Industrial Wireless: From IWLAN, through Wireless IO, right through to LoRaWAN

Industrial Wireless: From IWLAN, through Wireless IO, right through to LoRaWAN

Industrial Wireless enables secure and reliable wireless connections for industrial applications. Depending on requirements, use IWLAN or Bluetooth for real-time communication, NearFi for close-proximity applications, or LoRaWAN and Trusted Wireless for great distances. Our wireless solutions are comprised of access points and clients, as well as suitable antennas and cables.

More information
Go to Product Detail Page for item 2702534
FL WLAN 1100 - Wireless module
FL WLAN 1100 - Wireless module
2702534

WLAN access point, client with two internal antennas (MIMO) for single-hole mounting, IP54, WLAN 802.11 a, b, g, n, frequency: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz (incl. DFS channels), connections: COMBICON 9 ... 32 V DC, RJ45: for LAN, web, http/https, Command Line Interface

Go to Product Detail Page for item 2901541
RAD-2400-IFS - Wireless module
RAD-2400-IFS - Wireless module
2901541

Radioline - 2.4 GHz wireless transceiver with RS-232/RS-485 interface, can be extended with I/O modules, RSMA (female) antenna connection, point-to-point, star, and mesh networks up to 250 stations, range of up to 5 km (with a clear line of sight), for worldwide use

Go to Product Detail Page for item 2702538
FL WLAN 1101 - Wireless module
FL WLAN 1101 - Wireless module
2702538

WLAN access point, client for USA and Canada, with two internal antennas for single-hole mounting, IP54, WLAN 802.11 a, b, g, n, frequency: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, connections: COMBICON 9 ... 32 V DC, RJ45: for LAN, web, http/https, Command Line Interface

Go to Product Detail Page for item 2901540
RAD-900-IFS - Wireless module
RAD-900-IFS - Wireless module
2901540

Radioline - 900 MHz wireless transceiver with RS-232/485 interface, can be extended with I/O modules, RSMA (female) antenna connection, point-to-point, star, and mesh networks up to 250 stations, range of up to 32 km (line of sight), use in North America

Go to Product Detail Page for item 1119246
FL WLAN 2010 - Wireless module
FL WLAN 2010 - Wireless module
1119246

WLAN access point, client, mesh with 2 external antenna connections (RSMA-F), IP20, temperature range : -40°C … +60°C, WLAN 802.11 a, b, g, n, frequency: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, connections: COMBICON 9 V DC ... 32 V DC, RJ45: for LAN, web, http/https, CLI, REST API

The right wireless technology for your application

In practice, various wireless technologies have proven to be suitable for a wide range of applications. Phoenix Contact provides industrial-grade wireless solutions suitable for your applications.

  • NearFi: For contactless power and real-time Ethernet data transmission in the near-field range
  • WLAN IEEE 802.11: Wireless Ethernet for high-performance and industrial-grade Ethernet networks
  • Bluetooth: Wireless Ethernet and Wireless I/O for transmitting control data in factory automation
  • Trusted Wireless: Wireless I/O and Wireless Serial for signal and data transmission in large systems
  • LoRaWAN: Low Power Wide Area Network for energy-efficient data transmission over long distances

New products

NearFi base couplers and remote couplers
LoRaWAN-capable luminaire control unit
Next generation WLAN client

Contactless power and data transmission

Ethernet communication in the near-field range

NearFi couplers transmit power and real-time Ethernet data across an air gap. The new versions enable a greater range for data transmission (up to 100 mm) and more power during power transmission (up to 100 W for parallel connection).

Main features

  • Ethernet transmission: 100 Mbps, full duplex, latency-free, fast startup <450 ms
  • Power transmission: 50 W, 24 V DC / 2 A
  • Power increase to 100 W with parallel connection
  • Transmission of 2 electrically isolated voltages (US / UA) with parallel connection
  • All-round LED ring

Your Advantages

  • Contactless – no wear and no maintenance
  • Protocol-independent and latency-free Ethernet real-time communication
  • Flexible – a high degree of freedom when it comes to installation due to flexible proximity options
  • Plug-and-play – no configuration needed
  • Reduced installation time with M12 push-pull fast-connection technology

Intelligent light control

LoRaWAN-based street lighting

The LPWAN LCU D4I ZHAGA EU light control is part of the Smart Lighting solution from Phoenix Contact. The LoRaWAN®-capable control device manages and controls lights and LED drivers within the lighting infrastructure of thoroughfares, parks, and plazas.

