Connectivity Challenges and Rural Worksites: Staying up-to-date with live video in the field.
Remote worksite monitoring system
In the vast expanses of Texas oil fields and remote industrial sites across America, maintaining situational awareness isn’t just convenient—it’s critical for the safety, security, and operational efficiency of your job site. Monitoring has become essential, but reliable connectivity remains one of the main challenges.
At Core Projects Energy we’ve gained firsthand insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how the industry is evolving to address the connectivity hurdle.
Remote Site Monitoring: Why is it Critical?
For operations managers, safety officers, and executives responsible for remote industrial assets, the ability to access real-time video and data feeds provides invaluable benefits:
- Oversee the grounds without requiring personnel to be physically present
- Security against theft and vandalism, which costs the industry millions annually
- Make informed decisions about resource allocation based on live information
- Regulatory compliance documentation through archived footage and data
- Reduced travel time and expenses by minimizing unnecessary site visits
However, as one operations manager at a well site in Odessa told me, “Having cameras installed is one thing—having them actually transmit reliably is another challenge entirely.”
Connectivity Options for Remote Sites: Finding the Right Solution
When it comes to establishing connectivity in areas where infrastructure is minimal, several options exist—each with distinct advantages and limitations.
Traditional Cellular Solutions: Carrier Comparison
Cellular connectivity remains the most common approach due to its relative affordability and widespread coverage. However, not all carriers are created equal when it comes to remote locations:
Verizon- typically offers the strongest coverage in rural areas across Texas and the Southwest. During our testing at several Permian Basin locations, Verizon provided connectivity at sites where other carriers showed no service. However, this coverage comes at a premium price point.
AT&T- delivers solid performance in many rural areas, particularly near highways and established communities. At the BCM12 site, we initially deployed with AT&T but encountered dead zones as the drilling operation moved just a few hundred yards from its original location—highlighting the sometimes unpredictable nature of cellular coverage.
T-Mobile- has improved dramatically in recent years but still lags in truly remote locations. Our SolarEye unit equipped with a T-Mobile SIM performed adequately near Monahans but struggled at more isolated locations.
Satellite Options: The Starlink Revolution
For truly remote locations where cellular service is nonexistent, satellite connectivity has traditionally been the only option, albeit an expensive one with significant limitations in bandwidth and latency.
However, Starlink is rapidly changing this equation. During our recent deployments, we equipped SolarEye unit with Starlink connectivity, which delivered several advantages:
Consistent high-speed connectivity regardless of location
Lower latency than traditional satellite options (typically 20-40ms versus 500+ms)
Simplified deployment with minimal technical configuration
Weather resistance even in harsh conditions
The primary drawbacks remain cost (approximately 3-4 times the monthly expense of cellular options) and power consumption, which requires robust solar charging solutions to maintain operation.
Hybrid Systems for Maximum Reliability
For critical monitoring applications, we’ve found that hybrid connectivity systems provide the best balance of reliability and cost-effectiveness. The most successful deployments utilize:
– Primary cellular connectivity (typically Verizon in remote areas)
– Starlink as backup or for high-bandwidth needs
– Automatic failover systems that transition between connection types
– Local storage with buffering capabilities for periods of connectivity loss
The Solar Eye 360 System: Built for Remote Monitoring
Through extensive field testing across challenging environments, we’ve refined the SolarEye system specifically to address remote connectivity challenges.
Technical Specifications and Features
The current generation SolarEye units (including the SP627 and SP630 models deployed during our Midland trip) incorporate:
- Starlink integration with weatherproof housing
- Multichannel router support for Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile
- 4K cameras with 360° viewing capability
- Solar panels generating up to 2,000 watts
- Battery banks provide 3-5 days of operation without sunlight
- Telescoping mast reaching 25 feet for maximum visibility
- GPS tracking for asset location monitoring
- Automated alerts for motion detection or system issues
Deployment Process and Considerations
Setting up remote monitoring requires careful planning beyond simply placing equipment on site:
- Pre-deployment site assessment to determine connectivity options
- Router configuration specific to the carrier with the strongest local signal
- Antenna positioning for optimal signal strength
- Solar panel orientation to maximize energy collection
- Camera positioning for comprehensive coverage of critical areas
- Weather protection consideration for all components
- Access control setup to manage who can view feeds
Real-World Application: Drilling Site Connectivity
Our recent troubleshooting at the a drilling site provides valuable insights into the challenges of maintaining connectivity in actual field conditions.
