The complete issue [ 32 pages | 2.43 MB ] - ST Electronics

VOLUME 25 NO. 1 APRIL 2012BusinessIntelligenceMICA(P)068/06/2011 ISSN00218-1916

N E W SAchieving S$1.5 billion revenuemilestoneFor the Full Year (FY) 2011,ST Electronics’ revenue grew by sixpercent to S$1.517b compared to FY2010. Earnings before interest andtax showed a two-digit increase of12 percent to S$145.6m while profitbefore tax came in at S$136.9m, aseven percent increase from FY2010.“The company secured several keycontracts with new customers andproducts in 2011,” Mr Lee FookSun, President of ST Electronicsreported. “These include satellitecommunication solution for Inmarsat’sGlobal Xpress, Automatic FareCollection Systems for the BangkokMass Transit System Silom LineExtension and Wuxi Metro Line 1in China, National AuthenticationFramework Project in Singapore andthe Perimeter Intrusion DetectionSystem for the Changi Airport Group.The company remains focused onachieving growth by developing newcapabilities and new markets.”ST Electronics identified a number ofgrowth areas for the years ahead andthese include:Satellite and BroadbandCommunicationsWith iDirect reported as the leadingenterprise hub vendor in the worldwith 62 percent share of the hubmarket, the satellite communicationbusiness has been identified as agrowth area for the company. Otherareas of growth in this sector includeits Agilis brand of RF (radio frequency)products that are sold to over 100countries, Ka-band VSAT marketopportunities, maritime, aeronauticaland government markets as well asthe defence market with the receiptof the US DoD Proxy Agreement andthe certification of its military-gradesatellite routers and line cards to FIPS140-2 Level 2 compliance.e-Government and eEnterpriseOpportunities have been identifiedfor the company’s Next Generatione-Government ICT Solutions thatempowers decision makers withsensemaking capabilities andintegrated operation, as well assecurity management. ST Electronics’suite of solutions include IntegratedOperation Centre, Secure NetworkFY2011 FY2010 %Infrastructure and cyber security.Eco-Enabling TechnologiesWith the increased emphasis onbusiness sustainability and ecosolutions,ST Electronics’ SmartUtilities offerings will be stronglyoffered to the market. These includeAdvanced Meter Infrastructure(AMI), Microgrid, Security for AMIand Microgrid, and Smart WaterManagement System.Revenue 1,517 1,428 6Earnings before interest & tax 145.6 130.3 12Other income, net 1.8 5.9 (69)Finance costs, net (5.5) (8.5) 36Profit before tax 136.9 127.6 7Profit attributable to shareholders 108.8 100.7 8All currencies are in Singapore dollars (S$) million.APRIL 2012 3

N E W SExploring opportunities in spaceST Electronics’ identifies space business as the next growth areaMr Lee Fook Sun, President ofST Electronics, was invited to presenta Keynote Address at the Global Space& Technology Convention (GSTC),Asia’s premier space and technologyevent, held in Singapore on 9 February2012. In his speech, Mr Lee shared thecompany’s involvement in Singapore’sbudding space industry and how thecompany aims to play a catalyst rolein building a thriving eco-system forthe space business here. Havingidentified space business as its nextin weather patterns monitoring, urbanmapping and maritime security. Andincreasingly, space systems andtechnologies are improving the qualityof our everyday life; from weatherforecast to driving directions and evenestimating the arrival time of publictransportation.ST Electronics (Satellite Systems)Pte Ltd, a joint venture betweenST Electronics, Nanyang TechnologicalUniversity and DSO NationalST Electronics intendsto leverage Singapore’sindigenous engineeringcapability in the industryand in academia to builda vibrant and strongspace industry in thecountry(From left) Mr Lee Fook Sun, Mr Teo Ser Luck, Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Mr Jonathan Hung, President ofSingapore Space & Technology Association.growth area, ST Electronics intendsto leverage Singapore’s indigenousengineering capability in the industryand in academia to build a vibrant andstrong space industry in the country,with the support of the SingaporeEconomic Development Board.There is a growing demand for earthobservation satellite systems for useLaboratories, was set up in 2011 todesign, develop and produce advancedsatellite systems, as well as to exploitand commercialise indigenoussatellite engineering capabilities. Thejoint-venture is embarking on initialfeasibility and engineering studies onthe next generation earth observationsatellite.4 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

VT MÄK welcomes new CEO, Dan SchimmelOn 23 January 2012, VT MÄK (MÄK)welcomed their new CEO, Mr DanSchimmel, to the company. With over20 years of experience, Mr Schimmelhas led cutting-edge software andinformation service companies,delivering high growth and profitablereturns for investors.To prepare for taking on newbusiness challenges for MÄK inthe coming years, Mr Schimmelis looking at a number of possibleavenues while continuing to focuson MÄK’s foundation of COTSproducts. “I’m excited to lead MÄKin its next phase of growth,” saidMr Schimmel. “I was attracted byMÄK’s strong team, deep technologyexpertise, market presence, andits dedicated global company base.The company has always been anacclaimed, innovative pioneer in themodelling and simulation market.We will continue pursuing attractivegrowth opportunities by deliveringbreakthrough software to address ourcustomers’ evolving needs.”Mr Schimmel is optimistic that byenhancing and perfecting both MÄK’sexisting products and the productsuites, the company can furtherimprove its contribution to deployedapplications, and make the processmore efficient for customers.Since its inception some twentyyears ago, MÄK’s product line hasgrown from VR-Link and simulationinteroperability solutions intosimulation with VR-Forces. MÄKproducts have developed furtherwith the addition of VR-Vantage forvisualisation, and most recently withVR-TheWorld for streaming terrain.MÄK’s next focus will be on supportingnewer weapons platforms, UnmannedAir Systems (UAS) in particular.From a tactical perspective, oneof the things that MÄK is workingon specifically with UAS and otherunmanned systems is Simulated Video– the ability to connect simulationbased training directly into realsystems. The company is looking athow UAS and MÄK products can fitin – for example in providing a groundcontrol station for development,demonstration and training.Mr Schimmel assures that due tothe number of contacts, customersand domain knowledge, the militarymarket will always be important to thecompany. This sector will continue tobe significant and continue to grow.He will also work at expanding andadding some other sectors.Before joining MÄK, Mr Schimmelmanaged the growth of PyramidResearch, a seller of syndicatedanalyst content covering theglobal communications and mediaindustries. Prior to Pyramid, MrSchimmel was CEO of OneSourceInformation Services, the marketleader in delivering web-basedcompany and industry information,which led to a successful IPO.He earned a Bachelor of Artsdegree in Economics from HarvardUniversity and a Masters of BusinessAdministration from Harvard BusinessSchool. Mr Schimmel served on theboards of venture-backed companiesand was recognised as an Ernst &Young Entrepreneur of the Year in2001.“I’m excited to leadMÄK in its next phaseof growth. I wasattracted by MÄK’sstrong team, deeptechnology expertise,market presence, andits dedicated globalcompany base.”Dan SchimmelCEO, VT MÄKAPRIL 2012 5

