Mining Capabilities Brief

Westcan ACS

Mining Communications

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Table of Contents About Us Exploration Feasibility Construction Operational Private LTE Trunked Radio Systems Broadband Push To Talk Microwave Data Solutions Leaky Feeder Systems Satellite Solutions Tagging and Tracking Proximity Detection Systems

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About Us From exploration to reclamation, Westcan keeps you connected

Westcan ACS is Western Canada’s premiere provider of wireless communication solutions in the mining sector. We have an experienced team of sales, engineering, and project management professionals who can design and deploy custom solutions for some of Canada’s most challenging environments.

Whether you need a safety critical digital radio system, or a high speed wireless data network to support operations in remote, mountainous terrain, we can help. Once your connectivity needs are met, we will follow up with industry-leading support and maintenance programs, ensuring your system always performs to its optimal potential.

Our EGBC certified engineering team understands mining operations are mission critical. Regardless of the stage of your mining project, from exploration to reclamation, we can ensure you stay connected when it matters most.

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Exploration

Communications

Westcan: Powering Mines with Reliable and Innovative Communication Solutions.

How we can help

Our experience in exploration In mining, your communication strategy starts well before construction begins. From the moment you start applying

for permits or creating your initial site maps, we’re ready to initiate the early stages of your communication plan.

At Westcan, we have an extensive track record of delivering reliable communications in Canada’s remote, unforgiving landscapes. Leveraging the expertise cultivated through years of deploying systems in both challenging and isolated settings, we are experts in launching solar-

powered repeater solutions, radio systems, and more to ensure you stay connected.

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Everything we do is delivering customer value

Exploration Planning

APOD Solar Repeaters

We are a team a skillful people.

Our engineering team will start the initial planning

for network design, conduct needs assessments, set benchmarks, and perform coverage analysis. This

groundwork during the exploratory phase guarantees

Network Planning

that, when it’s time, you will have a comprehensive

communication solution ready to operate at your site.

Coverage Analysis

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Feasibility

Communications

Communication solutions tailored for the crucial feasibility stages of your mining projects

How we can help

Our experience in feasibility Westcan ACS delivers specialized on-site communication solutions tailored for the feasibility stages of your

mining projects. Our portfolio includes microwave data

solutions, satellite equipment, and our proprietary APOD solar repeater systems (located across mountain tops throughout British Columbia).

We engage with your team throughout the order of

magnitude, preliminary feasibility, and detailed feasibility studies to guarantee that your communication systems

are not only meeting today’s needs but are also scalable and efficient for the future.

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Reliable, efficient, and scalable communications

APOD Solar Repeater

Feasibility Planning

In Canada’s remote wilderness.

Our team of engineers and technical service professionals are registered with Engineers and Geo Scientists British

Columbia (EGBC). We will bring a high level of expertise and commitment to every project. By partnering with

industry-leading brands, we are ready to provide robust, dependable communication solutions for your unique needs.

Path Analysis

Understanding coverage needs is a complex process, that’s why our services encompass advanced RF

engineering, propagation planning, network design, and path analysis. Our goal is to refine every facet of your

communication system, ensuring it is built for durability and flexibility, thereby securing reliable connectivity for your operations well into the future.

Complete RF Engineering

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Construction

Communications

Services tailored to the unique environment of your specific mine

How we can help Seamless connectivity during Our experience in construction the construction phase to increase safety and efficiency Ensuring seamless connectivity is crucial during the

construction phase. Establishing a comprehensive and

efficient communication system is essential for site safety.

At Westcan, our engineering and technical services team

partner with industry leading brands to provide you with a robust and reliable solution for your specific needs. From the onset of construction, we ensure compliance with

ISED licensing, address operational challenges caused by network or interference issues, develop solid contingency plans for critical components, and guarantee the

installation of suitable equipment on-site, tailored to the specific demands of your terrain.

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Mining Construction

APOD Solar Repeater

& Reliable Communications

By utilizing a trunked system, mining operations experience increased communication, enhanced safety, coordination between construction teams and earthmoving teams, coverage over broad areas, and system scalability.

Digital Two-Way Radio Systems

Westcan’s APOD solar repeater systems are easily

deployed and provide remote connectivity in a cost-

effective way for smaller operations, or where trunked radio systems are not required.

We are also industry experts in the implementation of microwave data solutions, which provide the British

Columbia mining sector with a reliable, fast, and flexible connectivity option during the construction phase.

Microwave Internet

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Operational

Mining Communications

During the peak operation of mines, maintaining uninterrupted communication is essential for the safety of your workforce.

