RTLS = Real Time Location System. Imagine using your existing WiFi (802.11) network to locate assets within a couple meters! That’s what Ekahau does without the addition of costly hardware. They even make a soft client that allows for laptops and PDA’s to be tracked/located with their services as well.

The active RFID tag (T301) to the left even has two push buttons which allows for very cost efficient means for two-way communication. This is great for either wireless ANDON calls or parts replenishment in a manufacturing setting. Battery life can last up to five years and the tag even alerts the server when the battery is getting low.

The 1st time I tested this system I simply installed the RTLS software on a desktop computer and then placed a survey tool on a laptop. I roughly mapped a one-million square foot shop on an EZ-Go and was tracking my position with a few feet! All this took less than day to get up and running.

Good stuff, keep your eyes on this industry. I just attended an RFID symposium and though passive RFID ROI is debatable, active RFID has proven itself to be very effective for tracking high-value assets. You can visit the Ekahau web site here.

iGear DTU rocks! That may not be the most professional way of putting it, but it is the best way. The DTU serves as middleware that allows for various types of technology to communicate. Pull data in from a PLC and then send it out to a pager or write it to a database.

I’ve personally used this software to replace a legacy parts replenishment system (migrating PLC call monitor to PDA’s) and to create a warehouse management system (cycle-based LCD ANDON with employee input).

I’ve seen some other amazing uses for this software including the management of large LED signs (think Times Square), voice ANDON (via radio), and even the ability to turn the lights on and off from a web page.

You can visit the iGear web site here. The iGear team is excellent to work with with outstanding customer support.

You don’t hear as much about serial ports nowadays, but a large amount of equipment ranging from PLC’s to LED boards still depends on serial communication. The issue comes when extensive and costly wiring is required.

Enter the Digi Wi-SP. These little wonders allow for serial communication to occur between PC’s and your equipment via your existing 802.11 WiFi network. Features include:

• Selectable RS-232/422/485 interface
• Enterprise-class WPA2/802.11i wireless security
• Flexible 9-30VDC power supply
• Integrated web server for remote management

I have configured and used these for several years in a floor counter system for internal logistics/conveyance management. They are incredibly reliable. The only issues I have encountered is placing them inside a lot of obstructions or a user simply unplugging them by accident.

Another one of our departments was buying an entire computer, network drop, and plasma display to do the same thing while all that was required was one of these $300 units with a cheap LED sign. Think out of the box!