N E W SStudents bringing their imagination tolife using the MyV Series of InteractiveLearning ApplicationsInteractive learningapplications on the cloudMyV and MyE series officially launchedWith the support of industry andcommunity partners, ST Electronics’wholly owned subsidiary,ST Electronics (Training & SimulationSystems), launched the MyE andMyV series of interactive learningapplications on the Cloud on7 February 2012 at the NationalMuseum of Singapore.Students from Innova Primary School,Queenstown Primary School and KuoChuan Presbyterian Primary Schoolwere amongst the first to participatein the pilot trial and they were allgiven free trial accounts to experienceMyV applications for three months.The three schools displayed a highlevel of readiness and deep capacityto experiment and innovate withinfocomm technology for learningand teaching. The ease of use of theMyV authoring tools make it easy forteachers to assemble a cloud-basedtutorial, keeping work accessiblewherever they are.Schools which subscribe to theMyV and MyE services will enjoy theflexibility, on-demand scalabilityand robust infrastructure offeredby Fujitsu’s Global Cloud Platform,keeping the schools free from issueslike downtime, maintenance andupgrades. The cloud enhances thelearning experience and fostersround-the-clock learning acrossmultiple platforms.A contest, “My Singapore in 2112” forstudents was kicked-off in conjunctionwith the launch. Students will createdynamic and interactive digitalstorybooks using design tools suchas digital art, video, audio, photosand music in MyVStudio, a modulein the MyV application. Studentswere invited to tour the HistoryGallery at the National MuseumOfficiating at the launch of MyVand MyE Series of InteractiveLearning Applications areMr Jeremy Foo, Senior VicePresident / General Managerof ST Electronics (Training &Simulation Systems) and MrWong Heng Chew, Presidentof Fujitsu Asiaof Singapore prior to the contest,unraveling events of the past fromthe 19th century to the modernday.Using the inspirations derivedfrom the gallery tour, students wereencouraged to get their creative juicesflowing and imagine Singapore ahundred years from now! The contestended on 29 February 2012. A panelof judges consisting of membersfrom ST Electronics, Fujitsu andthe National Museum of Singaporewill choose the winners from thesubmissions. Three winners will eachreceive attractive prizes sponsored byFujitsu.For more information, please visit:myapps.com.sg or contact Micheal Seahat (65) 6413 1317, email:michealseah@stee.stengg.com6 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

ST Electronics clinches Taichung MRT projectThe sub-contract agreement signing ceremony between ST Electronics and main contractors Alstom and CTCI CorporationFollowing the successes of theTaipei and Kaohsiung MRT projects,ST Electronics clinched a S$24 millioncommunication system contractfor the Taichung Metropolitan MRTWurih-Wenxin Beitun Line. Withthis contract, ST Electronics nowhas full participation in all the threeMetropolitan MRT networks in Taiwan– in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung.On 2 December 2011, ST Electronicssigned a sub-contract agreementwith main contractors Alstom andCTCI Corporation at the company’sheadquarters in Singapore. This isthe second collaboration involvingall three parties after the TaipeiXinzhuang and Luzhou Lines project.The 16.7km Taichung MRT Wurih-Wenxin Beitun Line, also known as theGreen Line, comprises 18 stations, adepot and a main operation controlcentre. In the first phase, the GreenLine will start from Wurih station andend at Beitun Depot. ST Electronics(Taiwan) Ltd is responsible for thedesign, manufacture, procurement,delivery, installation, testing andcommissioning, as well as warrantyworks.This contract is an importantmilestone for ST Electronics as itnot only marks the company’s entryinto the Taichung’s MRT market,but also its future involvement inother infrastructure developments inCentral Taiwan.Training future leaders in urban transportSIM University offers Urban Transport Management Programme with ST ElectronicsST Electronics’ Large-ScaleSystems Group and ST Electronics(Info-Comm Systems), were amongseven industrial partners that signeda Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) with the School of Businessat SIM University (UniSIM) to beCorporate Affiliates for the Masterof Science in the Urban TransportManagement (UTM) Programme.The term of Corporate Affiliates isthree years, with an option to renewthe affiliation. ST Kinetics, the sistercompany of ST Electronics, is also aparty to the MOU.In a ceremony on 23 February 2012,ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)was also credited as having been thefirst party to support the programme.The UTM programme stems froma collaboration between the LandTransport Authority of Singapore(LTA) and UniSIM in 2010. Tapping onthe expertise of LTA, the programmeaspires to be the premier learninghub in the urban transportation fieldfor the government, commercialorganisations and professionals. Itsfirst batch of students will graduate inOctober 2012.A key highlight of the programmeis an industrial attachment throughwhich students will gain first-handexperience in the day-to-daymanagement and operations of landtransport systems. Students will alsobe offered opportunities for practicalapplication of knowledge and skillsMr Andrew Chow, President of ST Electronics (Info-CommSystems), receiving the signed MOU from Prof Koh HianChye, Dean, School of Business, SIM Universitythrough independent project work inurban transport.APRIL 2012 7

P R O D U C T SEnhancing the next generation communicationsand networked fighting capabilitySuperneT Vehicular Integrated Communication System ST6800The SuperneT Vehicular IntegratedCommunication System ST6800(SuperneT VICS) is an advancedcompact IP based integrated voiceand data communication system.It provides a networked platformthat facilitates the integration ofheterogeneous C4ISR (Command,Control, Communications, Computers,Intelligence, Surveillance andReconnaissance) systems, allowingfor interconnectivity, survivability andinteroperability. It offers an idealplatform for collaboration, providingspeed of command and enhancedoperational efficiency for workgroupson wheeled and tracked combatvehicles, as well as small naval craftsoperating in high-speed and harshtactical environments.Open C4ISR Vehicular Architecture,Scalable and Future-ProofIncreasingly, as operationalrequirements and technologies evolve,defence agencies face challengesto upgrade and adopt new vehicularsystems and solutions. Thesechallenges are constrained by theinterconnecting of various C4ISRsystems, as traditional vehicleequipment and functionalities aretightly coupled and usually inflexible.This has resulted in high systemintegration costs and high SWaP-C(Size, Weight, Power and Cost)demands on combat vehicles.The SuperneT VICS open systemarchitecture approach overcomesthese challenges. It allows easyupgrade, interconnectivity andinteroperability by offering a standardGigabit Ethernet (GbE) interfacebackbone that serves as a commonnetwork fabric to connect all C4ISRsystems. By exploiting IP technologyto facilitate the convergence andintegration of voice and data services,the SuperneT VICS’ backbone allowssystem design to share resources,simplifying inter-system connectivityand reduces SWaP-C.High Reliability and SecuredThe SuperneT VICS’ secured, faulttolerant dual GbE ring backboneensures that there will be no singlepoint of failure for mission criticaloperations. This backbone allowsfor secured communication servicesEnabler of C4ISRIntegrationSituational Awareness& BMSAutomotiveProvider of PlatformSystems InterfacesVoiceCommunicationsPower DistributionVideo & Imagery SAWeapon StatusMission RecordingProtection StatusConventional &Data RadiosSystem ManagementLogistics8 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

(voice and data separation) to enhanceinformation assurance.Feature HighlightsThe SuperneT VICS backbonecomprises fully rugged, small formfactor intelligent crew stations, radioand Ethernet gateways to facilitateuser access to a comprehensive suiteof voice and data services. Theseservices include vehicle intercom,radio access/control, communicationrebroadcast, split-ear and eyesfreeoperation. The SuperneT VICSalso facilitates integrated systemmanagement that includes frequency,network and equipment management.Dual Crew UnitSingle Crew UnitSuperneT Family of IntegratedCommunication System ST6800The SuperneT VICS is part ofST Electronics’ award-winningSuperneT family of IntegratedCommunication Systems (ICS) thatprovide seamless data and voiceinteroperability between C4ISRsystems. The SuperneT suite offerssystems to suit various operationalrequirements and platforms. Thesesolutions include Vehicular ICS (VICS),Shipboard ICS (SICS) and UnifiedCommunication Centre Suites (UCCS).The VICS solution is designed tofulfil the communication needs ofland platforms and fast crafts. TheSICS is designed to meet the missioncritical communication needs of navalvessels. The UCCS offer solutionssuitable for command centres,command vehicles for emergency andpublic safety operations, and a fielddeployable solution for the quick setupof communication hubs.Radio Interface UnitSuperneT VICS Launched at SA2012The SuperneT VICS was officiallylaunched on the opening day of theSingapore Airshow 2012 (SA2012)on 14 February. ST Electronicsshowcased the SuperneT VICS asa force multiplier by empoweringcommanders with superior situationalawareness, critical to the successof missions on the field. TheSuperneT VICS also unifies disparateEthernet Interface Unitinformation from multiple sources toprovide a coherent battlefield picture,which facilitates faster and moreeffective decision-making on the field.For information on SA2012, pleaserefer to page 25.For more information, please call(65) 6567 6769 or email:info_infocomm@stee.stengg.comAPRIL 2012 9

