Smart-Ex® 03—5G Smartphone digitalizes communication in Spanish Energy Parks

PEPPERL+ FUCHS
Image courtesy: PEPPERL+ FUCHS

In a significant leap forward in communication technology within the Spanish energy sector, Cepsa, one of Spain’s largest integrated energy companies, is revolutionizing its communication infrastructure with the introduction of Smart-Ex® 03 5G smartphones from Pepperl+Fuchs. Operating two energy parks in the south of Spain, Cepsa has long relied on Pepperl+Fuchs products for effective communication and task documentation among its employees, particularly in maintenance operations.

The advent of 5G technology has paved the way for enhanced standards in terms of availability, network coverage, and latency, prompting Cepsa to gradually transition from its existing Smart-Ex® 02 inventory to the intrinsically safe Smart-Ex® 03 smartphones. With the Smart-Ex® 03, Pepperl+Fuchs presents its pioneering 5G- and Wi-Fi 6-capable smartphone, designed to optimize digital application scenarios even in the most challenging environments.

Cepsa’s collaboration with Pepperl+Fuchs and its subsidiary brand ECOM Instruments spans several years, with over 1,100 Smart-Ex® 02 smartphones currently in use for communication purposes, along with more than 300 Tab-Ex® 03 tablets utilized for task documentation and video conferencing. By upgrading to the Smart-Ex® 03, Cepsa is taking a significant step towards digitalization, enhancing efficiency and productivity across its operations.

The deployment of 5G technology brings numerous benefits to Cepsa, particularly in the establishment of private mobile networks within its energy parks. These private networks, known as campus networks, offer enhanced security and bandwidth availability, enabling seamless communication and data transmission. Moreover, 5G’s capability for network slicing allows for the prioritization of critical communication channels, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity, especially in emergency situations.

The Smart-Ex® 03 smartphone leverages 5G technology to provide fast, secure, and prioritized communication within Cepsa’s operations. With extremely low latency times and robust connectivity, the Smart-Ex® 03 enhances efficiency in communication tasks, particularly in push-to-talk applications, which are crucial for seamless coordination among employees.

In embracing 5G technology through the adoption of Smart-Ex® 03 smartphones, Cepsa reaffirms its commitment to innovation and digital transformation, positioning itself as a pioneer in leveraging advanced communication solutions for the energy sector. This strategic partnership between Cepsa and Pepperl+Fuchs marks a significant milestone in the evolution of communication technology within the Spanish energy industry.