Posted to News on 30th Nov 2006, 23:26
WiFi applications for harsh environments
Lantronix is expanding into the market for applications requiring environmentally hardened wireless networking gear. XPress DR+ Wireless, a rugged DIN-Rail mounted WiFi 802.11 device server, is capable of connecting virtually any type of industrial equipment to the Local Area Network (LAN) or the Internet. Markets for industrial strength device networking include Industrial and Factory Automation, Building Automation, Energy/Utilities, Management and Transportation. The XPress DR+ Wireless is a member of the Lantronix XPress industrial product family, designed to operate reliably under extreme temperatures and resist the effects of exposure to electrical interference, vibration and physical abuse.
Wireless device networking provides the added mobility and flexibility needed to access and continually monitor critical devices where running cabling is impractical or cost prohibitive. With the XPress-DR+ customers can take advantage of advanced remote diagnostics and real-time event notification to improve uptime and reduce service costs. In addition, the XPress DR+ Wireless minimises the need for expensive wiring, which can account for roughly two-thirds of the total cost of installation in an industrial environment.
"As a pioneer and expert in Industrial Device Networking, Lantronix continues to create solutions that are quick and easy to deploy and provide the highest levels of reliability," said Mark Prowten, director of applications and solutions for Lantronix. "With the addition of wireless to the XPress product line, we are delivering to industrial manufacturers a rugged, easy-to-customise, cost-effective solution designed to remotely connect, communicate and control virtually any type of equipment in the industrial environment. With state of the art, built-in security and encryption features, the newest wireless applications are as secure as many wired deployments."
The XPress DR+ Wireless can connect directly to equipment on the factory floor or out in an open field presenting a status view of this equipment on the network to any standard web browser or application software through a standard 802.11 b/g wireless network. The product includes two serial ports for easy connection and features wide 9-30vdc or 9-24vac power input options. All products in the XPress DR+ family are DIN-rail mountable and operate over a wide temperature range of -40 °C to +70 °C. These products are also designed to tolerate high levels of electrical interference or severe shock and vibration environments.
In addition, the XPress DR+ Wireless features Lantronix SwitchPort+ platform technology which enables multiple industrial serial devices to be cascaded from a single network backbone connection, eliminating the need for expensive hubs and cabling. The XPress DR+ Wireless also implements the latest 802.11i advanced encryption standard for improved data integrity and security.
XPress DR+ Wireless will be available worldwide from November 2006. For more information on Lantronix Industrial Device Networking solutions please visit: www.lantronix.com/industrial.
