up to scratch to enable in-house transmissions. These include the Saalsporthalle in Zurich, the BBC-Arena in Schaffhausen and the Ballsporthalle in Gümligen. “However, the type of sport itself isn’t important,” comments Philipp Renggli. “The technical work remains the same in all cases.”
Lucerne Cantonal Hospital now has a new emergency and intensive care ward. Network41 was responsible for the electrical installation work in the new facility. A demanding job – after all, it's a matter of life and death.
Driton Abazi is Head of Installations with Network 41 and the project coordinator responsible for electrical installation work in the new emergency and intensive care ward at Lucerne Cantonal Hospital (LUKS). It was a very demanding job, as he explains: "The most difficult thing was networking and coordinating the various systems. The equipment used on an emergency ward is highly complex." But Driton Abazi also points out that this is the type of challenge that makes a project of this kind so interesting. After all, it's not every day that a new emergency ward is built in Central Switzerland. "I feel proud, and it's an honour for us to have worked for Lucerne Cantonal Hospital.
High-tech equipment on different floors
The new emergency and intensive care ward has six storeys. On each of them there are complex systems and devices in use which have to be incorporated in the electrical installation – such as electric doors, fire alarm systems, IT infrastructures and emergency power systems. "There's no room for error here – especially when it comes to the emergency power supply. After all, it can easily be a matter of life and death," says the project coordinator. Labelling the devices and electrical installations also requires particular care, says Driton Abazi. "Conventional standards don't apply on emergency wards – special manuals are used instead."
The first and the last on the construction site
There were 40 people on the Network 41 project team: they started planning as long ago as April 2016. After this the lines and the wiring were installed, then the various appliances were hooked up to the electrical network and tested several times.
The emergency ward at Lucerne Cantonal Hospital finally went into operation in June this year. "There are still a few small jobs and some fine tuning left to be done by the end of the year," says Driton Abazi. And he adds with a knowing smile: "On a lot of projects we're the first and the last to work on the building."
Network 41 specialists have connected ice hockey stadiums and TV studios to the data network to enable matches to be broadcast on TV in Switzerland. The work was commissioned by the new UPC sports channel MySports.
«Swiss ice hockey switched from the Swisscom channel Teleclub to the UPC channel MySports – and this resulted in an exciting new contract for us. Within a very short period of time we had to hook up all 12 stadiums to the fibre optic network, as well as two television studios in Erlenbach and Rossens», explains Philipp Renggli, the Network 41 project manager responsible. MySports has secured the Swiss ice hockey broadcasting rights for the next five years. UPC contracted the Sursee network specialist to ensure the stadiums were technically equipped so that hockey fans really can follow the games.
BIG DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE STADIUMS
The ice hockey stadiums already had a fibre optic connection and have now been linked to the UPC data network (backbone). But the stadiums also required additional technical installations inside the buildings for the purpose of TV broadcasting. The amount of work required of Philipp Renggli's 12- strong team varied from one stadium to the next. «Ambri required the most effort – after all, it's the oldest stadium. At the new stadiums such as Bern, Biel and Langnau the work was a lot more straightforward since they already have a very modern infrastructure,» says the project manager.
The team spent anything between two and four days at each stadium – but this was just for the installation work itself and connecting the equipment. «We started planning, inspecting the stadiums and ordering materials as long ago as January 2017. The wiring was then installed in May,» says Philipp Renggli – and he goes on to mention the project's biggest challenge: «There was considerable pressure in terms of time: the hockey teams were due to start playing their test matches in August, and this was when MySports wanted to start broadcasting. However, collaboration with UPC was very professional and straightforward.»
FROM THE TV CAMERAS TO THE CABLE NETWORK
Network 41 installed various items of equipment in the stadiums to enable the images of the ice hockey games captured by the TV cameras to be sent to viewers' living rooms: a 19-inch rack for the management connection and video processing as well as a so-called TV compound on the outer wall of each stadium. «This gives television teams the convenience of being able to drive their broadcasting trucks right up to the hockey stadiums to hook up their cables. They're then instantly linked to the data network – we connected all the equipment in the stadium with fibre optic cables and then established the link to the UPC cable network,» says Philipp Renggli.
Network 41 ensures emergency services can be reliably contacted
The Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) contracted Network 41 to refurbish the leaky feeders and install the antenna system for the Polycom network so as to ensure that the emergency rescue services can be reliably contacted in the Baregg Tunnel (Aargau) and the Neuenhof Tunnel (Zurich). The Polycom network is the radio system of the Swiss emergency rescue and security services.
In the first stage of operations, Network 41 refurbished 700 metres of leaky feeder cable in the traffic tube of the Baregg Tunnel. Other stages involved our specialists fitting antennas in the six transverse tunnels and connecting them to the control centres. Network 41 installed a total of 1,000 metres of leaky feeder cable in the service tubes under the roadway.
“Since the tunnels had to be closed for most of this work, it was carried out at night. This required the installations to be performed swiftly and in close coordination with the NSNW (the roads authority of north-western Switzerland). The fact that we had to run 1,000 metres of cable overhead was especially challenge for us: it meant drilling an overhead hole approx. every 90 cm to be able to fix the cables. It was physically strenuous work carried out precisely and under pressure of time,” says Network 41 project manager Cédric Brunner.
Network 41 set up a new mast for the Baregg Tunnel radio network as well as fitting the tunnel control centres at Baregg and Neuenhof with in-house antennas.
Network 41 guarantees secure network coverage!
Network 41 relocates Ericsson test lab for fixed-line technologies
Ericsson is a system and equipment supplier and operates test laboratories for Swisscom which are used to simulate and test network environments for fixed-line technologies. The results are used to implement functioning applications in the live network. Network 41 was contracted to dismantle the Bern test laboratory, split it and reassemble it at different sites.
Ericsson moved into a new building in Bern in which there was insufficient space for an in-house test lab. For this reason, part of the equipment was to be integrated in an existing Swisscom lab in Ittigen while the rest was to be reassembled in Fribourg.
In addition to taking care of the dismantling work, disposal of equipment no longer required, transport preparation including load securing and transportation itself, Network 41 was also contracted by Ericsson to reassemble the test labs and put them into operation or integrate them in the existing laboratory.
