Adding wireless interfaces to industrial automation process computers requires expansion cards certified to work in the industrial temperature range. Advantech provides a family of such devices that support cutting-edge wireless standards and offer flexibility in Bluetooth host control interface connectivity.

Advantech uses a WCN7851 chipset across the entire product family. This means the cards come with drivers for both Linux and Windows 11, thereby giving designers a choice to minimize software coupling in their industrial automation stack.

In terms of supported wireless standards, the cards offer both WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3. As for WiFi security, 64/128-bit WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3, and 802.1x are available, meaning the products can readily connect to a wide array of industrial and SOHO routers. Furthermore, the wireless subsystem is downward-compatible, enabling reliable networking with various industrial WLAN standards.

Finally, antennas can be provided externally to allow optimal placement. The system supports two send and two receive channels, and exposes two IPEX MHF4 connector receptacles for antenna mating. This means that antennas can be physically placed wherever it is convenient, including outside the main case or control panel.

Various Bluetooth Interface Options and Multiple Form Factors

The AIW-173 family contains a total of five sub-modules that differ in both physical shape and Bluetooth interface. Thanks to the chipset\'s flexibility, communication with the Bluetooth transmitter can be accomplished via UART or USB. The WiFi connection always uses PCIe.

If the LGA 1620 form factor is best suited to the task at hand, SKU AIW-173LQ-GI1 provides the USB Bluetooth version. AIW-173LQ-GI2 has the Bluetooth transmitter connected to a serial UART interface instead. Should the host platform expose an M.2 2230 E key connector, order SKU AIW-173BQ-GI1 for USB connectivity. UART connectivity is offered via SKU AIW-173BQ-GI2.

Process computers with a full-size Mini PCIe slot can use AIW-173HQ-GI1: it provides a USB interface for Bluetooth.

Omnidirectional Antennas and Connection Accessories Are Available

Advantech\'s accessory portfolio supports automation engineers with antennas and connection cables that are ideally suited to the WiFi/Bluetooth module. SKU AIW-512, also known as 1751000651-01, provides an omnidirectional antenna. If an IP67 wireless antenna is required, SKU AIW-513 (aka 1751000717-01) can be used instead.

Finally, WiFi cables can be ordered via SKU 1751000648-01. These come pre-provisioned with the necessary connector and can be used to link the antenna to the wireless card.

Conclusion

Thanks to its industrial temperature range and the wide range of Bluetooth interface options, the Advantech AIW-173 family meets the needs of industrial control engineers flexibly. If a process computer needs a wireless interface card, these products deserve prime consideration.