Reliability is critical in maritime operations. Systems must work consistently, even in challenging network conditions. Packet loss and unstable connectivity are common.
Nonius provides interactive TV and digital signage solutions. The company needed a reliable way to integrate its platform with shipboard Public Address and General Alarm (PAGA system) systems.
The Challenge in PAGA system integration
Onboard ships, emergency events such as fire alarms or urgent announcements must trigger visual messages instantly. These messages appear on all passenger-facing displays.
The system monitors dry contact signals that indicate such events.
In earlier deployments, Nonius used the TCW122B-CM with an external cellular router. The system delivered event notifications through SNMP traps.
However, SNMP traps use UDP, which does not guarantee delivery. Maritime networks are often unstable. As a result, some events were missed. This creates an unacceptable risk for critical alerting systems.
This limitation made it clear that a more reliable PAGA system integration approach was needed.
The Solution for PAGA system integration
Nonius improved reliability by switching to the TCG120-4. This change enabled a more robust communication approach.
The device monitors dry contact signals from the PAGA system. It can also connect directly to sensors such as the TSS8030R. This setup detects fire conditions either through the central system or directly at the sensor level.
The communication method was also improved. The system no longer relies only on SNMP traps. Instead, it uses HTTP/HTTPS POST requests.
The device sends regular updates to the server. It also sends immediate messages when an alarm occurs. This ensures continuous visibility and fast reaction.
The new architecture also removes the need for an external cellular router. With built-in 4G connectivity, the TCG120-4 connects directly to the network. This reduces system complexity and removes an extra point of failure.
This combination of periodic and event-based communication ensures reliable and fast operation.
Advanced Option for Critical PAGA System Integration
For critical deployments, the system can use the built-in “real-time” mode of the TCG120-4. This mode enables near real-time data exchange.
The server controls the communication interval. It sends short delay instructions in response to each request. This allows frequent updates with minimal data usage.
The system can send lightweight “dummy” files or full status data when needed. This provides both efficiency and flexibility.
This approach ensures fast reaction times in scenarios where every second matters. It adds an extra layer of reliability for advanced PAGA system integration projects.
The Result
The new solution improves reliability significantly. The system maintains accurate awareness of alarm states, even in unstable network conditions.
Critical alerts are delivered without delay.
These deployments are project-based. However, Nonius continues to rely on Teracom devices for their flexibility and dependable performance in demanding maritime environments.