New Cleveland Contract
NE Computer Network Firm Digs Up Contract Win
Contract reflects Advantex’s ability to compete with major network suppliers
A major contract to supply Europe’s deepest mine with an advanced new internet compatible security camera system, which can be monitored from anywhere in the world has been won by a fast growing North East computer networking company.
Advantex Network Solutions Limited, based on the Wessington North Industrial Estate in Sunderland, has won a five-figure contract for the Internet Protocol (IP) Mobotix camera system at Cleveland Potash’s 1200 metre deep Boulby Mine at Saltburn on Teesside.
It is the first Internet based security system of its type in the North East and the new work is expected to create several new jobs in Advantex’s technical support and engineering departments.
Advantex, which designs, installs and commissions computer and telephone local area networks (LANs) and associated IP hardware, was started two years ago by brothers Stephen and David O’Connell after working for another local computer networking company.
The company, which employs more than 15 people, has quadrupled in size over the last year and currently turns over in excess of £250,000. This is predicted to grow to half a million within the next year.
The Cleveland Potash contract will see Advantex undertaking site survey work, supplying around 20 all weather IP cameras in two phases and installing them around the vast 36 sq km Boulby complex by early autumn 2004.
The gatehouse, detonator stores, car parks, perimeter fencing, access roads and diesel stores and an underground water pumping station will all be camera monitored.
Utilising the very latest digital recorder and video management and surveillance technology, the camera system will be linked to the mine’s fibre optic network to enable personnel to monitor and control access at key points - via the internet from anywhere in the UK or overseas, if necessary.
The system will help to boost safety and security levels at Boulby Mine, which employs in excess of 800 people on-site and produces salt, potash and other minerals for agricultural and industrial use.
Alan Worton, Cleveland Potash’s network manager at Boulby Mine, said he was very impressed by the quality of Advantex’s tender.
“They recommended a very robust and cost effective solution to our requirement for a long-lasting, low maintenance system which would improve security levels. I was also very impressed by their enthusiasm and commitment to get the project completed within a tight time frame.”
Advantex director Stephen O’Connell said: “We have grown very rapidly over the last year and this contract reflects our ability to compete with the major network computing companies in designing and delivering high quality, cost effective systems for major installations.”
