American Grocery Chain Upgrades Communication Capabilities Across More Than 60 Locations in Line with Its Sustainability Objectives

3-minute read time

Summary

• An American grocery chain wanted to upgrade from its outdated Nortel phone system to provide its users with new Cisco IP handsets across 60+ stores without negative environmental impacts, business disruption, and high network readiness costs.
• The reseller partner, FirstLight Fiber, recommended using NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to improve digital transformation outcomes by leveraging existing network infrastructure assets.
• Since the first phase of the IP modernization project in 2016, FirstLight Fiber has leveraged a repeatable, predictable, and scalable deployment methodology to deploy over 3,000 IP devices.
• The organization has experienced over $1 million in infrastructure cost savings thanks to NVT Phybridge PoE innovations, while maintaining operational efficiency and minimizing disruptions.
• The grocery chain leveraged NVT Phybridge technology to reduce the project’s impact on the environment while aligning with the retailer’s four pillars of sustainability: sourcing responsibly, protecting the environment, making a difference in the community, and promoting employee well-being.

Challenge

A regional supermarket chain operating on the East Coast of the United States faced the significant challenge of upgrading its outdated Nortel phone system. With over 60 stores requiring an upgrade to Cisco IP handsets, the grocery chain faced the daunting prospect of overhauling its existing network infrastructure to support the new Cisco system. This would involve substantial financial investment and present logistical challenges, including business disruptions to store operations, which could negatively impact employee productivity and customer experience. The grocery chain, recognized for its commitment to sustainability, needed a solution that would align with its environmental goals by minimizing waste and reducing its carbon footprint. The challenge was to find a way to transition to a modern IP communications system without the high network readiness costs, complexity, and business disruption associated with the cable type and reach limitations of traditional network switches.

Solution

A leadership member of the grocery chain’s digital transformation team had previously used NVT Phybridge solutions, which bolstered the solution’s credibility. Since the project began in 2016, FirstLight Fiber has partnered with the grocer to implement NVT Phybridge PoE innovations. Mark Sparling, Sales Engineer at FirstLight Fiber, was also familiar with NVT Phybridge solutions and assured the customer that it was a straightforward decision once he understood the full scope of the project. FirstLight Fiber recommended the PoLRE24 managed switch solution to leverage the grocery chain’s existing, proven, and point-to-point connections, enabling the new Cisco IP devices. This modern and innovative approach to network design enables a smooth and cost-effective transition from analog to IP across multiple sites at the right pace for the customer, while minimizing material consumption and e-waste.

The PoLRE switch innovation delivers Ethernet and PoE over Single-Pair UTP cabling with up to 1,200ft (365m) reach – four times the reach of standard Ethernet switches. FirstLight Fiber used the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovation to help the grocery chain leverage its existing cabling, rack space, cooling, and other supporting infrastructure, significantly reducing unnecessary costs, risk, complexity, and business disruption – creating better digital transformation outcomes for all stakeholders.

Result

NVT Phybridge PoE innovations helped the grocery chain to reduce unnecessary network readiness costs by more than $1 million while avoiding years of operational complexity and business disruption. Additionally, the project has been executed with minimal network downtime or impact on store operations, preserving the customer experience. The consistent and reliable performance of the PoLRE solution has allowed the grocer to continue the rollout across its stores, with future phases expected to deliver similar results. Over the course of the project, more than 3,000 endpoints will be deployed across 60+ stores, with each phase demonstrating the efficiency and effectiveness of NVT Phybridge technology.

Sustainability

NVT Phybridge PoE innovations helped FirstLight Fiber align the digital transformation project with the grocery chain’s four pillars of commitment to sustainability:

1. Sourcing Responsibly: By avoiding the need for new cabling materials, the grocery chain has minimized its consumption of new resources.
2. Protecting the Environment: The PoLRE solution has significantly reduced landfill waste by utilizing existing infrastructure assets, preventing the disposal of cables and other equipment.
3. Making a Difference in the Community: By ensuring that store operations were not disrupted, the grocer maintained its exceptional service to the community, reflecting its commitment to being a positive force in the areas it serves.
4. Promoting Employee Well-Being: The seamless implementation of NVT Phybridge technology to deploy the new Cisco IP devices minimized disruptions to employees, allowing them to continue working in a stable and consistent environment.

