There are a number of reasons why airports may want to upgrade their BHS software. For example, they may be about to replace end-of-life IT equipment and so have the opportunity to install the latest software at the same time. Or perhaps they are expanding and want to ensure their new terminal or handling area is using up-to-date technology.
We are modernising BHS at several airports across the world in a process that includes upgrading control software from SAC to VIBES. SAC has been the standard IT control for most BHS since the early 2000s. In IT terms that is light years ago, so now is the time to think about upgrading and reaping the benefits of modern software. VIBES is especially useful for airports that are looking to expand their existing systems alongside older legacy equipment.
Each upgrade is tailored to the needs of individual airports. We usually deploy a phased approach with different parts of the system to mitigate risk and allow for seamless operations during the transition period.
The process starts by adding an equipment abstraction layer (EAL) module to your existing system. This is a piece of software that translates messages sent by typical brownfield programmable logic controllers (PLCs) into messages that VIBES would expect to receive. Working in this way means there’s no need to change your PLCs and allows us to deliver VIBES in its standard form. It’s also possible to keep the SAC software available as back-up for extra reassurance.
We have already successfully implemented these upgrades at a number of airports. In one project, we combined work to install VIBES for the airport’s old BHS systems, together with the delivery of a new individual carrier system (ICS).
Initially, we wrote an integration plan that encompassed all technical requirements – and which also served to provide the airport with transparency during the switch over. The upgrade to VIBES was a true partnership and the customer helped our team to create the desired step-by-step process, which helped the project run smoothly.
The airport’s service and operations teams were also involved so they could become familiar with VIBES throughout the training and testing phase. Any issues that came up during installation were quickly fixed by our local team, and the system went live in December 2022. We are also in the process of installing VIBES at a large European hub airport – and part of that upgrade has already gone live.
Many BHS IT systems will reach their end of life or become out of date before the lower level controls and equipment degrades. That’s no longer a problem, because we have the solution today . Our VIBES intelligent software has been installed in airports across the world, benefitting users by reducing operational costs, delivering exceptional cybersecurity and improving the routing of bags. We can also collect valuable data using VIBES to optimise BHS performance and keep your baggage handling system working well into the future.
Are you interested to know more about upgrading your BHS software to VIBES? Our experts are available to offer tailor-made advice.