Tait Radios Help to Improve Christchurch Traffic Flow

Tait has developed a wireless data solution using TM8105 mobile radios, to help the Christchurch City Council improve traffic flow and increase parking building occupancy in the central city.

The CCC required a high-speed, reliable and cost-effective solution for this, and also wanted to provide real-time information on the supply of parking spaces in the off-street parking complexes around the central city.

To improve the city's traffic flow, two car parking display signs were installed on the central city's inner one-way system which has been designated as the parking search route. Two more signs are planned at a later stage.

The signs provide the public with timely information on car parking availability, indicate whether the building is open or closed, and provide route information in the event of a dramatic change to road conditions in the central city region.

Wireless communications were needed between both the display signs and the car parking buildings to the council's chambers, so CCC approached Tait to develop a radio communications solution.

TM8105 data mobiles provide wireless high-speed data link

Tait installed TM8105 high-speed data mobile radios in eight CCC car parking buildings, and a programmable logic controller (PLC) was also installed in each building. The PLCs monitor gate openings and closings to the buildings, allowing car parking building operators to view the open/close status of any building and their occupancy rates.

The TM8105s provide a wireless high-speed data link from the PLCs back to the council chambers. The council can then view and control the car parking system remotely.

CCC has used Tait equipment for more than 24 years. Karen Scott, Team Leader for Off-Street Parking, says the council is happy with the solution. "The system will allow us to improve traffic flow in the central city. Previously customers would queue outside car parks, causing chaos and congestion."

The TM8105 was the best solution for this system due to its high-speed data capabilities and its flexibility for system integration. This radio offers an expansive internal options area for maximum customisation ability.