Why Use "Wireless" vs. "Wired"?

Wireless technology promotes proliferation of monitoring applications that would not otherwise be feasible with wired solutions.  Wireless solutions provide a lower overall cost, quick and easy installation, highly scalable networks, flexible implementation and reconfiguration and remote monitoring and data acquisition.  Wired communication can present a number of challenges in any solution. 

The Challenge		Wired Solution		Wireless Solution
Cabling Challenge:		Difficult to consolidate due to location, environment and topography		No wires needed
Data Collection Challenge:		Limited amount of data can be collected and stored, prevents real-time information for operators		Data is constantly moving which allows for more data collection and consolidation, allows real-time information for operators
Staffing Challenge:		A wired solution requires multiple, full-time staff members to maintain and repair wires		A wireless solution allows one operator the ability to see any maintenance or repair needs remotely and supply staff only as needed
Automation Challenge:		Problems cannot be seen until a malfunction occurs.  Down-time increases because there is no preemption.		Alerts from wireless nodes make the operator aware of problems before they occur, shortening down-time and decreasing repairs needed due to malfunction
Safety Challenge:		At times, staff may be required to enter hazardous locations to make repairs.		Remote device management and diagnostic capabilities allow staff to remain in safe locations.
Remote Monitoring Challenge:		Often, wired solutions require staff to visit each location to gather data manually in order to monitor health and productivity of a machine		Wireless sensor data can be monitored at a central location remotely and can use mobile devices if necessary.
Environmental Challenge:		Some hazardous environments can produce physical threats that may compromise the functionality of a wired network		Because there are no wires, a hazardous environment does not pose threat to the ability of wireless nodes to communicate.
Maintenance Challenge		All wired networks will require periodic maintenance to ensure the quality and speed of data collected.  This requires down-time and staff.		Wireless nodes can be checked a maintained remotely, cutting the amount of down-time and eliminating the need for full-time staff at any location.