“Some of the equipment was very heavy and bulky, so we even had to take down walls and rebuild them again in order to be able to get the units into the rooms and install them. Our telematics specialists also had the opportunity to install new systems that we are not familiar with – two challenges we handled very well thanks to the excellent support provided by Ericsson,” says Network 41 subproject manager Lukas Sennhauser.
Network 41 is a trusted professional when it comes to dismantling and reassembling your equipment!
More than 40 new cash machines throughout Switzerland
A Swiss bank is not just replacing outdated cash machines but – based on promising user figures – is also installing 40 new ones. Network 41 has been commissioned by Diebold to prepare the infrastructure for installation of the cash machines and will also be putting them into operation. The work takes just two days to complete at each bank site.
The desired location of the cash machine is specified directly inside the bank branch. Based on this positioning, Network 41 establishes the wiring and connections for the power, network and alarm systems and ensures that the installation work is coordinated and professionally carried out throughout Switzerland. Network 41 then puts the cash machines into operation and
provides training for bank staff. All technicians involved have to meet the bank’s rigorous security requirements. «When it comes to installing the new cash machines, it’s particularly important for us to coordinate the work closely with all
those involved. Within a period of just two days, all the work has to be completed, bank staff trained and the cash machines ready for use by customers. It’s quite a challenge but one we’re very pleased to take on» says Abazi Driton, Network 41 project coordinator.
Coordination and planning – a key Network 41 tool
Network 41 plans extensive electrical systems in an innovative and flexible way
On behalf of Immo Invest Partner AG in Zurich, Network 41 is planning the entire electrical system for the Hilton hotel in Spreitenbach. The hotel will be the largest in Aargau and will be built in the growth region Limmattal.
Smaller, successfully planned projects as well as good references showed Immo Invest Partner AG that Network 41 was able to take on a more significant project. Network 41 received the acceptance of a tender for designing the entire electrical system of a Hilton hotel, which will be built in the rapidly growing economic region Limmattal by April 2017. The hotel will have around 120 rooms as well as numerous conference and meeting rooms.
Network 41 is planning the entire lighting system, the current distribution board as well as the building automation system. Hotel-specific evacuation and fire alarm systems as well as access systems are also on the agenda. Planning for the barrier and car-park routeing system for the underground car park as well as
multimedia planning for fixed and mobile networks is also being carried out by Network 41.
Following the planning stage, Network 41 will contract out the execution of the work and will undertake responsibility for site management. «As a service provider for technical communication, we not only design installations, but we are also able to fully realise our designs», says Gregor Felder, Project Coordinator at Network 41.
Network 41 represents detailed and flexible electrical planning!
Network 41's field service department is on the spot when private customers experience disruption in the Swisscom network. But that's not all: since this year field service employees have been expanding their skills – taking care of business customers and carrying out cable connections.
Some 37 Network 41 field service employees are deployed on a daily basis over a large area of German-speaking Switzerland on behalf of Swisscom. Their job is to rapidly eliminate landline or internet faults for private Swisscom customers (Service Assurance).
Employees also carry out on-site installations of internet routers and Swisscom TV. Over the past 12 months, Network 41 technicians have eliminated a total of 17,286 faults and carried out 2,255 on-site installations.
When it comes to deployment scheduling, the field service uses a dispatching system that is operated jointly with Swisscom, the client. "The fully automated app deploys the staff available so as to save time and money," explains Marcel Lang, Field Service Project Manager with Network 41. The dynamic system updates operations every six minutes. As soon as a technician has completed an order, outstanding appointments are redistributed among the team in a way that makes most sense in terms of location and time. "The system minimises long journeys and waiting times," says Marcel Lang.
Well-trained employees
Since this year, Network 41's field service employees have also been responsible for business customer support – specifically in the area of access networks "from the head office to the modem", as Marcel Lang explains. For this purpose, the technicians received further training as well as acquiring cable connection skills. In the case of new buildings or relocations, new customers have to be hooked up to the cable network, and the field service staff are now able to take care of these electrical connections, too. In the past twelve months, they have carried out 6,739 cable connections.
At the same time, Network 41 supports Swisscom in continuously replacing the existing copper cables with fibre optic cables, as well as setting up a continuous network without breaks. Here the field service team is responsible for limiting disruptions to the fibre-optic network. "This makes a technician's job broader and even more interesting". It also enables the company to ensure more effective use of staff capacity. Marcel Lang says: "These further training courses have turned our employees into multi-skilled technicians. One person can take care of everything. And we’re getting even more efficient in terms of personnel deployment.”
Network 41 will also support Swisscom by expanding its Zurich site. Six employees have been working in the Zurich area since the end of 2017 – previously there were just three or four. “This means we can respond more flexibly to fluctuations in assignments and ensure stability, thereby providing Swisscom with even more effective assistance,” says Marcel Lang.
How can a company become a Platin partner at Swisscom – the highest possible level? One requirement is regular training with certifications, thus ensuring the customer can receive optimal support at all times.
Swisscom – the major Swiss provider of telephony and ICT solutions – works together with partners in the SME sector. One of these is Network 41. The partnership has already been in place for several years. During this time, Network 41 has advanced constantly from level to level and has reached the highest level – Platin – at Swisscom for the fourth time in a row. One of the conditions here is the regular, certified training of employees.
Support from A to Z
Network 41 is the direct contact partner for all SMEs that are managed on behalf of Swisscom. “We are often recommended by a Swisscom sales associate,” comments Samuel Brunner, Team Leader of the Data & Voice department at Network 41. “Some of the customers also come to us directly. After establishing contact with them, we look after the customer from the initial clarifications all the way through to the final handover of the infrastructure. As we are a reliable, certified partner of Swisscom, the customer can enjoy our first-class support and consultation.”
Needs-based consultation
Network 41 does not provide standard solutions – instead, they aim to meet the individual needs of the customers. The employees at Network 41 have already completed 20 training courses this year, are thus familiar with all new products and remain up to date with the latest technology. “This knowledge allows us to offer the absolute best solution to a customer. During the consultation, we check what the company needs, how many employees it has, possible demands from field staff and much more besides,” comments Samuel Brunner. “We can then suggest the best system and ideal financing options. Is it worth purchasing their own system or server, is a rental option the better choice, or is a cloud solution feasible? What the customer wants is the best possible price-performance ratio. This is absolutely critical.”