The NVT Phybridge PoLRE solution provided the grocery chain with a cost-effective and reliable technology upgrade that supported its broader sustainability objectives and reinforced its reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organization.

About FirstLight Fiber

FirstLight provides fiber-optic data, Internet, data center, cloud, unified communications, and managed services to enterprise and carrier customers throughout the Northeast and mid-Atlantic. FirstLight’s mission is to empower organizations to deliver the promise of a limitless future by supplying the critical digital infrastructure our customers need to connect locally and thrive globally.

About NVT Phybridge

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.

 

The Golden Nugget Laughlin Hotel & Casino Deploys Cisco Meraki Wi-Fi Access Points to Improve Wireless Connectivity Across 300+ Guest Suites Without High Costs, Complexity, or Disruption

3-minute read time

Summary

• The Golden Nugget Laughlin Hotel & Casino in Nevada wanted to modernize its guest Wi-Fi service with new Cisco Meraki access points without costly, complex, and disruptive network requirements.
• H5 Strategic Alliances used NVT Phybridge FLEX Power over Ethernet (PoE) innovations to deploy over 300 Wi-Fi access points using the existing and proven network infrastructure.
• The innovative solution delivered high-speed guest Wi-Fi to over 300 rooms, avoided $1 million in infrastructure costs, and integrated perfectly with the property’s existing security architecture.
• The resort leveraged its existing cabling infrastructure to minimize electronic waste and the project’s overall environmental impact.

Problem

The Golden Nugget Laughlin, a luxury casino and resort nestled along the Colorado River, offers more than 300 rooms, including a private villa, and is known for its high-end guest experience. To meet rising guest expectations for reliable internet and smart amenities, the resort launched a digital transformation initiative focused on improving its Wi-Fi. However, due to brick walls and expansive property distances, traditional network design methods involving new cable installation and network overhauls were unfeasible. The organization needed a modern and innovative network solution to help them provide high-quality wireless connectivity throughout the facility without high costs, complexity, disruption, or security concerns.

Solution

H5 Strategic Alliances, their Texas-based technology partner, recommended the NVT Phybridge enterprise-grade FLEX24-10G long reach PoE switch. The organization was impressed and organized a no-cost, no-obligation proof of concept to test the technology in their environment. After a few simple setup steps, the FLEX24-10G switch transformed the existing infrastructure into a robust and high-performance PoE backbone, delivering high power and symmetrical bandwidth to the WiFi access points, six times farther than standard switches. These capabilities were crucial for the scale and layout of the property. By using the existing network infrastructure, the team avoided the need for over 600 new cable drops. Additionally, FLEX4 adapters in each room can enable up to four IP devices from a single cable run, enabling future expansion.

Result

H5 Strategic Alliances used NVT Phybridge network innovations to modernize the property while avoiding costly and disruptive infrastructure changes. The resort saved approximately $1 million in network readiness costs and eliminated the need for extensive construction. Careful planning and design adjustments ensured the project’s success in rooms where cable runs exceeded standard distances. Additionally, the FLEX24-10G solution integrated seamlessly with the property’s existing network security framework, ensuring uninterrupted backend performance. The property is now preparing to expand its modernization efforts by addressing voice communications in the next phase.

The Golden Nugget Laughlin was extremely satisfied with the outcomes. “Trying to find an IP solution for our outdated Hotel WiFi was a struggle,” said Wanda Freeth, Director of IT at Golden Nugget Laughlin. “We needed a product that would work with our current infrastructure without the need for costly rewiring. Phybridge was the perfect solution. Installation went smoothly and we increased the WiFi speed dramatically using our existing CAT3 cabling.”

James Hill from H5 Strategic Alliances shared, “The biggest challenge we faced was confirming the cabling distance. Once the physical portions were verified, the NVT Phybridge solution performed seamlessly, enabling guest Wi-Fi over existing cabling. From there, the rollout was straightforward as we extended the wireless network without incurring the expense of additional cabling. Moreover, the NVT Phybridge solution integrated smoothly with the network security strategy implemented by H5, ensuring no interference with the backend infrastructure.”