P R O D U C T SProviding clear and accuratesituational awarenessiMAG Intelligent Mission Assignment and Guidance SystemMaintaining public safety andsecurity operations effectively andefficiently is a mounting challengeto government agencies, especiallyduring emergency situations anddisasters. ST Electronics (Info-CommSystems) recognises the importanceof providing clear and accuratesituational awareness as a criticalfoundation for decision-makingrequired by government agenciessuch as the police and emergencyservice providers to managea broad range of complex anddynamic situations.As part of its R&D strategy,ST Electronics has speciallydeveloped a feature-rich andscalable Intelligent MissionAssignment and Guidance System(iMAG) suitable for an advancedsecure command centre inwhich every aspect of responseis coordinated seamlessly. iMAGaims to enhance operationalefficiency and responsiveness toemergencies through integratedand dynamic information sharingbetween the command centre andfrontline personnel. This uniquecapability greatly improves situationalawareness for effective and optimalresource planning for emergency anddisasters.iMAG revolutionises the way existingEmergency Response Systems (ERS)are deployed. It leverages varioustechnologies to optimise the system’sability to provide enhanced situationalawareness and mobility features.The system also supports agencies’operations in incident management,resource management and intelligentdespatch.Key Features of iMAGThe Incident Management Subsystem(IMS) supports faster responseservices such as quick access andinformation processing to speed upemergency response time. OtherSimplifies incidentcreationEfficientdespatch &responsemanagementiMAGDynamic displayof comprehensivesituational picturesHandles multipleincoming messagesfeatures include quick incidentaddressing service, quick location/caller history tracking service,advanced incident routing service,etc. These features allow for afaster and more efficient publicto-governmentcommunication intimes of emergency, and improvethe responsiveness of governmentagencies.The Resource ManagementSubsystem (RMS) managesresources and status by providingauto-recommendation of the mostsuitable resources, disseminatesSupportsadministrativeinputsdespatch orders and monitors allactive resource status. It presentsan overview of the entire resourceactivities and availability status to theusers. The RMS facilitates officers tomanage major incidents according topre-determined plans/requirements.This subsystem also enables frontlineofficers to carry out duty planning andto document details of activitiesthat were carried out. Through theautomated despatch capability,the RMS is able to improvegovernment agencies’ responseto incidents tremendously. Thiswill in turn build a positive publicimage and confidence in theagencies in the long run.The Situational Picture Subsystem(SPS) is a GeographicalInformational System (GIS) thatpresents a customised situationalstatus over a spatial geographicalmap. The set of situational statusis then made available to theofficers and operators, providinghigh visualisation on incident andresource status, resource trackingand operation development progress.Situational awareness of resourcelocations and availability coupledwith the feature-rich RMS, allowgovernment agencies to increaseproductivity and optimise resourcemanagement through the adoption ofadvanced technology.System ArchitectureBest-of-Breed DesignThe system is developed by usingadvanced designs and concepts:• Service-Oriented Architecture(SOA) design that is programming10 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

P R O D U C T SEnhancing soldiers’ nightoperational capabilitySTELOP’s Helmis Thermal Goggles and Thermal Reflex Sight Heads-up DisplayConventional Image IntensifierImage intensifier (II) systems havebeen around for decades and theyare the most common night-visionequipment used by armed forcesof many countries. The technologybehind these systems is based onreflected light. Image intensifiersare found in Night Vision Goggles(NVG) mounted on helmets, enablingsoldiers to navigate in the dark aslong as there is some ambient lightsuch as from a star-lit or moon-lit sky.However, because it is dependent onreflected light to function, NVG cannotoperate in complete darkness suchas inside a cave or in a windowlessbuilding. Furthermore, in a realworldscenario, in the field or jungle,soldiers that are camouflaged willremain camouflaged to the NVG; thedetection range remains at best thesame as in daytime with unaidedbattle tanks, warships and fighterplanes. Thermal imaging technologyin the early days was based on cooledengines that consumed a lot of powerand thus were very costly, bulky andrequired high maintenance. Howeverwith technological advancements,thermal imaging engines now comein the form of uncooled bolometersand are low in power consumption andsmall in size. Furthermore, detectorresolution has improved to 640x480pixels and high-definition resolutiondetectors are in the pipeline. Hence,it is now possible to design thermalimaging goggles that are compactin size, reasonably priced, and witha reasonably long battery life. Theadvantage of thermal goggles is thatthey can operate in total darkness,unlike NVG. More importantly,thermal goggles can ‘see through’camouflage as it is based on heatthat even in an indoor environment,a person in the shadow (dark room)cannot be seen clearly with NVG. Aperson concealed behind a box, forexample, is hard to detect. With theHelmis Thermal Goggles, it becomesvery clear due to the thermal contrast.A person will appear brighter(white hot) in the scene and due toimage contrast, it allows quick andaffirmative recognition of threats.Since the brain processes imagesbased on imagery contrasts, a highcontrast image of the target willimprove the reaction time. This isespecially so in close quarter combat(urban operations) where there is onlya split second between sensor-toshootertime.Compatibility IssuesHowever, the use of thermal gogglesis a new concept and currentFigure 1: NVG are the images in the classic green, while Helmis images are in grey scaleeyes. Therefore, NVG is not theideal equipment for night militaryoperations.Thermal Imaging SystemsThermal imaging, on the other hand,is based on imaging of heat; all bodiesnot at absolute zero temperature willemit heat. Thermal imaging was firstused on expensive platforms like mainand not reflected light. Therefore,soldiers equipped with thermalgoggles will definitely have enhancednight operational capabilities. Figure1 shows real and unedited imagestaken from NVG (new generation) andSTELOP’s Helmis Thermal Goggles.Helmis Thermal GogglesFrom these images, it can be seenaiming devices on weapons werenot designed for thermal goggles.Current aiming devices on weaponsinclude iron sights, telescopic sightsand red dot sights. These devicesare meant to work in tandem with thehuman eye and to a limited degreewith NVG. Since these aiming devicesare all made of glass, which is opaqueto thermal or infrared wavelengths,12 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

