News & Events: New Developments

Updated Oct 31, 2007

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Hybrid Ethernet-serial Modems for the 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz ISM Bands

The 900 MHz SRM6220 and the 2.4 GHz SRM6320 Hybrid wireless modems are the newest members of the Data-Linc Group robust, reliable SRM family of wireless modems that have well-earned reputation for robust, reliable data transfer in the most challenging environments. The SRM6220 and the SRM6320 feature Ethernet with serial tunneling capability that is compatible with most protocols like DF-1 and Modbus RTU. Additionally, they offer a number of unique customer benefits such as backward compatibility, which means that one of these new modems can replace an Ethernet SRM6210E or SRM6310E or be added to a legacy SRM6210E or respective SRM6310E network. In addition to the ease of replacing “retired” modems, backward compatibility also allows the user to move from legacy equipment into today’s technology as need and as budget allows with the added benefit of reduced cost from requiring only a single “replacement/backup” modem.

Data-Linc Group Appoints New Eastern Regional Sales Manager

February 2007 hails multiple new developments at Data-Linc Group

Data-Linc announce the appointment of Hal Williams as Global Sales & Marketing Manager. Williams will provide leadership to the organization in this newly created position as Data-Linc continues to expand its global presence. (Please see press release February 1, 2007).

Providing additional support for installations requiring Class 1 Div 2 certification, Data-Linc now offers three wireless Ethernet options in the 900 MHz ISM and 2.4 GHz ISM bands. Read more...

Data-Linc's powerful RF network diagnostic software tool, LincView^TM OPC adds its SRM7210E long-range, high speed 900 MHz Ethernet radio modem with throughput speeds of up to 800 Kbps and a range of 20 miles plus to its compatibility list. Read the press release, or get detailed information about LincView OPC and the SRM7210E capabilities.

Two new Data-Linc modems expand features of the FastLinc Family of High Speed 802.11 modems

The FastLinc^TM Family of IEEE 802.11 Industrial Ethernet Wireless Modems have a reputation for robust and reliable high-speed, secure communications using 2.4 GHz direct sequence technology. One of the new duo, the FLC810E+ replaces the stand-alone Ethernet FLC810E (that Data-Linc will continue to support) with the same features "PLUS" additional enhancements. The two latest arrivals— the FLC810E+ and the FLC820G join the FastLinc PCMCIA card FLC800C+ modem to provide three distinct options for applications for which 802.11b or g modems are indicated.

The FLC810E+'s Station Adapter Mode supports multiple field devices for wireless network bridging and delivers high output power (300mW) with excellent receiver sensitivity for outstanding in-plant RF coverage and outdoor range.

Among its other features, the FLC820G offers an extended temperature range and boasts long-range communication (10 miles, 17 Km) with .1 Watt RF power. It can even support those distances with extended coaxial cable lengths by utilizing an amplifier at the Master location that boosts RF power to 1 Watt.

Contact us via phone 425-882-2206 PCT or regarding your industrial high speed applications and installations in harsh environments to determine which robust Data-Linc modem can best meet your network communication needs.

Data-Linc modems support Fifo Technology's Recovery System for econcomical Stripper Well oil recovery

Fifo Technologies, Inc. selected Data-Linc Group to provide wireless modems in the creation of a wireless SCADA system for Fifo's innovative stripper well oil recovery system. Data-Linc supplies its economical, high performance PlantLinc^TM PLR5000 Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum modems to provide highly reliable monitoring and control of Fifo's equipment and the oil well performance. Read the Press Release for more information about this next generation, cost effective approach to tap the previously "economically unavailable" oil in stripper wells.

Data-Linc Group: World class & now worldwide

A new Authorized Regional Representative (ARR) office in New Delhi, India opened in July under the direction of Shakeb Assri. Please see Press Release for details and contact information.

Data-Linc extends "Extended Temperature Range" for DLM4500

ISA EXPO-CONTROL 2006: Best in Show

LASSO and Data-Linc with award for “Best in Show”

Click here to visit LASSO on the web.

LASSO's two-story award-winning booth design provides display space below and a presentation room and a private meeting room above.

