US-based FSI is one of that country's largest manufacturers of fibre optic interconnect technologies and is a major supplier to the military, industrial, broadcast and telecommunications markets.

I.Power said it plans to offer the full range of FSI's comprehensive range of rugged, tactical fibre optic connectors and plugs, and complete cable assemblies for deployable fibre optic requirements. This includes FSI's tactical hermaphroditic multi-channel connectors featuring 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12-channel construction with single-mode or multi-mode operation.

I.Power marketing director Tim Haight described the agreement as a "strategic alliance" that would strengthen the companies' three-year relationship and help grow both businesses in the mining industry worldwide.

"This agreement will allow i.Power Solutions to present fibre optic products to the world market as part of its integrated solutions offer.

"We have enjoyed a good working relationship with FSI since 1998 when i.Power Solutions pioneered the use of fibre optic technologies to extend a mine's internal network to a moving, working longwall. The type of installation commissioned enabled mine personnel to deploy and remove fibre within minutes.

"Fibre optic solutions in longwall applications have grown in popularity over the past four years and continue to be the most cost-effective solution available.

"With less than 0.5db of losses, fibre optic connectors are a great solution for not only underground mines but also other remote locations that do not have fibre joining capabilities," Haight said.

I.Power provides professional engineering, contracting and project management services to Australia and throughout the world. Areas of operation include: MV and LV switchgear; mining substations; switchrooms; automation and control; SCADA; information systems and turnkey projects.