Wireless networking of weighing instruments

October 2003 Fieldbus & Industrial Networking

The innovations seen over the last 10 years in both computer and measuring-instrument technology have been phenomenal; both in speed and, more importantly, the security of data communication between measuring instruments and computers has increased many times over. The tools available for data exchange and for the collection and evaluation of weighing instrument data are now considerably more powerful and easier to use.

Wireless communication is a technology of the future. Bluetooth technology offers a comprehensive solution for fast and easy communication between PCs, peripherals and portable devices, obviating the need for cables, and the line-of-sight constraints of infrared interfaces.

Bluetooth presents an alternative, enhanced solution, particularly in areas where mobile weighing capabilities are needed. A further advantage is the option of connecting several weighing instruments in a 'piconet'. Installation is simpler and said to be superior to a cable network. As it operates on the 2,45 GHz ISM band, no licensing is required. Data security is high, as it is protected on both hardware and software levels by frequency hopping and other encryption techniques.

With its new YBT01 and YBT02 Bluetooth communication modules, Sartorius presents a solution that meets high standards in technology and design, in keeping with its weighing instruments used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

The communication module is connected to the weighing instrument on the RS232C interface port, has stainless steel housing and can be used with all of the same protocols and control commands that are transmitted over the conventional RS232C data interface.

Used in conjunction with the Sartorius network-compatible SPEXXIS data acquisition software, Bluetooth has distinct advantages over cable systems. A user can connect balances in such a way that only the server communicates with the balance, reliably and centrally saving the data collected. The user logs onto the server with his password using a PC, notebook, handheld computer, or even the balance itself, giving the user the freedom to choose the location of his screen. These products are available locally through Carl Zeis.

For more information contact Natalie Sansom, Carl Zeiss, 011 886 9510, [email protected]

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