Westermo Data Communications has released an industrial WiFi (802.11b compliant) 2.4 GHz license-free wireless Ethernet modem capable of transmitting data up to 11Mb/s over distances of 1km. The 240E-U is a reliable and secure stand-alone module that provides high-speed wireless Ethernet connectivity across a broad range of applications in process and automation plants.
Designed and built to provide wireless links between serial and Ethernet devices in demanding industrial and municipal systems applications, the 240U-E can connect to PLC’s, HMI’s, DCS, data acquisition, video devices and industrial PC’s. It is suitable for both long and short-range applications. The unit has a line of sight range of 1km (100mW) with suitable antenna. A repeater function increases the wireless range even further. A high RF output (100mW) and superior receiver sensitivity gives excellent penetration and reliable data transfer in congested industrial environments, through buildings, factory wall and even steelwork.
The data transfer is secured using military grade 128-bit AES encryption, plus additional commercial grade WEP encryption. A firewall offers further protection with message filtering at the MAC address level.
The 240U-E has an Ethernet port (10/100 BaseT) as well as two serial ports (RS232 and RS485) and on-board I/O for local and remote link status, or external status transfer.
The unit is extremely easy to use with configuration and diagnostics done via a web browser and accessible via the wireless link. The unit can be configured as an access point, client/station, a bridge, repeater or a router.
The 240U-E can be used in operating temperatures of –35 degC to 65 degC and in humidity of 99%. The unit has a lifetime guarantee with 24-hour telephone technical support.