MDS Radios
GE’s MDS is an end-to-end industrial wireless communication provider which carries serial and IP/Ethernet traffic, as well as analog and digital I/O signals connected to field sensors and devices, accommodating an extensive variety of industrial protocols. GE MDS wireless radios have been rated and tested to harsh specifications and operate over licensed and unlicensed narrowband communication in a variety of frequencies.
MDS TransNet radios provide long distance, transparent data communication for nearly all SCADA, EFM, Telemetry protocols including Modbus. TransNet utilizes Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) for reliable data transportation up to 115.2 kbps and may be configured as a repeater to extend the operating range of the network.
More Information about MDS Radios
MDS iNet radios provides long distance, unlicensed communication allowing users to interface with Ethernet and serial controllers. The iNet series combines FHSS and the higher speed of Digital Transmission Systems (DTS) to provide higher data capabilities than typical communications systems can provide.
MDS SD radios operate over licensed radio bands over long distances allowing users to interface with Ethernet and serial devices such as RTUs, PLCs and meters with control systems and host monitoring. The SD series operates IP/Ethernet and serial communication on a single network and can connect multiple host systems to a single Access Point radio.
MDS Orbit radios are the next generation of industrial wireless communication devices, integrating cellular, unlicensed radio, licensed radio and Wi-Fi networking technologies. Orbit radios can have one or two communication components in each device.
FAQs
Do MDS radios offer an Ethernet radio?
Yes, MDS radios offer Ethernet radios that provide secure and reliable wireless communication for industrial and SCADA applications, enabling Ethernet-based data transmission over long distances.
Industrial Cellular Radio Basics
Cellular Radios
Cellular radios are used in situations where traditional radio communication networks may not exist or where direct line of sight on those networks may be hard to achieve. Cellular radios function in similar ways to how many of the devices used on a daily basis, like cell phones. Cellular phones rely on cellular communication towers to transmit data to and from phones and other mobile devices. Depending on the type of network those devices are designed for will dictate things such as speed and data throughput capacity.
Industrial Cellular Radios
The same principles apply to industrial style cellular radios. Just like cell phones, these radios rely on third party transmission signals in order to properly communicate. And just cell phones, the hardware specifications of the radios will dictate what type of cellular network they will have access to. In situations where the data requirements are very low, for example, a scenario where monitoring only a few simple data points once every hour or so, a network with higher speed capabilities is not needed. However, monitoring something like a live video feed or other complex data and information over that network, a radio and network capable of higher speeds and data capacities will be necessary.
Drawbacks
One of the biggest drawbacks to using cellular networks is cost. While the radios themselves are usually priced in line with other types of industrial communication radios, there will almost always be a monthly service charge, which can vary greatly depending on the demands of the specific application. These costs can add up over time making the cellular radio option an expensive one. Also, because the radio is operating on a third-party network, the ability to customize and configure the radio network will be greatly limited.
Conclusion
While cellular radios can be a great option in certain situations, typically, traditional industrial radios will provide the most flexible and reliable serial communication solution over time while saving on the cost of a monthly service charge. However, when traditional communication methods fail, cellular radios can provide a reliable and effective alternative.