Westermo Data Communications has released two industrial routers that enable secure high speed connectivity to Ethernet and RS-232 systems and devices that are either mobile or remote from the control room. Remote access removes the need for visits to remote sites to take manual readings, diagnose problems or recalibrate instruments. This reduces operational costs associated with the cost of travel and time spent away from the main site, as well as reducing the associated environmental impact.
The MRD-310 and MRD-330 are robust 3G routers designed for remote access across a cellular network. The routers support a wide variety of wireless standards including GSM, GPRS, 3G UMTS, HSDPA, and HSUPA. The routers have an uplink capacity of up to 2 Mbit/s and downlink of 7.2 Mbit/s, making them suitable for high data rate applications.
A built-in two port 10/100 Ethernet switch and RS-232 port allow a broad range of devices, machines and systems to seamlessly connect over any distance. The MRD-330 features two extra RS-232 ports, which will enable up to three RS-232 devices to be connected directly to the network, and two Digital I/O port pairs for controlling many kinds of I/O devices.
Together with the rugged enclosure, DIN-rail mounting and an operating voltage range from 10 Vdc to 60 Vdc, the routers are designed for industrial applications in harsh environments. Typical mobile or static applications include video surveillance, SCADA/DNP3 telemetry systems and remote access to machines and devices. When applied to on board applications (train, truck, buses, off road vehicles, etc.) the routers will automatically use the most efficient network available according to the geographical area.
Both routers offer the security of Virtual Private Network (VPN) functionality. Using the on-board web interface it is easy to set up a VPN tunnel running between sites even over insecure networks such as the Internet. Both models support IPSec, SSL, PPTP and L2TP encryption and certificate management to secure the tunnel.
To extend the life of legacy equipment there are a number of tools included that will ensure connectivity with PLCs and other RS-232-based devices. Packet and circuit switched mode, Serial to IP conversion, Modbus, DNP3 Level 1 Outstation and Dial-Up modem emulation are all supported.