August 27, 2009 - ProSoft Technology announces the Wireless POINT I/O Adapter (ILX34-AENWG), a high-speed, standards-based 802.11g wireless I/O communication adapter offering a convenient wireless alternative for linking Rockwell Automation controllers to distributed process I/O modules. Combining Rockwell Automation’s field proven I/O with ProSoft Technology’s Integrated Wireless Architecture technology and support, the Wireless POINT I/O Adapter provides users an optimum distributed I/O communication solution.The Wireless POINT I/O Adapter Add-On Profile (AOP) utilizes the familiar RSLogix 5000 programming environment and connection-based EtherNet/IP protocol to simplify configuring and communicating with POINT I/O racks scattered throughout the process facility.
The compact size of POINT I/O systems, when coupled with the Wireless POINT I/O Adapter, make them ideal for collecting data from and controlling moving systems like robots, automated carts, overhead cranes, earthmovers, as well as fixed-position racks in hard-to-reach areas of the process plant.The Wireless POINT I/O Adapter can be used in networks with RadioLinx Industrial Hotspots or third party 802.11g access points to provide high-speed, low latency 802.11g client communication over widely spaced plant areas. This ability to work with existing standards-based wireless technology protects and leverages the end-users' investment.
For security, the Wireless POINT I/O employs 802.11i WPA2 with AES Encryption. The Wireless POINT I/O Adapter provides users with the flexibility and scalability (up to 63 modules) offered by the many standard Rockwell Automation POINT I/O modules including analog Input/Output (I/O), digital I/O, POINT Guard I/O, DeviceLogix, relays, RTD, and counters.
It employs 802.11i WPA2 with AES Encryption for security.The Wireless POINT I/O Adapter benefits users who require a non-tethered link to distributed I/O in applications with moving or remote equipment, or where it would be difficult or costly to wire devices or control panels. Applications include:
- Oil and Gas: tank farms
- Material Handling: cranes, stackers/reclaimers
- Food and Beverage: rotating filling, spooling, molding machines
- Robotics / multi-axis machining
- Remote monitoring
- Condition monitoring
- and other remote/moving distributed I/O applicationsAll ProSoft Technology products come with a three year warranty and unlimited technical support.ARC Advisory Group’s Harry Forbes notes that “the ability to wirelessly connect POINT I/O modules adds new degrees of freedom for system and application designers because it enables them to design high-performance, scalable and low-latency systems in cases where wired I/O would be problematic.