• Very ideal for close quartercombat up to a range of 200m;• Designed to be used on assaultrifles, submachine guns andGPMG;• Long battery life;• Small form factor;• Co-bore-sight channel design forease of sight alignment;• Accuracy of TRS improves withdevelopment of Helmis resolution;• Non-obsolescence.Figure 2: An illustration of how TRS allows a soldier equipped with Helmis to aim at a targetAs thermal imaging technologydevelops, thermal engines anddetectors are becoming smaller,with lower power consumption andhigher resolution. This translates tosmaller form factor, longer batteryHelmis cannot be used with them.TRS Heads-up DisplayIn order to enhance the effectivenessof soldiers equipped with Helmis,STELOP has developed an innovativeweapon sight called Thermal ReflexSight (TRS) that allows the soldier toaim at the target through his weapon.This technique uses special opticsthat allow both infrared and visiblebands to pass through in a reflexarrangement and emits both visible(red colour) and infrared reticle to thesoldier.When the soldier with Helmis looksthrough the TRS Heads-up Display(HUD), he sees both the target andthe weapons aim points, which canbe calibrated on the TRS. The TRSHUD’s optical path is transparentto the naked eye. When used in theday environment, the soldier, withoutHelmis, can view the target throughthe HUD with a red aiming markthrough a flick of a switch. With thisinnovative design, TRS is in essencea reflex sight for the visible and theinfrared. Furthermore, because ofits reflex design, there is no exit pupilconsideration, unlike in a telescope,making it easier to look through theTRS HUD. This is a first in theworld.Helmis and TRS: SeamlessPairingIn an operations scenario indaylight, a soldier is able to usehis weapon with the TRS. At night,by putting on Helmis, the soldieris also able to engage the targetaccurately by looking throughthe TRS. Another special designincorporated in the TRS is that bothchannels (visible and infrared) areco-bore-sight. This means thatthe the soldier need not put on theHelmis to perform sighting alignmentwith weapon. He just needs to use thevisible channel to perform weaponalignment in the daytime, and theinfrared channel for night will also bealigned. This design makes alignmentprocess very convenient.Advantages of TRS• Wideband design (transparent tovisible, Near Infrared and LongWave Infrared);• Compatible with naked eyeviewing, NVG and thermalgoggles;• Large HUD for easy viewing;Figure 3: Actual image of TRS proof of concept model with Helmislife and higher targeting accuracy forthermal goggles like the Helmis. Theintegration of TRS and Helmis is theway forward to enhance soldiers’ nightoperational capabilities and is a greattechnological leap over NVG.For more information, please contactLim Yang Beng at (65) 6403 2055 or email:limyb@stelop.comAPRIL 2012 13

F E A T U R EBusinessIntelligenceBusiness Intelligence refers tocomputer-based techniquesused in identifying, processingand analysing complex businessdata to generate reports andto support better businessdecision-making. BusinessIntelligence technologies providehistorical, current and predictiveviews of business operations.ST Electronics incorporatesBusiness Intelligence as part ofits solutions for airport, rail andother operations managementsystems, and this will continueto be one of the company’s keystrategic strengths.Sense-making:Do you have what it takes to survive?By David Tan Cheow Beng, Vice President, Defence Business, ST Electronics (Info-Software Systems)Four Straight ’Vs’ is What You NeedThis was the comment I once heardfrom a business friend of mine aboutmaking business sense in a worldflushed with data. Imagine yourselfstanding in the river with the torrent ofinformation flowing your way and youare trying to drink knowledge from itusing only a tablespoon.CEOs in the business world need fourstraight Vs in analysing data to makeanticipatory decisions in the businessworld – Volume, Variety, Velocity andValues.Business Analytics (BA) is expected togrow in importance as CIOs attemptto bring insights to business byleveraging technology. Corporationsthat can harness BA will have theforesight to survive in this perilousworld of business data.Turn Me On QuicklyManaging big data is like switchingon a lamp. You must first plug it intoan outlet that taps into the electricalgrid in order to light it up. Likeelectricity, BA is meant to be turnedon continuously. It must becomean enterprise service that businessusers can tap into for informationon-demand, and doing so with deepinsights for contextual applications.Business enterprises need analytics incontext and in realtime. They need touse BA with speed so as to transformbusinesses from traditional stovepipeanalysis to one of synthesis in anenterprise service approach. The keyoutcome therefore is to bring aboutanticipatory sense-making capabilitiesinto the business world.More is Not Always MerrierToday with better connectivity andbandwidth, business organisationshave found themselves operating in aconundrum. They are inundated withdata and trying to make sense out ofit.Take for instance, the Singapore LandTransport Authority’s (LTA) planningthat embarked on one of the largestgovernment data warehouses inSingapore. An article in the FutureGovMagazine (24 March 2011 Issue),quoted Ms Rosina Howe, LTA’sInnovation and Infocomm TechnologyGroup Director, as stating that, “theLand Transport Network (known as14 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

PLANET) transforms over 12 milliondaily public transport trips (bus, railtransits, taxis) and supports businessqueries of 3.7 billion records basedon two years of historical data. Theintention of such a collection is toprovide LTA with advanced capabilitiesto perform large-scale businessanalytics and predictive forecasting.This rapid growth in data howeverhad posed considerable challenges toexisting ICT infrastructure. Many ofthe legacy systems are unable to scaleand to provide for quick responsetime of what would usually have takenhours instead of seconds.”Unless an organisation is able tomanage data at the point of ingestion,more data is not necessarily better.Digest as You IngestWhat you cannot digest, you hadbetter not ingest as you riskindigestion! That is true also forbusiness data ingestion. A responsivegovernment agency with cross-agencycollaboration or any business outfitsharing requirements need to havebusiness data intelligence in order toprioritise their limited resources andattention. They need to invest timeand effort into the right area at theright time for the desired outcome.S.A.I.N.T.ST Electronics (Info-SoftwareSystems) has found that the key tosmart data analytics is perpetualanalytics with deep insights forcontext relevance and doing sowith velocity (speed and direction).The Intelligent System designedby ST Electronics called SmartAnalytics with INsights for Tomorrow(S.A.I.N.T.), is a networked systemthat integrates all major informationand control systems, enablingseamless airport operations acrossmultiple stakeholders to collaborateeffectively. When deployed in anAirport Operations Centre, S.A.I.N.T.can deliver situational awarenessto operations personnel at differentlevels.C.R.O.P.Through state-of-the-art visualisationcalled C.R.O.P. (Common RelevantOperating Picture), a collaborativeplatform with sense-makingcapabilities, the system is able toassist operational personnel inmaking better-informed decisionsand to optimise the efficiency ofairport operations as a team. C.R.O.P.empowered by S.A.I.N.T. allowsmultiple stakeholders to conductCollaborative Decision Making processin an efficient and effective mannerduring surge operations in a complexairport environment.In this environment, S.A.I.N.T.synchronises all stakeholders andintegrates the numerous functionalsystems already deployed for security,airlines, ground handling andimmigration. Airports can now haverealtime access to a comprehensivepicture of airline schedules andairport resources. The systemwill facilitate asset managementand provide video views to assist incollaborative planning, decisionmakingand time-on-time comparisonof key performance indicators. Itincorporates an advanced decisionsupport system that anticipates issuesassociated with airline delays or faultsAPRIL 2012 15