Main features

  • DALI D4I interface for controlling modern LED drivers
  • LoRaWAN®-capable
  • Zhaga Book 18 base
  • Use of the public ISM band (in Europe: 868 MHz)
  • Bidirectional, encrypted communication to the light
  • Range of up to several kilometers

Your Advantages

  • Improved energy efficiency with demand-oriented lighting
  • Keep an eye on lighting points at all times with remote parameterization and diagnostics
  • Intelligent light management via the grovez.io IoT platform
  • Future-proof Smart Lighting solution – based on open interfaces and IoT systems
  • Simple retrofitting of existing lighting infrastructure by extending the control technology

Industrial Wi-Fi 6 modules

The latest generation of WLAN clients

For high-performance and reliable wireless communication networks: the powerful WLAN 1120 and the compact IP20 version, the WLAN 1020, feature the latest WLAN technology Wi-Fi 6 (IEEE 802.11ax) and an innovative all-in-one device design.

Main features

  • IEEE 802.11ax
  • Backward-compatible with older WLAN standards, such as Wi-Fi 4
  • WLAN client und software access point
  • Net data throughput >600 Mbps

Your Advantages

  • Significant improvement in performance, reliability, and real time with Wi-Fi 6
  • Quick change of WLAN cells through software optimization of the roaming function
  • Future-proof, as prepared for Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz band)
  • Simplified mounting and installation with the all-in-one design
  • More space in AGVs and mobile robots due to the compact design

Power and data transmission in the near-field range

Contactless transmission of power and data across an air gap not only enables wear and maintenance-free connections, but also forwarding through glass panels and other non-conductive media.

This opens up a wide range of application possibilities, such as in cases of space and movement restrictions, vibration, dust and dirt, rotation, and frequent contacting.

NearFi base couplers and remote couplers

NearFi couplers for contactless power and data transmission

NearFi couplers for contactless power and real-time Ethernet transmission

NearFi couplers enable power (up to 100 W) and real-time Ethernet data (100 Mbps, full duplex) to be transmitted across an air gap of a few centimeters. In principle, two devices are always necessary for transmission: a base coupler and a remote coupler. The couplers do not need to be configured and are as easy to use as a connector.

  • Contactless – no wear and no maintenance
  • Flexible – a high degree of freedom when it comes to installation due to flexible proximity options
  • Universal – protocol-independent and latency-free Ethernet real-time communication
  • Visible – all-around easily recognizable diagnostics with LED ring on the housing
  • Robust – IP65 housing with M12 push-pull fast-connection technology for quick and easy use in demanding environments

IWLAN – Industrial Wireless LAN

Industrial Wireless LAN, or Industrial WLAN or IWLAN for short, allows easy wireless connection in PROFINET, EtherNet/IP™, or Modbus/TCP networks, and is often also called Wireless Ethernet. IWLAN is characterized by the fact that large networks with many devices can be created. A particular advantage here is roaming, where devices can move freely in a large WLAN network and automatically establish their wireless connection to the access point with the best wireless signal.
This makes IWLAN perfect for applications such as automated guided vehicle systems (AGVs) and warehouse shuttles, electric monorail systems, and operating machinery and systems via tablet and smartphone. With PROFIsafe, even safety-related applications can be controlled via wireless. Phoenix Contact provides a variety of IWLAN products for various applications.

WLAN&nbsp;1000 and 1100

WLAN wireless modules for industry

WLAN 1000 and 2000 – the WLAN solution for industry

The robust WLAN 1000 (client) and 2000 (access point) wireless modules have been specifically developed for industrial requirements. Choose the design that is right for you: WLAN 1100 and WLAN 2100 combine antennas and a wireless module in a single device. The wireless module is easily mounted on machines or automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems via single-hole mounting. The WLAN 1000 and WLAN 2000 wireless modules have a compact IP20 housing with external antenna connections. They were developed for applications that demand a high level of flexibility in selecting and positioning the antennas. The following applies to both designs:

  • High security with two virtual access points and IP filters
  • The latest technology with versions for Wi-Fi 6
  • Optimum reception and high reliability with MIMO wireless technology
  • Reliable, fast roaming
  • Configuration via web, SNMP, REST API, or CLI
  • WLAN mesh for automation networks (2000 and 2100 versions only)

