ProSoft Technology has added its new 802.11abg Industrial Hotspot 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 minimize 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 Highlights:
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.