AirborneM2M™ User Guide
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PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
This guide describes the AirborneM2M™ device servers and wireless adapters from B+B SmartWorx,
Inc. AirborneM2M™ is a fully integrated, 802.11 wireless Local Area Network (LAN) connectivity device
designed to provide wireless LAN and Internet connectivity in industrial, scientific, medical and
transportation applications where an existing communications interface already exists. The
AirborneM2M family of products supports Serial (RS-232/422/485), Ethernet and a combination these
interfaces in a range of packaging options.
The AirborneM2M™ product family provides true plug-and-play wireless connectivity. By delivering
convenient, easy-to-deploy wireless network connectivity, the device servers and adapters significantly
reduce the complexities of wireless system deployment and network implementation. At the same time,
users can move equipment without the cost and time associated with wired network drops and
environment restrictions. This provides flexibility for seasonal demands, line and staffing changes, and
more.
The AirborneM2M™ family includes models with dual band radios; the ABDNx supports 802.11a/b/g/n.
The AirborneM2M™ Serial Bridges and Device Servers provide a simple connection between the
802.11 wireless LAN and three leading serial interfaces: RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485.
The Bridge acts transparently between any device using these interfaces and a wireless LAN. Using the
B+B SmartWorx virtual communications port Windows device driver, OEMs can communicate with their
devices from any workstation on the same network as if the workstation and devices were directly
attached through a serial port.
The AirborneM2M™ Ethernet Adapter provides a link between the 802.11 wireless LAN and any
Ethernet-ready device with an RJ-45 connector. It acts transparently between the device and a wireless
LAN. By integrating AirborneM2M™ into existing and legacy platforms, OEMs can significantly enhance
their products by delivering increased value and functionality to their entire customer base.
The Airborne family includes the ability to simultaneously use the serial-to-wireless and Ethernet-to-
wireless connectivity in the same unit. This capability provides for multiple connections to the same
machine or consolidation of multiple wireless units into a single device.
The AirborneM2M™ products open the world of remote device monitoring and management, as well as
wide-area data collection, to any device or machine or plant that has an external serial or Ethernet
connection and a network infrastructure. A development kit provides quick and easy access to the
bridge’s configuration and functions, while providing OEMs with a platform to develop their branded
solutions. The bridge also provides the capability to perform firmware upgrades that allow new features
to be added quickly and easily, protecting your investment.
The Enterprise family includes the most advanced security support available for the device class in the
industry, including WPA, WPA2 and full Enterprise support. The devices can be used with the most
advanced WLAN networks being deployed today. Airborne products are based on the industry leading
Airborne device server and wireless adapter technology from B+B SmartWorx, providing a fully
compatible and familiar device interface across all product ranges. If you have used one of them, you
have used them all.