The Industrial Wi-Fi Shop Podcast

Free 3D Printer Plans! * Oscium WiPry790x and Clarity/Lucid DIY bracket posted on Thingiverse. Bring your own hair ties. I have been informed Printables is better so I will post there soon. * https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943 [https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943] Upcoming Events! * Wi-Co  * October 1st – Montreal, Canada * November 6th – Washington, DC * November 19th – Utrecht, Netherlands * WLPC * Prague, Czech Republic * October 11-13 – boot camps * October 14-16 – main conference Keith Jones CEO of Prism Systems has provided 2 license codes for the PrismStats Live software (iOS) a URWB commissioning tool. Helpful for spot checking, parsing, and troubleshooting Cisco URWB  Fluidity deployments created by Prism Systems! Email Jeremy if interested! Don’t forget to check out our new document library with free valuable downloadable content to help you in your wireless endeavors in the industrial and manufacturing air space! On with the show! IWS Episode 20 – 900MHz or Bust * A little bit about 900MHz in general * ISM frequency space * 802.11 channel designations * 902 – 928 MHz * 1 MHz wide channels * General dynamics of 900MHz * distances/ranges * Penetration values  * Power consumption * Esteem Horizon 900 radios * Channel structure * Channel widths * 5, 10 and 20 MHz wide options * Realistic bandwidth and constraints * Up to 72mbps at 20 MHz wide channel * OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing – I wanted to sound smart) * Power * 802.3at PoE+ * 12VDC Direct * IndustrialMESH and path redundancy * What is IndustrialMESH? * How is it handled * Self-Healing, redundant, backup communication paths – Automatic Switching * Uses standard network Spanning Tree Protocol (STP, RSTP, MSTP) * Routes can be configured, controlled and prioritized by user or Auto-MESHing (“Rapid Ready” Mode of operation – similar to an ad-hoc network.) * Can this be configured dynamic or does it have to be manually configured/static. (See above) * Additionally, the MESH Bridge links can be individually configured for always up status or dynamically controlled based upon RSSI thresholds * Security * Proprietary communication protocol * Bridging * Encryption * WEP (64 or 128 bit) * TKIP * AES-CCMP (128 or 256 bit) * AP / Client Modes * WPA * PSK  * Enterprise 802.1x w/RADIUS * WPA2 * PSK  * Enterprise 802.1x w/RADIUS * AP Router / Client * Access Point Mode * Client Mode * Masquerade mode * Access point mode * Client client * Station Bridge Mode * Mobile Client – Bridge functionality * Twin Bridge Mode * Secondary Bridge/MESH network * Common Hardware * Isolated Traffic [https://industrialwifishop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image.png?w=1024]Wi-Fi HaLow 4 MHz wide broadcast [https://industrialwifishop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-1.png?w=1024]Esteem 5 MHz wide broadcast * Compare/contrast how Esteem works vs Wi-Fi HaLow * Frequency utilization * Efficiency * What it looks like in spec-an * Primary use cases / verticles * Agriculture * Water / Waste water systems * Mining * Oil & gas / Energy * Factory floor * AGV/Autonomous Vehicles * What other offerings does Esteem have? * Models/operation modes * Frequency usages * Use cases Do you have ability to cover 5.9, plans for 6 GHz? With the  industrial verticals you guys operate in, what you see coming in the future of industrial wireless applications. If you would like to connect with Dan Tolley, Eric Marske or learn more about their employer, Esteem, then check the following: Dan Tolley – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieltolley/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieltolley/]  Eric Marske – https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-marske-51029b21/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-marske-51029b21/]  Esteem  – https://www.global-business.net/https://esteem.com/ [https://esteem.com/]  If you would like to connect with Scott or learn more about his employer, Global Process Automation (GPA), then check the following: Scott McNeil – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/]  GPA – https://www.global-business.net/ [https://www.global-business.net/]  If you would like to connect with Jeremy or learn more about his employer, Prism Systems Inc, then check the following: Jeremy Baker – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/]  Prism Systems Inc – https://www.prismsystems.com/ [https://www.prismsystems.com/]

