Smart systems optimize airport operations
Large airports handle a significant number of passengers throughout the year; for example, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States handled approximately 94 million passengers in 2022, according to data. In the same year, the number of passengers handled at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom was 61, 6 million. This places this airport as one of the busiest in the United Kingdom. With this high volume of passengers, it is not surprising that baggage handling is a challenge for both travelers themselves and airport staff.
Such intensive use of airports can only be managed at all thanks to advancing technology. Automated systems, intelligent baggage tracking and modern security technologies ensure a seamless process and save time. Airports are equipped with control rooms or operation centers where trained personnel monitor and control the entire baggage handling process. They monitor system status, track baggage movements and deal with any problems or disruptions that may occur along the way. This ensures effective operations and spares the nerves of the passengers.
KVM – compact devices, large effect
In control rooms at the airport, it is particularly important to always maintain an overview of the baggage handling systems to keep control of the entire process and to be able to rectify faults quickly. This requires powerful computer equipment that takes up a lot of space in the control room. Often, this also leads to cluttered workplaces with many different keyboards and mice, as well as an increase in room temperature due to excess heat by the computers. However, in order to be able to focus on their work, ideal ergonomic conditions are essential for employees.
KVM can overcome all these challenges. With the assistance of compact devices such as a matrix switch, it is possible to relocate the computer technology to a temperature-controlled, safe technical room, thus creating space in the control room. The result is a workplace with lower heat and noise exposures. One keyboard and mouse are sufficient to access all computers from one console. Multiple users can conveniently switch – in real time and without latency – between different computers or monitoring systems without having to physically switch back and forth between them. Even when systems need maintenance, operations can continue uninterrupted while technicians examine computers in a server rack in a separate room. This saves time and increases efficiency across departments.
Best safeguarding of the systems
Security plays an equally important role in monitoring baggage handling systems, since the handling systems are used to transport and sort passengers’ baggage. Any unwanted item or hazardous substance that enters the system can cause serious security problems. Close monitoring of baggage handling systems helps identify and quickly respond to potential threats to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel.
Safeguarding the IT installation is another key factor in ensuring that it cannot be manipulated or interfered with in any way. Sophisticated security functions from G&D help protect KVM installations from internal or external threats, provide maximum security for possible failure scenarios, and enable proactive monitoring of system statuses. The hardware design, robustness of the devices, and special redundancy concepts further increase operational reliability and enable smooth baggage handling throughout continuous operation.
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