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Product category: Application integration
News Release from: ProSoft | Subject: 802.11abg Industrial HotspotT - RLX-IHW
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial Team on 03 September 2007

Device offers high-speed wireless
Ethernet

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Device that functions as a wireless access point, repeater, or client offers high-speed wireless Ethernet communications i over Ethernet for linking automation systems for mobile workers.

ProSoft Technology has added its 802.11abg Industrial HotspotT to the growing line of RadioLinx products The RLX-IHW functions as a wireless access point, repeater, or client and is designed for global installations

It offers high-speed wireless Ethernet communications including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, and DNP over Ethernet for linking automation systems, Ethernet I/O, video cameras and plant network access for mobile workers.

The RLX-IHW utilizes Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) for multi-path interference rejection, RF multicast packet filtering, and dual frequency bands which make it the ideal solution for demanding, high speed industrial networks needing reliable performance.

* Security: WPA2 AES Encryption - for high security applications, the RadioLinx 802.11abg Industrial Hotspot offers WPA2 (802.11i) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES-CCM) encryption and MAC ID Filtering.

* IGMP snooping - the RLX-IHW is equipped with RF-based Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) Snooping, a tool which allows multicast filtering at the wireless level, so that the transmitting radio, or producer, only transmits needed information to the receiving radio, or consumer, thus preventing crowding over the air from the re-broadcasting of data.

The RLX-IHW at the consumer then sends a reply back to the RLX-IHW at the producer confirming receipt of data, and retransmits as necessary to minimise loss of data.

* OFDM modulation - the 802.11abg Industrial Hotspot uses OFDM modulation for excellent noise immunity at maximum speeds.

This technique distributes data over multiple carriers which are assigned individual frequencies, so that each carrier only sees its own, translating into less distortion or interference.

Product main features are as follows.

* Dual frequency band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

* OPC server included to embed diagnostics in HMI clients.

* Programmable RF power output to meet regional regulations.

* Support for high speed applications like video and EtherNet/IP I/O.

* UL1604 Class 1, Div 2 approved for hazardous environments.

* Self-healing, multiple master network architecture.

* Small form factor, extruded aluminum case and DIN-rail mountable.

* Supports distances of up to 5 miles (8 kilometers) at 54 Mbps (or 15-20 miles with amplifier).

The RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot 802.11abg brings real-time wireless access for the most demanding, hazardous and time-critical applications.

They are a cost-effective wireless solution for plant and field engineers who need real-time access to remote or mobile equipment.

The radios allow users to reduce costs including those associated with downtime, labor and installation, and leased-line or wireless service fees.

Possible use cases include moving equipment such as turntables, drums, gantry cranes, stacker/reclaimers, or even automated guided vehicles, or where industrial data applications need to transmit VoIP or video wirelessly.

* About ProSoft Technology - ProSoft Technology specializes in the development of communication solutions compatible with the large automation supplier's controllers such as Rockwell Automation and Schneider Electric.

The primary focus is to provide connectivity solutions that link dissimilar automation products.

ProSoft Technology's offerings consist of four primary product families: Protocol and network connectivity modules known as inRAx for Rockwell Automation and ProTalk for Schneider Electric, stand-alone gateways, protocol converters, and wireless gateways known as ProLinx, and industrial serial and Ethernet wireless modules known as RadioLinx.

Over the last 20 years, ProSoft Technology's product lines have grown to over 400 communication modules supporting more than 60 different protocols.

ProSoft Technology provides field-proven connectivity and communication solutions that bridge between various automation products as seamlessly as if they were all from the same supplier.

These connectivity options enable controller platforms to provide solutions in areas such as computing gas flow calculations and SCADA telemetry applications.

These solutions also enable interfacing to motor controls, drives and other devices in industries such as water/wastewater, power generation, oil and gas, machinery, packaging, and production.

ProSoft Technology is committed to providing localized sales and support to customers worldwide.

Sales, product engineering and support services are provided internationally by over 600 distributors in 52 countries and served by Regional Area Offices in North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

All ProSoft Technology wireless products come with a three year minimum warranty and unlimited technical support.

Sales are available worldwide; contact your automation equipment distributor or ProSoft Technology, Incorporated.

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