A Comparative Analysis of the Internet of Things Networking Schemes

This book compares wired, wireless, and hybrid networking solutions, covering the selection of industrial internet of things (IoT) solutions, the comparison of workshop networking technologies, and the key points in building a smart production network. It helps businesses choose the most cost-effective implementation plan for their actual scenarios.

Why do factory networking solutions need to be custom-made?

It's not just a question of running a few wires.Some factories are so densely packed with equipment that they seem like sardine cans. Others have such strong electromagnetic interference that mobile phones can't even get a signal. Some older factories don't even have conduits for electrical wiring.If you simply try to force a ready-made solution onto a system, the worst case scenario is a complete system crash, but even in the best case, the system will be slow and sluggish.We have to first get a handle on the "personality" of our own shop and then pick the most suitable networking approach.

Comparing the Characteristics of Mainstream Networking Solutions.

Ethernet solutions for industrial applications.

These are suitable for locations where the camera is fixed in place and subject to a lot of interference.For example, in a car welding shop, "old-timers" such as mechanical arms and PLC controllers can withstand interference from electrical sparks with the use of industrial network cables with shielding.But if you need to move an AGV or add a temporary inspection device, you'll find out what it really means to have "all your eggs in one basket.

Industrial wireless mesh networks

This is most suitable for places like textile mills and warehouses where equipment is constantly moved.With self-organizing network technology, the equipment passes information along like a relay race.But be careful of metal shelves that can cause signal reflection. Last year, one food factory was tripped up by this. The real-time data was delayed so much you could make a bowl of instant noodles.

Mixed networking.

More and more companies are choosing this route of combining the stability of wired networks with the flexibility of wireless ones.For example, in the pharmaceutical production workshop, the main production line is guaranteed stability through fiber optics, while the mobile terminals in the quality inspection area use a 5G private network.The key is to make sure that the various networks can communicate with each other, and not become like the proverbial chicken and duck talking at cross purposes.

These are three important points to consider when choosing a type of computer.

This was a hidden barrier.

Don't just look at the glossy brochures; check the communication protocols of your own equipment first.Last year a certain electronics factory purchased a solution from a big name, only to discover that 20 % of the equipment they already had only supported the Modbus protocol. They had to spend an extra 30 % of their budget to install protocol conversion gateways.

Later, the hidden costs of expansion would become apparent.

Now you may only need to connect 200 devices, but what about three years from now? Some wireless solutions may have a low initial investment, but when the number of devices doubles you either have to buy more licenses or replace the system.When choosing a server, it is important to ask about the licensing fees and the scope for hardware expansion.

The maintenance and operations team has technical reserves.

But the best plans are of no use if no one can use them.I have seen a machine shop that used LoRa to set up a network, but because they did not have any dedicated network maintenance staff, when a problem occurred they had to wait for outside help. The cost of one day's lost production was more than the entire cost of the network.When choosing a solution, you have to consider whether your own team can handle it.

Our recommendations for a practical solution.

If the workshop is newly built, a hybrid solution of wired + 5G private network is directly available. Although the initial investment is large, it can meet demand for the next five years.If you want to retrofit an old factory, first try out a wireless solution on a critical process, and then use flexible tracks to solve the problem of networking mobile equipment.Remember, don ’ t get distracted by the hype of “ all wireless ” and “ no cables. ” The core of the industrial Internet is to make production more reliable, not to see who has the coolest tech.