In our first in a series of case studies, we explain how SLNet was able to help Port of Waterford run more efficiently and securely.
Case Study Details
- Name
Port of Waterford
- Sector
Shipping/Transportation
- Profile
The Port of Waterford is one of the busiest ports in Ireland and the closest Irish lift-on lift-off and bulk port to mainland Europe.
- Situation
POW needs a simple to use and reliable solution to help assist the cranes to transfer information securely.
- Requirements
An easy-to-use telnet solution that is quick and reliable.
Overview
The Port of Waterford is a modern efficient port and the closest Irish lift-on lift-off and bulk port to mainland Europe. The docks are also capable of accommodating vessels up to 32,000 tons dwt.
The Port is active in bulk handling, breakbulk/project cargoes and container handling (Lo-Lo). Bulk and break-bulk volumes in 2018 exceeded 1.7 million tonnes with container handling standing at 44k TEU. The bulk side of the business is predominately importing and focussed on agri-inputs. The container operation supports a wide range of imports and regional exporters from the food, pharmaceutical and other sectors. The annual value of goods through the Port was estimated at €1.7 billion in 2017 with just under 1,000 jobs in, or supported by businesses in, the port zone.
Challenged Faced
The cranes in use in Waterford Port are necessarily remote from the main infrastructure and systems. It was essential that they can be provided with up to the second information on container and cargo movements. The solution needs to be able to work across large distances and must be performant, reliable and scalable. The operator interaction was required to be efficient, intuitive and non-distracting while providing critical information at a glance and real-time updates back to the main systems.
How SLNet helped
SLNet assists with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) by helping the process run more smoothly and increasing efficiency and profitability.
All cranes in use are fitted with ruggedised vehicle mounted computers. SLNet provides the communication layer between these computers and the MS windows hosted backend business systems.
In this scenario, SLNet facilitates millisecond scale remote communication between the cranes and the backend ERP systems and is a critical link in the communications chain. SLNet provides the required scale, responsiveness and ease of deployment and management for this critical aspect of the Port of Waterford’s day to day operations. Only the backend is fitted with SLNet, the cranes themselves run a terminal emulator.
Testimonial
“Over the 20 years, we have been using SLNet, it has proven to be a reliable and critical element of our container management system, allowing our rugged computers to connect to the back-end database system and keep systems up to date.”
Noel Collins – IT Director for Port of Waterford
Benefits
Reliability
Clients want a software that they can trust. They want peace of mind that the software is working correctly in the background ensuring they don’t use revenue loss.
“Tech issues with software can be a major problem in a large busy port. Having a reliable technology like SLNet means we know there aren’t going to be connections issues in the middle of a busy work day.”
Ease of Use
Simple to navigate and too easy to train new employees. SLNet is a plug and play technology with very little maintenance required.
“The simplicity of SLNet’s interface means it is easy to use and not much time is needed for training new employees.”
Easy to Install
Quick and simple installation means you will be ready to use on the same day. Our support team is always on hand to assist with any installation requirements.
“We found the installation process for SLNet to be straight forward and requires very little maintenance.”
Compatibility
While SLNet is mostly known for working with SAP & Windows servers, our technology is designed to work with a variety of different client’s servers.
“SLNet works seamlessly with the latest SQL Server version which we are currently using.”
Learn More
To download a copy of the case study, click on the link below
Port of Waterford Case Study pdf
Or to find out more of how using SLNet can benefit your organisation, check out our range of SLNet products: