Anti-corruption at learner driver's licence testing stations has expanded countrywide with Mpumalanga Province the most recent recipient of a totally secure, fully computerised mobile testing facility that incorporates state-of-the-art technology and a dedicated power management system.
SIS (Structured Infrastructure Solutions), a company in the JSE-listed technology group, Square One Solutions, is part of a consortium involved in the development of permanent secure test facilities, which have so far been built at Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Empangeni, Johannesburg (Langlaagte), Nelspruit and Kwamhlanga, with the infrastructure for these sites being supplied by SIS.
The new Mpumalanga mobile test facility is the fifth of its kind to be produced, with a full computer server room and 15 individual workstations mounted in the trailer section of the vehicle. The infrastructure for this facility was again supplied by SIS.
"Being mobile, the test facility required its own set of power requirements and to this end, we equipped the trailer with three different power sources: a solar panel, a 15kVA generator and a mains connection socket that can be used when it is operating in a locality that has conventional electricity supplies," says SIS project manager Brian Hards.
"There is a complete power management system which allows the entire test station system to be brought into operation or shut down automatically from a single on/off switch," adds Hards. "An electronic security system to protect the equipment and prevent theft or unauthorised use is also fitted, powered by the solar panel with a 210 Amp/hr battery capable of carrying the load for a month without recharging."
Further backup is provided by an APC 10kVA uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system mounted in the vehicle which, in the event of a power interruption will keep the computer testing system online long enough for a full learner's licence test to be completed by up to 15 candidates. The main distribution board is fitted with a PLC (programmable logic controller) system developed and programmed by SIS to provide fully automated power management.
Hards says the 15kVA generator set is slung underneath the trailer and can be lowered to the ground when required to supply power. It is a vibration-free system that will only permit start-up when there is no mains power. As a safety measure, an interlocking brake lock mechanism ensures that the vehicle cannot move off until the generator has been properly secured in the underside of the trailer.
"We have been involved in these projects since the end of 2005," adds Hards. "The testing station solution has evolved significantly over the past two-and-a-half years and is now an integral part of the driver licensing infrastructure. The test itself is conducted on a touch-screen and a pass or fail is indicated immediately after the test has been completed."
SIS has supplied all support equipment, electrical infrastructure technology, expertise and know-how for the infrastructure of the system.
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Square One Solutions Group is listed on the software and computer services sector of the JSE Limited. It focuses on providing niche, vertically applied technology solutions, has a national footprint and more than 22 years of experience in the South African market. The group's primary solution offerings encompass law enforcement and authentication, industrial printing coding and marking, infrastructure and facility solutions, system integration services and telecommunications and service provider solutions, all supported by a tailored suite of finance and leasing solutions and services. The key target market is enterprise, SME, corporate and government clients and the group focuses on coupling innovation, technology and service to achieve value for clients as well as superior returns and earnings growth for shareholders. For more information, visit www.sq1.co.za.
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