Sustainability

NVT Phybridge network innovations not only delivered significant financial and operational benefits but also supported The Golden Nugget’s commitment to sustainability. By reusing existing infrastructure, the organization prevented several tons of electronic waste and reduced its carbon footprint by sidestepping the need for major construction. This innovative approach highlights how hospitality organizations can align modernization efforts with responsible environmental practices.

About H5 Strategic Alliances

H5 Strategic Alliances delivers intelligent IT and internetwork security solutions backed by over 25 years of experience. The company specializes in complex technology deployments, with a focus on performance, scalability, and security. By aligning technology strategy with business goals, H5 helps clients modernize while minimizing risk. Their expertise ensures seamless execution of mission-critical projects in diverse environments.

About NVT Phybridge

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.

Hotel Deploys a VoiceWare IP Communication System Aligned with Its Sustainability Objectives

3-minute read time

Summary 

• A hotel in Utah, wanted to modernize its outdated analog phone system with a cutting-edge VoiceWare IP communication solution while preserving the historical integrity of the building.  

• The hotel worked with Groove Technology Solutions to overcome traditional network limitations and avoid the costly and time-intensive process of having to rip and replace network infrastructure across the property.  

• The hotel leveraged NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovations to achieve significant cost savings of over $40,000, reduce deployment time by 75%, and align with the organization’s sustainability goals by preventing over 800 pounds of electronic waste.  

• NVT Phybridge innovations supported the organization’s environmental initiatives by reducing e-waste and material consumption, furthering its commitment to sustainable tourism. 

Challenge 

The hotel property has been a cornerstone of Southern Utah tourism since 1924. Originally a modest lodge with a dozen guest cabins, the property has evolved into an international destination with a trailer park, multiple restaurants, service stations, and a general store. The lodge balances its rustic charm and historical significance with the need to offer modern comforts to guests.

As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, the property wanted to replace its outdated analog phone system with a VoiceWare IP communication system. However, several challenges complicated the upgrade. The historical nature of the property, high costs, and disruption concerns prevented a major network overhaul or modifications to the building. Additionally, the vast distances between the buildings created logistical and technical obstacles. The hotel needed a modern and innovative solution to overcome its digital transformation challenges.

Solution 

The reseller partner, Groove Technology Solutions, recommended the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch innovation to address the property’s unique challenges. PoLRE switches deliver power and data over single-pair UTP cabling, with up to four times the reach of standard PoE switches. This solution allowed the deployment of modern IP communications devices over the existing and proven network infrastructure, eliminating the need for costly, disruptive, and complex re-cabling, network closet, and construction work. By leveraging the PoLRE solution, the property was able to preserve its historical architecture while minimizing the project’s impact on daily operations. The solution’s flexibility also ensured compatibility with future upgrades, providing a scalable and sustainable approach to modernization.   

Result 

The solution delivered outstanding results for the hotel. By reusing the existing, proven, and point-to-point network, the property saved well over $40,000, representing a 78% cost reduction compared to a full network overhaul. According to Jerry Moore, Director of Technology, Phone Systems, at Groove Technology Solutions, “We were able to complete the deployment in under 36 hours, compared to the 144 hours that would have been required to run new cables and address IDF closet requirements, significantly reducing the deployment time, disruption, and complexity”.  

The new IP communication system now delivers modern and reliable phone services to meet the demands of its guests and staff. The PoLRE switch innovation leveraged the existing and proven network infrastructure to create a secure and robust IP network while preserving the building’s unique historical character. The project’s success exceeded the hotel’s expectations, demonstrating the effectiveness of NVT Phybridge solutions in addressing complex modernization challenges. 

Sustainability 

The hotel chain has long been committed to environmental sustainability, aligning with the hotel’s sustainability program, which emphasizes Earth, People, and Community. This initiative focuses on implementing environmentally friendly practices, fostering a culture of diversity, and giving back to local communities. NVT Phybridge PoLRE switches helped the organization prevent over 800 pounds of cabling e-waste. This approach not only preserved the historical integrity of the hotel but also minimized the environmental impact, reflecting the property’s dedication to sustainable tourism and responsible modernization.   

About Groove Technology Solutions  

Groove Technology Solutions provides innovative, tailored technology services to simplify and enhance customer operations. With offices in Utah, North Carolina, and Toronto, the company serves diverse clients with a commitment to reliability, excellence, and innovation. Groove emphasizes creating extraordinary customer experiences while fostering a positive, diverse, and employee-focused work environment. Their dedication to collaboration and customer satisfaction has made them a trusted leader in the technology sector.  