Wideband Frequency Hopping SRM7210E adds even faster Ethernet speed to Data-Linc's SRM Family

SRM Family adds the SRM6310E-QTM for the
Modicon Quantum Form Factor

Schneider Electric recently announced Data-Linc's new SRM6310E wireless Ethernet radio in a Modicon Quantum Form Factor for chassis mount convenience. The product was received with great interest when formally introcuded in Latin America and at Schneider Electric's Init@ative 2005 campaign in Seville, Istanbul and Bangkok. Read the data sheet for Data-Linc's Ethernet wireless chassis mount modem for Modicon Quantum Form Factor.

Enhanced LincView Software Provides Real-time Wireless Diagnostics in "LincView OPC"

LincView OPC diagnostics software: network topolgy tree screen shot

LincView OPC manages multiple remote modems from a central workstation (Window^® based PC) and allows monitoring of the performance of Data-Linc 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz radio modems used in a point-to-multipoint network. The diagnostic program provides powerful features that enable the user to quickly and conveniently identify network problems as well as potential problems. The program also provides remote control of the programmable parameters of all of the radios in a network. The diagnostics program will not function in point-to-point networks.

LincView OPC diagnostics software is compatible with networks of the current hardware and firmware versions of SRM stand-alone 900MHz and 2.4 GHz modems shown above

When using the SRM6000/6100 (wireless serial), the diagnostic program may be run directly from an available RS-232 communications port of a computer connected directly to the Master radio’s diagnostics, or from a remote computer using the TCP/IP connect feature. When using the SRM6210E/6310E the diagnostics program connects to the Master modem in the same way the serial modem does or through the Ethernet connection on the modem. The enhanced diagnostics program will not interfere with the operation of an applications program running on the network.
LincView OPC software simplifies complex network management taking advantage of internal improvements in our robust SRM Family of wireless stand-alone modem. Click to see what LincView OPC Diagnostics has to offer.

LincView OPC is compatible with the current hardware and firmware versions of SRM stand-alone modems shipping today. It may be compatible with some existing systems. Please contact Data-Linc Group at 425-882-2206 Pacific Coast Time or to confirm compatibility for an existing network or for additional information or questions.

Data-Linc— one of select key partners in Schneider's focus on solutions and services worldwide

Data-Linc Group adds to Customer Support Team

Data-Linc Group Presents Industrial Wireless Technology at First-Ever Automation Developers Forum

Data-Linc's March 2005 Insight Newsletter posted

Data-Linc is pleased to keep you up to date regarding significant product additions, enhancements and case studies involving the major PLC manufacturers interfaced with Data-Linc's advanced industrial grade wireless and wire modems

In this issue:

• Product News: 5 New Products
• Application Notes: Case studies of installations involving GE Fanuc, Rockwell, Schneider and Siemens PLCs with Data-Linc modems
• Tutorial: Applying Wireless to Ethernet Industrial Networks
• FAQ: Wireless modems and antennas

Read the March edition.

Data-Linc Group expands industrial wireless communications line

Data-Linc Group now offers PlantLinc^TM 5000 Industrial Wireless Serial Modem and PlantLinc 580 Wireless I/O Extender. Each product provides a cost effective solution for reliable wireless communications up to 4 miles (6.5 km) in the license-free 902 to 928 MHz spread spectrum band using frequency hopping technology

PlantLinc 5000 (PLR5000) provides wireless communications for serial, RS232 devices at data rates up to 38.4 Kbps. PlantLinc 580 comes in two versions: the PLR580D Wireless Discrete I/O Extender with eight discrete inputs and eight discrete outputs, and the 580DA Wireless Discrete/Analog I/O Extender that includes discrete signals plus eight analog inputs and eight analog outputs. In pairs, the PLR580 wireless extenders provide I/O signal transmission to multiple locations for point-to-point or in point-to-multipoint configurations. The result is a cost effective, simple to implement wireless solution for I/O signal transmission for distances up to 4 miles (6.5 km).

For more information, read the data sheets for the PlantLinc 5000 Industrial Wireless Serial Modem and the PlantLinc 580 Wireless I/O Extender or contact Data-Linc via phone 425-882-2206 PCT or .