F E A T U R EBusiness Intelligencefor Real Time DecisionSupport Systemin any airport resource. A solutionwill then be recommended based oneach airport’s Standard OperatingProcedure, empowering users tomake informed decisions. S.A.I.N.T.also helps to enhance the airport’sability to handle sudden capacitysurges and crises. For example, thenecessary shutdown of a terminaldue to potential security threats andthe swift diversion of travellers andairlines to other available terminals.Future C2 for AirportST Electronics has packaged newsense-making capabilities for CEOsand business organisation to survivein a world flushed with businessdata. The Future C2 solution, whichwas one of the highlights at theSingapore Airshow 2012, empowersdecision-makers with sense-makingcapabilities in operations forhomeland security, complex airportoperations and security.For more information, please contactDavid Tan at (65) 6413 3212 or email:tancheowbeng.david@stee.stengg.comIntelligenceThe Business Intelligence for RealTime Decision Support System (BIRT-DSS) developed by ST Electronics(Info-Comm Systems) is the idealbusiness intelligence solution forrealtime management of operationsflow. It is especially crucial forgovernment agencies operating inmission critical environments. Thesystem enables key decision makersto consistently keep a finger on thepulse of an organisation.Using advanced Business Intelligence,the BIRT-DSS solution integratesa myriad of external systems anddata for optimised operations. Thisfield-proven solution can be deployedin various large-scale systems suchas Intelligent Transport Systems,BIRT-DSS OperationsOptimisation& EfficienciesData IntegrationIntelligent Vehicle Despatch andManagement Systems and EmergencyResponse Systems. This versatilesystem provides integrated operationsmanagement, incident handling andinformation dissemination for effectiveand efficient deployment of resourcesto enhance the agencies’ operations.By incorporating business intelligenceinto realtime systems, users now havea more comprehensive understandingof activities in progress, resulting inoptimised operations managementand enhanced reporting tomanagement.How Business Intelligence WorksAn organisation’s operations usuallycomprise many external systems and16 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

data sources that require aggregationand intelligence discovery. To enablethe integration of these data, thesystem provides a Data IntegrationService that involves custominterfacing with external systemsand data sources to obtain the datarequired for a data mart. The systemfurther integrates with a myriad ofcommunication protocols to ensureaccuracy, reliable messaging,exceptions handling and extensibilityto new data sources from additionalexternal systems.The Data Processing andTransformation Service provides ETL(Extract Transform Load) capabilitiesto create consistent and accurateinformation. Business rules are thenapplied to transform the data, priorto loading it into the warehouse.Data migration is used to move bulkhistorical information from onesystem to another as a one-timeactivity. Metadata managementenables the control of data definitionand rapid generation of the datamart, allowing data to be shared andanalysed effectively and efficiently.Business Intelligence and Analyticsoffer users varied skill levels withinthe agency to access the data mart forquery, analysis and report generation.It can be integrated with third partyapplications such as geospatial tools,to enhance the functionalities of thesystem.Key EnablersEssentially, the BIRT-DSS solutionprovides different groups of users withmany tools and methods to accessand use the required information.The key enablers of the BIRT-DSSsolution include:• Analysis of cross domaininformation with visualisationtools;• Ability to comprehend, understandand predict trends;• Facility to do reporting;• Use of best-of-breed tools.The BIRT-DSS solution offersorganisations the essential solutionto continuously improve and optimisethe management of their operations.ST Electronics’ proven track recordand domain expertise in this areaenable the company to provide acomprehensive range of BusinessIntelligence solutions and consultationservices suitable for variousapplications and industries.For more information, please call(65) 6567 6769 or email:info_infocomm@stee.stengg.comSystem ASystem BDataIntegrationServiceDataProcessing &TransformationServiceBusinessAnalytics &IntelligenceServiceSystem CMetadata Management LayerSystem DData StoreData Sources &External SystemsInfrastructure LayerDecisionMakersConcept of a typical business intelligence subsystemAPRIL 2012 17

F E A T U R EBusiness Intelligencein rail operationsWith over 25 years of experiencegathered from its active involvementin the design, integration andimplementation of rapid transitsystems (RTS), ST Electronicsdeveloped a new generation integratedcommand, control and communication(C3) platform known as the C3solution with operational inputs froman experienced RTS operator.Business Intelligence as Part ofC3 SolutionUnlike conventional railwaySupervisory Control and DataAcquisition (SCADA) systems,the operation-centric C3 solutioncombines various RTS subsystemson a common integrated platform,a key feature that enables crosssubsystemsfunctions to beimplemented easily in supportof a safe, efficient and effectivemanagement of RTS operations. Amajor advantage of this integrationis the enhanced capability it brings tothe C3 system in the form of businessintelligence via a decision supporttool. This is provided as part of theC3 solution and it is flexible enoughto allow various operational andincident response plans to be createdand executed in accordance with‘operating rules’ of an RTS operatingentity. Each of these plans may beactivated manually, or launchedautomatically or semi-automaticallywhen associated with an externalevent trigger. These response planscould contain cross-subsystemscommands that can efficiently andsafely manage any potential incidents.Decision Support ToolWith this enhanced capability, an RTSoperator may group its operationalplans into three modes of operations,namely, Normal, Incident andEmergency modes. Each of theoperating modes should correspond tothe relevant procedures and processesof the RTS operating ‘rule-book’. Forinstance, during the Normal modeof operation, the decision supporttool may be used to support the dailyoperational routines, like the timelyenergisation of the traction powerrail in a grouped sequential manneras the trains are being launched, orsetting of stations in proper ventilationmode prior to revenue service. Itmay also be used to automaticallystream field video from a camera tothe operation control centre for animmediate follow-up in response to anincident (for instance illegal intrusiondetection) occurring in a remotelocation.The decision support tool providesthe most positive impact on RTSoperations during an emergency.An emergency could be due to asignificant delay or stoppage intrain services, or as a result ofFigure 1: A possible integration of enterprise level business intelligence features within the C3 solution18 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

incidents causing major casualtiesand damage. Possible emergencyincidents include fire on the trains,fire at the stations, explosions andcritical equipment failures. Whensuch unfortunate incidents occur,staff in the control room and thoseresponding to the incidents maybe under a lot of pressure andexperience much tension. Under suchcircumstances, ST Electronics’ C3solution decision support tool canguide the incident responders throughthe pre-defined processes, proceduresand steps that were tailored for theeffective management of each typeof emergency. This minimises the‘arbitrariness’ in decision-makingand reduces the likelihood of ‘humanerrors’ in emergency management.Into the FutureWith deployments in the Asia-Pacificregion, ST Electronics’ C3 solutionis a ‘tried and tested’ command andcontrol system. However, in line withthe changing and more stringentdemands of the marketplace, the C3is continually innovating and evolvingto stay ahead of the game. One of thenew innovations being looked at is theimplementation of more intelligententerprise level features that wouldaddress the needs for energyconservation, and an improved levelof rail services at the transportationgrid level. Both are key concernsof RTS authorities, operators, andenvironmentalists.The adoption of numerous RTSsystems in large heavily-populatedcities as a major mode of publictransportation will inevitably leadto the formation of a city-wide RTStransportation grid with numerousstation interchanges and possiblysome shared infrastructure. Suchshared infrastructure may includecommon intelligence and analyticapplications. This level has beendubbed the ‘enterprise’ level, todifferentiate it from the individualoperation control centre level.The existing C3 solution could beadapted to meet enterprise level RTSsupervision and incident managementrequirements. However, it would benecessary to enhance its businessintelligence capability. Figure 1illustrates a possible integration ofenterprise level business intelligencefeatures within the C3 solution.Data ‘mined’ from the databases ofeach RTS operation control centre,Automatic Clearing Centre andMaintenance Management System(read more on page 20) can beprocessed, modelled and transformedinto more intelligible patterns andtrends that would be useful to furtheroptimise the RTS grid operation.ST Electronics has identified someareas with possible impacts onRTS service levels and operationalefficiencies. These include thecommuter flow levels and travelpatterns, train service delays, criticalfacilities (gates, ticketing machines,escalators, etc.) operational statusand energy consumptions.With the integration of the enterpriselevel Business Intelligence features,ST Electronics will have a completerange of C3 products for the variouslevels of RTS operations, fromindividual RTS line to RTS grid leveloperation.For more information, please contactLow Ming Chuan at (65) 6413 1855 or email:lowmingchuan@stee.stengg.comAPRIL 2012 19

