posted on 12/2/2011 3:23:04 PM
The new WNM Wireless Network Module for SCADA and distributed I/O systems has an unlimited data transmission range to connect remote field sites that may be in rugged or impassable locations.
Moore Industries, a maker of interface instruments for industrial process control, has rolled out a wireless networking system for use in remote field sites.
The new WNM Wireless Network Module is said to be a reliable way to send process signals between remote field sites that are in rugged or impassable locations. The WNM provides a low-cost wireless communications link to transmit data between instrumentation. A single unit can transmit up to 30 miles, or it can act as a repeater for a virtually unlimited transmission range, the company said.
For use with Moore’s NCS NET Concentrator System for process control and distributed I/O, as well as other third-party SCADA systems, the bi-directional WNM module uses frequency hopping spread spectrum technology to avoid interference problems caused by crowded radio spectrums. This technology allows multiple radio networks to use the same band while in close proximity. In addition, because it operates at the standard frequencies of 902-928 MHz or 2.4-2.4835 GHz, the WNM module does not require a regulatory license and can typically be installed without performing costly RF site surveys, according to the company.
When it is set in the Smart Switch Ethernet (SSE) mode, the WNM enhances the speed and reliability of data packet transmission by determining the most efficient path of broadcast (including direct to a single radio, or to some or all radios in a network) on a packet-by-packet basis.
According to Moore Industries, WNM models are available for data communications networks that use Ethernet and serial (RS-485) communications. In each WNM network, one module is set as a “master,” which may communicate with a single WNM remote unit in a point-to-point architecture, or multiple WNM remote units in a point-to-multipoint architecture.
The WNM can be factory-configured to fit user specifications before being shipped. In addition, free PC configuration software allows end-users to perform on-site configuration and parameter changes, as well as add WNM modules to a network, the company said.
To ensure secure and reliable data transmissions across distances, the module uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption, 32-bit CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) error detection, and ARQ (Automatic Resend Query). In addition, the modules are housed in industrial DIN-rail-mount metal enclosures, which enables them to be used in rugged environments, including ambient temperatures from -40°F to 167°F and relative humidity of 5%-95%.