Data-Linc's SRM license-free modems selected for extensive pipeline applications in Brazil

Data-Linc was awarded the contract involving over 250 modems for the initial stages of the new pipeline system projects covering South Central Brazil from São Paulo to Brasilia. By completion of the project, several thousand modems will be required for the nationwide system. Despite the challenges of San Paulo State, the pipeline control center can monitor the entire system utilizing LincView Diagnostics via the SRM modems. Data-Linc and A-B Tech have offered a viable solution to monitor the integrity of the pipelines, and within the foreseeable future the monitoring will be able to be done from one central location that encompasses the entire 3.3 million square miles of Brazil. (Read the complete article.)

Rockwell and Data-Linc Group provide Lijiang, China with reliability, expandability, confidence and clean water

Lijiang Water Authority needed 1.) an easy-to-implement means of expanding their existing water system while utilizing legacy equipment and 2.) to build this system in an area covering difficult terrain. In addition to these two technically challenging conditions, it faced a third: to win over the people of Lijiang from skepticism caused by frequent shut-downs of the existing pipelines that turned them toward reliance upon old dependable wells with compromised water quality. Shanghai Saier Automation Company, a Rockwell Automation system integrator, worked closely with Encompass partner Data-Linc Group to design and install a new water system control and monitoring network that overcame the terrain communications challenge, incorporated existing equipment along with license-free serial stand-alone and chassis mount modems and ensured the dependable delivery of clean, safe water to the people of Lijiang. Read the complete article with diagram.

Data-Linc's wireless modems approved for use in EU countries

The latest versions of Data-Linc's license-free wireless modems have been approved for use in EU countries. The SRM6100-EU serial radio modem and the SRM6310E-EU wireless Ethernet modem operate in the 2.4 GHz license-free ISM bands and, like all the modems in the SRM Family, utilize Smart Spectrum^TM frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology to provide the highest level of reliability and performance for wireless data transmission, even in high interference environments. The SRM6310E-EU modem functions as a wireless Ethernet bridge and is transparent to all Ethernet protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, etc.) Like the other stand-alone modems in the SRM Family, it also may be used with the LincView^TM diagnostic tool. Read the complete press release.

Data-Linc presents the extended temperature DLM4500, the latest addition to its DLM Family of dial-up/leased line modems

Data-Linc has combined the features of its DLM4000 and DLM4100-ET (extended temperature) into the extended temperature range DLM4500. This latest addition to the DLM Family of dial-up/leased line modems offers virtually all of the advantages of the other two modems combined into one. Read the DLM4500 data sheet or compare features using the Selection Matrix for wire line modems.

Data-Linc appoints new Southwest Regional Sales Manager

Data-Linc Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Garrard as the new Southwest Regional Sales Manager— More...

FastLinc Industrial Wireless Ethernet Modem Passes Extended Temperature Tests

For additional information, see the detailed specifications data sheet for the FLC810E, or read about the FastLinc 802.11b Family which includes a stand-alone and a PCMCIA card modem.

Data-Linc Group expands its discrete/analog wireless multiplexer data communication line

Data-Linc Group has expanded its multiplexer data communication line in response to customer request. Data-Linc now offers 2.4 GHz versions of its DD1000 discrete and DDAA1000 discrete/analog wireless multiplexers. The DD1000/SRM/2.4 and the DDDAA1000/SRM/2.4 support the same features as the 900 MHz models which includes:

• the ability to reconfigure the radio and the I/O via a configuration port

• the transmission of 4-20mA and/or discrete signals without the cost or inconvenience of adding wires or additional devices

• a combination analog/discrete signal digitizer

• the radio section incorporation of the license-free spread spectrum ISM (industrial/scientific/medical) band technology utilized by Data-Linc Group’s SRM Family of industrial grade wireless modems

• the wireless transmission of data up to 10 miles (16 km) with line-of-sight and an omni directional antenna

• a simple to implement solution for I/O signal transmission

Each DDAA multiplexer has eight discrete inputs and eight outputs, as well as eight analog (4-20mA) inputs and outputs. The DD1000 has the same specifications but offers only the discrete function. Read more about the DD1000 or DDAA1000 wireless multiplexers for the 2.4 GHz band or about the original 900MHz band wireless multiplexers.

If you have an application for which the multiplexer could offer a solution, or to discuss your specific application, contact Data-Linc via phone (425) 882-2206 Pacific Coast Time or .