How we can help

Keeping operational mines connected Once a mining operation transitions from the construction to the operational phase, the need for robust, reliable

communication becomes even more critical to ensure safety, efficiency, and productivity.

Technologies like two-way radio systems, Broadband

Push-to-talk, private LTE, and microwave data solutions are key to keeping you seamlessly connected.

As your mining operations evolve, we are committed

to keeping you equipped with the necessary tools for seamless communications.

Beyond just keeping all communication equipment in top working condition on-site, we’re here to support you with

any service requests, training needs, system upgrades, and routine maintenance. At Westcan, we take pride in being

your comprehensive solutions provider from start to finish.

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Westcan Connects: Powering Your Mine’s Future with Unmatched Communication Solutions Our area of expertise

For operational mining 01 Private LTE Networks

Private LTE networks revolutionize communication in

02 Digital Radio Systems

the mining sector by providing robust, secure, and high-speed connectivity.

to manage and allocate communication channels

among large groups of users across expansive, often

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Trunked radio systems offer a reliable, efficient way

challenging terrains.

Broadband Push-To-Talk

Broadband PTT allows for instant communication

04 Microwave Internet

among workers, which is critical in the fast-paced and often hazardous environments of the mining

high-speed connectivity option in remote and

rugged terrains where traditional wired services are

Microwave data solutions establish a reliable,

sector.

impractical or too costly to deploy.

05 Leaky Feeder Systems

Leaky feeder systems enable communication extend

06 Satellite Communications

communications into underground tunnels, shafts,

ramps and block cuts that are often very challenging

operations situated in the world’s most remote and inaccessible regions, ensuring connectivity where

Satellite communications offer a lifeline to mining

environments for voice and data communications.

traditional networks cannot reach.

07 Tagging & Tracking

Tagging and tracking technologies enable mining

08 Proximity Detection

companies to increase safety by providing detailed

data on the movement of equipment and personnel.

potential fatalities by ensuring mining vehicles and personnel maintain safe proximity levels.

Proximity detection systems prevent injuries and

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We implement private LTE networks by

focusing on customization, reliability, and scalability, so we can meet the unique needs of individual mining operations.

Private LTE networks provide a critical

solution that are tailored for the stringent requirements of the mining sector.

These networks offer secure, reliable,

and high-capacity wireless connectivity that is essential for supporting

various operational needs, in various environments.

Dedicated & Secure Network

Private LTE offers a dedicated network infrastructure that ensures secure

Private LTE in Mining

communications, free from the

interference and congestion often found in public networks.

Enhanced Coverage & Capacity Mining operations often span

vast and remote areas, including

A Westcan Specialty

underground sites where conventional communication networks fail to reach.

Private LTE networks help.

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Private LTE & Broadband

Support for Critical Communications

The high reliability and low latency of

private LTE networks ensure that critical communications, such as emergency calls, real-time video surveillance,

and remote control of equipment, are efficiently supported.

Scalability & Flexibility

Private LTE networks offer the scalability needed to support the growing

demands of the mining sector, including the increasing use of IoT (Internet of Things).

Improved Operational Efficiency By providing reliable connectivity

for real-time data collection, private

Unearth Connectivity: Powering the Future of Mining with Private LTE

LTE enables better decision-making,

optimized operations, and increased productivity.

Enhanced Worker Safety

Private LTE networks support various applications that enhance worker

safety, including location tracking,

man-down alerts, and real-time video monitoring.

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Trunked Radio Systems

Enhanced Coverage & Connectivity

A Westcan Specialty

Motorola Capacity Max supports wide area coverage,

and can be tailored to extend reliable connectivity deep into mining operations.

Scalable & Flexible Infrastructure

Capacity Max is designed to grow with your mining

operations, starting small and scaling up to hundreds or even thousands of users across multiple sites.

Robust Security Features

Capacity Max offers strong security features, including authentication, encryption, and the ability to remotely disable lost or stolen radios, thereby safeguarding communications against unauthorized access or eavesdropping.

Motorola Capacity Max stands as a pivotal solution for the mining sector, addressing its intrinsic need for reliable, secure, and scalable communication networks.

Prioritized Communications

In a mining environment, different teams have different communication needs. Capacity Max allows for the

prioritization of communication, ensuring that critical messages like safety alerts are given priority.

Here’s how Capacity Max serves the mining sector:

Interoperability and Integration:

Motorola Capacity Max can integrate with existing

communication systems and various technologies, including LTE and public safety networks.

