There's plenty of good news about wireless lately, but the tricky downside to good news is it can make us think we're home free when we're not quite there yet.
For instance, many wireless technologies are always-on, need very little power, and are increasingly automatic. They're also easier to implement, configure, network and maintain, even if they aren't entirely plug-and-play yet. Wireless standards are likewise charting increasing speed, power, bandwidth and data throughput of their protocols. For example, increasingly capable technologies like Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) are achieving greater coverage and range with far less power required, which makes it easier to meet the requirements that a site survey identifies.
These recent advances can make it seem like all the obstacles to applying wireless are gone and the battle is won, but several snags persist, and it's perilous to ignore them.
Site surveys point out suitable wireless solutions
System integrator GPA performs site and risk assessments, as well as testing and validation, to identify and implement the most appropriate combination of wireless technologies for each process, facility and setting. Read more.
TVA calls on cost-effective capabilities
How eight of the Tennessee Valley Authority's combined-cycle plans implemented WirelessHART to monitor 40-60 sensors and other instruments at each site to upgrade condition monitoring. Read more.
Wireless just as reliable as hardwiring
It's well-known there are several essential requirements for wireless success, most notably completing site surveys, audits and assessments. However, it's just as important for potential users to give up some prejudices and overcome other mental barriers, so their wireless applications can achieve their full potential. Emerson's Shane Hale dispels wireless myths to focus on network priorities. Read more.
Finding your wireless frequency
Once surveys and assessments are done, many users will discover they must also coordinate with other onsite wireless devices and networks, which have proliferated widely in recent years. Phoenix Contact's Justin Shade shows how to use assessment results to design the best-suited wireless solution to meet the individual needs of each setting. Read more.
Shop smart for wireless distance and data rates
Each of today's most prevalent wireless protocols has its own operating characteristics, including coverage and range/distance, power requirements, speed and bandwidth/throughput for transmitting data. Here's a rundown of your options. Read more.
Wireless grows up
As wireless applications multiply, acceptance and comfort levels rise, prices drop, and new capabilities are discovered. Experts from Endress+Hauser, Fluke, Freewave, Honeywell, Yokogawa explain how it's done. Read more.
Wireless moving into the mainstream
Far from being limited to process automation and control, wireless is making gains on all manufacturing and business fronts. Mike Fahrion of MultiTech Systems explains how Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, and 4G and 5G cellular can simplify and streamline wireless applications. Read more.