Close cooperation with key players as the foundation for success
“Of course, each company – and above all, company management – should discuss which solutions come into question for them in cooperation with the IT specialists.” says Team Leader Samuel Brunner. “Thanks to our expertise and many years of experience, we can assist companies in making this decision. It is very important that the IT managers and IT partners are also involved in the decision-making process. We ensure close cooperation here so that the project can be implemented successfully.”
Internet, phone and TV connections are standard in apartments nowadays – especially in business apartments such as those offered by “Nest”. Network 41 guarantees that the infrastructure at “Nest” works perfectly at all times.
“Nest” is an apt name – the company NEST TEMPORARY GMBH rents out business apartments in Zurich, Basel, Zug and Lucerne. The company has been a player on the market for a little over ten years and now has just under 400 apartments in its portfolio. Designed for temporary stays, the apartments are all furnished and have a fully equipped kitchen. “Nest” also offers a wide range of additional services such as laundry, cleaning and pick-up services, not to mention handling of the entire check-in and check-out process and guest assistance during their stay.
TV, Internet and phone
It goes without saying that all apartments have TV, high-speed Internet with a secure WLAN connection, and a phone line. Network 41 is responsible for ensuring that the telecommunications technology is available in all areas and works properly at all times. “We signed a maintenance and support contract with ‘Nest’,” explains project coordinator Ruben Gomez.
State-of-the-art technology
This brings with it several advantages for “Nest”. When it comes to furnishing a new apartment, Network 41 already knows which equipment is necessary without a detailed briefing. “Sometimes, we install the technology for an entire building at the same time,” comments Ruben Gomez. “We always use the absolute latest equipment available on the market.” “Nest” can thus rest assured that everything will work perfectly.
Service hotline
Network 41 is also responsible for monitoring and maintenance of the systems. The guest relation managers can contact a member of staff at Network 41 via a service hotline if problems should occur in an apartment. “We are always there to help if something is not working as it should,” comments Ruben Gomez. “We determine the cause of the problem on site and rectify it accordingly.” Our service also includes the replacement of equipment when new technological advancements have been made.
It’s crunch time for Swisscom. The Swiss fibre-optic network is being expanded to cover the whole of the country. Progress is being made community by community and district by district. At the heart of the rollout: Network 41 and its team of experts.
Unfortunately, the fibre-optic network in Switzerland is quite a patchwork. While the network is well established in various cities, there are large gaps in the communities between them. Swisscom is now taking action here, with plans made to expand the fibre-optic network to cover the whole of Switzerland. Network 41 is part of this project as preferred partner of Cablex. “The task is an extremely complex one,” comments project manager Roland Müller. “Many parts of a puzzle have to fit together before a community is completely connected to the network.”
The major challenge is receiving the necessary approvals for all lines and installations within a reasonable period of time. “We start with an implementation blueprint ,” explains Roland Müller. “Here, we draw up all of the planning documents for the acquisition. In other words, we have to secure the rights to the buildings and transmission lines, both from private landowners and public authorities.” We are constantly confronted by private landowners who refuse to have the transmission lines routed through their property or Micro Cans installed there. Moreover, the planning and approval process varies between municipalities and between cantons. This means we have to remain flexible in order to find a solution. “If necessary, we carry out a redesign so that the project can still be implemented according to the requirements from Swisscom.”
The next step involves the planning of the fibre optics, which are then checked and inventoried. This forms the basis for ordering the materials. From this point on, the team from Network 41 leap into action implementing the civil engineering, cable feeding and splicing, plus the installation of Micro Cans. While this sounds routine in theory, difficulties can arise in practice if the teams are confronted with different on-site conditions to those expected according to the plans. As this work is carried out at the nerve centre of the system, this means that the specifiers in back office have to work out a solution immediately to keep any interruptions at the customer to a minimum. The final planning phase deals with the coordination of the splicing work in order to establish connections to the existing copper domestic connections.
“The demands on the specifiers are very high,” comments Roland Müller. “We work with special tools that are provided by Swisscom. Around six months are needed before a member of our team can work with these tools on their own. The introduction at Swisscom takes one month, with in-house supervision then lasting a further four to five months.” 20 specifiers from Network 41 are currently assigned on behalf of Swisscom or Cablex. These specialists are able to manage multiple projects simultaneously whilst remaining on top of the overall situation at all times.
Network 41 is one of the few companies in Switzerland to be able to offer engineering services in all three national languages. At present, 13 municipalities in German-speaking Switzerland are being looked after as e2e package projects, with a further 18 communities receiving pure engineering support. The project got under way in September 2017. The entire Swisscom project will last between four and five years – until around 2022. The final deadline for the first subproject at Network 41 was July this year. As Roland Müller is pleased to announce: “It has not been a problem meeting the deadlines up to now.”
Swisscom plans to pull the plug on analogue telephony. This also will affect thousands of lifts. Network 41 is helping Schindler to tackle the huge amount of work involved in converting analogue emergency call systems.
The lift is stuck – what do you now? Emergency phones have been required for a long time now so as to ensure panic doesn't break out in the narrow shaft. There are approximately 125,000 lifts operating in Switzerland. The company Schindler in Ebikon is responsible for some of these, and is now helping owners convert from analogue to digital telephony. Since many customers failed to have the conversion work carried out early on, there was huge surge in demand towards the end of the year. Schindler was in need of assistance and turned to Network 41 for support.
Training with examination and certificate
"We held initial talks in the summer of this year," says Ruben Gomez, Project Coordinator ICT with Network 41. "Changing cables is essentially no problem for us. But we had no previous experience at all of working with lifts. How do you work in a lift shaft? How are the emergency telephones accessed? These were the questions that had to be answered first of all – and a few hours of instruction were not going to be enough."
The Network 41 employees – now 17 in total – all had to complete a three-week training programme. The focus was on comprehensive safety at work. The course gave the electricians the opportunity to learn and practice how to access the lift, correct and safe procedure inside the shaft including the use of fall protection, and also the entire handling process including system control. "This was new to our employees so it was all very interesting," says Ruben Gomez. "On completion of the course they had to take an examination and then received a certificate."
