WLAN access points approved for use in explosive zones

Belden's Hirshmann WLAN Access Points and Clients are certified for use in potentially explosive environments such as those found in the oil, gas or mining industries.

May 16, 2011

Belden has announced that its Hirschmann BAT54-Rail and BAT300-Rail WLAN Access Points and Clients have both ISA 12.12.01 Class 1 Div 2 and ATEX IEC/EN 60079 Zone II certification. This now means that when they are equipped with suitable protective cases, they can be used anywhere in the world – even in potentially explosive environments such as those found in the oil, gas or mining industries, according to Belden. Mountable on top-hat rails, these devices are also flexible enough for a wide range of situations, such as installation in control cabinets or distribution boxes. What’s more, in combination with BAT WLC Controllers, they can be centrally configured and managed.

BAT300-Rail Access Points comply with protection class IP40 and support the IEEE802.11n (300 Mbit/s) wireless communications standard and MIMO technology, ensuring a stable wireless connection even in the event of problems such as reflections. The BAT54-Rail devices have up to two radio modules, operating at either 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz. An economically-priced version with a single WLAN interface is also available.

Both device series support all standardized encryption procedures in accordance with IEEE 802.1x. Integrated firewalls and IP routers enable network segments to be isolated and reliably safeguarded. It is also possible to connect both analog and DSL modems for purposes such as WAN routing or remote maintenance. Additional features include comprehensive management and QoS functions, fast roaming functionality, and a high level of resistance to shock and vibrations.

All access points and clients have a robust metal case measuring 3.15 in. x 3.94 in. x 5.31 in (80 mm x 100 mm x 135 mm). The temperature range extends from -22 ºF to +122 ºF (-30 °C to +50 °C). Maximum operational reliability is further ensured through quintuple power supply redundancy (2 x 24 V dc, 48 V dc PoE and 1 x 12 V dc).

By acquiring the two new certifications, Belden further extends the range of potential WLAN applications. "The BAT product portfolio now offers a maximum level of safety, performance and flexibility for all applications in potentially explosive environments. This applies to extensive networks that are managed by controllers, as well as local installations," says Sven Burkhard, Belden’s product manager for networking and connectivity products.

www.belden.com

Belden Inc.

– Edited by Amanda McLeman, Control Engineering, www.controleng.com