Wireless Lan With Mixed Services; Upgrading Older Wireless Networks With Serial Interfaces; Replacing Legacy Wireless Products - GE MDS iNET Series Reference Manual

1.3.5 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services

The iNET transceiver is an excellent solution for a long-range industrial wireless LAN. It offers several
advantages over commercial solutions—primarily improved performance over extended distances. The
rugged construction of the radio and its extended temperature range make it an ideal solution even in harsh
locations. In extreme environments, a simple NEMA enclosure is sufficient to house the unit.
The transceiver trades higher speed for longer range. Commercial 802.11a/b/g solutions are designed to pro-
vide service to relatively small areas such as offices, warehouses and homes. They provide high data rates
but have limited range. The iNET transmits at a higher power level, uses a different frequency band, has
higher sensitivity, and a narrower channel to concentrate the radio energy and reach farther distances. It is
designed for industrial operation from the ground up.
IP-based devices that may be used with the transceiver include a new breed of more powerful Remote Ter-
minal Units (RTUs) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). These, as well as other devices, may be
used in applications ranging from SCADA/telemetry monitoring, web-based video, security monitoring,
and voice over IP. Figure 1-7 shows a typical wireless IP network.
NMS Control
Point
Figure 1-7. Extended-Range LAN with Mixed Applications

1.3.6 Upgrading Older Wireless Networks with Serial Interfaces

Millions of wireless data products have been sold in the last two decades for licensed and license-free oper-
ation, many of them manufactured by GE MDS. There are several ways that these systems can benefit from
incorporating iNET equipment. The chief advantages are interface flexibility (serial and Ethernet in one
unit), and higher data throughput. By taking advantage of its built-in serial and Ethernet interfaces, the trans-
ceiver is well suited to replace leased lines, dial-up lines, or existing MAS 900 MHz data transceivers.

Replacing Legacy Wireless Products

In most cases, legacy radio transceivers supporting serial-interface equipment can be replaced with iNET
transceivers. Legacy equipment can be connected to the transceiver through the
a DB-25 to DB-9 cable wired for EIA-232 signaling. The
naling and acts as a data-terminal equipment device (DTE).
NOTE:
Several previous MDS-brand products had non-standard signal lines on their interface connectors
(to control sleep functions and alarm lines, for example). These special functions are not provided
nor supported by the iNET Series. Consult equipment manuals for complete pinout information.
05-2806A01, Rev. L
Access Point
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Printer
MDS iNET Series Reference Manual
Invisible place holder
Remote Bridge
IP Camera
IP/Ethernet Device
Remote Bridge
IP/Ethernet Device
IP/Ethernet Device
COM1
COM2 port supports all standard EIA-232 sig-
or port with
COM2
7