Excellent communication
Project Coordinator Ruben Gomez is very happy about the way things are going with the lift manufacturer: "Communication is excellent. Each Network 41 employee was assigned to one of the 18 Schindler branch offices in Switzerland, with their own contact partner. However, they can plan their work independently within the region." Network 41 uses a paperless method: all data such as serial numbers and readings are saved in an app and relayed to Network 41.
Swisscom will soon be doing away with analogue telephony entirely. For this reason, thousands of lift facilities throughout Switzerland have to be converted, so lift manufacturer KONE brought in Network41 for reinforcement purposes.
Founded in Finland in 1910, KONE is now a publicly listed company with a workforce of some 52,000 worldwide and an annual turnover of approximately EUR 9 billion. The company's Swiss headquarters are located in Brüttisellen. Each lift manufacturer is responsible for ensuring that the emergency call system is converted from analogue to digital telephony. Network 41 turned out be the perfect partner for KONE when it came to carrying out this work.
Network 41 started working for the Finnish lift and escalator manufacturer in the summer of 2017. But the two companies began collaborating several weeks previously: this was because Network 41 staff first had to get used to working in a lift shaft. The training focused on the lift control unit in so-called service mode and also safety while the work was being done – for the employees themselves but also for passengers.
If a lift is put out of operation, the doors have to remain closed even if someone presses the call button. A notice also has to be posted on the lift doors indicating that the system cannot be used for certain period of time. Meanwhile, Network 41 staff have to observe all safety regulations when working in the lift shaft. This includes wearing a helmet, special shoes and also protective goggles if necessary.
The conversion itself is actually a routine operation. Three quarters of cases require installation of mobile communication modules. A quarter of the lift systems are fitted with a gateway (modem). "At the beginning there were problems with the service control unit in the lifts now and again," says Project Coordinator Ruben Gomez. But that doesn't happen any more. "Our staff learned quickly and are now very skilled at handling the control units."
The KONE lifts are almost all designed according to the same pattern. "This makes our work a lot more straightforward," says the Project Coordinator. Hence the project is progressing fast. More than half of the planned 3,000 lifts have been converted and Network 41 is in line with the schedule set out by KONE.
KONE is very happy with the work done by Network 41. "They're full of praise," says a delighted Ruben Gomez. In fact the training course and the collaborative processes with Network 41 have been defined by KONE as a benchmark for other partner companies.
From sockets and ventilation systems to fire protection – everything is planned down the last detail and intelligently managed. Network 41 completes the elaborate electrical planning work for the Wiggerweg residential complex in Strengelbach AG.
A huge wiring diagram in a total of 221 pages reflects just how much work project manager Alex Zemp and his team put into the professional networking of the large-scale residential estate in Strengelbach. Network 41 was responsible for the entire electrical planning on the estate. “All in all we spent 780 hours on the planning for Wiggerweg over the last three years, including coordination with our partners,” says Alex Zemp. This highly complex work is barely noticed by non-experts. But professionals will instantly take note of the intelligent overall concept that enables use of power and heat in the buildings in the first place.
Nothing is left to chance
“Electrical planning is so diverse – I can hardly list everything we hooked up to the power grid,” says the project manager. It’s true: the list of devices and components is very impressive – ranging from simple sockets through to intelligently controlled emergency lighting systems: everything that required a power supply was precisely planned in advanced by Network 41 experts. This also includes the connections and cables for heating, ventilativentilation, blinds, washing machines, lights, kitchens, bathroom facilities, multimedia systems, and intercom systems as well as smoke and heat extractor systems. “Everything can be intelligently controlled and adapted to individual customer preferences. The various items can even communicate with each other,” adds Alex Zemp.
Intelligent Lighting
One impressive example is the planning for the exterior lighting and ambient lighting on the residential estate. The Network 41 lighting concept not only ensures minimum power consumption and optimum illumination, it also features intelligent lighting control: the lamps darken automatically at night and are interconnected by means of LOGO control. According to Alex Zemp, the biggest challenge on this project was the sheer scale and the need for ongoing coordination with various partners: “There were also lots of statutory requirements and individual adaptations. It all takes a lot of patience. But it was worth it in the end – after all, we don't just offer run-of-the-mill solutions.”
Swisscom modernises its mobile network with Network 41
Swisscom aims to extend its mobile network now and in the future so as to keep it up-to-date with the latest technology. For this reason, Network 41 has been contracted to carry out system upgrades at more than 300 antenna sites.
Swisscom guarantees its customers maximum connectivity everywhere in Switzerland at all times. In order to maintain this service, annual system upgrades are carried out at all antenna sites. This ensures the network keeps up with the latest developments in technology.
In 2016, Network 41 carried out LTE/4G expansions at 300 sites. The system components are now placed directly at the antennas so as to reduce performance loss in the HF cables.
“With such a large number of sites, it’s important to keep the organisation lean. This means clearly structured and well-defined procedures, optimum use of capacity and – thanks to the enormous trust placed in us by Swisscom – the ability to work independently,” says Network 41 subproject manager Lukas von Rotz. He adds: "One thing is certain: these antenna sites are well-equipped for the technologies of the future.”
We will climb any heights for a modern network.
Network 41 is ready for all-IP
At the end of 2017, Swisscom is planning to change the existing system of landline telephony (analogue/ISDN) to IP (internet protocol). This will enable companies and private customers to tap into the new communication solutions of the future here and now. Network 41 has planned and implemented an all-IP solution in Lucerne for Temporary Living Solutions LLC.
Temporary Living Solutions LLC, a provider of temporary residential solutions in Switzerland (mynest.ch), commissioned Network 41 to create a contemporary and sustainable communication solution. Network 41 installed a communication server at the company’s headquarters and linked this to the network via a Swisscom all-IP connection (Smart Business Connect). The branch offices in Basel, Zurich and Zug all benefit from this one connection at the same time since they use the communication and IT infrastructure in Lucerne.
The client has done away entirely with hard phones, i.e. conventional telephones, and replaced them with soft clients, telephony software installed on the computer and headsets. Employees can be reached on their business number wherever they are online.
“With this all-IP solution Temporary Living Solutions LLC has opted for contemporary communication, giving its staff flexibility and making them location-independent,” says Network 41 project manager Christian Frei.
