Specifications

28 Rockwell Automation Publication AG-SG001G-EN-P - April 2015
Chapter 2 Choosing a Telemetry Network
Internet via Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Advantages/Capabilities
• High-speed broadband Ethernet network connections readily available in
metropolitan areas
• Low monthly fixed cost for continuous data connections
• Minimal capital costs
• Remote access possible to/from anywhere on the Internet
Disadvantages
• Dependent on a public network (may not be available when needed most)
• Requires network security precautions to prevent unauthorized access
Equipment Required
• Ethernet router/modem (typically provided by ISP)
• Ethernet security hardware (for example, firewall or VPN)
Microwave Radio
Microwave radio is a high-frequency (GHz), terrestrial radio transmission and
reception media that uses parabolic dishes as antennas. The dishes are usually
mounted on towers or on top of tall buildings, since this is a line-of-sight
topology.
Advantages/Capabilities
• The media links geographically-remote areas that are not accessible by
phone lines.
• A constant connection exists.
• Transmissions can occur over very long distances over rough terrain.
• You incur no monthly service fee because you own the equipment. The
only expenses are operation and maintenance costs.
• Low transmission delay times exist.
• The larger bandwidth allows you to multiplex many channels over one
antenna.
• Lease circuits from another company who owns their own private
microwave circuit.