Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT


Data communication is simple with wireless modems

23 October 2002 Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT

Use of wireless telephony technologies such as DECT and GSM is growing more rapidly than the traditional fixed copper line telecommunication. Not only are base stations and networks easier and less costly to roll out, but they are infinitely more flexible. GSM provides for total mobility in terms of reception while a DECT system can be simply relocated through moving the receiver/transmitter.

At the forefront of wireless data transfer technology is a Finnish company called Satel Oy (Satel) which manufactures radio modems designed for industrial wireless data communication. These modems can be used in a wide range of applications including industrial automation and process control, monitoring and control of energy/water systems, and traffic control. They are suited for both mobile and fixed applications and even in the case of the latter can be redeployed with only new power cabling required.

Satel SA is the South African representative for Satel Oy and is run by sales director Mark Dilchert. All the company's technical staff have been trained in Finland and have realtime communications with experienced applications engineers at the factory. Amongst the wireless data transfer products offered is the SATELLINE range of radio modems.

The most common and versatile models for industrial applications are the SATELLINE 3AS and 3ASd. Here, the transmitter power allows communication over distances in excess of 10 km. The 3AS range is compatible with the three most widely used data interfaces: RS232, RS422 and RS485 (lower spec products with only an RS232 interface are also available). The 3ASd differs only in that it is equipped with a user-interface LCD display and can be configured without a PC/terminal using its push-button controls. The display on the 3ASd can also be used for testing of the operating condition of the radio connection with any other radio modem. These units weigh only 250 g, can operate with a 12 or 24 V power supply, and consume 1,8 or 6,0 VA power (receive or transmit mode). In terms of physical size the 3AS devices are similar in size to first-generation cellphones. Data transmission rates can be up to 19,2 Kbps at a radio frequency between 380 and 470 MHz.

While the standard 3AS has a power output of between 10 mW and 1 W (depending on the distance between source and receiver), the top of the range product, the 3AS Epic, operates at up to 10 W and can communicate reliably over distances in excess of 40 km. The Epic is compatible with the same range of interfaces and is also programmable in the same way as the 3ASd. It also offers 'diversity reception' whereby the modem itself selects the best signal from those received, improving reliability of connections where reflections cause fading. Despite enhanced performance, the Epic weighs only 550 g.

Another addition to the SATELLINE family is the 1870 that uses the Pan-European free 868 to 870 MHz frequency band. As a result of limited power output the communication range of the 1870 is limited to between 50 and 500 m, depending on surroundings. As with all the Satel radio modems this range can be extended through use of repeaters. The 1870 uses RS232.

For modem use in the field, the company has the SATEL-321 product, which is a waterproof battery package into which standard radio modems (such as the 3AS/d) can be fitted. The system is capable of operating for up to 10 hours without recharging while the all-up weight, including the modem, is 1000 g.

For more information contact Mark Dilchert, Satel SA, 011 887 2898 [email protected]





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

SMT-mountable card connectors
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Würth Elektronik introduces four new SMT-mountable Nano SIM and microSD card connectors and expands its range with solutions for the smallest packages.

Read more...
Module for smart city and smart utility devices
iCorp Technologies Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Quectel Wireless Solutions has launched the Quectel KCM0A5S, a high-performance Wi-SUN module designed for smart applications such as street lighting, precision agriculture, industrial IoT, smart meters and smart cities.

Read more...
Ultra-low-power wireless module
Altron Arrow Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The STM32WBA5MMG from STMicroelectronics is an ultra-low-power, small form factor, certified 2,4 GHz wireless module that supports Bluetooth LE, Zigbee 3.0, OpenThread, and IEEE 802.15.4 proprietary protocols.

Read more...
Quectel partners with GEODNET
Quectel Wireless Solutions Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Quectel Wireless Solutions has partnered with GEODNET to deliver Quectel’s Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) correction services, enabling high-precision positioning for IoT applications.

Read more...
Bringing Bluetooth Channel Sounding to automotive and beyond with KW47
Altron Arrow Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
NXP’s new Channel Sounding-certified KW47 and MCX W72 wireless MCUs are set to help automakers with distance measurement, bringing an additional ranging solution for car access and autonomous systems, and will be utilised across a broader spectrum of applications.

Read more...
Dual-band GNSS antenna
RF Design Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Taoglas Accura GVLB258.A, is a passive, dual-band GNSS L1/L5, high-performance antenna for high precision GNSS accuracy and fast positioning.

Read more...
What is Wi-Fi HaLow and why choose it for IoT?
iCorp Technologies Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Wi-Fi HaLow introduces a low power connectivity option that, in contrast to other Wi-Fi options, offers greater range of approximately 1 km, which opens up a raft of IoT use cases.

Read more...
Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE coprocessor module
Altron Arrow Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The ST67W611M1 from STMicroelectronics boasts an all-in-one design which, together with its capabilities, contribute to making it an attractive choice for IoT edge devices requiring a single-chip solution.

Read more...
Futureproofing IoT connectivity
SIMcontrol Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
A managed private APN assigns every device to an isolated carrier slice, producing a single ingress to the enterprise network, with traffic bypassing shared internet paths and reducing exposure.

Read more...
Extra slim 2,4 GHz radio module
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Thyone I radio module from Würth Elektronik now has a little sibling: Thyone-e, which takes up 30% less space and represents a cost-effective alternative for applications in which the long-range mode is not required.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved