In the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), wireless networks are the key infrastructure for connecting various devices, sensors, and the cloud. The combination of wireless AP Access Point, wireless access point and wireless AC Access Controller, access controller provides a stable, efficient and easy-to-manage wireless network solution for industrial environments. The following is a detailed guide to help those who need to build a strong industrial IoT wireless network for networking applications.

1. Understand the key points of purchasing wireless AP

① Coverage:

Industrial environments are often complex and vast, and the coverage of APs is crucial. It is necessary to select the appropriate AP based on the specific environment, such as indoor, outdoor, open or obstructed areas, to ensure that the wireless signal can cover the entire area.
Ceiling-mounted APs are suitable for indoor environments, while outdoor APs can handle harsh weather conditions and longer transmission distances.

② Installation method:

The installation methods of APs in the Industrial Internet of Things are diverse, including ceiling, panel, and wall-mounted. Choose the appropriate installation method to maximize coverage and signal quality.
Ceiling-mounted Access Points (APs) are typically used in indoor environments to distribute signals evenly; Panel-type APs are suitable for scenarios where concealed installation or limited space is required.

③ Power supply mode:

The POE Power over Ethernet power supply method simplifies the installation and maintenance of APs, providing power through network cables without the need for additional power outlets.
In the industrial Internet of Things, POE power supply not only improves installation efficiency, but also reduces cable clutter and the complexity of power management.

④ Carrying capacity:

Select an AP with sufficient bandwidth according to the number of devices and network requirements in the industrial environment.
Generally, it is recommended to use a single-band AP with 25 clients and a dual-band AP with 50 clients to ensure network performance and stability.

⑤ Environmental adaptability:

Industrial environments may have factors such as high temperature, high humidity, vibration, and electromagnetic interference, so it is necessary to choose an AP with corresponding environmental adaptability.
For example, choose an AP with waterproof, dustproof, and high temperature resistance to adapt to outdoor or harsh working environments.

2. Key points for purchasing wireless AC

① Management scale:

Based on the number of APs and network size in the industrial IoT, choose an AC with sufficient management capabilities.
Different models of AC can manage different numbers of APs, and it is necessary to choose according to actual needs.

② Feature Support:

AC is not only responsible for the management and configuration of APs, but also supports various network functions, such as radio frequency management, access security control, guest networks, VLAN division, and more.
Choose an AC with rich features to meet the diverse needs of industrial IoT.

③ Stability and reliability:

The Industrial Internet of Things has extremely high requirements for network stability and reliability, and requires the selection of AC that has undergone rigorous testing and certification.
AC with good stability can ensure the normal operation of the network under harsh conditions, improving production efficiency and safety.

④ compatibility:

Ensure that the selected AC and AP belong to the same brand and series to ensure device compatibility and reduce configuration difficulty.
Different brands and models of AC and AP may have compatibility issues, which need to be fully understood and tested before selection.

3. Suggestions for Purchasing

① Brand selection:

Choose brands with good reputation and rich experience in the field of industrial Internet of Things, such as Huawei, Cisco, Ruijie, etc.
The AC and AP products offered by these brands have undergone rigorous testing and certification, boasting high performance and reliability.

② Budget planning:

Choose a cost-effective AC and AP combination based on budget and demand.
Products of high-end brands usually have better performance and stability, but the price is higher; However, products of middle and low-end brands have higher cost performance and are suitable for scenarios with limited budgets.

③ Technical support:

Choose a manufacturer that provides comprehensive technical support and after-sales service to ensure that problems encountered during use can be promptly resolved.
Technical support includes product consultation, installation guidance, troubleshooting, and upgrade services.

④ Future expandability:

Consider the future scalability of the Industrial Internet of Things, and choose AC and AP products with scalability and upgrade capabilities.
With the development of the Industrial Internet of Things, network demands may continue to increase, and choosing scalable products can reduce future upgrade costs.
The purchase of wireless AP and wireless AC is crucial to building a strong industrial IoT wireless network. By understanding the key points of purchasing APs and ACs, selecting the right brand and model, and planning a budget and technical support, you can ensure that wireless networks play the biggest role in industrial IoT.