About NVT Phybridge  

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns. 

French Metro Transportation Agency Uses Ethernet over Coax Innovations to Reduce Complexity, Costs, and Disruption During IP Camera Deployment 

3-minute read time 

Summary 

• A large French Metro Transportation Agency recently renewed a contract with an organization to manage the operation and maintenance of the city’s metros, trams, buses, and other public transportation.  

• The organization needed to modernize the French Metro Transportation Agency’s aging analog surveillance system by deploying over 1.500 IP cameras across more than 70 sites. 

• The organizations wanted to leverage the existing and proven network infrastructure to reduce costs, minimize waste, and avoid the disruption of a complete network overhaul. 

• System integrator Semeru (Groupe Fayat) recommended NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax innovations, which reduced deployment time, disruption, and costs by over 2.4 million euros. 

• The Ethernet over Coax innovations allowed the French Metro Transportation Agency to prevent over 52,000 pounds (23.000 kilograms) of e-waste while reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, aligning the digital transformation project with the transportation agency’s sustainability objectives. 

Challenge 

The public transportation system needed to modernize its surveillance system to improve security and operational efficiency. The existing analog system no longer met the organization’s evolving needs, prompting a transition to Hanwha IP cameras. However, the project faced significant challenges. 

A complete network infrastructure overhaul would require extensive construction, resulting in high costs and prolonged deployment timelines. This approach also risked disrupting day-to-day transportation operations, a critical concern given the public reliance on the agency’s services. Furthermore, the transportation agency prioritized sustainability and sought a solution that would reduce waste and maximize the use of its existing network infrastructure. 

Solution 

Semeru, the project’s system integrator, identified NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax innovations as the ideal solution to meet the French transportation agency’s requirements. Semeru used the NVT Phybridge CLEER24-10G switch to leverage the existing coaxial wiring, rack space, cooling, and other supporting infrastructure, reducing material waste and avoiding high costs. The switch’s simple deployment methodology and management features allowed for easy configuration and monitoring to ensure network stability. 

The project was executed in three phases over one year, beginning with trial and validation testing to confirm performance. A prototype deployment at key sites refined the implementation process, followed by a full rollout across 72 sites. Despite the project’s large scope, Semeru reported no significant challenges during deployment, thanks to thorough pre-deployment training and the simplicity of the CLEER switch innovation. 

Result 

The modernization project delivered significant benefits for the French Metro Transportation Agency. In total, the organization reduced its network readiness costs by over 2.4 million euros by reusing the existing network infrastructure, avoiding the substantial costs of a complete network overhaul. Deployment timelines were reduced by over 1.5 years, cutting the installation time from 7-8 days per site to just 3 days. This efficiency ensured minimal operational disruption, allowing the agency to maintain uninterrupted transportation services. 

The NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax solution provided a reliable and scalable network solution to support the French Metro Transportation Agency’s new IP surveillance system. The successful deployment has positioned the organization for future modernization projects within the Metro Lille system and across the metro group. 

Wesley Rocha, Business Manager at Semeru praised the NVT Phybridge CLEER technology for its ease of use, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, stating, “Faced with the challenge of replacing 1,582 analog cameras with IP cameras at 72 separate sites while retaining the existing coaxial cabling infrastructure, we undertook extensive testing of various technologies and manufacturers. The CLEER range from NVT Phybridge stood out as the best-performing choice, offering excellent value and performance.” 

Sustainability 

The French Metro Transportation Agency’s decision to reuse its network infrastructure demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability. By avoiding unnecessary material consumption and preventing e-waste, the organization minimized the project’s environmental impact by eliminating over 52,000 pounds (23,500 kilograms) of e-waste. The efficient deployment process also reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions, further aligning with the agency’s sustainability objectives. This approach supported the organization’s mission to provide environmentally responsible transportation services. 

About Semeru (Groupe Fayat) 

Semeru, part of Groupe Fayat, specializes in system integration for transportation, smart cities, and industrial projects. Known for its expertise in deploying innovative technologies, Semeru ensures seamless solutions for complex infrastructure challenges, making it a trusted partner in modernization projects across France. 

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.