Specifically, the toolbox enables easier modifications to networks, a critical capability while a mine develops and its network topology changes.

Company officials said underground communications networks formed a "critical link" between those areas and the surface, and the ever-increasing convergence of data in these solutions was essential.

"As the fourth industrial revolution progresses, data connectivity is taking a more pivotal role - information from sensors, data-heavy automation solutions and data analytics must be conveyed across large distances and through challenging environments. Against this backdrop, fibre-optic networks are critical enablers," Huber+Suhner's market unit manager for industry Thomas Paul said.

"The mining industry is automating rapidly, so demand for flexible and high-bandwidth communication is soaring."

The company, which develops and manufactures components and system solutions for electrical and optical connectivity, complements its fibre optics with radio frequency (RF) products that enable wireless data links.

Huber+Suhner, headquartered in Switzerland, has group companies and agencies in more than 80 countries.