Network 41 – tomorrow’s network solutions here and now
Antenna in a cable conduit – Network 41 pilots a world first for Swisscom
In order to keep up with the increasing demand for mobile services, it has become necessary to build mobile network base stations for full geographical coverage. Swisscom came up with a solution: the so-called «antenna in the cable conduit», a world first which the company patented and then piloted in collaboration with Network 41.
As the demand for mobile services increases, many base stations are reaching their limits. New ones are now required so as to be able to cope with the data load. Swisscom developed a pioneering innovation to solve this problem: antennas in the cable conduit (small cells in manholes) – base stations with a more limited range put positioned at numerous sites. The sites are selected so as to tap into existing infrastructures as quickly as possible. Swisscom connects the small cells to the existing telecommunications infrastructure in street cable ducts. The advantage of the solution is that is invisible since it disappears underground. It took Swisscom one year to develop this world first: antennas with specific properties that make them suitable for use in cable conduits. The manhole covers also have to have certain material characteristics for the small cells to be able to function. Swisscom patented this solution of the antenna in the cable conduit and piloted it in collaboration with Network 41 in Zurich.
«What was particularly exciting about this project with Swisscom was that we got to work on an innovation that didn’t exist anywhere else in the world in this form. What is more Network 41 was involved across the board – from project planning and underground construction to cable feed, splicing, installation, integration and construction supervision», says Cédric Brunner, project manager with Network 41.
Network 41 – one step ahead when it comes to global innovations, too!
Tapping into optimum synergies for VCK Logistics SCS AG
Network 41 installed IP video surveillance and Swisscom Business Connect for VCK Logistics SCS AG, a leading logistics provider, at the company’s new site in Büron.
VCK Logistics SCS AG is an international logistics company and a leading player in the telecommunications market. It also offers logistics services for short-lived consumer goods as well as high-tech and high-value products. In doing so, the company has to be flexible and respond swiftly at all times, so it requires the appropriate IT and communication solutions.
At VCK’s new site in Büron, Network 41 has installed a network for internal communication that is also linked to the company’s headquarters in Düsseldorf. Mobile devices and a WiFi connection – both state-of-the-art – support fast and flexible warehouse planning and management. The IP surveillance system installed in the warehouse facilities enables processes to be optimised, and it is possible to save and send videos as required.
Swisscom Business Connect, a virtual telephone system, enables all staff to use a landline for phone calls, whether they are using a PC or a mobile phone. This means that no investment is required in hardware for a telephone system and staff can be reached anywhere as soon as they are online.
«Since Network 41 installed systems for telephone, video surveillance and communication at the same time, both VCK Logistics and ourselves were able to make the most of synergies to provide a comprehensive and effective solution,» says Network 41 project manager Martin Aschwanden.
Network 41 offers flexible solutions from a single source!
Network 41 has completed a mandate issued by Swisscom for Emmi AG, one of Switzerland’s foremost milk processing companies, to bring its communication network up to the latest technological standards.
Emmi was motivated by a number of factors to overhaul its communication network: A reliable network for telephone conversations throughout the site, i.e. in all buildings and the outer areas; Use of modern media, e.g. tablets and smartphones to transfer data and manage production and logistics.
The environmental and building analyses conducted by Network 41 showed that the planned installations would require considerable flexibility and experience, given the extremely stringent security requirements and the health and hygiene regulations in a food production facility running 24/7.
Network 41 planned and completed the communication network for Emmi using UMTS technology at 2100 MHz. The new network was planned and completed so as to enable its extension to include the new LTE and 4 and 5G generations – a «cornerstone for the future of the next mobile generation.»
Production management and calling up the ingredients for Emmi's savoury products are now a matter of merely pressing the right button on a tablet.
«The fact that it was the food-processing industry was a big challenge for everyone. We were keenly aware of that and approached the planning and implementation with considerable sensitivity», says Thomas Schläppi, project coordinator of Network 41 AG.
Join the next mobile generation with Network 41!
Network 41 modernises the fibre optic data highway in Switzerland
Network 41 has upgraded the new fibre optic data highway in Switzerland on behalf of Telecom Italia Sparkle, one of the world’s biggest international data network providers.
The data volume our networks are having to handle is constantly increasing due to the fact that internet-based solutions are more widespread in business and as a result of the growing use of streaming services and mobile end devices. In order to keep up with these demands, Telecom Italia Sparkle has upgraded its entire European network to integrate the latest technology. It commissioned Network 41 and Huawei Switzerland to fit its infrastructure sites - the so-called network hubs - throughout the entire data highway by integrating modern, high-performance fibre optic components.
Having carried out an analysis of the existing state of all infrastructure sites from Chiasso to Basel, Network 41 gauged all system components providing the connections between the sites and documented them. Finally, Network 41 installed the new optical Huawei components and put them into operation.
Network 41 has expanded one infrastructure site to date, as well as connecting a large-scale data centre to the data highway.
This means that faster and more efficient data transmission is available not just to customers in Switzerland but throughout Europe, too.
Network 41 has its finger on the pulse of the data flow!
Network 41 on duty from morning till night
Network 41 is on duty from morning till night on behalf of Swisscom to deal with landline and internet disruptions for customers (Service Assurance) or to install internet or Swisscom TV services on site and advise customers.
When connections to the outside world fail - whether landline, internet or TV – every user wants the problem to be sorted out as quickly as possible. This is where the Network 41 field service comes in. Faults are reported to Swisscom, and Network 41 technicians go out to the customer or the telephone exchange to take care of the problem.
Another area in which the Network 41 field service operates is the on-site installation (OSI) of Swisscom TV or internet on the customer’s premises. The Network 41 specialists recommend to customers which appliances meet their specific needs and explain the options involved.
As Network 41 project manager Adrian Schmidlin explains: «In 2015 we dealt with 27,200 service disruptions throughout Switzerland and carried out 7,300 on-site installations. Both Swisscom and its customers appreciate the dedication of Network 41 technicians, since we’re very customer-oriented and flexible in our approach.»
Network 41 – we deal with problems, offer advice and carry out installation work.
Network 41 pulls cables – a truly powerful performance
Our telecommunications networks are subject to ever-increasing demands. The need for faster connections with higher bandwidths – even in rural areas – means that either the old cables have to be replaced or new ones installed. Network 41 places its trust in its qualified staff to carry out this work.
