Providing innovative machine to machine (M2M) communication technology solutions, Elecsys Corporation made a recent addition to the company’s remote DNS monitoring product portfolio with the release of its new Watchdog VIP. The highly modular Watchdog VIP is flexible enough to perform a wide variety of remote monitoring functions for pipeline operators, gas, water, as well as electric utilities, highway departments, energy explorations and production companies.

While the initial production shipment of the Watchdog VIP to customers began in November, the product itself was developed and field-tested during the last several quarters.

Equipped with four configurable analog inputs, the easily deployable Watchdog VIP includes a digital input as well as an AC power detection probe, and makes use of either quad-band GSM/GPRS cellular telemetry or the Inmarsat (News - Alert) global satellite system to ensure efficient communication.

Secure and instant access to measurement is provided using the VIP’s Web Monitor internet portal, which also allows Web-based monitoring of measurement ranges, configurations and alarm notification settings. Installation and system commissioning is also simplified using the integrated Watchdog field diagnostics and web-enabled configurability that significantly reduces frequent trips to remote sites.

Factory pre-configured corrosion protection monitoring Watchdog applications measure volts, amps and pipe-to-soil voltage potential and also detect the presence of AC power. One of the key features of the product includes reliable wireless remote monitoring of cathodic protection rectifiers. This feature help prevent corrosion of transmission and distribution pipelines, storage tanks, oil and natural gas well casings, bridge decks, piers, and other critical infrastructure assets.

Moreover, structural integrity can be improved along with extended asset operational life using the products reliable measurement reporting feature, timely events alarms and data trend analysis. As part of a pilot program for a future project in the Persian Gulf region, another variant of Watchdog VIP was deployed for field testing trials on pipeline, bulk storage, and offshore platform.

In a press release, Karl B. Gemperli, president and CEO, said, “Corrosion of ageing infrastructure assets is a growing concern throughout the world with pipeline ruptures and structural failures becoming more common. We believe the Watchdog VIP is an ideal solution for the corrosion control professional's need for a simple, reliable, and cost effective cathodic protection remote monitoring system.”