FastLinc Family of 802.11b modems receives FCC Grant

On February 17, 2004, Data-Linc Group's FastLinc Family of IEEE 802.11b, Wi-Fi compatible modems received FCC approval. This FCC grant allows the use of high-gain antennas up to 14 dBi for long-range applications. Data-Linc's FastLinc antenna offerings now include omni-directional antennas from 2 to 8 dBi and Yagi directional antennas from 10 to 14 dBi. Both the FastLinc FLC810E and FastLinc flc800c+ are now available for shipment.

The FastLinc Family is the latest addition to Data-Linc's broad array of modems known for their highly reliable performance in challenging industrial environments. FastLinc provides fast, high-speed wireless Ethernet connectivity and supports wireless bridge point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and industrial access point modes for Wi-Fi compliant communications.

For more information, read the data sheets for the FLC810E Ethernet stand-alone and the flc800c+ PCMCIA models, or contact Data-Linc via phone at (425) 882-2206 Pacific Coast time or .

See a comprehensive list of the FastLinc FLC 802.11b modems and FLC antenna options with their Model Numbers.

Data-Linc license-free radio modems— the first choice for video data transfer

Whether for private industry or national security, Data-Linc Group's license-free wireless Ethernet and serial radio modems meet the demanding requirements of video data transfer. Because Data-Linc's serial radio modems can transmit data up to 35 miles line-of-sight (wireless Ethernet modems at up to 25 miles line-of-sight). Both ranges can be extended with Repeaters or directional antennas and, because they provide an exceptional level of data integrity and security, the Data-Linc modems are recognized as the best choice for data communication in critical areas from private industry to state and federal government as well as military installations. For a list of compatible video equipment vendors or for questions about your specific application, contact us via or call one of our application engineers at (425)882-2206 Pacific Coast Time. Also see the Security section (under Industries) on our web site.

Data-Linc's SRM Family has eight members

The SRM Family now includes: SRM6000 serial stand-alone and SRM6000/SLC chassis mount 900 MHz and SRM6100 serial stand-alone and SRM6100/SLC chassis mount 2.4 GHz serial stand-alone, SRM6200E wireless Ethernet 900 MHz and the SRM6300E wireless Ethernet 2.4 GHz chassis mount, and the 900 MHz SRM6210E and the 2.4 GHz SRM6310E. The SRM6210E and SRM6310E license-free, frequency hopping spread spectrum Wireless Ethernet radio modems offer a smaller footprint (2.45"H x 3.38"W x 6.3"L), flexible mounting (movable brackets and optional DIN-rail mount clip) and an extended operating temperature range of -40 to 167°F (-40 to 75°C). The SRM6210E is designed specifically for the license-free 902-928 MHz ISM band while the SRM6310E is designed for the 2.4-2.4835 GHz ISM band. Both are also fully RF compatible with their counterparts, the SRM6200E and SRM6300E models.

Read more about the SRM Family, or see the data sheets for the SRM6210E 902-928 MHz wireless Ethernet modem, and the SRM6310E 2.4-2.4835 GHz wireless Ethernet modem.

SRM6100 Wireless Serial Radio Modems Revamp Operations in a Power Generation Plant in China

Mounted antenna (in foreground) allows modems to transmit data between central control and ship-side coal unload machines 350-500 meters away.

A power generation plant's coal-unload system that became operational in August of 1996 in China was brought into the 21st century by a recent revamping of the system. A Modicon-987/785E PLC and supervisor PC provide the control and monitoring while an OMRON PLC operates in the unload machine driver room. Ten mobile coal-unloaded machines work on ships during the coal handling process. Since 1996 coal-unload machines communicated with the control room through a slide wire with limited data transfer. Not only was data communication limited, but the slide wire was costly, difficult to maintain requiring continual maintenance for optimal performance. The revamped system utilizes Data-Linc's SRM6100 wireless serial radio modems which eliminate the need for costly slide wire.

SRM6000 wall mount in plant control room

Since the update the operator can read the parameters, movements and operations of the individual remote coal-unload machines and send control commands to them. Maintenance personnel in the control room can change the program on the remote PLC at the unload machine; additional PCs in the control room can share data from the unload machines; the PLCs have the capability to receive control and program commands from the control room; and if the primary PC (PC1) has problems, a switching circuit switches the SRM6100 wireless modem to another PC, ensuring the RF communication between control room and coal-unload machines.