• Specifies any safety relatedprocedures;Work Order module• Manages fault reporting;• Schedules maintenance work(both preventive and corrective);• Manages permit-to-workapplication and approval;• Assigns maintenance staff;• Requests and reserves requiredmaterial;• Records actual maintenancetasks performed;• Records fault analysis forcorrective repair work;• Records actual man-hours andmaterials used for maintenance.Inventory module• Defines item catalogue, itemassembly structure;• Tracks item costing;• Manages inventory balances atvarious store locations;• Manages stock issue and stockreceipt;• Performs other inventorytransactions like stock count,stock balance adjustment, itemre-ordering.Purchasing module• Manages the procurementprocess for materials andservices purchase requests,requests for quotation, purchaseorders and supplier invoices;• Manages vendor details andprocurement history.Labour module• Records maintenance personnelinformation and qualifications;• Manages duty roster and workschedule.Reporting module• Provides operational reports suchas Work Order Report and PickingList;• Provides analysis reports suchas System Availability report andFault Analysis Report;• Provides management reportssuch as Actual versus PlannedMaintenance Cost and ActualMaintenance Man-hour Report.Other supplementary functions• Provides electronic manuals anddrawings (such as illustrated partcatalogue) to provide informationreference to maintenancepersonnel;• Allows maintenance personnelto access the system fromremote site on mobile wirelesscommunication devices viaWLAN/3G.Most of the E&M subsystems areequipped to perform self-diagnosis.By enabling data exchanges betweenthese subsystems and the MMS, anyequipment faults can be sent to theMMS immediately. This allows theMMS to automatically generate andsubmit fault reports to the respectivemaintenance teams for appropriateservicing and repairs. MeasurementMMSAssetModulePlanningModuleWork OrderModuleInventoryModulePurchasingModuleLabourResourceModuleAsset andLocationJob PlanFaultReportingItemCataloguePurchaseRequestReportingModuleAssetAssemblyStructureAssetHistoryAsset LifeCycle CostPlannedMaterialsand LabourSafetyProcedureWorkSchedulingPermit toWorkLabourAssignmentMaterialRequisitionInventoryManagementIssue fromStoreReceive fromSupplierRequest forQuotationPurchaseOrderPurchaseInvoiceWork OrderFeedbackMajor Functional Modules in MMSAPRIL 2012 21

A P P L I C A T I O NN O T E SRail E&M Sub-systemsVIAMeasurementReadingsFaultAlarmsDataItemsIssued andReceiptsMaintenanceInformationdata from these subsystems arealso transmitted to the MMS. Thisenables the MMS to determine theoperation status and the conditions ofthe equipment, and to schedule thenecessary corrective or maintenancemeasures before the equipmentdeteriorates further.Using the latest wireless technology,operating status and measurementdata of the rolling stock and all trainborneequipment can also be fed tothe MMS. Important information suchas mileage data helps to determinethe maintenance cycles of the trains,as well as plan spare-parts availabilityand maintain personnel schedules.Integrating Front-end Operationswith Back-end DepartmentsConventional maintenancemanagement software is a standalonesystem that requires manualdata entry by maintenance personnel.Such software solely serves theengineering department for theirmaintenance needs. In such asystem, information exchanges withother departments are communicatedon paper, or through email amongstaff who are in the loop.MMSAssetStatusEmployeeWork-hourRP, PO,InvoiceExtending MMS capability via interfaces with other subsystemsCorporateSub-systemsAn obvious advantage of having suchan interface link is business processautomation, in particular acrossdifferent departments and differentwork teams. Information is sharedseamlessly and in a timely manner.Decisions can be made expeditiouslywith the availability of up-to-dateinformation and alerts. Pendingactions can be sent to relevantpersonnel promptly. These benefitslead to improved work productivityand performance within the wholeorganisation.Being a centralised platform collatingcritical and relevant information fromvarious E&M subsystems and with itscomplete rail asset database, MMSnaturally becomes the informationsuper-store for the rail organisation.When equipped with the necessaryMMSdata mining and analysis tools, userscan tap into this data warehouse toextract and formulate intelligenceand knowledge that may enable newgrowth for the organisation.Transactional information such asmaintenance cost and work hours thatare required by the corporate financeand HR systems for their respectiveprocessing can be extracted andprocessed automatically. Any changeto the status of capitalised assetsthat are managed by MMS can alsobe updated to respective corporatesubsystems. In addition, by settingup an interface between the MMSand corporate subsystems, figuresand information are exchanged in atimely and accurate manner, thusminimising human error. An MRToperator’s procurement system canalso establish an interface to the MMSfor updating purchasing informationand delivery status of the purchaseditems.Today, more MRT operators aresetting up Automated Storage andRetrieval System (ASRS) in theirwarehouses to facilitate automaticretrieval and storage of materials.By establishing a system interfacebetween the MMS and the ASRS, theentire stock issue and receipt processcan be fully automated. Store usersare only required to key in the issueConsumedMaterial CostEmployeeWork-hourCorporateSub-systemsFinance andAccountingBy integrating an interface engineinto ST Electronics’ MMS architecture,the system effectively becomes theenabling channel linking the front-endoperations to the back-end corporatedepartments.Asset StatusUpdateBack-end interfaces with corporate subsystemsHR22 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

or receipt instructions via the MMSterminal, and the specified material isautomatically retrieved or stocked.One major advantage of this type ofinterface is the elimination of the needfor separate warehouse managementsoftware, leading to cost savings andsimpler work processes as storepersonnel need to use only onesystem for store operations.Benefits of MMSTimely Scheduling and Tracking ofMaintenance ActivitiesMMS automatically schedules timebasedor meter-based preventiveequipment is tracked and recorded ashistory for future reference.Maintenance Cost and AssetLifecycle Cost ManagementBased on the planned jobrequirement, MMS providesmaintenance cost estimation beforethe task is performed. Once the taskis completed, the actual cost will becomputed based on the tools andmaterials used, as well as the manhoursinvolved. The lifecycle costs ofthe asset are tracked and recordedin the system and can be used incomparison analysis of maintenanceagainst procurement.Labour Resource ManagementThe MMS records work shifts androster details of each maintenanceteam personnel. Work orderassignment and man-hours spent forcarrying out repairs and services aretracked automatically for each staff.Therefore, it is a useful tool for theteam supervisor to track and manageresources.Reports and AnalysisThe MMS generates many types ofreports to meet the different needsof each department. For example,there would be operations-relatedreports for maintenance teams, defectASRS EquipmentRetrievalCommandMMSStorageCommandInventoryDatabasemaintenance tasks when they are due.Overdue or late jobs are highlightedand relevant personnel are notifiedpromptly.Appropriate Condition-basedMaintenanceMeasurement data collected fromall the operational subsystemsindicates the state and condition of theequipment. With this data, the MMSis able to advise on the necessarycorrective or maintenance action.Complete Status Tracking of FaultyEquipmentThe MMS tracks the whole repair cycleof the faulty equipment, beginningwith the fault report to fault trackingfrom field, repair status, and returnto store. All repair status of theIntegrated Work Flow betweenMaintenance and Supply TeamsWith a common database andplatform, all materials required by themaintenance team for repair work canbe automatically retrieved from thestore. When a store personnel issuesa part, the corresponding work orderis registered with the issued part’sdetails and costs.Total Inventory SolutionThe MMS provides full inventorycontrol functionality required in a railenvironment. The system tracks theactual balances and storage locationof each part. When the currentbalance is at or below re-order point,the system will automatically createand send the re-ordering request tothe relevant manager for approval.analysis reports for supervisors,and cost-expenditure reports fordepartment managers.As more advanced and sophisticatedsystems and equipment areintroduced to MRT operations,it becomes essential for theoperators to enhance their currentmaintenance system and processes.ST Electronics’ MMS solution is theanswer to assisting operators inproviding high availability, reliabilityand serviceability to the public.For more information, please contact LowMing Chuan at (65) 6413 1855 or email:lowmingchuan@stee.stengg.comAPRIL 2012 23

