While the firm would not provide the identity of the "major US coal mining company" on the purchasing end of the transaction, ACT did say it owns several large complexes in two states and the particular mine chosen for the demonstration installation is free of combustible gas.

 

The company said Friday that it anticipates a successful exhibition of ActiveMine may lead to other orders from the operator, especially once the system receives federal approval.

 

“The initial order is not subject to regulatory approvals or other special conditions," ACT noted, adding that the West Virginia mine's installation will include both surface and underground infrastructure for the voice and data capabilities of ActiveMine.

 

One feature of the system is its 24 licence-free Wi-Fi telephone channels, which are usable both on site and outside of the mine.

 

The supplier also provided an update on the status of ActiveMine's regulatory approval by the US Mine Safety and Health Administration, noting the system is making "excellent progress" through the agency's required review.

 

“ACT has been working closely with an MSHA-approved, independent certification lab that provides additional technical resources, with the goal of speeding the approvals process," said ACT president Steve Barrett.

 

“Based on the progress to date, we are confident that ActiveMine will receive MSHA approvals well before the West Virginia and federal regulatory deadlines to install wireless communications and tracking systems in underground mines."