There are many reasons for manufacturers to consider deploying wireless technologies and applications inside and outside the plant. Vendors tout everything from improved productivity, to cost savings, to real-time visibility into processes.
But there is a lot to consider before taking the plunge.
First, there’s the network infrastructure. Do you need a sensor-based mesh network, RFID, WiFi, WiMax, or simply cellular? Depending upon which wireless route you take, network access points may need to be installed and managed. And the IT department must select and manage the hardware, in the form of user devices, such as industrial computers and handheld smart phones. But that’s not all.
The wireless applications must also be selected or developed and deployed. And, when it comes to applications, there are plenty of options from which to choose. If the problem you’re trying to solve involves accessing information in the plant, automation software vendors such as Wonderware (an Invensys Operations Management company), Emerson Process Management, and Honeywell Process Solutions can get you started by helping to set up the wireless infrastructure and, in some cases, providing the handheld devices through partners such as Motorola and Intermec.