FEATURE WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY
Wired or wireless? Clarifying connection choices for your automated systems
Plant managers can choose between two main methods of connecting new devices to the IoT — wired or wireless. Here Maria Torrisi, business development manager of industrial automation specialist JMartans Automation, suggests three questions to ask before choosing between wired and wireless technology
W
ired automation is more mature than wireless technology and offers
a fast and reliable option. Wireless technology is a newer entrant to the field, boasting reduced automation costs and smaller space requirements. A good understanding of your
technology and how to connect it is essential during any automation project. To choose the best form of connectivity for your application there are three primary questions to address.
HOW MUCH SPACE DO I HAVE? A wired system can require a large amount of cabling to connect components and devices, which can be
14 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 | IRISH MANUFACTURING
bulky and expensive. One of the main advantages of wireless systems is that they can be installed in almost any location, even those where space is limited. To discuss which option is best suited to your facility you can arrange for a specialist, like JMartans, to review your plant and recommend the best type of industrial automation equipment for you.
HOW MUCH AM I AUTOMATING? If you are connecting a small number of devices to the IoT then wired technology is a good fit for your purposes, as the technology is fast and reliable. However, adding additional cabling or rerouting the existing cabling of a wired system can be
Wireless technology can offer a cost effective option for businesses operating a large number of devices
incredibly challenging. Wireless systems therefore offer a more scalable option for businesses that are planning on expanding their level of connectivity in the future.
WHERE’S THE VALUE? Wireless technology can offer a cost- effective option for businesses connecting a large number of devices. While the upfront costs can be high, the flexibility offered to growing businesses can lead to better value in the long term. However, if your company aims to automate a single part reliably and securely then wired automation can make good business sense due to its fidelity. Remember that the larger the wired network, the more expensive it is to install, maintain and manage. As the IoT continues to grow towards
JMartans Automation
www.jmartans.com T: +356 21 420 655
the 30 billion devices forecast by Statista, businesses are faced with decisions about how best to connect their equipment. While wired technology offers a trustworthy option, businesses looking to scale up their connectivity in the long term may find wireless technology is more suited to them.
/ IRISHMANUFACTURING
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
