05 Aug Connecting Critical Industrial Automation: A Success Story by PMT Communications
At PMT Communications, we pride ourselves on partnering with key integrators to deliver top-tier solutions. One of our recent achievements was installing a Point-to-Point (PTP) Link for a critical industrial automation business.
The Challenge:
A solutions integration partner approached us to connect their main office with a newly constructed building, approximately 700 meters apart. The task was complicated by obstacles such as trees and a busy highway with frequent large truck traffic. Additionally, the local Macro Tower was damaged, creating a mobile coverage dead zone. Thus, an alternative and redundant solution was required.
Our Solution:
PMT Communications identified that the most effective solution was a pair of Point-to-Point (PTP) links using Cambium technology, renowned for its quality and effectiveness. Cambium’s technology offers a reliable and high-speed wireless connection, making it ideal for this application.
Creating a PTP Link for Industrial Automation:
In this blog post, we explore the steps and considerations involved in establishing a PTP link for an industrial automation business, specifically linking two buildings 700 meters apart.
Understanding PTP Links:
A PTP link is a wireless communication connection that directly links two locations, providing a dedicated communication pathway. This solution is ideal for connecting buildings where traditional wired connections are impractical or costly.
Benefits of PTP Links for Businesses:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Installing a PTP link is often more affordable than laying fibre optic cables, especially over longer distances.
- High-Speed Connectivity: PTP links provide high data transfer rates, essential for real-time data exchange in automation systems.
- Reliability: Modern PTP solutions offer robust performance with low latency and high reliability, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
- Flexibility: PTP links can be deployed quickly and easily, and they can be reconfigured as needed.
Steps to Create a Successful PTP Link:
- Site Survey and Planning:
- Line of Sight (LoS) Analysis: Ensure a clear line of sight between the buildings. Obstacles like trees and buildings can interfere with the signal.
- Environmental Considerations: Assess environmental factors, such as weather conditions, that might affect the link’s performance.
- Frequency Bands: Common frequencies for PTP links include 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 60 GHz. Each has its advantages in terms of range, interference, and bandwidth.
- Throughput Requirements: Determine necessary data throughput based on automation needs.
- Durability: Select equipment designed for industrial environments, with features like weatherproofing and temperature resistance.
- Installation and Alignment: Proper installation and alignment are critical for optimal PTP link performance.
- Configuration and Testing:
- Network Settings: Set up IP addresses, VLANs, and other network configurations.
- Security: Implement measures such as encryption and authentication to protect transmitted data.
- Performance Testing: Conduct thorough testing to ensure the link meets performance criteria, including signal strength, data throughput, and latency.
- Maintenance and Monitoring:
- Routine Inspections: Periodically inspect physical components for signs of wear or damage.
- Monitoring: Regular maintenance and monitoring ensure long-term reliability.
Conclusion
PMT Communications successfully created a PTP link for a client, significantly enhancing connectivity between buildings and improving operational efficiency and data exchange. Through careful planning, selection of the right equipment, and adherence to proper installation and maintenance procedures, PMT Communications established a reliable and high-performance PTP link that met the demands of the client’s automation business.
For further information about wireless solutions and assistance with installations, feel free to contact PMT Communications. Let us help you streamline your operations with cutting-edge connectivity solutions.
