Weidmuller, a provider of solutions for the transmission of power, data and control signals in industrial environments, has introduced the new WLAN wireless Ethernet modem.

The new industrial Ethernet WLAN Access Point (News - Alert)/Bridge/Client wireless connectivity device from Weidmuller is IEEE 802.11a/b/g compatible in both the 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz bands.

Weidmuller’s modem can be used as an access point, bridge or client and power can be supplied to the device either through Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or with the redundant power supply connections.

Noting the importance of wireless communication solutions Weidmuller says that its WLAN can easily be integrated in the Turbo Roaming feature allowing mobile clients to quickly switch between wireless cells without the risk of signal loss.

Because Weidmuller's new WLAN module has the ability to  utilize PoE and support multi SSID, VLAN and QoS it is ideal for integration into existing wired or wireless Ethernet networks.

The company is offering these WLAN wireless devices with a 5-year warranty and says that these are approved by several agencies such as CE, FCC (News - Alert), cULus Class 1 Div. 2 / ATEX Class 1, and Zone 2.

Thanks to WPA/WPA2 encryption and RADIUS server authentication (IEEE 802.1X) included in the modem, users can be assured of safety against any unauthorized access to the wireless networks.

The new WLAN wireless Ethernet modem also includes extended diagnostics that provided through an easily readable signal strength display.

This feature allows users to easily diagnose connection quality and align the antenna. Also included in the Weidmuller WLAN module are integrated DI/DO contacts used for monitoring and alert functions.

In other news, Farnell, a global multi-channel electronics distributor, has announced it is stocking the new Weidmuller CH20M modular electronics housing, designed to enclose individual electronic assemblies for installation in electrical cabinets and distribution systems for electronic design engineers as well as maintenance and repair professionals.