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Wagga Wagga, Australia, 6 February 2026 – Zetifi, an Australian wireless company that designs and manufactures smart antennas for cellular and radio devices with market-leading design, has won a Silver Award in the Product Design Technology category of the 2026 BETTER FUTURE Australian Design Awards.

Zetifi’s UHF CB Smart Antenna, designed and manufactured in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, transforms the humble antenna into an intelligent connectivity hub enabling duress alerts, lone-worker check-ins, automated asset tracking, and real-time location reporting. Supported by multiple patents and a cross-functional team, the product sets a new benchmark for connected vehicle operations and safety, with practical benefits for drivers, fleets, and remote communities.

For decades, vehicle antennas for two-way radios have remained largely unchanged, simply passing signals to and from hardware hidden elsewhere in the vehicle. Zetifi’s UHF CB smart antenna is the first vehicle antenna with active electronics integrated into the housing.  As a result, the point where RF enters the vehicle becomes the place where events are detected, processed and sent to the cloud. The design unifies GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular and support for UHF radios in a single compact form, enabling safety and connectivity features from the antenna itself.

“Winning this award is recognition of our expertise and insight to imagine the possibilities, develop strategies to bring them into being and pursue market opportunities with precision and patience, says Dan Winson, Founder and CEO, Zetifi.  “At the same time, our ongoing success is heavily contingent on the strength of Zetifi’s relationships with our key technology partners and dealer community which has enabled our company to achieve extraordinary growth and invest in solutions to meet market the demands of businesses requiring solutions for connectivity, worker safety and compliance reporting.”

Zetifi’s UHF CB Smart Antenna started with a clear goal: improve RF performance and deliver reliable coverage for vehicles in harsh, remote environments. Safety was always central. Better connectivity meant better chances for drivers and crews to get help when matters.

Achieving that needed more than a stronger antenna. It required coordinated work across mechanical design, RF, electronics, firmware, cloud architecture, app design and continuous field testing. Early prototypes focused on signal quality and resilience. Real-world use with farmers, contractors and road crews then revealed a larger opportunity.

Customers asked simple, practical questions. Could a UHF button press raise a duress alert? Could vehicles check workers in and out automatically? Could the system confirm that radios, PPE and tools were actually on board? All while the connectivity landscape was shifting fast, with Starlink and other networks suddenly making “coverage almost everywhere” realistic for vehicles.

That changed the brief. The antenna was no longer just a way to feed a radio. By integrating GNSS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular into the housing, it became the natural place to sense location, detect nearby devices and send events to the cloud. The team iterated quickly, using on-road data and customer feedback to refine features.

The result is a smart antenna platform that replaces stacks of antennas, routers and telematics boxes. It uses Starlink and cellular for backhaul, and turns the humble UHF CB radio into a lone worker safety solution that can integrate, via open-source APIs, with enterprise platforms.  At the same time, the antenna moves computing and control into the antenna itself. GNSS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular and UHF sit in one compact housing with an open API into telematics and enterprise platforms, so the antenna mount becomes a location-aware edge device.

Key innovations included in the UHF CB Smart Antenna are:​​​​​​​​​​​​​

• User-centred design: UHF button presses and BLE tag events trigger duress alerts, check-ins and location reports without extra screens or apps.​​​​​​
• Mechanical and assembly: Parallel radome profiles allow part reuse, while a compression holder for the PCB array adds strength and supports efficient assembly and heat paths.​​
• RF and electronics: RF simulation plus on-road validation, using on-board electronics to log performance over thousands of kilometres, enables refinement, RF quality assurance and the use of thin coax for cable management and longevity.​​​​​​​​
• Software and ecosystem: Open APIs, over-the-air updates and work with Icom and Telstra turn the hardware into a platform for safety and fleet features.​​​​​​
• Test and validation: Shaker table testing and long-term field trials underpin an industry-leading 5-year warranty.​​​​​​​​​​

In addition, the antenna itself is designed to use energy efficiently and to last. Careful RF and electronics design minimise wasted power and support long duty cycles in harsh conditions. Rugged construction, high ingress protection and vibration-tolerant mechanics reduce failures and the need for early replacement.   At the same time, standard mounting and cabling, plus over-the-air firmware updates, extend the useful life of each antenna as software and use cases evolve.

About Zetifi

Zetifi is an Australian wireless company that designs and manufactures Smart Antennas for cellular and radio devices. Its technology is used across agriculture, fleet, mining and enterprise sectors and supports telematics, telemetry and safety systems for vehicles and field equipment.

Media Contacts

Zetifi
Leslie Beckman, Head of Marketing
0419 705 391
leslie.beckman@zetifi.com

Wagga Wagga, Australia, 30 January 2026 – Zetifi, an Australian wireless company that designs and manufactures smart antennas for cellular and radio devices with market-leading design, quality, and performance, has announced a strategic partnership with Geotab, a global leader in connected vehicle solutions.