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Reliability and Durability

Motorola’s solutions are known for their ruggedness

and reliability, attributes that are critical in the harsh

conditions of mining environments. Their two-way radios are designed to operate consistently under extreme

conditions, ensuring that communication lines remain open even in the most challenging circumstances.

Emergency and Safety Features

Motorola trunked radios offer features like emergency calls, man-down alerts, and lone worker monitoring,

which are essential for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of miners. These features allow for immediate response in the event of an accident or hazardous situation.

Data Capabilities and Application Support

Beyond voice communication, Capacity Max supports data transmission, which is essential for sending texts,

GPS location tracking, and integrating with applications that monitor personnel safety.

Dig Deeper: Trunking Solutions for Seamless Communication in Mining Operations 17

Broadband Push-ToTalk

Broadband Push-To-Talk

A Westcan Specialty

Instant PTT communications among team members is vital for coordinating operations in the mining sector.

That’s why we specialize in MCPTT (Mission-Critical Push to Talk).

Emergency Features

Emergency call features allow for rapid response in

critical situations, helping to keep you team safe, and connected.

Web Dispatch

Providing dispatch with real-time access to

communication teams, location tracking, and emergency alert.

Instant Messaging

Integrating voice, video, and text on a single platform tailored for the mission critical needs in the mining sector, with Push-To-Talk over Cellular

Text based communication allows for the instant exchange of information, instructions, and alerts.

VoIP Communications

Voice over IP services ensure reliable voice

communication over the internet, which can be

essential in remote mining operations with limited traditional infrastructure.

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Push to Talk for Mining: Instant Connection, Increased Safety

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Microwave Data Solutions A Westcan Specialty

High-Capacity Communication High Bandwidth:

Microwave solutions offer high data

transmission rates, supporting the vast

data needs of modern mining operations,

including real-time monitoring, telemetry, and automated systems.

Low Latency:

These solutions have low latency, which is

crucial for the real-time control of machinery and for communication systems requiring quick response times.

Operational Efficiency and Safety Real-Time Data Access:

Microwave data solutions use radio waves for data transmission over wide distances, providing a robust and reliable communication solution for the mining industry.

With microwave data, mining operations can access real-time data from sensors

and equipment across the site, enhancing

decision-making, operational efficiency, and safety.

Here’s how these solutions benefit the mining sector:

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Connect Beyond Limits: Microwave Internet Solutions Powering Remote Operations Anywhere, Anytime

Remote Connectivity

Support for Automation and IoT

Reach Remote Locations: Microwave

Automation:

to mining sites located in remote areas where

automation of mining operations, from autonomous

Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for the

links can provide high-speed internet access

vehicles to drilling and blasting operations, improving

traditional wired connections are not feasible

productivity and reducing human exposure to

or too costly to install.

hazardous environments.

Rapid Deployment:

Compared to wired infrastructure, microwave

Internet of Things (IoT):

providing immediate connectivity benefits to

devices for monitoring various aspects of mining

Microwave internet supports the deployment of IoT

data solutions can be deployed quickly,

operations, including environmental monitoring,

new or temporary mining sites.

equipment health, and resource management.

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Leaky feeder systems play a crucial role

in ensuring safety in the mining industry.

By “leaking” radio signals along its path, a leaky feeder system provide coverage to

any underground areas, including tunnels and shafts. Here’s how leaky feeder systems benefit the mining sector:

Continuous & Reliable Communications Underground Connectivity:

Leaky feeder systems enable reliable twoway radio communication throughout

underground tunnels, allowing miners to

stay connected with the surface and each other, even in remote or deep parts of the mine.

Real-time Coordination:

These systems facilitate real-time

coordination of mining operations,

improving operational efficiency and response times to incidents.

Enhanced Safety

Leaky Feeder Systems

Emergency Communication:

In the event of an emergency, such as a

cave-in or equipment failure, leaky feeder systems ensure that communication

channels remain open, allowing for rapid response and instant communication.

Monitoring and Alerts:

The system can be integrated with

monitoring equipment to transmit realtime alerts and data on environmental

A Westcan Specialty

conditions, such as gas levels or structural

integrity, helping to prevent accidents and health issues.

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Keeping you Connected

Operational Scalability & Flexibility Adaptable to Mine Layouts:

Leaky feeder systems can be extended or

reconfigured as mines expand or change,

providing flexibility and scalability to meet the dynamic needs of mining operations.

