Wireless Network Provides Monitoring and Control of Sensors, Pumps and Other Devices at up to 56 Remote Locations

A scalable wireless network that can monitor and control I/O functions or provide serial communication at up to 56 locations has been introduced by Banner Engineering (Belgium). The new SureCross DX80 product line replaces costly wiring in a wide range of industrial, agricultural, power generation, water supply and waste disposal applications. Discrete, serial and analog devices that can be controlled by the network include ultrasonic and photoelectric sensors, pumps, counters, thermocouple and RTD temperature sensors.

The remote nodes gather data and/or transmit control commands between the sensors or other devices and a central Gateway. The Gateway maps inputs from the remote nodes and interfaces with a PLC or HMI via RS-485 modbus or Ethernet/IP.

Designed for applications where wiring is impractical or unaffordable, DX80 nodes and the devices they monitor can be powered by 10 – 30V dc, battery or solar panels. This capability can eliminate the need for power wiring as well as control wiring, providing significant cost reduction and ease of installation in situations that cover wide areas. Banner’s unique power management capability and low power consumption enable a node and sensor to operate for years on a single battery power supply.

All units have industry standard robust IP67 housings. Models with Intrinsically Safe and Class I Division 2 approvals are available for extreme environments. Node to gateway transmission range using license-free radio is 3 km at 2.4 GHz or 10 km at 900 MHz (line of sight). The signal range can be extended or rerouted around natural obstacles by adding DataRadio modules as repeaters.

The DX80 SureCross wireless network is appropriate for a wide range of applications including: Monitoring tank levels and controlling remote pumps to assure efficient and reliable supply in gravity-fed water systems; Monitoring of level, flow, temperature and gas emissions on landfills; activate pumps for leachate extraction; Monitoring tank fill levels and valve position in water treatment and chemical processing plants to assure that materials are maintained at desired quantity; Maintaining proper soil moisture and temperature and air humidity for plant growth; Continuous remote monitoring and logging of compost temperatures so rows can be turned at the ideal point. This insures that harmful bacteria are killed while minimizing risk of contamination through human measurement operations.