Flexible Wireless

More flexibility for network setup with wireless data transmission

The Siemens Industry Automation Division has equipped its Scalance W modules for Industrial Ethernet networks with a range of new functions for certain types of outdoor application. The new Scalance W786-2 SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) units now offer an additional integrated switch with two slots for pluggable SFP transceivers.

Wireless networks – Industrial WLAN – have become an established solution across a wide range of industrial applications. However, providing reliable network coverage over long distances, particularly outdoors and in environments more difficult to cover with IWLAN, has posed something of a challenge to date. Adequately solving this problem calls for a combined solution with fiber optic cabling. The Siemens Industry Automation Division has now come up with an addition to its line of outdoor access points which addresses this specific issue. The new Scalance W786-2 SFP comes equipped with an additional integrated switch featuring two slots for pluggable SFP transceivers. These can optionally be equipped with transceivers for single or multimode fibers to provide gigabyte Ethernet bandwith. Several of the new Siemens access points can be used in a lined structure in this way there is no need for additional hardware. The new feature allows larger areas to be covered by IWLAN for outdoor applications, ensuring the reliable transmission of both process- critical data and non-critical communication over a single wireless network.

The Scalance W786-2 SFP access points are available in both a standalone and a controller-based version. Both come with two integrated wireless interfaces in compliance with Standard IEEE 802.11abgn, each with a gross transmission capacity of up to 450 Mbit/s. As a result, the new units are ideal for the creation of industrial wireless LAN (IWLAN) networks with a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz transmission range suitable for providing coverage in even remote or inaccessible terrain, and in aggressive environments. The internal R-SMA connectors allow the connection of up to three antennae per wireless interface. Both variants come with an IP65 protection rating, cased in impact-proof plastic housings suitable for use at temperatures between -40°C and +60°C.

Although fitted with a direct 24V DC terminal, the units can also be operated at 110V AC or 230V AC with an optionally integrated PS791-2AC power supply adapter. Equipped with a C-PLUG interchangeable storage medium allows existing configurations to be stored, permitting fast exchange of devices in the event of a failure.