The partnership will deliver connected fleet safety insights to Australian businesses with a focus on providing clear, evidence-based visibility into driver behaviour, helping organisations understand how safely vehicles are being operated today and where risk exists.

Zetifi develops connectivity and safety technology for fleets operating beyond reliable coverage, with its Smart Antenna platform integrating telematics, two-way radio safety features, and enterprise workflows. 

By combining Zetifi’s connectivity expertise with Geotab’s advanced telematics platform, businesses will gain access to practical driver safety insights including speed, braking, acceleration, and cornering performance. These insights support safe driving assessments and deliver risk management recommendations that help protect drivers, businesses, and directors through objective, defensible data.

Founded to solve connectivity challenges in regional and remote Australia, Zetifi embeds GNSS, onboard compute, and connectivity directly into its Smart Antennas. This enables reliable data capture at the edge and seamless integration with telematics, radios, and enterprise systems, turning everyday fleet activity into safety alerts, operational insights, and documented evidence for worker safety and governance.

“Connected fleet safety is about visibility and proof,” said Dan Winson, CEO of Zetifi. “Business owners and directors carry real responsibility for how vehicles are used at work. By combining radio-based safety features with one of the world’s leading telematics platforms, we’re helping organisations understand risk, improve behaviour, and demonstrate that safety controls are operating in practice.”

Geotab is a global leader in connected vehicle solutions, supporting fleets across government, transport, utilities, and commercial sectors in Australia and worldwide. Its open platform enables partners to extend telematics data beyond dashboards and into operational systems that improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

“Australian businesses face rising pressure to show active lone worker safety management,” said David Brown, Associate Vice President of Geotab, APAC. “We are pleased to welcome Zetifi to our network of partners. Zetifi brings two-way radio-based capabilities such as duress, lone worker check-ins and man-down into an organisation’s existing telematics system and workflows. That approach can add safety capability without the unnecessary complexity of layering in separate duress-specific platforms, while still supporting data-backed decisions to reduce incidents and protect people and business.”

The partnership is already live, with two Connected Fleet Safety pilots deployed in Australia and an entry-level offering available immediately. A broader national rollout will focus on industries with elevated vehicle and remote-worker risk, including agriculture, mining, utilities, construction, transport, and local government. Zetifi will deliver Connected Fleet Safety as a managed service, providing structured alerts, regular reporting, and board-ready evidence packs to support ongoing safety oversight.

About Zetifi

Zetifi is an Australian wireless company that designs and manufactures Smart Antennas for cellular and radio devices. Its technology supports telematics, telemetry, and safety systems for vehicles and field equipment across agriculture, fleet, mining, utilities, and enterprise sectors.

About Geotab

Geotab is a global leader in connected vehicles and asset management, serving approximately 100,000 customers worldwide. Headquartered in Oakville, Ontario and Atlanta, Georgia, Geotab leverages advanced data analytics and AI to optimise fleet performance, reduce costs, and drive efficiency. Processing 100 billion data points daily from over 5 million vehicle subscriptions, Geotab supports Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized fleets, and the largest public sector organisations, including the U.S. federal government. Celebrating 25 years of innovation, Geotab remains committed to safety, sustainability, and data security. Learn more at www.geotab.com.au

Media Contacts

Zetifi
Leslie Beckman, Head of Marketing
0419 705 391
leslie.beckman@zetifi.com

Geotab

Edelman for Geotab

Varsha Viswanath

Varsha.Viswanath@edelman.com

Zetifi and Icom have formed a partnership to introduce a new UHF CB Radio Pack that delivers a fresh wave of innovation to a market that has seen little technological change in recent years. The combined solution brings together Zetifi’s Australian-made Smart Antenna technology and Icom’s world renowned radio engineering to create a communications package designed for modern vehicles, demanding terrain and commercial field operations.

The partnership also sets the foundation for future developments in location services, duress alerts and advanced telematics that will be of particular interest to fleet operators, utilities, emergency services, mining, agriculture and 4x4 accessory dealers across Australia.

“Bringing Zetifi and Icom technology together marks an important step forward for UHF radio in this country. This partnership combines complementary strengths and sets us up to deliver safer, smarter and more connected solutions for Australian drivers and fleet operators. This launch is only the beginning of a broader roadmap that brings location intelligence, duress capability and advanced telemetrics into the hands of customers who rely on dependable communication every day.”

— Dan Winson, CEO, Zetifi

A new UHF CB Radio Pack for Australian conditions

The pack pairs a core Zetifi Smart Antenna with the Icom IC-455 UHF CB radio to create a ready-to-install solution for 4x4 owners, trades, agriculture, transport and commercial fleets. It’s engineered for long service life, consistent clarity and dependable communications in the varied and often harsh conditions unique to rural Australia.

Zetifi Smart Antenna

Zetifi contributes its Smart Antenna platform, manufactured in Australia and backed by patented technology and a five-year warranty. Key features include:

• 3dBi gain for stable multi-terrain performance
• Heavy duty IP69K rated construction
• New matte black finish that reduces glare
• The only 500mm length CB antenna optimised for bonnets and a 580mm option for bull bars
• Proven performance guarantee.