Industrial Bluetooth

Bluetooth is primarily used in cellular communication and computer accessories, but has also become an established communication solution in machine building and systems manufacturing. Bluetooth is extremely resistant to interference in the frequency band and enables reliable operation in parallel with other Bluetooth or WLAN applications. This means that Bluetooth can be used to establish very reliable wireless connections, which are essential for safety communication (PROFIsafe, SafetyBridge, etc.), among other things. Bluetooth is particularly suitable for small, static wireless network applications with a small number of devices (point-to-point application and small networks with up to seven devices). Overall, Bluetooth is ideal for transmitting Ethernet and PROFINET data and I/O signals to moving or rotating machine parts.

Two Ethernet wireless bridge EPAs communicate with each other

EPA – the robust Ethernet wireless bridge

Bluetooth EPA – Ethernet and PROFINET via Bluetooth

The EPA 2 Ethernet port adapter connects your Ethernet-compatible automation modules to the control network wirelessly via Bluetooth, safety included. With EPA 2, a reliable wireless module is combined with an integrated antenna in a compact and robust IP65 industrial housing, which makes it extremely easy to integrate into your application.

  • Transparent integration into industrial Ethernet control networks such as PROFINET
  • Easy to configure with the MODE button
  • Suitable for safety communication, such as PROFIsafe or SafetyBridge
  • Low emission mode for low interference emissions when establishing connections
  • Black channel listing allows the configuration of up to three WLAN channels whose frequency ranges will not be used by the EPA module.
Transmit your I/O signals reliably using Wireless MUX

Transmit your I/O signals reliably to hard-to-reach or rotating stations using Wireless MUX

Wireless multiplexers – transmit I/O signals via Bluetooth

Wireless MUX is used in places where you want to transmit I/O signals without using cables. The system transmits 16 digital and 2 analog signals bidirectionally. This means that it can replace a 40-wire signal cable.

  • Easy startup, as no configuration or settings are required
  • High number of channels in a compact housing
  • Fast connection establishment and signal transmission
  • Range of up to 200 m with omnidirectional antennas; up to 400 m with directional antennas with a clear line of sight
  • Current Bluetooth 4.0 technology

Trusted Wireless 2.0

Phoenix Contact specifically developed the proprietary Trusted Wireless 2.0 technology for industrial use. It is particularly suitable for forwarding sensor and actuator information wirelessly as well as transmitting low to medium volumes of data in large systems. With a clear line of sight, distances ranging from several hundred meters up to several kilometers can be covered between two wireless devices.

Trusted Wireless 2.0 therefore fills the gap between WirelessHART, a special technology for sensor networks, and Wireless LAN high-speed technology. The technology is used in the Radioline industrial wireless system from Phoenix Contact.

Radioline wireless module

Radioline is the wireless module for large systems

Radioline wireless system for I/O signals and serial data

Radioline is the wireless system for large systems. Special features include extremely easy assignment of inputs and outputs by simply turning the thumbwheel – no programming is necessary. With Trusted Wireless technology, Radioline is the ideal choice for reliable use in industrial environments.

  • High degree of reliability with Trusted Wireless technology
  • Supported frequency bands: 868 MHz, 900 MHz, and 2.4 GHz
  • Range of up to 32 kilometers with adjustable data rate
  • Flexible network configuration: Radioline supports both point-to-point connections and complex mesh networks with up to 250 devices
  • Save on devices: Transmit I/O signals or serial data using a single device with the integrated RS-232/RS-485 interface
  • Can be extended with up to 32 I/O modules thanks to a DIN rail bus connector and hot-swap capability
Radioline outdoor box

Switchgear and controlgear assembly for outdoor installation

The Radioline outdoor box can be installed outdoors for quick and easy wireless transmission of I/O signals or serial data. Select the wireless modules (either 868, 900, or 2400 MHz) and the type and number of I/O extension modules required directly when ordering.

