Wireless module with Merged Serial and Ethernet.

The WNM Wireless Network Module from Moore Industries has been redesigned with a new, sleeker housing and now incorporates both Serial and Ethernet communications in one model. Originally released in 2011, this has been an accurate and reliable solution for sending process signals between remote field sites. It provides a low-cost wireless communications link between field sites that are in rugged or impassable terrain, with a single unit transmitting for up to 30 miles and the ability to act as a repeater for a virtually unlimited transmission range.

The bi-directional WNM employs Spread Spectrum Frequency Hopping technology to avoid interference problems caused by crowded radio spectrums. This technology allows multiple radio networks to use the same band while in close proximity. Operating at standard operating frequencies of 902-928MHz or 2.4-2.4835GHz, the WNM does not require a regulatory license and can typically be installed without performing costly RF site surveys.

When it is set in the Smart Switch Ethernet (SSE) mode, the WNM enhances the speed and reliability of data packet transmission by determining the most efficient path of broadcast (including direct to a single radio or to some or all radios in a network) on a packet-by-packet basis.

The unit is ideal for use with the Moore Industries NCS NET Concentrator System®, as well as other SCADA and distributed I/O systems. As a result of its redesign, the WNM now supports data communications networks that use Ethernet and serial (RS-485) communications in one model. In each WNM network, one module is set as a Master. This can be set to communicate with a single WNM remote unit in a Point-to-Point architecture or multiple WNM remote units in a Point-to-Multipoint architecture.

The modules are designed for long-distance data transmission; 902-928MHz units can transmit up to 30 miles, while 2.4-2.4835GHz units have a transmission range of up to 15 miles. The range can be extended indefinitely by using multiple WNM units as repeaters to relay signals. This also allows for the creation of WNM networks when a direct line of sight cannot be established.

It is easy to install and use, as it can be factory-configured to fit user specifications before being shipped. In addition, free PC configuration software allows end users to perform on-site configuration, parameter changes and add WNM modules to a network.

The WNM uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption, 32-bit CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) error detection and ARQ (Automatic Resend Query) for robust and secure communications. The industrial DIN-rail mount metal enclosure also ensures that the WNM can be used in rugged environments, including ambient temperatures from -40°F to 167°F (-40°C to 75°C) and relative humidity of 5 to 95 percent.

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