Case Study: Remote Set Security & Connectivity
How Genstate delivered 24/7 security, seamless WiFi, and self-sustaining power to a major Netflix set in Alberta's remote winter wilderness.
The Results
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✅ Seamless WiFi coverage across a 5-acre film set, including hard-to-reach gaps between set and basecamp
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✅ Full 24/7 surveillance with AI-enabled smart cameras, no on-site guards required
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✅ Entire system powered by a single solar trailer, with minimal diesel top-ups
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✅ On-call security successfully deterred intruders using speaker-based remote intervention
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✅ Infrastructure mapped and future-ready for utilities or expanded deployment
Overview & The Challenge
In late 2024, a major Netflix production wrapped on a large-scale set built in a remote part of Albertina, Alberta. The closed set covered over 5 acres and lacked cellular coverage, utility power, or reliable winter access. It was too valuable to leave unmonitored — but deploying full-time security posed both safety risks and cost concerns.
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Producers also needed better connectivity. Departments had spread out across the site, and key team members were losing calls when walking between the hot set and the circus. Genstate was brought in to build a reliable, secure, invisible infrastructure that would support off-season security — and transform production connectivity when filming resumed.
The Genstate Solution
Hidden Cabling
Over 2 km of high-speed ethernet cable was buried across the site by Genstate’s 4-person team — coordinated with art, locations, and security departments to preserve sightlines and aesthetics. All trenches were mapped for future utility access.
WiFi Mesh Network
17 WiFi access points were placed in a grid across key buildings and open areas, delivering seamless wireless coverage throughout the set — including zones where connectivity previously dropped.
PoE Security Cameras
AI-enabled Power over Ethernet (PoE) cameras were placed discreetly throughout the set. Each can be removed temporarily during shooting and replaced afterward. Cameras detect people/vehicles and send alerts to on-call security, who can intervene via speaker.
SatPack NOC & PoE Switches
All access points and cameras feed into a custom-built SatPack NOC — a sealed, ventilated, on-site unit that routes traffic, stores footage, and distributes power. Five weather-proof PoE switches extend the system across the site.
Sustainable Power
The entire system runs on a Genstate solar trailer. Its 10-panel array and 50 kWh battery bank power the site autonomously, with a diesel generator only kicking in during long low-sun periods. Power draw is just 200 watts — making off-grid winter operation not only possible, but reliable.
Real-World Security in Action
Shortly after activation, the camera system caught three people intending to breach the fence surrounding the set. An on-call security guard, alerted to the trespass by Genstate's AI monitoring system, used the speaker system to engage them. Surprised to hear a live voice and knowing they were being monitored, they left immediately. Word spread in the community, and no further incidents occurred — even during Spring Break, a typical time for site trespassing.
Need this kind of performance on your site?
Talk to Genstate about creating a custom deployment of connectivity, power, and security for your production or remote site.