FAQ’s about the Wireless Mux I/O Solution

Does the Wireless MUX module support modular expansion?

No, the Wireless MUX has been implemented as a block module in Inline Block housing. Modular expansion is therefore not supported.

Is Bluetooth really suitable for industrial use?

The technical design of Bluetooth already offers a high level of ruggedness and reliability. Broadband transmission takes place via the entire 2.4 GHz frequency band using frequency hopping methods (as with Trusted Wireless). This means that all the 79 hopping channels are switched 1600 times per second. Despite the short cycle time of less than 10 ms, a transmission reserve of four attempts to resend the telegram within the cycle time is provided in the Bluetooth I/O solution implemented. However, many basic transmission errors can be quickly corrected at the receiver by the integrated error correction function. Since transmission takes place in a very high frequency range (2.4 GHz), the wireless connection is resistant to extremely high levels of interference in industrial environments, e.g., in welding systems, inverters or high voltage systems.

What distances can be achieved with the Wireless MUX?

The distances that can be achieved are highly dependent on the relevant local conditions, therefore distances can’t be guaranteed. The optimum antenna position is the point at which there is a line of sight between both station antennas. The following values provide a rough guide:

In homes and offices, approximately 10 - 30 m using standard omni-directional antennas
In industrial halls, approximately 50 - 100 m using standard omni-directional antennas
Outdoors with line of sight, up to 200 m using standard omni-directional antennas
Outdoors with line of sight, up to 400 m using panel directional wireless antennas

Is Wireless I/O secure?

Yes, Bluetooth is very secure. Security measures are implemented permanently in the chip. The modules are also configured in such a way that they cannot be detected by other Bluetooth devices, e.g., cellular phones. Data is transmitted with 128-bit encryption. In view of current considerations, transmission is safe from manipulation and tapping.

What happens if the wireless connection is interrupted?

If the wireless connection is interrupted for approximately 200 ms (approximately 160 transmit attempts), the outputs are reset and the FS (failsafe) indicator lights up. The module repeatedly attempts to re-establish the wireless connection automatically.

How many Wireless MUXs can be used in close proximity to one another?

Several Wireless MUX systems can be operated in a single location without a notable delay in transmission. In tests with 10 modules mounted side by side without errors or increased cycle times. More than 20 to 30 systems in close proximity will result in a notable increase in the cycle time. However, the wireless connection still operates reliably.