Hi Wolfgang:

Regarding the electrical supply, 3-phase 400V as per normal continental European specs is the norm. (It was 380V). The only thing I would say is that you would need to contact the site owner and ESB Networks (They operate the power distribution infrastructure) regarding what's available in the area. Depending on how remote the area is, 3 phase may not be available. In that case you'd be looking at a 230V single phase supply although it should be well capable of powering the pump. 3 phase power is not as common in Ireland as it would be in continental Europe.

You should supply the equipment in such a way that it can be connected via an appropriate IS/EN60309 plug. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_60309 )

TN is preferred, but TT is used in some areas. Again, you'd need to consult with ESB Networks as to what is appropriate. Either way you will not be involved with bonding from earth to neutral as this is entirely controlled by the PoCo.

There are, as in most European countries, some unusual national wiring rules e.g. any socket outlet up to 32amps must be RCD protected at 30mA. There are also requirements for main fuses on each panel etc. Realistically, you should use a local contractor who is aware of the regs and able to issue a completion certificate etc. As yet, EU harmonisation is not at the level where an electrical contractor from one country can work in another without any issues.

Basic rate ISDN isn't a major issue, just contact eircom (www.eircom.ie). It's not that much more expensive than a normal PSTN telephone line. However, if you're in a remote location you would want to allow for lead time to get an ISDN connection installed and possibly line work done to run a physical cable out to your location. (Again, contact the site owner etc) Euro-ISDN standards apply and connection is via an RJ45 jack.

DSL connections are relatively easily available, but again if you're in a remote location the distance from the nearest exchange will become an issue and may make connection impossible.

Finally, there is widespread wireless internet access in rural Ireland using permanently installed fixed antenna microwave (Wimax) type technology. This is generally extremely reliable and provides speeds similar to those provided by DSL.

The installation requires a small antenna, roughly the size of a dinner plate. This connects to a router similar to a cable modem that provides an ethernet connection to any connected devices. It would be possible to get a fixed IP etc etc

Overall, this is a good solution and can be installed pretty much anywhere.

There are several suppliers in the Limerick area, including Digiweb ( www.digiweb.ie )

Check http://www.broadband.gov.ie/List+all++Services/ for a full listing of services that are available in the area.
(Government website that provides market-neutral information)

You need to find out the EXACT name of the area you're hoping to locate in. i.e. the Townland name / nearest village. Otherwise it can be difficult for the ISPs to figure out if they can provide service. With the wireless providers, a national grid reference code (geocode) or GPS coordinates can even be useful!

ESB networks information is available at :
http://www.esb.ie/esbnetworks/home/index.jsp

They can be called by dialling :

1 850 372 757 (Within Ireland only)

or:

00 353 21 494 7260 from abroad.





Last edited by djk; 05/08/08 01:37 PM.