The Smart Antenna platform also provides a pathway to optional onboard electronics that enable telematics, vehicle tracking and safety functions. These capabilities are currently in development with partners across agriculture, utilities, government and fleet management.

Zetifi technology is already used by a wide range of Australian organisations including Telstra, agricultural associations and rural connectivity programs. Local customers and installers such as Burdekin Communications in Queensland and field users across regional New South Wales have reported significant improvements in coverage and day-to-day reliability.

“Our focus is on practical innovation that improves safety and productivity in the field. The opportunity to integrate Zetifi’s antenna technology with Icom’s trusted radios allow us to move faster and deliver meaningful benefits to customers who depend on simple and reliable communication.”

— Dan Winson, CEO, Zetifi

Icom IC-455 UHF CB Radio

The pack includes the Japanese-made Icom IC-455, a 5-watt UHF CB radio known for clear audio, ease of use and long-term reliability. Features include:

• Loud and clear audio
• LCD speaker microphone with record and playback
• Automatic 12 V / 24 V voltage detection
• Five-year warranty
• Proven performance across Australian industry sectors

Icom’s UHF CB range delivers dependable communication solutions for emergency services, agriculture, mining, 4WD enthusiasts, and a wide variety of commercial and industrial applications. Built to military-grade standards, Icom’s UHF CB transceivers incorporate advanced communication technologies to ensure exceptional durability and performance. Models such as the IC-41PRO, IC-410PRO, and IC-455 are fully compatible with the 80-channel UHF CB network, delivering seamless connectivity and long-term reliability.

“Icom’s radio technology has been trusted globally across many sectors for decades. Our products are designed and built to last in the most challenging environments, tried and tested by military and humanitarian organisations. Working together with Zetifi strengthens our capabilities across the Australian market and further afield. Together, Zetifi and Icom will bring forward features that combine voice communications, location services and safety management into a single, flexible and modern platform.”

— Marty Anderson, General Manager, Icom Australia

Combined value for dealers and fleets

The new pack simplifies purchasing for Zetifi dealers and operators by providing a single, compatible, high-quality solution backed by aligned support and warranty programs from both companies. The combined strengths of Zetifi and Icom offer a clear upgrade path for future safety and telemetric features while retaining the simplicity of UHF CB communication that Australians rely on.

“MIB Projects works across the Pilbara where the environment demands equipment that is tough, dependable and easy to maintain. A solution backed by Zetifi and Icom gives us confidence that we can support our drivers and field teams wherever the job takes us.”

— Cameron Bunker, Managing Director, MIB Projects

Availability

The UHF CB Radio Pack will be available from 1 December 2025 through participating dealers nationwide and at Zetifi.com. Dealer enquiries are welcome through Zetifi.

About Zetifi

Zetifi is an Australian wireless company that designs and manufactures Smart Antennas for cellular and radio devices. Its technology is used across agriculture, fleet, mining and enterprise sectors and supports telematics, telemetry and safety systems for vehicles and field equipment.

About Icom

Icom is a global manufacturer of radio communications equipment with a long-standing history of serving both Australian consumers and professional users. Offering a comprehensive range of solutions—including Airband, Amateur, Land Mobile, UHF CB, Marine, LTE/Networking, and Satellite Communication — Icom products are built on a foundation of Japanese engineering and quality, earning worldwide trust for their performance, durability, and reliability.

Media Contacts

Zetifi
‍Leslie Beckman, Head of Marketing
0419 705 391
leslie.beckman@zetifi.com

Icom Australia
‍Kitty Mau, Marketing Manager
0409 017 979
‍kittym@icom.net.au

When you’re working in mining, agriculture, or any environment where equipment faces dust, mud, and regular high-pressure washdowns, you need technology that’s built to survive. That’s why Zetifi antennas are now certified to IP69K — the highest international standard for protection against dust and water ingress. This means our antennas can handle the toughest cleaning routines and the harshest conditions, giving you confidence that your connectivity will keep working, no matter what.

We back this up with a 5-year warranty, so you know your investment is protected for the long haul.

What is IP69K and Why Does It Matter?

IP69K is the gold standard for ingress protection. The “IP” rating system (Ingress Protection) uses two numbers: the first for solids like dust, the second for liquids like water. IP69K means the device is completely dust-tight and can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets from every angle. For our customers, this translates to antennas that won’t fail after a mine site washdown, a muddy harvest, or a stormy day in the field.

What Does Certification Mean for You?

Our IP69K certification isn’t just a label — it’s independent proof from Compliance Engineering, a respected Australian test lab, that Zetifi antennas meet the highest standards. You can view the full test report and see photos of the testing process right here in this blog.

How Do We Achieve IP69K Protection?