Support for Additional Services: Beyond voice communication, these

systems can support data transmission and other services, such as tracking systems and remote equipment

monitoring, further enhancing operational capabilities.

Improved Operational Efficiency Efficient Communication:

With the ability to communicate across the mine, workers can quickly share

Leaky Feeder Systems: the Lifeline of Underground Mines

information, make informed decisions,

and resolve issues, leading to improved productivity and reduced downtime.

Mobility:

Workers are not tethered to fixed

communication points and can move

freely throughout the mine while staying connected, enhancing operational efficiency.

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Satellite Communications Global Coverage and Connectivity

A Westcan Specialty

Through satellite phones and dishes, satellite

communications offer global coverage, enabling

mining operations in the most isolated regions to

stay connected with the world, ensuring seamless communication between remote sites and headquarters.

Operational Efficiency Satellite communications facilitate the real-time transmission of data from mining sites to offices

anywhere in the world. This allows for the immediate analysis of data, equipment health monitoring, and

other critical operational information, leading to more informed decision making.

Scalability and Flexibility As mining operations expand, satellite communication systems can easily scale to meet growing

communication needs without significant additional

Satellite communications play a pivotal role in modernizing the mining sector,

investment.

Ensuring that no matter how remote, mining operations can remain connected, safe, and productive.

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Tagging & Tracking Enhanced Safety

Operational Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of tagging

Tagging and tracking technologies enable mining

improved safety they offer. By using RFID

detailed data on the movement of equipment and

and tracking technologies in mining is the tags, GPS tracking, and other technologies,

mining companies can monitor the location of personnel and equipment in real-time.

This allows for immediate response in case of emergencies, such as cave-ins or equipment failures, and ensures that all personnel are accounted for at all times.

companies to optimize their operations by providing personnel. This data can be used to analyze workflows, identify bottlenecks, and improve the efficiency of mining operations. For instance, tracking the

movement of trucks and loaders can help in optimizing

their routes, reducing fuel consumption, and minimizing idle time.

Empowering Safety and Efficiency: Beyond the Surface with Smart Tagging & Tracking

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Proximity detection systems offer several benefits aimed at improving safety and

productivity. Here’s how these systems are advantageous to the mining industry.

Enhanced Safety Prevent Accidents & Collisions

By alerting operators to the presence of personnel or machinery in their vicinity, these systems significantly reduce the risk of collisions, which are a major

safety concern in mining operations.

Worker Location Tracking:

In emergencies, such as a cave-in or

explosion, proximity detection systems can quickly provide the location of

workers, improving response times for rescue operations.

Increased Operational Efficiency Automated Operations:

Proximity Detection Systems

Some systems can integrate with

machinery controls to automatically

slow down or stop equipment when they detect personnel in restricted areas,

thus preventing unauthorized access

and potential safety incidents without human intervention.

Efficient Traffic Management:

By monitoring the location of vehicles

A Westcan Specialty

and personnel, mining operations

can optimize the flow of traffic within the mine, reducing congestion and improving the overall efficiency of mining operations.

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Increasing Mining Safety with proximity detection

Compliance & Safety Regulatory Compliance:

Many regions have strict safety regulations that require the

implementation of advanced safety

systems, including proximity detection, to protect workers in the mining industry.

Real-time Monitoring:

These systems provide real-time

data on personnel and equipment

locations, ensuring that operations are in compliance with safety protocols

and allowing for immediate corrective action if necessary.

Data Driven Decisions

Close Encounters, Safer Workspaces: Proximity Detection Systems Keep You Protected at Every Turn

Operational Insights:

The data collected by proximity

detection systems can be analyzed to

gain insights into operational patterns, identifying areas for improvement

in safety protocols and operational efficiency.

Predictive Maintenance:

By monitoring equipment proximity

and interactions, these systems can

help predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

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Westcan ACS Headquarters: 12540 129 Street,

Edmonton, Alberta T5L4R4

Westcan ACS Service & Rentals

13044 Yellowhead Trail Edmonton, Alberta T5L 3C1

Westcan ACS Calgary, AB

#14, 4001B 19 Street NE Calgary, AB T2E 6X8

Westcan ACS Fort McMurray, AB

29 – 925 Memorial Drive

Fort McMurray, AB T9K 0K4

Westcan ACS Northwest Corridor, BC 3650 River Drive

Terrace, BC V8G 3N9

Westcan ACS Victoria, BC

3300 Tennyson Ave, Victoria, BC V8Z 3P3

Westcan ACS Lower Mainland, BC 202, 5511 – 192 Street Surrey BC

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