IWS Episode 19 Show Notes –  C-URWB Appeal! Free 3D Printer Plans! * Oscium WiPry790x and Clarity/Lucid DIY bracket posted on Thingiverse. Bring your own hair ties. I have been informed Printables is better so I will post there soon. * https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943 [https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943] Upcoming Events! * Wi-Co  * September 10th – UK South / london * October 1st – Montreal, Canada * November 6th – Washington, DC * November 19th – Utrecht, Netherlands * WLPC * Valencia, Spain * September 12-14 – boot camps * September 15-16 – main conference * Prague, Czech Republic * October 11-13 – boot camps * October 14-16 – main conference Keith Jones CEO of Prism Systems has provided 2 license codes for the PrismStats Live software (iOS) a URWB commissioning tool. Helpful for spot checking, parsing, and troubleshooting Cisco URWB  Fluidity deployments created by Prism Systems! If you are interested in one of these two license keys, please email Jeremy at Jeremy@industrialwifishop.com Don’t forget to check out our new document library with free valuable downloadable content to help you in your wireless endeavors in the industrial and manufacturing air space! On with the show! IWS Episode 19 – C-URWB Appeal! * URWB technology was first introduced in the market in 2005 by Fluidmesh Networks, focusing on ultra-low latency and ultra-reliability for mission-critical wireless connectivity. * Cisco acquired Fluidmesh Networks in 2020, integrating URWB technology into its portfolio and advancing its capabilities alongside Wi-Fi technology. * URWB uses a specialized implementation of MPLS over wireless links to enable very low latency and reliable transmission in mobility scenarios, supporting “make-before-break” handovers for seamless connections to moving vehicles. *** What is MPLS! *** Multiprotocol Label Switching, is a networking technology that uses labels to route data more packets efficiently. MPLS works by attaching a small “label” to each data packet as it enters the network. This label acts like a shortcut, indicating the path the packet should take through the network. Instead of routers making complex routing decisions based on destination IP addresses, they can quickly forward packets based on the attached label, leading to faster data transmission * The technology features patented Multipath Operations (MPO), which delivers uninterrupted connectivity by duplicating high-priority traffic on multiple uncorrelated frequency paths, dramatically reducing packet loss and latency. This provides greater redundancy for implementations. * URWB has been widely adopted in various industries including mining, entertainment, utilities, ports, manufacturing, rail, and smart cities, supporting heavy applications like autonomous vehicles, remote-controlled cranes, and industrial automation. * In 2025, Cisco announced combining URWB functionality with Wi-Fi capabilities in its access points, allowing unified infrastructure and management to support both technologies simultaneously, thus simplifying deployments and reducing operational overhead. C-URWB is NOT 802.11 !!!  –  although it is built upon and extends the 802.11 technology foundation. * 802.11 is mainly an access technology for end-user devices like computers and smartphones, URWB functions as a wireless backhaul technology. It connects network infrastructure elements (such as access points, controllers, and industrial devices) with managed, optimized communication links. * URWB offers features beyond standard Wi-Fi, including seamless “make-before-break” handoffs, multipath operations (sending duplicate packets over separate paths to ensure reliability), and RF interference mitigation for highly reliable connectivity in challenging environments. * Has two flavors: FluidMax which is the backhaul (fixed point) and Fluidity where mobile clients need to roam as in rail or warehouse AGVs. Igor – been at Cisco 5 years as a pre-sales engineer, came over as part of the Fluidmesh acquisition in 2020. Prior to that, worked in the transportation sector as a systems integrator for airport people, movers and commuter rail systems for about 7 years. Back in 2012 i was tasked with finding a commercial off the shelf wireless product that would be good for mobility and wire-like roaming for airport people movers. It was at that time we were testing cisco, fluidmesh, and a few other vendors to see what would meet our success criteria as our wireless product for our train systems. We initially went with cisco 3602Es and 5500 wlc controllers running WGB and pre .11r neighbor table configurations…with later projects shifting to Fluidmesh, Fluidity architectures, and that seamless roaming, high-throughput and low latency connectivity over wireless.  