Performance evaluation of wireless networks for factory automation applications

Recently, there has been interest in applying wireless networking to automation systems to support control, diagnostics and safety functionality in automated manufacturing systems. Multiple standards and technologies are competing for use in these systems. In this paper we study two major wireless standards, IEEE 802.11a,b,g (WiFi), and IEEE 802.15.1–2005 (Bluetooth v1.2) highlighting performance aspects that are relevant to control and automation networks. We demonstrate that these networks can in fact be used for control systems, but discuss some of the factors that must be considered when migrating from a wired to a wireless implementation. For each protocol, we summarize the key facets of the Medium Access Control and Physical layer and present results from performance measurements. Finally, we discuss how these networks can be deployed on the factory floor.