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Vilicom deploys in-building network for 19 new test labs in Manchester

April 29, 2020

Posted by: Anasia D'mello

Marc Ibanez of Vilicom UK

UK-based wireless telecommunications provider, Vilicom has installed an in-building, advanced cellular network at Smart DCC’s new Manchester office, Brabazon House. This, says the company, will be an essential tool in the rigorous testing of the latest smart energy technologies and initiatives at the new site.

The wireless connectivity will be relied on by 19 labs, which will host 2,400 smart meter testing banks; making it one of the radio frequency test facilities in Europe. Every month 70 million messages are transmitted across the national smart meter network and the data helps identify individual smart installations and pinpoint issues.

“This is the critical test bed for smart meter operations in the UK,” says Marc Ibanez, managing director, Vilicom UK.

The new network will provide the infrastructure to support innovation and growth for Smart DCC and its continued efforts in developing smart meter, home automation and electric vehicle projects. The network will allow experimentation and testing to be done in a secure, sandbox environment.

“Brabazon House improves the way the DCC works, accelerating the programme to digitise Britain’s analogue energy industry. Our labs are fitted with robust cellular technology allowing us to test thousands of smart meters in a safe and secure way. This facility enables the DCC to deliver on its purpose of making Britain more connected so we can all lead smarter, greener lives,” states Dan Lambert, COO of Smart DCC.

“Our work with Smart DCC reinforces our commitment as a business to support other like-minded companies in achieving a common goal of making low-carbon energy accessible and sustainable,” adds Ibanez. “We are proud of the work we have conducted with Smart DCC to deliver a secure network for their new hub of operations. We have given Smart DCC the tools to be able to test, understand and innovate their service to their customers.”

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