In the last five years, Network 41 has replaced old trunk cables with fibre optic cables in 8,500 households for ewl energie wasser luzern. The aim is to complete the job for the whole of Switzerland in the years to come. This makes huge demands in terms of the quality and coordination of the work.
When the cables are replaced, the existing cable ducts are probed with a pipe coil first of all so as to trace the path. If possible, the draw cord for the new cable is pulled in at the same time. If the tubes are not continuous or it isn’t possible to trace the path, a camera is used to help identify any additional work that needs doing – such as replacement of defective tubing by underground construction teams. The job of drawing in the cables is supported by a cable feed machine with a traction capacity of up to 2.5 tons.
«It’s particularly challenging to do this kind of work in the city on busy streets. The staff on our teams are well qualified: they’re trained for both underground construction and cable feed. So each individual knows what everyone else is talking about, the work can be carried out quickly and meets high quality standards – and it's all thanks to the perfect combination of machine power and staff expertise,» says Jörg Pfulg, Network 41 project coordinator.
Network 41 – always pulling its weight for you!
Network 41 installs 250 km of cable in Letzipark in Zurich
Network 41 has been able to establish itself in Greater Zurich by taking on a major contract for Steiner AG. Network 41 is responsible for building automation and extensive electrical installation work at the Letzipark residential and commercial complex in Zurich.
Based on numerous projects carried out over a number of years, Network 41 was able to demonstrate to Steiner AG that it has extensive expertise in the area of building automation and electrical installation. The company is pleased and proud to have been become Steiner AG’s chosen partner for large-scale projects now, too.
Network 41 is responsible for high and low-voltage current installations and light fittings in more than 270 residential units and four businesses. Installation of the building automation systems such as fire alarms and multimedia will also be carried out by Network 41. The project will involve fitting a total of 250 km of electric cable - equivalent to the distance from Lucerne to Geneva. In 60 residential units designed for assisted living, additional call systems will be installed for care staff as well as handicapped accessible facilities.
As Network 41 project coordinator Abazi Driton says: «To be able keep on schedule on a job of this magnitude with such a high level of dependence on other contractors, it’s enormously important to plan ahead and coordinate the work very precisely. Between 10 and 15 Network 41 staff are on site on average – amounting to some 25,000 working hours by the end of the construction period. We’re really pleased to be in good shape to take on such large-scale projects - and it’s good to be able to consolidate our presence in Zurich, too.»
Network 41 – solid and reliable when it comes to building automation and electrical installations!
FTTS for faster surfing in rural areas, too
Swisscom has largely opted to use FTTS (Fibre to the Street) in rolling out its fibre-optic network outside conurbations, and Network 41 is one of a small number of partners to have been commissioned to carry out this development and modernisation work. As a result Network 41 is now out and about all over Switzerland: in 2015 alone it already provided a faster network for more than 20,000 households.
In less densely populated areas, FTTS is the faster option for fibre-optic network development as compared to FTTH (Fibre to the Home). Network 41 initially takes care of installing the fibre-optic cable from the central office to the cable duct, which is located approx. 200 m away from the buildings themselves. In the duct, the system technology is installed that transforms the pulses of light transmitted by the optical fibre into electronic signals. The cables are newly spliced and the existing copper wiring is used for the final section up to the building.
«One particular challenge we face is ensuring that Swisscom customers only experience short service disruptions (telephone, internet and television) - even when cable types up to 80 years old have to be spliced with modern copper cables. So we’re always careful to plan and organise our work in advance, as well as providing our specialists with training to ensure they keep up-to-date with the latest developments,» says Dave Frühauf, a Network 41 project manager.
Network 41 gets the Swisscom network up to speed!
Lucerne’s fibre optic network – ultra-fast, clear-cut and consistent
Network 41 is providing fibre optic connections for most apartments and businesses in the city of Lucerne on behalf of ewl energie wasser luzern. The connections are the first in the world to feature the Diamond SA FGB (fibre Bragg grating) technology OLiD. The latter guarantees 100 per cent consistency, i.e. uninterrupted transmission of signals and clear allocation of the fibre optics – from the central exchange to the outlet in the apartment!
Field trials were run by the partners in 2013 for the time to test the new technology in a small number of buildings. The tests demonstrated that what had proved effective in the lab is also excellently suited to large-scale use.
As a result, ewl energie wasser luzern decided to install the innovative and pioneering Diamond SA technology on a widespread basis. Network 41 then set about fitting the technology in all apartments in Lucerne: this allows each fibre optic connection to be clearly identified and provides uninterrupted service from the central exchange to the domestic outlet.
After completing the installation, Network 41 uses special measuring devices (so-called interrogators) to test the lines from the central exchange to the outlet once again. This ensures 100 per cent reliability that every end consumer can be clearly identified and has constant access.
So the ewl energie wasser luzern fibre optic network is not just ultra-fast, it’s also clear-cut and consistent.
An ultra-fast, clear-cut fibre optic connection with Network 41!
COWs ensure that more than 400,000 festival-goers enjoy good reception
Under contract to Ericsson, Network 41 has set up mobile stations at six open air festivals in Switzerland for the provider Salt. Network 41 ensured sufficient mobile network coverage for Salt users among the 400,000 visitors to festivals in Birrfeld, Hinwil, St. Gallen, Nyon, Heitere and Zurich.
The large numbers of festival visitors and the location of the festival grounds required a higher level of mobile coverage than normally existed in these areas. Network 41 set up mobile stations – so-called COWs (cells on wheels) – so as to ensure that Salt users among the open air guests enjoyed 100% telephone reception and good internet coverage.
The provider determined the type of configuration and positioning of the COWs based on the number of anticipated guests and the nature of the terrain. Network 41 installed the equipment accordingly and provided the connection to the Salt network.
Before Network 41 was able to erect the mobile stations, a precise analysis was carried out of the situation on site, the ground was prepared and transportation of the COWs, cranes and lifting platforms was organised for the set-up process. Network 41 project manager Cédric Brunner found installing the COWs a particularly enjoyable challenge: in spite of precise planning, the Network 41 team had to be spontaneous and come up with improvised but effective solutions – often in collaboration with the festival organisers.
Network 41 gets you online even when you’re busy rock’n-rolling!
Network 41 on emergency duty
A heavy storm making its way over much of Switzerland during the night of Sunday 6 June 2015 hit the Swisscom telephone exchange in Birmensdorf, destroying it completely. Swisscom customers were left without landline, mobile phone and internet services.