Delivering this level of protection starts with great design and careful engineering. Every Zetifi antenna is built with precision-moulded housings and high-quality gaskets to keep out dust and water. The real secret is our use of potting compounds to fully seal the internal electronics. Potting fills every void inside the enclosure, creating a solid barrier that blocks dust, water, and steam — even under extreme pressure and temperature.

This approach means there are no paths for ingress, even during the most aggressive cleaning procedures. Our design team works closely with manufacturing to ensure every unit meets these standards, not just the ones sent for testing.

The Testing Process

Our antennas were tested by Compliance Engineering in Victoria, Australia, following international standards (AS 60529:2004 and ISO 20653:2013). The process included:

• Probe ingress tests to confirm no openings larger than 1 mm
• Dust chamber tests with talcum powder under vacuum
• High-pressure steam jet cleaning with 80°C water at up to 100 bar, from four angles, on a rotating turntable

After each test, the antenna was opened and inspected for any signs of dust or water ingress. The result: zero penetration, full compliance.

See the Results for Yourself

We believe in transparency. That’s why we’re sharing the full report and photos of the testing process. These show exactly how our antennas were challenged and how they performed.

Built for Your Environment — Guaranteed

IP69K certification gives you confidence that Zetifi antennas are ready for the harshest environments — whether it’s a mine site washdown, a muddy paddock, or a dusty outback road. Combined with our 5-year warranty, it’s another step in our commitment to delivering products that combine innovative design with uncompromising durability.

If you have questions about our testing, want to see the report, or need advice on antenna selection for your application, get in touch. We’re here to help.

We knew from the outset that better antenna performance would be a key differentiator. But we also understood that it had to be achieved in parallel with quality and durability that matched, or better yet exceeded, the best in the industry. That’s why antenna quality has never been an afterthought. It’s been a core part of our engineering culture from day one, guiding every decision from material selection to mechanical design and testing.

Antenna Quality Starts with Engineering Excellence

Best Materials - best in class quality starts with sourcing the best materials. We’re fortunate to have Warwick and Wei on our team. Their long careers at GME and RFI have given them deep insight into global supply chains and the standards required to build antennas that survive in the real world. While we compete with GME and RFI, we hold both companies in very high regard. They’ve set the benchmark for traditional antenna design and continue to build exceptional products. Zetifi is taking a different path, not by trying to outdo traditional manufacturers at their own game, but by innovating in both design and functionality.

Technology Innovation - while not all of our antennas contain active electronics, the methods we’ve developed to support those advanced features have raised the bar across our entire product range. Our work on smart antennas, including dual-gain models that dynamically switch between high and low gain, and combination LTE and UHF antennas that simplify installation and improve performance, has driven a deeper understanding of RF behavior, mechanical integration, and environmental resilience. These insights have allowed us to produce antennas with exceptional RF and mechanical performance, validated by millions of real-world data points from vehicles, farms, and field deployments across Australia.

Design Excellence - our mechatronics engineer Ben, also formerly of GME, led the development of our radome using a first-principles approach. We chose a parallel radome design, which is rare in the industry due to its added material cost. But it delivers two major benefits:

1. Superior structural integrity, with better resistance to impacts like bird strikes and rough handling.
2. Consistent internal geometry, allowing us to secure the antenna element using a custom injection-moulded component we call the PCB array support.

This support has a small amount of flex, just enough to tension the antenna element inside the radome. The radome itself is made from high-strength fiberglass with a manufacturing tolerance of ±0.1mm. The support compensates for this, eliminating rattle and ensuring long-term stability. Unlike foam, which compresses and degrades over time, our injection-moulded plastic maintains its shape and performance even after years of vibration and shock.

Vibration Testing: Simulating Real-World Abuse

To validate our designs, we use a Bruel & Kjaer V830-335 shaker table, a high-end electrodynamic vibration system used in aerospace and automotive testing. This machine allows us to simulate the full spectrum of vibration profiles encountered in real-world driving, including:

• Random vibration to replicate unpredictable terrain
• Sine sweeps to identify resonant frequencies
• Shock pulses to mimic potholes, bird strikes, and sudden jolts

The system delivers up to 9.81 kN of force, with accelerations exceeding 700 m/s², and supports payloads up to 160 kg. We run our antennas on this table for hundreds of hours at high intensity, simulating between 40,000 and 100,000 km of corrugated road driving. The vibration profiles are programmable, allowing us to replicate specific road conditions from different regions and vehicle types. Check out an example test:

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After each test, we disassemble the antennas and inspect every component for fatigue, wear, and performance degradation. We’re not just looking to survive. We’re looking to outperform.

Real-World Validation and Warranty Confidence

Lab tests are only part of the story. We also offer an open invitation to anyone who has driven more than 200,000 km with one of our antennas: send it back, and we’ll replace it. Not because it has failed, but because we want to inspect well travelled antennas to ensure our lab simulations match field performance. We're glad to report that they do.

Antenna quality isn’t just a feature. It’s a foundation.

