Wireless connections in factories and warehouses enable flexible and efficient systems, but they also come with several challenges including outdated or poorly functioning firmware, improper antenna or location, access point configuration, and much more. A wireless system that does not work can have major consequences with loss of production, inefficiency, or in the worst case, danger to workers and the general public as a result.
Due to this system operators depend on a strong, reliable wireless connection to operate their network efficiently. Interruptions to this connection can cause financial and safety risks, but with a fast-roaming solution, these risks are drastically reduced. IEEE 802.11r is a standard for fast roaming in a wireless network, also referred to as Fast BSS Transition. Roaming is when a wireless client leaves one AP (Access Point) to associate with another AP. Without support for 802.11r, that would require the client to re-authenticate causing issues for users.
So how does Fast BSS Transition work? Once a client device is authenticated to the first Access Point, its credentials can be forwarded to the next AP before roaming, eliminating the need for re-authentication. This will significantly reduce handover time while still maintaining network security.
A wireless network can be used for stationary, nomadic, and mobile applications. Let´s elaborate on these three scenarios.
Stationary often refers to a simple cable replacement, e.g., bridging Ethernet over the air. In this case, the equipment is rarely moved around, the wireless connection is just used for the convenience of not installing wires.
Nomadic can be where a machine is operating in one place, then moved to a new location to continue operating there. Wireless connectivity is not required during relocation, only when the machine has reached its new location.
And then we have the true mobile application, where seamless connectivity is required throughout the entire area of operation. A typical example is the use of AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) on the factory floor, or in a warehouse. Here we need a fast handover, to always stay in contact with the network. Any mobile, delay-sensitive application will benefit from the shorter handover times that can be achieved with IEEE 802.11r.
As seen, mobile applications are ideal for this type of feature. Our Anybus design team has seen the growing need for 802.11r in mobile network applications and has made sure that our wireless solutions are able to fulfill this need.
The Anybus Wireless Bridge and Bolt, as well as the Anybus Wireless Access Points, all support the IEEE 802.11r standard to ensure interoperability and Fast BSS Transition. With this combined solution between Anybus Wireless products, fast roaming can be supported.
To stay competitive, you need the information to move between your devices, access points, and control bases seamlessly. With the high transmission speeds and long communication ranges offered by Anybus products, mobile devices can connect through an advanced wireless network.
Samuel Holst the Product Manager for Anybus Wireless added, "I’m really impressed by our Anybus access points and how well they complement our other solutions like the Wireless Bolt and Bridge. And with our new PoE switch, you can power them over the Ethernet cable to get a really neat installation.
Fast roaming is undoubtedly critical to the success of manufacturing applications. Learn more about our line of Wireless Solutions on our Product Page here.