Eduardo Langrafe with Netcon Americas

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Eduardo Langrafe, COO at NETCON Americas about "Telecommunications and Grid Reliability ".

Scott Mackenzie hosts the Industrial Talk podcast, featuring industry professionals like Eduardo from Netcon Americas. Eduardo, a computer engineer with 25 years in telecommunications, discusses Netcon's solutions for utilities, including turnkey ICT services and BSS/OSS operations support systems. He highlights the evolution from TDM to IP networks and the importance of telecommunications for grid reliability and corporate communications. Eduardo also explains Netcon's digital twin technology, which integrates data from various systems to simulate network performance and improve efficiency. He predicts a future with increased AI integration and larger capacity circuits.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Eduardo Langrafe on LinkedIn to discuss Netcon's solutions further.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• The podcast is sponsored by Siemens, focusing on smart infrastructure and grid software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• Scott MacKenzie mentions the event location, Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and introduces the guest, Eduardo, from Netcon.

Eduardo's Background and Role at Netcon

• Eduardo introduces himself as a computer engineer with an MBA in strategic IT management, working in the telecommunications industry for over 25 years.
• He is the Operations Director at Netcon Americas, based out of Miami, providing solutions in telecommunications for utilities.
• Eduardo shares his experience in various areas of telecommunications, including submarine cables and the evolution from TDM systems to IP-based networks.
• Scott MacKenzie acknowledges the significant changes Eduardo has witnessed in the telecommunications industry over the years.

Netcon's Business Units and Solutions

• Eduardo explains Netcon's two major business units: ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and BSS/OSS (Business Support Systems).
• The ICT unit provides turnkey solutions for utilities, representing multiple industry vendors and handling installation, commissioning, testing, training, and technical support.
• The BSS/OSS unit represents software to manage telecommunications inventory and support the network lifecycle from planning to operations and maintenance.
• Scott MacKenzie inquires about Netcon's role in the utility space and how they fit into the evolving demands of the market.

Network Evolution and Utility Communications

• Eduardo discusses the evolution of telecommunications systems from TDM-based systems to IP networks and the transformation of legacy systems.
• Netcon supports utilities in improving their communication systems, including teleprotection and corporate communications between administrative buildings and substations.
• Video monitoring systems are also evolving to assist operations remotely, reducing the need for field crews.
• Scott MacKenzie shares an example of using telecommunications for communication between substations, highlighting its importance in utility operations.

Data Collection and Digital Twin Solutions

• Eduardo explains Netcon's solutions for data collection, including GIS-based software for mapping and documenting cable routes, splicing points, and substations.
• The software manages both passive assets (cables, splice cans, racks) and active network elements (switches, routers, multiplexers).
• Netcon's digital twin approach creates a live view of the network, integrating data from various systems like CRM and...