We’re confident in our materials, our design, and our testing, and we want our customers to be just as confident. That’s why we’ve increased our warranty from 2 years to 5 years.

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Safer Overtaking with UHF: Why Every Towing Vehicle Needs One

Truck driver Ben Stamatovich, known for his aerial photos as The Drone Way, recently shared a video that sums up why UHF is essential for caravan travel. While crossing the Nullarbor, Ben came up behind a caravan. The driver used UHF to let Ben know it was safe to pass. The result? A smooth, safe overtake - no guesswork, no close calls. As Ben put it, “All towing vehicles crossing the country should have a UHF. We just want everyone to get home safe.”

Most near misses between trucks and caravans happen because of poor communication. UHF is instant, simple, and the tool that both truckies and caravaners trust to make overtaking safe.

Why Zetifi UHF Antennas Make Overtaking Safer

• Built tough for Australian roads. Engineered to handle rough tracks, bad weather, and long trips.
• High performance. Delivers strong, clear UHF communication - so you always get the message across.
• Your way. Available as a dedicated UHF CB antenna or as a combo with cellular. Run a UHF radio and a mobile booster with just one antenna - less clutter, less hassle.
• Plug and play. Works with all popular radios and boosters.

If you’re towing, don’t leave it to chance. UHF radios save lives. Zetifi antennas make sure yours works better, lasts longer, and keeps you connected anywhere in Australia.

Watch the video below to see how easy overtaking can be when both drivers use UHF.

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Regional Scaleup Zetifi Lands $5M Grant to Globalise Smart Antenna Platform

Wagga Wagga, NSW - 6 August 2025 - Australian technology company Zetifi has secured one of the largest grants to date under the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program, supporting a $10 million initiative to commercialise its Smart Antenna platform globally.

At the core of the project is Zetifi’s patent-pending technology, which transforms antennas from passive components into intelligent edge devices. By integrating advanced RF engineering with embedded systems and cloud connectivity, Zetifi’s Smart Antennas enable seamless integration with third-party platforms - unlocking new capabilities such as real-time telemetry, remote diagnostics, enhanced mobile coverage using network data, and duress alerts for lone workers.

The project is being delivered in collaboration with global partners including Nextivity, Icom, and Telstra, who are working with Zetifi to explore and develop new applications for the Smart Antenna platform across public safety, enterprise connectivity, and regional mobility.

Nextivity (USA) – Technology Integration Partner.

Zetifi has partnered with Nextivity, the company behind the CEL-FI ROAM and CEL-FI GO cellular boosters, to enhance performance through deeper integration. By leveraging the Bluetooth interface in CEL-FI devices, Zetifi’s Smart Antennas can provide real-time location and network status information to the booster. This added information enables smarter band selection and improved system optimisation, making it possible for the booster to deliver signals to otherwise hard-to-reach places.

“Zetifi has reimagined the antenna. By combining the intelligence in the CEL-FI booster with Zetifi’s intelligent antenna design we can ensure coverage everywhere in Australia. The merged system works with both the terrestrial network as well as upcoming satellite services, utilising the latest technology to maximize effectiveness. We’re proud to collaborate with Zetifi to offer this transformative solution worldwide.” - Michiel Lotter, CEO, Nextivity

Icom Inc. – Enhanced Safety for Public and Enterprise Users.

In collaboration with Icom, a global leader in radio communications, Zetifi’s Smart Antennas will integrate deeply with mobile and fixed radio systems to deliver industry-leading Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) solutions. This integration includes GNSS-based location tracking, out-of-band duress alerts for lone workers, automated safety check-ins, and telemetry linked directly into enterprise management platforms such as Microsoft Power Platform.

“Our radios are trusted globally for their reliability in critical communications. Zetifi’s Smart Antennas present an exciting opportunity to build on that foundation - adding location intelligence, real-time duress alerts, and advanced telemetry that could further improve safety and connectivity for emergency services, utilities, and field teams. This flexible Icom + Zetifi solution has significant potential across our land mobile, UHF CB, and marine product lines." - Aaron Camp, Executive Officer, Icom Inc.

Telstra – Collaboration on Coverage Optimisation

Telstra and Zetifi are exploring opportunities to share network data to support improved mobile coverage and connectivity in remote and regional areas. This collaboration will enable Zetifi’s Smart Antennas to make more intelligent real-time connectivity decisions and deliver enhanced performance for field-based users. Telstra’s accelerator, muru-D, previously led Zetifi’s $12.25 million Series A funding round and continues to support Zetifi’s commercial expansion.

“Zetifi’s Smart Antenna platform represents the kind of innovative thinking needed to enhance connectivity for vehicles and field equipment. We’re pleased to be working withZetifi to explore how network data sharing can support smarter, safer, and more connected solutions.” - Shailin Sehgal, Global Head of Networks and Technology, Telstra

Zetifi - Intelligence at the Edge of Connectivity

Zetifi is an Australian technology company transforming antennas into intelligent edge platforms for vehicles, machinery, and infrastructure. By combining advanced RF engineering with embedded systems and cloud integration, Zetifi’s Smart Antennas enable enhanced connectivity, real-time telemetry, and seamless integration with enterprise systems - reducing complexity and unlocking new capabilities at the edge.

