In the rapidly developing IIoT field, various advanced technologies and equipment are converging at an unprecedented speed, jointly promoting the intelligence and efficiency of industrial production. Among them, wireless bridge, as a key wireless communication technology device, plays an important role in connecting various network nodes and is an indispensable cornerstone for building a seamless wireless industrial Internet of Things.

1. Basic concept of wireless bridge

Wireless bridge, as the name implies, is a bridge for wireless networks. It uses wireless transmission to build a communication bridge between two or more networks. Unlike traditional wired networks, wireless bridges can achieve long-distance network connections without laying complex cables, greatly reducing wiring costs and construction difficulties.

The working principle of the wireless bridge is relatively simple but efficient. It transmits and receives wireless signals through antennas, converts wireless signals into digital data, and then realizes data transmission between networks. In this process, the wireless bridge not only maintains the integrity and stability of the data, but also provides a high transmission rate and a long transmission distance.

2. Main Features of Wireless Bridge

Long transmission distance: 

The transmission distance of a wireless bridge varies depending on the model and configuration, but it can usually reach several kilometers or even tens of kilometers. This feature makes the wireless bridge have a unique advantage in a wide range of industrial environments.

High transmission rate: 

With the continuous advancement of technology, the transmission rate of wireless bridges is also constantly improving. Modern wireless bridges can provide transmission rates of up to hundreds of megabytes or even thousands of megabytes, which is sufficient to meet the needs of large data transmission in the industrial Internet of Things.

Good compatibility: 

The wireless bridge supports multiple communication standards and protocols, enabling interoperability with devices from different manufacturers. This makes the wireless bridge more flexible and convenient when building complex industrial IoT systems.

Easy deployment: 

The deployment of wireless bridge does not require complex wiring work, just install the device in the appropriate location and configure the relevant parameters. This greatly reduces the difficulty and cost of construction and improves deployment efficiency.

3. Application of Wireless Bridge in Industrial Internet of Things

Industrial automation: 

Wireless bridge can connect sensors, PLC programmable logic controller, HMI human-machine interface and other equipment to achieve wireless data acquisition, monitoring and control. This helps improve production efficiency and safety, and reduce operation and maintenance costs.
Logistics and transportation: In the field of warehousing and logistics, wireless bridges can achieve wireless data transmission and control, improving logistics efficiency and accuracy. For example, driverless vehicles can be connected and remotely monitored through wireless bridges to ensure the safety and smoothness of logistics transportation.

Energy management: 

Wireless bridges also play an important role in energy management systems. It can remotely monitor, manage and control the supply and consumption of electricity, gas and water, helping enterprises achieve energy conservation, emission reduction and sustainable development.

Urban infrastructure: 

In urban roads, transportation, lighting systems and other infrastructure, wireless bridges can achieve remote monitoring and control, improving the operational efficiency and safety of urban infrastructure. For example, smart street lights connected through wireless bridges can automatically adjust brightness based on traffic flow and light intensity, thereby saving energy and enhancing the image of the city.

Environmental monitoring: 

Wireless bridge can also be applied to environmental monitoring system to realize wireless monitoring and data transmission of environmental parameters such as atmosphere, water, soil and noise. This helps to obtain real-time environmental quality information and provide scientific basis for environmental protection and governance.

4, How to choose the right wireless bridge

When choosing a wireless bridge, you need to consider the following key factors:

Transmission distance and bandwidth: 

Choose the appropriate transmission distance and bandwidth according to actual needs. Ensure that the transmission distance of the wireless bridge is greater than the actual monitoring transmission distance, and reserve sufficient performance margin to cope with adverse factors such as severe weather. At the same time, select the appropriate transmission rate according to the requirements of wireless monitoring to ensure the stability and efficiency of data transmission.

Operating frequency: 

2.4GHz and 5.8GHz are the mainstream operating frequencies of wireless bridges. The 2.4GHz band has good compatibility but is susceptible to interference, making it suitable for scenarios with short transmission distances and less co-channel interference; The 5.8GHz band has strong anti-interference performance but relatively short transmission distance, which is suitable for urban areas, busy cities and other scenes with more interference. Therefore, when selecting the operating frequency, it is necessary to weigh the actual environment.

Antenna type: 

Antenna is an important accessory of wireless bridge, used for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. Select the appropriate antenna type such as omnidirectional antenna or directional antenna and gain value according to actual needs to ensure the coverage and transmission quality of wireless signals.

Power supply mode: 

The working environment of wireless bridge is usually complex, so the power supply mode is also an important factor to consider. Wireless bridges that support POE Power over Ethernet network cable power supply can simplify power supply issues and improve deployment efficiency.

Protection level: 

Since wireless bridges work mostly in outdoor environments, they need to have a high level of protection to cope with harsh weather and physical damage. Choosing a wireless bridge with waterproof, dustproof, heat-resistant, and condensation-resistant features can ensure its long-term stable operation.
As the cornerstone of building a seamless wireless industrial IoT, wireless bridges play a pivotal role in the industrial field. By understanding its basic concepts, main features, application scenarios, and selection methods, we can better utilize this technology to promote the development and application of industrial IoT. With the continuous progress and innovation of technology, it is believed that wireless bridges will play a more important role in the future and contribute more to the intelligent and efficient industrial production.