For more information or answers to questions about your project, contact Data-Linc via phone (425) 882-2206 Pacific Coast Time, fax (425) 867-0865 or . In China or other Asia Pacific countries,

Data-Linc Ethernet Radio Modems Withstand Harsh Industrial Environments

Data-Linc's SRM6200E and SRM6300E Ethernet radio modems have passed industrial shock/vibration testing at an accredited lab for applications in the harshest industrial environments. In addition, as of the first quarter of 2001, the SRM6200E/6300E provides the same -40° to 167°F (-40° to +75°C) operating temperature range as the SRM6000/SRM6100 serial radio modems. Exceptional data reliability and integrity is achieved at a range of up to 35 miles for the SRM6210E and up to 20 miles for the SRM6310E, without Repeaters, using omni directional antennas (no expensive Yagi directional antennas required), thereby reducing installation cost and eliminating any risk of loss of signal due to antenna misalignment.

Wireless Ethernet Modems Connect Energy Firm
Data-Linc Group modems bridge data communications in extensive U.S. SCADA Project

Data-Linc Group's license-free, wireless Ethernet modem was the preferred data acquisition solution for a US-based Fortune 500 energy services firm. The Data-Linc SRM6200E Ethernet modem was specified to become an integral communications component of a new electronic flow meter monitoring network. This wireless IP network will extend throughout the contiguous United States and is the largest SCADA project to date in North America.

The Data-Linc Ethernet radio modem employs leading edge spread spectrum frequency hopping technology. This technology, coupled with the benefits of Ethernet connectivity, is quickly becoming the preferred method for data communication networks. Wireless Ethernet modems can successfully extend data communication networks into remote areas that cannot be hardwired or where cabling is cost prohibitive.

The was the natural choice to network remote locations. The SRM6200E does not require expensive Ethernet cabling. Therefore, its range far exceeds that which can be achieved with Ethernet cabling. The fully supports TCP/IP based protocols and provides remote PLC programming and diagnostics, as well as wireless connectivity between corporate IS and control. The wireless Ethernet modem provides cost effective, reliable, robust data communication.

Simultaneous Remote and Repeater Mode Simplifies License-free Radio Modem System Design

Data-Linc offers a Remote and Repeater mode for its SRM6000 Series Radio Modem line. With this additional mode, the popular spread spectrum radio modem now supports simultaneous Remote and Repeater operation and enables a Remote location to also serve as a Repeater for communications with other Remotes.

The feature simplifies radio modem design and reduces costs because one modem will do the work of two or, in some cases, even three modems. The SRM6000 accomplishes this feat by invoking a "store and forward" operation in which the data received is passed to the Remote device (such as an RTU) and also transmitted to other Remote modems.

Applications such as water/wastewater systems and oil/gas pipelines in which an ideal Repeater location often coincidentally includes a Remote device can greatly benefit from this feature. For example, installing an SRM6000 on a water tank will now facilitate communication with the tank's PLC and act as a Repeater for communications with the pump stations.

The SRM6000 is an intelligent modem designed specifically for industrial applications and harsh environments. The modem is field configurable to function as a Master, Remote, Repeater, and now, a Remote/Repeater. This flexibility makes the SRM6000 a great choice for systems that evolve over time and where spares are required.

For more information, contact Data-Linc Technical Support at (425) 882-2206 or via .

Data-Linc CCS9000 Managing Multiple PLCs from Remote Locations

The benefits of dialing into a PLC for programming and diagnostic purposes are significant. Communicating with a PLC via modem will often eliminate the need to travel to the site and, most importantly, get the system back into operation more quickly. But, what if there are more than one PLC to manage as well as PLCs from a variety of manufacturers? What if there are multiple sites with PLCs— What if the installation of a phone line is expensive or impossible? Enter the Data-Linc Group CCS9000 Comprehensive Communications System. The CCS9000 was developed specifically for Traffic Management. Read FAQ for CCS9000, and also see the CCS9000 data sheet and related diagrams under "Products/Custom Solutions.")