A Network 41 team was on site for several days to support Swisscom in rebuilding the telephone exchange. The storm had resulted in water accumulating up against the wall of the building and flowing into the exchange via the ventilation shaft; there was nothing that could have been done to stop it. It also caused a short circuit that started a fire.
A Network 41 was on the scene from Tuesday afternoon to carry out landline restoration work. Within a short period of time the entire backbone structures had to be completely rebuilt – from installation through to detailed configuration of the equipment. «One particular challenge was that the previous installations included customer-specific configurations. Very limited space for up to 15 technicians at once and the enormous pressure of time demanded enormous commitment and dedication as well as precisely coordinated collaboration,» says Martin Aschwanden, the Network 41 project manager responsible. The entire infrastructure was up and running again by Thursday evening.
Network 41 gets you online quickly and professionally - even in an emergency!
«Swissporarena – excellent reception on all seats!»
Under contract to Swisscom, Network 41 has brought the very latest mobile network technology to the Swissporarena. Ultra-fast surfing and excellent telephone reception has been available on all seats at the FCL stadium since the start of the current football season.
Over the winter break, Network 41 joined forces with Swisscom to divide the arena up and create twice as many network sectors. Measurements were carried out in the new sectors to find out where and at which angle the new antennas have to be positioned. In addition to adding antennas, system components were updated to 4G, the fourth and latest generation of mobile communication, thereby enabling a data throughput speed up to five times faster than what is currently possible.
Since the winter break was a very brief one for the footballers, the work involving analysis of the existing situation, supply and installation of the new components had to be completed within a very short period of time. Smooth coordination between Network 41, Swisscom and all the partner firms such as electricians, metalworkers, painters and plasterers was absolutely vital. The network was not only upgraded in the stadium itself but also in the VIP lounge, where MIMO technology (Multiple Input Multiple Output) was installed to allow data volumes of up to 300 MBit/s.
Network 41 subproject manager Rafael dos Santos and his team stood by their motto: «Only if we face up to the challenges of today will we be equipped to tackle the demands of tomorrow.»
The Swissporarena is ready for kick-off and all football fans can now enjoy excellent reception everywhere and at all times - thanks to Network 41!
The hotel «Frutt Lodge & Spa» is situated on the sunny plateau of Melchsee-Frutt at an altitude of 1920 metres – it is Europe’s highest-altitude 4-star hotel, overlooking a lake and offering a breathtaking view of the starlit sky. This mountain island at the heart of Switzerland is far removed from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life – the perfect spot to find peace, space and time, set amid the vast natural expanse of a mystic mountain landscape. It was in this setting that Network 41 was called upon to install one of the most state-of-the-art mobile communication systems without impairing the tradition-steeped appearance of the building.
What challenges were involved?
In addition to the requirement of installing a mobile network that was to be invisible to guests, there were a number of other issues to clarify with the customer. For example: what radiation output and antenna distribution were required to ensure adequate reception? Which services were to be available to guests, which to staff? What was the regular bandwidth and what peak output was to be supported? Other challenges facing Network 41 as the service provider responsible included the following: How can travel, board and lodging be efficiently organised for staff? What construction periods are to be planned for lengthier overhead work? What insulation, construction materials and covers are required?
How does the customer benefit?
The installation provides improved mobile phone reception for guests in the lobby as well as enhancing internal communication between the various departments. In addition to being able to purchase regular WiFi reception at an additional charge, guests can also enjoy unlimited communication using the in-house mobile network solution – even in a remote mountain region.
Customary quality in perfect harmony with a longstanding tradition!
A major step forward into the next generation of mobile communications!
Under contract to Swisscom and Ericsson, Network 41 fitted 25 per cent of the mobile network stations for the new 4th generation high-performance network (4G) in just under two years in the so-called SWAP project.
The demand for mobile data communication and high-performance networks is constantly on the increase, leading to the development of the fourth generation of mobile communication known as 4G or Long Term Evolution (LTE). This enables data connection speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s – ten times as fast as 3G and allowing mobile TV, internet and streaming services to be provided in excellent quality.
Together with Swisscom, Network 41 has completed the change of generation in 1,500 of the approx. 6,000 mobile network stations. The first step at each station was to analyse the existing situation. Based on this analysis, Network 41 determined which system components were required and then installed them for Ericsson. In some cases the components had to be transported to the stations by crane or by helicopter. Precise pre-configuration enabled replacement of the old components to be carried out very quickly. As a result it was possible to meet Swisscom's requirement of keeping mobile network shutdown as brief as possible at a maximum of 15 minutes.
«Thanks to professional collaboration, cross-departmental processes and staff flexibility, Network 41 successfully implemented this project on behalf of Ericsson and Swisscom», says Ruben Gomez, Network 41 project coordinator.
Network 41 takes a major step forward into the future of mobile communication!
Fibre optic cable will be newly fitted in the beautiful city of Lucerne from 2010 to the end of 2015. This large-scale project is a collaborative venture between ewl energie wasser luzern and Swisscom Schweiz AG. Network 41 will carry out a most of the work directly on site.
An investment in the double-digit millions will ensure that each individual household in the city has access to the four-fibre model and will therefore soon enjoy an ultra-fast internet, multimedia and broadband experience!
How is this going to happen? The objective is clear: by the end of 2015, some 90% of households in the city of Lucerne are to be fitted with the new fibre optic connection. In order to save costs and time as well as optimising later operation, much of the existing infrastructure will be re-used and supplemented with cutting-edge technology. This unique project will make the city of Lucerne one of the absolute leaders in the area of telecommunications.
What is our assignment? The Network 41 team is acquiring, coordinating and realising the network of the future - and putting it into each individual apartment. After inspecting the building, our technicians install an optical telecommunications outlet (OTO) in each apartment. Based on our longstanding experience in network construction, our installation and configuration expertise for state-of-the art networks and our reliable project management, Network 41 has been awarded this unique assignment to carry out a large share of the total volume of work on behalf of ewl energie wasser luzern.
Lucerne is not just a beautiful city but a fast one too, thanks to us!
Living with perspective – this is the slogan of the HOCHZWEI complex to be completed in the Allmend area of Lucerne by the end of 2012, in the immediate vicinity of the new Swissporarena.