Dan Winson, Founder and CEO of Zetifi: “This is a defining moment for Zetifi. The support from the Industry Growth Program, alongside our strategic partnerships with Nextivity, Icom, and Telstra, positions our Smart Antenna platform at the forefront of global connectivity innovation. This technology does more than extend coverage - it delivers critical intelligence and enhanced capabilities in environments where it matters most.”

This project is supported by the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program.

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Connected Fleet Safety & Integration Showcase
Explore the convergence of radio comms, IoT, and IT in fleet safety.

If you manage fleets, build radio networks, or deliver digital systems, don’t miss this.

📍 Telstra Customer Experience Centre, Melbourne
📅 Wed 20 Aug | 11:30 am–1:30 pm | Lunch provided

See how Zetifi’s Smart Antennas connect UHF radios, Bluetooth tracking, and Microsoft Power Platform over Telstra’s NB-IoT.

Register now:
https://forms.enterprisenews.telstra.com/ConnectedFleet_Showcase

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At Zetifi, our people are the heart of everything we do. One stand out is Wei, a Smart Antenna engineer whose story is a powerful blend of technical expertise, resilience, and authenticity. Her path from China to Australia is shaped by a core belief: always stay true to yourself. 

Wei began her engineering journey in China, enrolling in electronic engineering before being placed into a niche stream: microwave and electromagnetic engineering. It was a highly competitive field, and being one of the few women in her cohort made it even more demanding. 

“Out of 120 students, only 20 were girls,” she says. “Later in the workforce, I was often the only woman engineer in the room.” 

Despite the obstacles, Wei thrived. She started her career in the mobile phone technology sector and had a front-row seat to one of the most transformative periods in the industry, witnessing the decline of feature phones and the rise of smart phones. 

“If you want to build great products, you have to take risks. Nothing is risk-free,” she explains. 

Wei moved to Australia on a skilled visa and joined RFI, where she spent nearly ten years honing her skills and earning long service recognition. Along the way, she became a mother of two, balancing work and family with remarkable focus and determination. 

She remembers one hectic day after returning from maternity leave. In a panic, she drove 40 minutes home to retrieve her breast pump, only to find it had been in her car the entire time. 

“I was only sleeping four hours a night at that time. But I kept pushing and kept delivering,” she says. 

Now at Zetifi, Wei brings that same energy and commitment to our antenna projects. She recently led the development of our Combo UHF and Cellular antenna, which required intense problem-solving just before the holiday break. 

“It wasn’t just me. It was a team effort. No one complained. Everyone kept going until we fixed it.” 

Wei’s mind set is practical and grounded. She focuses on the day ahead rather than stressing about long-term plans. Her approach is built on consistency, not perfection. 

“I’m not a perfectionist. I’m productive. I finish what’s on my list today. That’s what makes a difference.” 

Fridays are Wei’s personal recharge days. She reads, learns piano through a mobile app, and spends time with her puppy. These simple routines are part of how she stays grounded in both life and work. 

When asked why she came to Australia, her answer is clear and unfiltered. 

“I’d spent my whole life in China and wanted to see the world. I couldn’t afford the U.S., so I applied for skilled migration. When I got the visa, I came.” 

Wei’s story is a reflection of steady progress, genuine passion, and the courage to be herself. We’re proud to have her on the Zetifi team and even prouder of the work she continues to lead. 

Zetifi recently hosted a workshop to consult with emergency services experts and community stakeholders as part of our ‘Telecommunications Disaster Resilience Innovation’ (TDRI) project – a $1.65 million, two-year project funded by the Federal Government for Zetifi to develop and pilot innovative ZetiMesh technology in at-risk and disaster impacted communities. Our work on this project involves collaboration and support from Morse Micro, Telstra, and Risk-E Business Consultants, who played a key role in coordinating and facilitating this workshop.

This workshop was a great opportunity to foster collaboration and leverage the expertise of key stakeholders, including representatives from councils, emergency services, telecommunications carriers, and community groups, to advance telecommunications technologies for emergency situations.

Australia’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather and catastrophic natural disasters such as the 2019/2020 bushfires, the 2022 SE QLD and Northern NSW flooding event highlight the critical need for reliable telecommunications and power supply. During these events, communities struggle in three key areas: communication for individuals in distress, local authorities delivering critical updates, and businesses’ ability to provide essential services and goods. Zetifi recognises and emphasises the importance of comprehensive telecommunication coverage for individuals, organisations, and society, especially during crises.

