Advanced Wireless Access Controller

How It Works

Each Advanced Wireless Access Controller (AWAC) contains an embedded ARM based Mobile PC running a Linux operating system.

Layered on top of this system are specific custom built services which connect to and test the emergency devices. Additional services provide functionality to display, email or SMS the test results.

AWACs have been designed to work together to form larger networks to control and monitor buildings or campuses of varying size and in multiple locations. This distributed style and design provides a powerful and flexible solution to all emergency monitoring installations.

Connectivity

A close look at a AWAC shows a number of ports and connections, Below is a brief description of each connector and the primary use.

Ethernet Port	Used to connect multiple AWAC's, connect to the internet, connect to a server PC or connect to a PC/Mobile device
USB Port	Used to connect to authorised wireless 3G adapters or USB wifi adapters. Used to connect to the Web or to SMS
SD Card Reader	Used to update the AWAC when an internet connection is not available
External Antenna Connection	Used to connect to an external antenna to boost the wireless Signal strength
Serial Port	Reserved for Technician / Debugging

Key Features

Linux Powered
AWAC runs on a custom built Linux platform and has been designed to be secure and stable. The Linux operating system provides functionality, flexibility and power in the design of add-on services and software

Zigbee
Zigbee provides the wireless layer connecting the emergency devices together and linking them back to the AWAC. The Zigbee layer has been designed to be secure and utilises the same level of encryption as used by the NSA for information deemed secret. Zigbee also provides reliability of service through its self healing functionality

SMS
The AWACs' have the ability to send and receive SMSs' to communicate test results or logged information. SMSs' can be sent directly to the appointed maintenance contractors and give them information such as what the issue is, where the product is located and what parts they might need to rectify the issue. The AWACs' also have the ability to receive SMS notification when the issue has been fixed by the contractor.

Email
Email test results, fault information, reliability graphs and other information to selected groups. Send work orders to appointed contractors to rectify issues.

Cloud / Web 2.0
Maco lighting provides the next level of functionality with the offer of cloud services to link multiple sites, appoint contractors, track assets and many other features. Cloud services are an optional upgrade on traditional services, and provides that next level of flexibility, automation and control.

Intelligent Testing
AWACs use a smart testing procedure to test, then retest the units after they have been repaired. All the testing logic is built inside the controller so that they can ensure the test results are complete and that after rectification the retests are carried out correctly. The system will automatically retest faulty devices after they are repaired and even wait until the battery is charged before doing so.