Constructed under the ownership of Credit Suisse, the two high-rise residential buildings comprise 283 rental apartments and comply with the rigorous requirements of greenproperty, Switzerland's first seal of quality for sustainable buildings. In order to ensure sustainability in the area of gas, water and power consumption too, the energy service provider ewl (energie wasser luzern) commissioned Network 41 to design and install the network for the deployment of intelligent meters.
This laid the foundation for future technologies such as smart metering. The installation was based on the structural concept which defined the exact positioning of the technical components. This ensured that EMC requirements (electromagnetic compatibility) were met.
The engineering conception complies with the network standard 10GB Base-T. Quality testing of cable functionality was carried out to the European standard (LinkWare Cable Test Management Software).
Feel as though you were right there among the national football team at the World Cup in Brazil – from your own armchair at home. 3D TV is one of the features of the bandwidth-driven market. The changeover of the transmission infrastructure to fibre optics is being pursued with great intensity – but this is just one aspect of the technology.
What else is required?
Cable network providers are focusing further development on the HFC structure from Docsis 3.0 to Docsis 3.1 and also CCAP technology (CONVERGED CABLE ACCESS PLATFORM).
Segment network engineering is a key aspect in implementing the very latest technologies. In order to keep customer impact as low as possible, technicians of the engineering team generally carry out installation and migration work on the existing active network during the night-time hours of 12 midnight to 6 am.
Expertise, precise preparation and exact coordination with the customer and network operator help staff keep a cool head in handling these tricky changeover operations.
The gradual, evolutionary introduction of DOCSIS 3.1 and transitions on the network side will provide downstream rates of 10 Gbit/s and upstream rates of 1 Gbit/s in the medium term via cable networks.
With the new generation of CCAP, TV signals and IP connections no longer require a separate infrastructure but are supplied via a combined platform. CCAP - the method of choice in pursuing the all-IP trend in the cable network sector.
So if you’re the one passing the ball back tomorrow – it means we were there!
The world in which we live is becoming increasingly digital. In our private lives we surf the internet and watch high-resolution television. At work, virtually everything is dominated by electronics. This development is unstoppable, with products such as cloud computing and 3D television soon to be launched on the market.
What work is being done? The answer to this development is «Fibre to the Home» (FTTH) – i.e. the installation of fibre optic cables from the local exchange right into people's living rooms. These cables allow signals to be sent by means of light impulses, thereby putting a whole new digital experience on the screen. Network 41 is involved in this exciting project in most major cities such as Lucerne, Bern, Basel and Zurich in collaboration with its partners Swisscom (Schweiz) AG, ewl energie wasser luzern and Energie Wasser Bern.
How is it going to happen? Swiss households in urban areas are to be connected to the fibre optic network so as to be able to tap into bandwidths of over 100 MBit. In collaboration with its partners and deploying its own specialists, Network 41 has overall responsibility for rolling out the fibre optic network, including project management, acquisition, planning and implementation. For this purpose there are a number of installation teams working in parallel so as to ensure everything is completed as quickly as possible for residents. This requires a high degree of coordination, a detailed sense of how things are interlinked and enormous flexibility – in order to be able to respond effectively to anything unexpected.
The future is clear – because it’s made of glass!
The network of the future
The question arises every time a new building goes up. And our answer is: yes, copper cables are still up-to-date. This is because the wiring still meets today's technical requirements. With the right components, copper offers plenty of space for data via telephone and modem. It is no problem at all to enjoy watching television in HD quality while surfing the internet on your tablet at the same time.
Copper is by no means antiquated, even compared to fibre optics. Today - and most certainly in the future, too - copper wiring is the standard for installation in every new building in Switzerland. The basic connection for every new building is made of copper. The cables are an integral part of the public telecommunications service.
Network 41 is proud to be able to contribute significantly to this service by carrying out vital and extensive work for Swisscom. Every year, more than 1,500 buildings are connected using copper.
Our assembly teams are deployed in the regions of Central Switzerland, Aargau and Baselland. Network 41 covers everything from the initial customer contact through to underground construction and installation.
We have the right staff and the appropriate tools to do the work, and our experience feeds into integrated network and underground construction projection. Installation of copper wiring is one of Network 41’s core areas of expertise.
Copper is part of the public service offered by Network 41!
Modern office premises were built at Industriestrasse 16 in Sursee (LU) in 2012, including a penthouse apartment and underground parking facilities. The owner is the locally based company Hoch- & Tiefbau AG.
The latter approached Network 41 seeking to develop a uniform system for building control. The system was also to be flexibly expandable and low-cost.
In addition to a KNX building management system to control the components of lighting, indoor climate and blinds, an AMX system was also installed for audio and video. These two systems along with an online and offline combined access set-up was planned and put into operation by Network 41’s electrical engineering department.
The WiFi network integrated here is also state of the art. It operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz range, so a connection can always be established with an access point even if there is no cable connection. This so-called mesh WiFi technology enables the surrounding infrastructure such as car parks and warehouses to benefit from full coverage as well.
Meanwhile, an in-house UMTS mobile network also ensures optimum coverage throughout the entire building including the underground car park and basement.
The housing estate Leuenfeld in Oensingen (SO) is to be completed by 2013, comprising 540 households, a swimming pool, a day nursery and a get-together area. The building owner and client Schmid Immobilien AG commissioned Network 41 to equip the estate in preparation for future communication solutions including telephone, internet and TV/radio.
In order to appeal to owners, tenants and service providers alike, Network 41 joined forces with Swisscom and the Oensingen TV association to install the first nethome Fibre Spot in Switzerland. This telecommunications infrastructure ensured cost optimisation as projected by Schmid Immobilien AG as well as providing a wider range of services. Each residential unit was fitted with four fibre optic cables in star formation, two of which are currently in use.
The central utility room allows other providers to be fed into the nethome Fibre Spot at any time. The set-up also ensures individual use by residents of TV, internet and telephone services.
In addition to planning the nethome Fibre Spot, Network 41 also carried out the electrical engineering work and project planning for the utility room. Network 41 conducted negotiations with the service providers and was responsible for advising owners on an individual basis, in particular regarding the options and system components for building automation. This pioneer project demonstrates Network 41’s status as a leading specialist in the field of network planning in Switzerland.