During the first half of the workshop, presenter George Holt from Zetifi guided discussions to gather critical insights into current telecommunications technology, including its usage, areas for improvement or innovation, user needs, frequency of use, access points, and maintenance and funding considerations. Participants and stakeholders critically examined telecommunications issues in natural disaster situations based on their expertise and personal experiences. Insights were discussed at the current operational level and with prospects for pre-, during, and post-crisis scenarios, including evacuation centres, frontline workers, and their modes of power, communication, and transport vehicles.

George Holt’s reflection on his involvement in the project: “It’s been a huge responsibility… We have a unique opportunity because we are working with combat and service agencies that are desperately keen to support communities. I wanted to get these people on board and start a conversation. The most important thing was to establish that relationship.”

Subject matter expert Dave Owens provided invaluable insights during the TDRI workshop. With over 30 years of experience as a commissioner in the NSW Police Force and as a State Emergency Controller, Dave specialises in emergency management, including evacuation, recovery, and animal safe places. He co-chaired the NSW independent inquiry into the 2019/2020 bushfires and authored the ‘Welfare Services Functional Area Sub Plan’ for evacuation centres. As the founder and CEO of Risk-E, Dave’s involvement in the TDRI project is crucial for connecting with emergency service stakeholders and providing critical expertise.

The prospect of developing telecommunication technology to address communication challenges during natural disasters is an aspirational project for Zetifi and the TDRI stakeholders.

The knowledge gained from this workshop is informing the development of our plans for the project and our designs for innovative solutions that build on the work Zetifi has already completed in launching products that connect farms, fleets and 4x4s.

Stay tuned for more updates. Our first technology pilots of the ZetiMesh solution with project partners including Murrin Bridge LALC, Wagga Wagga City Council, NSW RFS and NSW Police, are planned for early 2025.

With the closure of the 3G networks, Australians need to make sure that their signal repeaters and external antennas are configured and suitable for 4G and 5G. This guide explains what you need to know to ensure your Cellular Antenna and Signal Repeater remain compatible and highlights the role of innovative solutions like the Zetifi 4G/5G Smart Antenna in maintaining continued connectivity well into the future.

Antenna Compatibility

If your coverage has got worse since the 3G shutdown, don’t automatically assume it’s because there is less coverage now that 3G has been turned off. It might be because your external antenna isn’t optimised for the frequency bands required to connect to 4G and 5G connectivity. Older antennas that were purchased at a time that 3G was the main network in rural areas may not be compatible with these newer networks.

To verify that your cellular antenna supports 4G and 5G frequencies, you can check the data sheet for your antenna if you have one or use the CEL-FI WAVE app to verify your antenna’s compatibility with the 4G network:

1. Access the Advanced Tab: In the CEL-FI WAVE app, go to the ADVANCED tab.
2. Under SUPER CHANNELS tap on Radio A Band <number>: 4G boosting. Note: the band number shown might be 3, 28, 1 or 7 depending on your device and the frequencies available from your local tower
3. Perform a Signal Strength Test. Check the Donor RSRP level. A value between -40 and -110 dBm indicates good signal strength.
4. Perform a Signal Quality Test. Look at the Donor SINR. A value of 0 dB or a negative number may indicate issues.

Mobile Repeater Compatibility

All Nextivity CEL-FI and Telstra GO repeaters that have been sold in Australia support both 3G and 4G networks. While these devices are not impacted by the 3G shutdown, they might be configured to operate only on 3G frequencies. To ensure continued 4G coverage:

1. Download the Cel-Fi WAVE App: Available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, this app allows you to manage and configure your GO Repeater settings.
2. Check Your Repeater Settings:
   • Open the app and connect to your repeater via Bluetooth.
   • Go to Settings > Band Settings and ensure that 4G is selected under Technology.

The Zetifi 4G/5G Smart Antennas: Future proofed solution amid transition to 4G and 5G

Zetifi’s Cellular 4G/5G Smart Antennas offers a future-proof solution for maintaining connectivity. Designed specifically for 4G and 5G networks, it covers the range of frequencies necessary for reliable rural connectivity ahead of the 3G shutdown and beyond. It is particularly beneficial for those traveling in rural areas where maintaining a stable connection can be challenging.

For more information or assistance regarding the compatibility of your antenna and signal repeater, visit Nextivity for technical support. For questions about the Zetifi Smart Antenna, contact our team at 1300 093 711 or visit our Smart Antenna page.

Zetifi has signed a national distribution agreement with Powertec Wireless Technology as our exclusive master distributor to the telecommunications, IT, and marine radio markets around Australia. With Powertec being one of the world’s largest sellers of Nextivity’s CEL-FI signal repeater devices, it’s a logical collaboration that will help more Australians access vital coverage boosting solutions.

It’s widely accepted that traditional cellular network providers can’t provide ubiquitous phone coverage in a country as big as Australia. This is one reason why Gold Coast-based Powertec have had such success with Nextivity’s CEL-FI phone signal repeater devices, with up to 300,000 Australians in rural and remote Australians relying on these devices to improve phone service in their vehicle with these devices.

