Industrial wireless access uses IEEE 802.11abgn protocols

The ProSoft Technology 802.11abgn Industrial Wireless Access Point/Bridge/Repeater uses fast roaming technology.

September 23, 2013

The 802.11abgn Fast Industrial Hotspot is an advanced, high-speed wireless Ethernet product designed for plant-floor automation, SCADA systems, mobile worker Wi-Fi infrastructure, and process control systems from ProSoft Technology. It offers a broad range of industrial wireless capabilities including features such as Fast Roaming and is said to have excellent packet-per-second performance and robust communications in demanding industrial environments. The new 802.11abgn Fast Industrial Hotspot (RLX2) advances client/bridge fast roaming between access points, Ethernet packet optimization, and enhanced diagnostics.

New capabilities provide seamless high-speed Ethernet connections for moving machines and vehicles traveling long distances in assembly plants, crane systems and mining. The secure, high speed wireless network reduces project costs, while improving productivity by eliminating mechanical festooning, rails, and slip rings for economical and reliable mobile applications.

The radio’s Fast Roaming technology uses less than 50 msec time between access points and provides full device bridging. The module provides secure 802.11i and 128-bit AES Encryption and operates securely in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. It also has advanced management tools. These tools include IH Browser Utility, web server and OPC server. The microSD card will automatically store/load configurations, reducing down time.

The Hotspot is designed for extreme environments and hazardous locations, including oil and gas systems. It is an ideal wireless solution for Producer/Consumer PLC/PAC networking, remote I/O, safety I/O, plant backhaul networking, remote video and mobile worker connectivity. The Hotspot has extended operating temperatures of -40 to +75 C (-40 F to +167 F) and has agency approvals and certifications with Class1, Division 2 and ATEX Zone 2. The module is high shock/vibration tested. The Shock IEC is 60068 2-6 (20g, 3-Axis) and Vibration IEC is 60068 2-27 (5g, 10-150 Hz).

ProSoft Technology Inc.

www.prosoft-technology.com

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, content manager, CFE Media, Control Engineering, Plant Engineering, and Consulting-Specifying Engineer, mhoske@cfemedia.com.