New possibilities opened for industrial wireless solutions

3rd April 2017

Anna Flockett

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HMS Industrial Networks has introduced a new, upgraded version of the Anybus Wireless Bridge. The Anybus Wireless Bridge II supports up to 400m of reliable wireless communication, and can communicate via both Bluetooth and WLAN. It is suitable for replacing Ethernet cabling in hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.

Cable replacement or access point
By using the Anybus Wireless Bridge II, automation engineers can achieve new and smarter network infrastructures. Often used as an Ethernet cable replacement (point-to-point communication), the Wireless Bridge II can also be used as an access point for several WLAN/Bluetooth nodes such as smartphones or tablets within range. In the process, savings are achieved thanks to the reduced amount of Ethernet cabling.

The new Anybus Wireless Bridge II supports a longer wireless range (400m) and an even more powerful integrated wireless antenna. It is easily set up via push-button configuration or via the new integrated web interface. Anybus Wireless Bridge II is built on the same wireless technology as the family member Anybus Wireless Bolt, a connection point for on-machine mounting which HMS released in 2016, making them able to communicate seamlessly, opening up for even more innovative wireless system solutions.

Solving network problems for system integrators
By connecting industrial devices and networks over a wireless link, the Anybus Wireless Bridge II makes life easier for system integrators and automation engineers needing to create connections through e.g. hazardous areas, hard-to-reach locations, or moving installations where cables are not desirable. The Anybus Wireless Bridge II is a proven solution to bridge popular industrial Ethernet standards such as PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, BACnet/IP and Modbus TCP and provides users with a robust and maintenance-free wireless connection.

The product comes with two M12 connectors for power and network connectivity and is an IP65 protection class rating.

Martin Falkman, Product Manager at HMS commented: “We see a clear trend that wireless communication is gaining more and more acceptance in the conservative industrial market.”

He added: “There are many wireless connectivity solutions on the market today, but few can offer the reliable and sturdy connections required for industrial use. The Anybus Wireless products for Ethernet have been very popular on the market for several years, and with Anybus Wireless Bridge II, we are now excited to be able to offer connectivity over a longer range, more reliable wireless communication links as well as easier set-up procedures.”