All sorts of companies use industrial wireless networks in all sorts of situations. But, regardless of the industry or application, the basic need for wireless communication comes down to one of three simple reasons:
- Distance
- Mobility
- Inaccessibility
In all three situations, wireless provides distinct advantages over other options, delivering the cost-effective, reliable communication that today’s operations depend on. We’ll look at each factor separately.
Distance
Industrial wireless networks are the best option for providing communication over long distances. Alternatives like fiber optics are very expensive over long expanses and require extensive, costly upkeep. Wireless networks can provide coverage over great distances at comparable speeds and a much lower cost.
Typical applications where distance is a challenge include water and wastewater systems as well as pipelines.
Read these success stories to learn more about long-distance solutions provided by industrial wireless networks:
- Kansas District Tames Missouri River with Wireless Flood Control
- Wireless Monitoring Unites Remote Distillery’s Remote Plant Locations
Mobile
Wireless communication was originally designed to solve this exact problem: How could reliable communication be provided to mobile equipment or to people whose jobs require them to be on the move? Industrial wireless radios are the perfect solution.
WiFi is the mobile application most familiar to people. Other types of mobile networks include AGV (automated guided vehicles) on the factory floor and large overhead cranes.
Read these success stories to learn more:
- Wireless Control Update Extends Efficiency Goals for Steel Finishing Plant
- Wireless Ethernet Streamlines Pomegranate Production
Inaccessibility
In some applications, distance is not the only problem to solve. What if the communication equipment is across a parking lot, roadway or body of water? Industrial wireless networks are the perfect, cost-effective solution for these types of applications.
The classic example of an inaccessible application is airport lighting control on an active airfield where the cost of installing cable would be exorbitant. Other applications include remote links across small waterways and bridges where cable is just not an option.
Read these success stories for more examples:
- Oil Producer Maximizes Monitoring Efficiency through Wireless Ethernet
- Wireless Network Provides Critical Control for Water Distribution Pumps
Are you facing challenges like long distances, mobile requirements or inaccessible locations in your communication operations? ESTeem can review your application and design a reliable, cost-effective solution tailored to meet your needs. Contact us today to start the process.
Learn more:
4 Steps for a Successful Industrial Wireless Network
Radio Frequencies and Your Industrial Wireless Network