highSuperneT Vehicular IntegratedCommunication System ST6800ST Electronics has the capability toprovide a full C4I (Command, Control,Communications, Computers andIntelligence) Suite for Land Platforms.The backbone of this C4I platform isthe SuperneT Vehicular IntegratedCommunication System (VICS) ST6800– a versatile, rugged and reliablecommunication and network solutionsuited for military and para-militaryapplications in harsh tactical andmobile environments.SA2012 was the platform thatST Electronics selected to launchthe SuperneT VICS. This advancedcompact IP based integrated voice anddata communication system providesa networked platform to facilitate theintegration of heterogeneous C4ISR(Command, Control, Communications,Computers, Intelligence,Surveillance and Reconnaissance)systems. SuperneT VICS allows forinterconnectivity, survivability andinteroperability, offering an idealplatform for collaboration. It enablesimproved speed of command andenhanced operational efficiency forworkgroups on wheeled and trackedcombat vehicles, as well as for smallnaval crafts operating in high-speedand harsh tactical environments.The SuperneT VICS overcame thechallenges of high system integrationcosts and high SWaP-C (Size, Weight,Power and Cost) demands on combatvehicles by adopting an open systemarchitecture approach. Its secured,fault-tolerant dual Gigabit Ethernetring backbone also offers no singlepoint of failure for mission criticaloperations. This backbone allowsfor secured communication servicesincluding voice and data separation toenhance information assurance.Mr Lee Fook Sun, PresidentST Electronics commented that,“With our experience and capabilityin providing C4ISR and System ofSystems solutions for the defencesector, ST Electronics is committed todelivering solutions that offer bettercommunications, data and resourcemanagement in the field. Oursolutions will empower commanderswith superior situational awarenesswhich is critical to the success ofmissions.” (Read more on page 8)(From left), Mr Andrew Chow, Mr Seah Moon Ming and Mr Lee Fook Sun,officiating at the launch of the SuperneT VICSMr Lee Fook Sun introducing the C4I Suite for Land Platforms to guests visiting the boothAPRIL 2012 25

E V E N T S(Left) Minister for Defence, Mr Ng Eng Hen being briefed on the Future C2 exhibit; (Right) Mr S Dhanabalan, Chairman, andMdm Ho Ching, Executive Director & CEO of Temasek Holdings viewing the AgilFence PIDS.Future C2 SolutionOne of the highlights for thecompany was the Future C2 solutionthat empowers decision-makerswith sense-making capabilities inoperations for homeland securityand complex airport operations andsecurity. Its three key components areSmart Data Management that collectsoperational data from many sourceswithin the Future C2; Smart Analyticswith INsights for Tomorrow (S.A.I.N.T.)that provides superior awarenessfor timely collaboration and teamdecision-making process (read moreon page 14); and Smart Glance, whichprovides powerful visuals for decisionsduring operations.sense any slight fence disturbance,triggering an intrusion detection.The proprietary intelligent signalprocessing algorithms weed out falseand nuisance alarms due to elementsand wildlife, and sends intrusionalerts to the command centre whentriggered. This will allow the nearbyCCTV cameras to be automaticallyactivated for verification. Theoperators can then respond quickly,efficiently and appropriately.AgilFence PIDSThe AgilFence PIDS (PerimeterIntrusion Detection System) beinginstalled at Singapore’s Changi Airportis locally invented and developed forfence security, offering highly accurateand instantaneous intrusion detection.Optical fibre cable embedded withadvanced Fibre Bragg Grating sensorsand installed on physical fence canAdvanced Combat Man System: Daily demonstration of ST Engineering’s integrated network-centric solutionsthat can enhance the effectiveness of individual warfighters or small combat units26 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

E V E N T SSmart Utilities SuiteAs the environment becomesan increasingly important focus,ST Electronics’ Smart Utilities Suiteoffers to transform businesses byhelping them to achieve economicand environmental sustainability. ThisSuite provides end-to-end secureutilities solutions that offer flexibleand secure Advanced MeteringInfrastructure (AMI), ideal for utilityproviders. It also supports multiutilityapplications such as integratedelectricity, water and gas services;and supports seamless integration tosmart facilities in homes, buildings,factories and schools. Besidesenabling a more efficient use ofenergy within these facilities, theSmart Utilities Suite also respondsto price signals and load controlapplications, allowing utility providersto operate more efficiently withoutgenerating excess energy during peakload periods.Home Energy Management System,The Home Energy ManagementSystem, on the other hand, is anapplication that enables utility serviceor retail providers to influencehomeowners to reduce electricityusage and charges by providingrealtime monitoring of energyconsumption. It allows consumersto conveniently monitor their energyconsumption and electricity bills andmanage them effectively.Simulation SystemsA perennial favourite at every airshowis the simulator rides. This year,ST Electronics did not disappoint as itsF-16 Simulator drew long queues ofvisitors waiting to take a spin in it.The F16 Simulator incorporatesenvironmental information with a highdegree of realism and precision tocreate the flight training environment.The technologically advancedF-16 Simulator provides a costeffectivesolution for trainee pilotsto understand and appreciate theeffects and consequences of both theThe F16 simulator is a star attraction at the Singapore Airshowaircraft’s physical parameters and itsperformance in varying environmentalsituations.The UAV BattleLab – a demonstrationof how VT MÄK, ST Electronics’ USsimulation company, can deliverhigher-level simulation solutionsto help customers meet their goalsfaster and with less risk. BattleLabbrings together MÄK’s integrationexpertise, COTS products and partnerproducts from AGI, DiSTI, JRMTechnologies and Scalable NetworkTechnologies to form a lab consistingof three workstations: a UAV Operatorstation, an Operator/Analyst stationand a Network Modelling station.Electro Optics Solutions andServicesAlso on display were a range ofElectro Optics Solutions and Servicesincluding:• Portable Lightweight Designatoror Rangefinder (PLDR) – aruggedised, lightweight, highperformance, laser range findercum designator which is operatedby an individual soldier.• URALIS – an uncooled thermalsighting system, that isdeveloped locally with a 320 x240 microbolometer detector foroptical performance.• URALIS 384L – a state-of-the-art,compact, portable uncooled dayand night system for observation,surveillance, detection and rangeestimation. It features an 8-12µmuncooled thermal imager, and aneye-safe laser rangefinder, in acompact ruggedised and sealedhousing.• RATTLER G – a dismountedhandheld, man-portable targetdesignator/marker which rapidlyenables war fighters to bringeffective fire to bear on hostiletargets.• SHARP-I2 – The Sniper Handand Rail Precision Infrared MK2 (SHARP-I2) is an add-on TI28 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

