NextiraOne’s mobile data networking provides ideal communications solution for Steinbach’s Austrian Logistics Centre
Vienna – 16 March, 2010. NextiraOne, Europe’s leading expert in communications services, has implemented a wireless data network for Steinbach’s logistics centre in Schwertberg, Upper Austria. The innovative solution, based on Mesh Wireless LAN technology, will help improve operations in the company’s 15,000 m² warehousing facilities, with space for some 9,000 pallets.
In addition to its core business in the processing of wool, Steinbach also specialises in a wide variety of leisure activities and has a comprehensive range of products for outdoor pools and swimming baths. Sales throughout Austria are handled from the Schwertberg site, the company’s logistics centre. Modern, highly efficient warehouse management allows this traditional, family-owned company to locate and access the different products quickly and deliver them promptly.
In order to optimise its logistics operations, Steinbach decided to refresh its existing data network by implementing a completely mobile solution, integrating all its data devices, including laptops and scanners. Information on incoming and outgoing goods is captured through these mobile devices and data is processed in real time.
NextiraOne conducted a site survey in order to specify the coverage needed, data rates, network capacity, accessibility and quality of service (QoS). The company then planned and designed a mixed wireless LAN infrastructure, taking into account the limitations of the building. The solution was able to ensure an optimum cost efficiency combined with the best network performance for Steinbach.
The warehouse halls were equipped with the new Mesh WLAN technology, as installing cabling would have been extremely disruptive in halls filled with products. Meshed networks are particularly suitable for older or existing buildings where laying new cabling would be very costly or even impossible. The access points of a Mesh WLAN communicate with one another via radio signal and therefore need only an electrical supply. With the implementation of 802.11n transmission rates additional data volumes of up to 300 Megabits can be carried. Standard Wireless LAN networking is installed in the office buildings.
The 80 Steinbach employees now work using their mobile devices connected via around 50 access points throughout the warehouses and across the site. The management of this high performance Alcatel-Lucent technology is handled via the central Wireless LAN controller, which controls and manages all the functionality of the WLAN network and the access points. The controller is managed directly by Steinbach’s IT team.
“Technology must adapt to the conditions and requirements of the individual company, not the other way around. Our aim as the solutions integrator is to plan and implement the best customised solutions for our customers,” explains Margarete Schramböck, Vice President NextiraOne Germany & Austria.
Peter Steinbach, General Manager of Steinbach GmbH, is convinced of the value of the new technology: “Our warehouses are amongst the most modern in Austria and are at the heart of our operational activity. We needed a highly flexible solution that would optimise our operations without affecting the day-to-day running of our full warehouses. The implementation of a mixed mesh WLAN and wireless LAN solution shows the flexibility of the technology and of our partner, NextiraOne, in adapting to our requirements.”
