How SA Power Networks upgraded its field mobility

SA Power Networks needed to replace its existing field mobility platform with a rugged Android solution that could support evolving operational, security and performance requirements.

As well as performing reliably in direct sunlight and high-temperature conditions, the new platform needed to support vehicle docking, external antenna connectivity and digital job completion.

The South Australian utility’s field teams operate in demanding environments where reliable access to job information, safety procedures, navigation and operational applications is essential to completing work safely and efficiently.

Crews can work in summer temperatures reaching 44 to 45°C, as well as dusty, wet and high-vibration environments. Devices are often mounted in vehicle docking stations while teams travel on rough roads, farm tracks and off-road areas to access poles, powerlines and other electricity assets.

With all these requirements in mind, SA Power Networks opted for Getac’s ZX10 rugged tablets to improve its field mobility. These were delivered in partnership with Advanced Mobile IT (AMIT), a company providing field- and vehicle-based mobile computing solutions.

Following an initial rollout of about 830 devices over five months, approximately 1000 Getac ZX10 devices are now in the field.

The Getac ZX10 was selected as the core field device following AMIT’s recommendation. AMIT supported device supply, pre-configuration, vehicle dock replacement, onsite installation, scheduling and user training.

Getac worked closely with AMIT, SA Power Networks and docking solution partner Gamber-Johnson to tailor the deployment around real field conditions. This included a slimline in-vehicle docking system provided by Gamber-Johnson that helped reduce cabin space requirements while supporting safe mounting, charging and antenna pass-through.

“SA Power Networks came to AMIT with a clear operational challenge: they needed a rugged, reliable and supportable field mobility platform capable of performing across demanding utility environments,” said Nicholas Cizauskas, Account Manager at AMIT.

“Getac stood out because it met the key requirements for ruggedness, vehicle docking, heat performance and customisation. Our role was to bring those elements together into a complete, fit-for-purpose solution that supports the way their crews work in the field every day.”

SA Power Networks crews now have access to a sturdy mobile platform with greater memory and storage, improved camera capability, longer battery life, brighter screens, and construction suited to heat, dust, moisture, vibration, and vehicle-based use.

“Getac has empowered SA Power Networks and the endpoint team to apply deeper customisations to the device build, which allows us to automate processes that previously required manual configuration. This creates a more consistent and controlled device experience,” said Adrian Jeremiah, lead of Enterprise Portfolio Partner, SA Power Networks.

“Rugged technology is most effective when it is shaped around the way frontline teams actually work,” said Getac’s vice president of global market development, Jerry Huang.

“This project demonstrates the value of combining durable hardware with practical customisation, in-vehicle usability, and strong partner collaboration to support complex field operations,” he said.

“We’re committed to supporting SA Power Networks as it strengthens field mobility for crews working across demanding utility environments, while working alongside AMIT and Gamber-Johnson to deliver a solution tailored to its operational needs.”

Image credit: iStock.com/tsvibrav