device mounted directly in frontof a sniper scope or similar riflecombat optical scope that enablesit to engage targets both day andnight.• MINI-T – a stabilised day/nightsurveillance payload speciallysuited for moving platformsand quick mobile applications.It is developed for patrol crafts,unmanned crafts and mobilesurveillance systems.• HELMIS – a small, lightweight,state-of-the-art, helmet mountedhands-free thermal imager withan ability to see in total darkness,through battlefield obscurantsand foliage (read more on page12).• CORIS LM – an uncooledhandheld Thermal Imagerthat detects thermal targets indaylight conditions.• CORIS-ADVANCE – that enablesfull utilisation, both autonomouslyand by interconnection to anexternal PC system.Other systems and solutions fromST Electronics that were showcased atSA2012 include:Laser Warning System – an integralpart of a vehicle’s protection system.It rapidly detects incidents from laserrange finders and laser designatorsand instantly alerts the operator viathe control unit’s onboard displays sothat appropriate protective systemscan be activated against incidents.cabins and the deployment of internalconsoles.Autonomous Underwater Vehicle –developed through a jointcollaboration effort betweenDSO National Laboratories andST Electronics. It surveys underwaterseabeds to provide effective and highquality data collection for Mine-Counter Measure (MCM) operations.Cyber Defence – a comprehensiveapproach to cyber defence, utilising anindustry framework that incorporatesprotection, detection, response andrecovery. Its complete range of CyberDefence solutions and services iscategorised into various domains.ST 3130 Cobalt Standard OperatingCommon Console – a consolethat integrates and encapsulatesCETRON ® Mobile Command Hub(MCH) – a breakthrough in vehiculardesign that makes workspacelimitation a thing of the past. TheMCH meets different operationalrequirements as it is expandable onone or both sides of the vehicle’s body.Highly motorised, it allows for quickand fully automated expansion of its(Clockwise from top) Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Mr Teo Chee Hean; Temasek Holdings’ Chairman Mr S Dhanabalan;Emeritus Senior Minister Mr Goh Chok Tong and Mrs Goh, and other regional military officials viewing the XSAT displayAPRIL 2012 29

E V E N T SCOTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf)electronics into an ergonomicallydesigned rugged housing that offersprotection from severe environmentalconditions.Venus-9, Venus-11 and Venus-16USVs – ST Electronics has expandedits Venus family of USVsto include the 16-metreVenus-16 and 11-metreVenus-11 USVs in itsofferings.X-SAT Earth ObservationSatellite – Singapore’sfirst locally built satellitesuccessfully launched intospace on 20 April 2011, isoperating in orbit at 817kmaltitude. It can performEarth observation missions, with anear realtime image transmission tothe image reception station within thesame ground pass.Sentinel Radar Extractor & Tracker –a radar extractor and tracker systemthat runs on Track-Before-DetectThe X-SAT Earth Observation Satellite(TBD) algorithms. This powerfulsoftware engine enables the detectionof small targets in noisy and heavilycluttered environments.STellar DLink Digital Data LinkSystem – a modular and versatiledigital data link system series, suitedfor various secure video disseminationapplications such as homelandsecurity, law enforcement, defenceand public safety.Ka-Band Block-Up Converters –ideal for mobile and satellite uplinkapplications. Designed to be mountedon the feed horn, the Ka-Band BUC isextremely reliable and has high powerefficiency and functions under thewidest operating temperature rangefrom -40 to +60 degree Celsius.Upcoming eventsWhat When Where WhoCyber Defence Summit 2-4 Apr Muscat ST Electronics (Info-Security)The 12 th Asia-Pacific ITS Forum &Exhibition16-18 Apr Kuala Lumpur ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)Passenger Terminal Expo 2012 18-20 Apr Austria ST Electronics (Satcom & Sensor Systems)Metering, Billing/CRM Asia 8-9 May Bangkok ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)Asia Pacific EMC Week 21-24 May Singapore ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems), Large-Scale Systems GroupEurosatory 2012 11-15 Jun Paris ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)CommunicAsia 2012 19-22 Jun Singapore ST Electronics GroupSingapore International Water Week 1-5 July Singapore ST Electronics (Info-Software Systems),ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)Euronaval 2012 22-25 Oct Paris ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)GovWare 2012 22-25 Oct Singapore ST Electronics (Info-Security)Singapore International Energy Week 22-26 Oct Singapore ST Electronics (Info-Comm Systems)Information is accurate at time of printing30 ELECTRONICS REVIEW

A W A R D SDigiSAFE DiskCrypt wins CES Award®The DigiSAFE DiskCrypt didST Electronics (Info-Security) proudwhen it was named an InternationalCES Innovations 2012 Design andEngineering Awards Honoree atthe CES Show held in Las Vegas,USA from 10 to 13 January 2012.This followed hot on the heels of asimilar 2010 award to the company’sDigiSAFE DiskCrypt Mobile.Electronics Association (CEA) ® , theproducer of International CES. Itis the world’s largest consumertechnology tradeshow that has beenpresenting these awards since 1976.The Best of Innovations Honor isawarded to winning products that arefeatured in the Innovations Design andEngineering Showcase at each year’sevent.The 2.5-inch hard disk DigiSAFEDiskCrypt is a storage encryptiondevice designed to replace originaldrives in notebooks. It housesa removable 1.8-inch internalmicro-SATA hard disk, as well asa hardware-based cryptographicmodule that encrypts all data writteninto the disk to provide Full DiskEncryption (FDE).Data security is becoming a growingand important consideration formany organisations and end-users today. The increase in data lossthrough theft and hacking has madecompanies and individuals realise thattheir data needs to be protected. Dataencryption is an additional method ofachieving this. With data encryption,should data devices fall into the wronghands, the information is still safe andprotected. The CES award recognisesthe DigiSAFE DiskCrypt capabilitiesand underscores ST Electronics’commitment to quality product designthat meets the stringent securityrequirements of government andenterprise systems.For more information, please call(65) 6568 7118 or email: info@digisafe.comProducts submitted for considerationfor this honour were judged by adistinguished panel of independentindustrial designers, engineers andmembers of the media. The awardserves to recognise outstandingdesign and engineering in cuttingedgeconsumer electronics productsacross 32 product categories.The prestigious annual InnovationsDesign and Engineering Awardsare sponsored by the ConsumerDigiSAFE DiskCryptAPRIL 2012 31

A W A R D SLand Transport Excellence Awards 2012ST Electronics wins project on half-height platform screen doors and associated worksat elevated MRT stationsSingapore’s Land Transport Authority presentedthe prestigious Land Transport ExcellenceAwards 2012 for Best Managed E&M Systemsas Project Partner to ST Electronics on 4 April2012. This award recognises ST Electronics’project management team for the retrofittingof half-height platform screen doors at allexisting elevated MRT stations in the North-South and East-West Lines. The project calledfor the delivery of the largest electrical andmechanical (E&M) works involving additions andalternations to the original infrastructure, toimprove passengers’ safety and minimise the riskof track intrusion. This requires the integrationof various subsystems, dynamic planning andutmost precision in meeting reliability and safetyperformance standards. With a comprehensiveand efficient project management process inplace, the project was completed in a timely andseamless fashion in spite of various challenges.“ST Electronics produced out-of-the-box solutions toovercome safety challenges, in particular, the short workingwindow accorded to carry out the installation works at night.It managed to maintain train passengers’ safety duringinstallation works of the platform screen doors, with nodisruption to the daily train operations, and completed theproject four months ahead of schedule.”The Straits Times, 4 April 2012Total Defence AwardsSingapore’s Ministry of Defence presented the Meritorious Defence Partner andDistinguished Defence Partner Awards to ST Electronics (Info-Software Systems)ST Electronics (Info-Software Systems)was presented both the MeritoriousDefence Partner and DistinguishedDefence Partner Awards during the TotalDefence Awards Presentation Ceremonyand Gala Dinner 2011.Minister of State for Defence and Education, Mr Lawrence Wong, presenting the awardto Mr Toh Su Po, Vice President (Business Development), ST Electronics (Info-SoftwareSystems)These awards, presented by Singapore’sMinistry of Defence, recognise andhonour employers and civil resourceowners who made outstandingcontributions to National Service andTotal Defence. It also seeks to promotethe efforts of supportive employers toinspire other employers.In its support towards environmental sustainability, ST Electronics has printed this publication on recycled paper.