Challenges Faced During Actual Deployment
The deployment highlighted several common challenges:
- Frequently changing locations as drilling operations moved
- Absence of cellular coverage despite proximity to covered areas
- Limited technical expertise among on-site personnel
- Harsh environmental conditions including extreme temperatures and dust
When Primary Connections Fail, What’s Next?
The most successful deployments incorporate backup plans:
- SIM card swapping capability between carriers
- Router replacement to accommodate different carrier requirements
- Starlink deployment for sites with persistent cellular challenges
- Local recording with periodic connectivity for uploading
- Scheduled maintenance visits when remote troubleshooting fails
In the case of a traditional connectivity failer, our solution involved changing out the router to one compatible with Verizon and ultimately we plan to deploy Starlink equipment.
Implementation Best Practices
Successful remote monitoring implementations follow several consistent best practices:
Site Survey Importance
Before finalizing any monitoring solution, a comprehensive site survey should:
- Test connectivity with multiple carriers or commit to StarLink
- Assess solar exposure throughout the day
- Identify potential physical obstructions (trees, buildings, etc.)
- Evaluate security risks to the equipment itself
- Determine optimal camera positions for maximum coverage
- Measure distances between areas requiring monitoring
Investing a few hours in proper site assessment can prevent days of troubleshooting later.
Equipment Selection Criteria
Not all remote monitoring solutions are created equal. Selection should consider:
- Power efficiency for extended operation between service visits (which is why solar makes sense)
- Connectivity options including multiple cellular and satellite capabilities (we have both)
- Environmental ratings appropriate for local conditions
- Camera resolution and features matching specific monitoring requirements
- Physical security against tampering or theft
- Remote management capabilities to minimize on-site visits
- Scalability to accommodate changing requirements
Deployment and Training Considerations
Even the best equipment fails when improperly deployed or utilized. Successful implementations require:
- Thorough operator training with hands-on practice
- Simplified deployment procedures documented in clear language
- Regular maintenance schedules with assigned responsibilities
- Troubleshooting guides specific to the equipment
- Technical support contact information readily available
- Remote assistance capabilities for guided troubleshooting
The Future of Remote Monitoring
While today’s remote monitoring solutions address many challenges, emerging technologies promise even greater capabilities.
AI and Machine Learning Applications
Artificial intelligence is transforming monitoring from passive observation to active intelligence:
- Automated anomaly detection identifying unusual activities
- Personnel counting and tracking for site safety
- Equipment state monitoring through visual analysis
- Unauthorized access alerts without manual observation
- Environmental monitoring for safety hazards
Predictive Maintenance Possibilities
By combining visual data with other sensors, predictive capabilities become possible:
- Early failure detection through visual pattern recognition
- Maintenance scheduling optimization based on actual conditions
- Resource allocation improvement through usage pattern analysis
- Efficiency optimization by identifying operational bottlenecks
- Cost reduction by preventing catastrophic failures
Conclusion: Making the Investment Count
Remote monitoring systems represent a significant investment in both equipment and implementation. However, when properly deployed, they deliver substantial returns through:
- Theft reduction through deterrence and documentation
- Safety improvement by reducing unnecessary site visits
- Operational efficiency gains through informed decision-making
- Compliance documentation for regulatory requirements
- Incident investigation capabilities with archived footage
As remote operations continue to expand across industries, connectivity challenges will persist—but so will innovation in overcoming them. By combining appropriate technology with systematic implementation practices, organizations can achieve the situational awareness necessary for safe, secure, and efficient operations, no matter how remote the location.
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Have questions about implementing remote monitoring at your sites?
Contact our team for a personalized consultation and site assessment.