However, phone boosters are only as good as the external antenna that they’re connected to, so the arrival of Zetifi’s revolutionary Smart Antennas is an obvious fit for Powertec according to their Distribution Manager, Brenton Roy.

“Zetifi’s new smart antenna technology represents a major advancement in rural and remote connectivity. We’re proud to partner with Zetifi to bring this innovative solution to market, helping Australians stay connected with reliable, adaptable, and high-performance communication tools. This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering top-tier wireless solutions that address the unique challenges faced by our customers.

“The combination of Zetifi’s innovative antenna technology with the Nextivity R41 product is a powerful synergy. This partnership is about integrating cutting-edge technology with market-leading products to ensure our customers have access to the best connectivity solutions available.”

As a regionally-based innovator and manufacturer, collaborating with an established distribution partner like Powertec will rapidly accelerate the reach and adoption of our smart antennas, according to Zetifi Chief Operating Officer, Warwick Clancy.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Powertec, a company that shares our commitment to innovation and customer service. Our Smart Antennas are designed to tackle the unique connectivity challenges of regional and remote Australia, and with Powertec’s extensive distribution network and expertise, we’re confident that we can reach more people and make a real difference in their lives.”

This shared vision emphasises the commitment both companies have to improving connectivity for all Australians.

The collaboration will also focus on expanding the reach of the Nextivity R41, a product proven effective in various challenging conditions. Clancy added:

“The opportunity to work with Powertec on expanding the reach of the Nextivity R41 is particularly exciting. This product has proven itself in a range of challenging environments, and together, we can ensure that even more Australians benefit from enhanced mobile coverage, no matter where they are.”

Zetifi’s partnership with Powertec represents a significant leap forward in addressing connectivity challenges faced by Australians in regional and remote areas. With a shared commitment to innovation and excellence, this partnership is set to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many. As Zetifi and Powertec work together to roll out these advanced solutions, we can expect a new era of reliable communication across the Australian landscape. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting new partnership!

It’s been six years and quite the journey for Zetifi since an enterprising network engineer from Wagga Wagga had an idea he thought could improve connectivity for farmers. The idea involved filling coverage gaps with Wi-Fi and has since blossomed into a flourishing technology company that will soon be launching their first mass-market products.

Zetifi’s first office was the backroom of a local computer store. Founder Dan Winson was allowed to use the unoccupied space to start piecing together the Wi-Fi solutions he thought could help farmers with their connectivity and it wasn’t long before the first prototypes started rolling out the door.

Fast forward six years and many iterations of those initial product ideas later, and the business has grown to a team of 30 that counts Telstra and GrainCorp as their main investors via a $12 million Series A capital raise. This investment was always intended to provide Zetifi with the resources required to take their products from small-scale innovative solutions through to mass-market products that are ready to meet the growing demand for their solutions in Australia and beyond. Zetifi has doubled the size of its product development and engineering teams in the last year in what has been a truly transformative period for the business.

“It’s been a phenomenal ride,” says Chief Product Officer and the company’s second employee, Paul Maybon. “Like any start-up, the early days involved taking on any job that needed doing and just hoping that we knew enough to get some wins with customers willing to take a punt and let us test our ideas. The farmers we worked with were incredibly supportive, I think because they were just so happy to meet people who were trying to help with them with their connectivity.”

The core idea behind Zetifi’s Wi-Fi coverage extension products is this; with the advent of smart phones that can use Wi-Fi to make phone calls just as easily as they can use a cellular signal, it is now possible to provide a service for phone calls and data by extending any internet connection as long-range Wi-Fi.

This resulted in two main products in this product family; a ZetiCell that provides permanent Wi-Fi around sheds or homesteads, and the ZetiRover, which provides roaming Wi-Fi for vehicles and farm machinery in the paddock or on the open road.

“Early on, people saw the benefit of having a single solution you can use to make phone calls and to connect cameras or other Wi-Fi enabled devices,” Paul says. “In those days we were using a lot of 3D printed components to create what we needed at low cost. But it was slow going – sometimes we had six or seven printers running day and night.”

Nonetheless, the hands-on approach had big benefits. It enabled the team to transform their ideas into new technology that scales Wi-Fi solutions as consumer connectivity products. The $12m capital injection from Telstra, GrainCorp and other investors gave the team additional capacity and funding required to re-engineer their flagship ZetiRover product as the first ready for mass-market adoption.

“Before the capital-raise we were just keeping up with orders, whereas this year we were able to hire senior engineers who know how to scale a product like the ZetiRover and still manufacture it locally, which is very important to us,” Paul says. “We are excited about the many improvements coming with the new ZetiRover and being able to promote it widely without the concern of any late nights 3D printing components just to keep up with orders!”

Zetifi’s next generation ZetiRover will begin field trials in early 2024.

This story is based on an article that first appeared in the Telstra Regional Australia e-newsletter in November 2023.

Pictured: Paul Maybon, Chief Product Officer, with the new ZetiRover.