  • Ideal for outdoor installation with the robust, splash-proof, and UV-resistant IP66 housing designed for temperatures ranging from -25 to +55°C
  • Completely pre-wired control box with integrated power supply unit, surge protection, selected wireless module, and I/O extension modules for intuitive startup and easy configuration

LoRaWAN

LoRaWAN is a Low Power Wide Area Network specification (LPWAN) for wireless battery-powered systems in a wireless network in accordance with IEEE 802.15.4. The network enables seamless data exchange between end devices (nodes), sensors, gateways, and the IT infrastructure via a uniform transmission protocol. As the first open standard, LoRaWAN considers the requirements of IoT applications.

  • Bidirectional, encrypted communication
  • Use of the public ISM band (in Europe: 868 MHz)
  • Low energy consumption from 100 nA to 10 mA in stand-by mode
  • Very high receiving sensitivity up to -140 dBm at a transmission power of 20 dBm
  • Range of up to several kilometers possible
LoRaWAN gateway

Gateway for setting up and extending a LoRaWAN network

LoRaWAN gateway – the basis for location-independent communication in the LoRaWAN network

Our open LoRaWAN gateway is available for setting up or extending your private LoRaWAN network. The gateway operates with an internal 4G/LTE modem, but can also be connected to the Internet via Ethernet. Based on a standardized stack, the LoRaWAN gateway acts as a transparent media converter between the LoRaWAN server and the end device. The information from several hundred to thousands of devices is transmitted by the gateway, depending on the load in the wireless network.

  • For setting up and extending a LoRaWAN network
  • Freely configurable for access to LoRaWAN servers
  • Protected data with encrypted and secure transmission
  • Power supply via Ethernet PoE+
  • Internal 4G/LTE modem
  • Outdoor-capable thanks to high IP67 degree of protection
LoRaWAN control devices

LoRaWAN control devices for intelligent lighting management

LoRaWAN control devices – intelligent and wireless networking of lights

Phoenix Contact provides LoRaWAN control devices (LCU) for managing and controlling lights and LED drivers. The portfolio ranges from devices with fittings for easy connection to Zhaga and NEMA lamp sockets all the way to universal control devices that you can use to integrate your existing lighting into a LoRaWAN network. The built-in devices for the classic lighting control cabinet can replace the timer switch or the ripple control device, and therefore control entire streets.
The portfolio features the option to control state-of-the-art LED drivers using the common DALI communication protocol. This enables you to use the control devices on a large number of LED drivers, regardless of their manufacturer.

  • Improve energy efficiency with needs-oriented lighting
  • Keep lighting points in view always with remote configuration and diagnostics
  • Bidirectional, encrypted communication to the light
  • Compatible with conventional interface standards such as ZHAGA and NEMA
  • Simple extension of the control technology allows retrofits in existing lighting infrastructures
Networked street lighting in a city

LoRaWAN-based street lighting solution

Design future-proof lighting infrastructure

Would you like to integrate individual lighting points into a LoRaWAN network and combine them with other smart city applications? Use our LoRaWAN components to integrate the lights into an intelligent light management system.

We will join forces with you to design a future-proof solution tailored to your application, based on open interfaces and IoT systems.

Omnidirectional and directional antennas

Always ready to receive with the right antenna technology

Antennas and accessories

Ready to receive at all times: Phoenix Contact provides a wide range of omnidirectional antennas for mobile applications and directional antennas for bridging large distances. Leaky cables are also available for wireless devices that move along a defined path, such as electric monorail systems. Suitable cabling technology and mounting accessories, such as cables, surge protection, and connectors, complete the portfolio.

The antenna system used greatly influences the performance of a wireless system. You can read about what you need to be aware of during selection and installation in our flyer, “10 antenna rules”.

Employees during the planning of wireless networks

We will be happy to provide you with support in planning high-performance, failsafe wireless systems

Professional planning of wireless networks

Good planning is an essential prerequisite for a reliable and high-performance wireless network. We help you during the planning, configuration, and startup of your wireless network and also with maintenance and support in the event of an error. Do you or your staff want to gain a better insight into wireless technology? We provide instruction and practical training that are tailored to your needs.

For professional wireless coverage

To simplify the planning of wireless networks based on the Radioline wireless system, Phoenix Contact offers free simulation of wireless networks with up to ten stations. Give us the coordinates of the stations to be networked, and we will check the feasibility using our wireless network planning software or by performing wireless path tests on site. A simulation is used to determine whether a wireless connection will work or needs to be tested. The simulation considers altitude data, radio performance, and surface properties. You will receive a detailed test report and parts list containing all the necessary components.