Matt – been at Cisco for 18 years,  pre-sales engineer supporting lots of customers – financial, professional services, hosted collaboration, shuffled to the IoT team about 4 years ago.  I grew up farming and live on a small farm now, about 60 acres give or take.  I have the property covered in Wifi+CURWB and have hundreds of IoT devices on-net across the property.  Neck deep in all things RF and wireless – lora, 433, BLE, you name it and i’m interested.   4400, 5500, 9800, I’ve worked with all the things.   What is URWB and why should we care about it? * High level, it’s an ethernet backhaul technology over wireless, which utilizes the unlicensed 5 GHz and eventually 6 GHz spectrum with our recent announcement with catalyst 9800 controllers * It’s great for fixed point to point point, multipoint and mixed backhaul for static environments with a set and forget antenna alignment and stable RSSI * As well as mobility connectivity, to connect moving assets such as trains, utility vehicles, ship the shore cranes, mining dozers, and AGVs back to their OT edges and cores What is the next big release on the roadmap? * 17.18.1 * Next would be Catalyst Center support and configuration…sometime next year * Currently, this is considered a beta release, with the gold star release firmware coming out in 3-6 months. * Highly encourage downloading and playing with it.  What problems will the 802.11/URWB simultaneous modes solve? * 1 box solution for reliable WiFi and wireless backhaul to Cisco controllers via URWB * Providing a cheaper solution (vs 2 box), less SmartNet and DNA license seats…and a true commercial grade wireless backhaul product on a proven Cisco Catalyst wireless platform. * Digital divide or equity projects, where you want wi fi for underserved areas (mostly outdoor)  * Similarly, providing Wi-Fi on moving vehicles. Take for example a commuter rail system that has public facing Wi-Fi in the vehicle and an external URWB Fluidity backhaul to the trackside network. Couple that with urwb seamless roaming, you’ll have bidirectional high-throughput, and low-latency connectivity for Wi-Fi passenger use. * Wi fi hotspots in typical IoT vehicles. Think of your outdoor utility vehicles, container handler vehicles at a port. Maybe it’s a forklift running over urwb and then providing wi fi connectivity within a hundred foot radius of that parked forklift for tablet, cell phone connectivity, whatever is needed to manage the day to day operations and manufacturing process at that site.  * Overhead crane connectivity in manufacturing environments to backhaul fisheye cameras and PLC comms. Are there any plans to provide beacons so standard tools can be used for RF Validation, or is Telemetry king? * For now, telemetry is king, and using software tools such as PrismStats to capture, analyze and post process the telemetry stream for both fixed and mobile connectivity. Nothing beats real empirical measurements in RF environments, and PrismStats is a quick, easy, cheap and reliable way to get this data in the hands of the engineers. * TBD, I’m sure there will be better hooks into AI-RRM, Wireless Config Analyzers, and other standard features you see with Cisco Wireless, though it’ll take some time to fully integrate to the bells and whistles we offer with Wifi. What are the most useful documents you reference even at your current level of expertise? * Right now, digging into the Cisco Live On Demand Library. Lots of great wi fi and u r w b content there…and goes back a few years. * Unplugged Connectivity YouTube channel. 100s of videos and episodes about all things Cisco Catalyst and Meraki Wireless…and a few URWB sessions there * Cisco TDM, Ordering Guides, and CVDs * Google AI searches…digging through all of the public facing configuration guides; hardware install guides, datasheets, etc to answer very specific RF questions. Tell us about an interesting project you have worked on and how URWB solved the complications the customer faced. Igor – Digital divide during covid using Meraki MRs for wifi and FM URWB radios to underserved areas in Dallas-Fort Worth, as well as City of Wake Forest. PtMP and relay architectures mostly. Something that can also be replicated with outdoor campus connectivity we see in hospitals, colleges, and corporate campuses. With DoTs, lots of intersection connectivity to traffic management solutions and cctv cameras on those tall vertical assets. So next time you are at a red light, look up and you might see a square panel used as the directional backhaul to another traffic light a quarter mile away. Indoor AGV connectivity has also been a top use case with fluidity, so various customers there using fluidity, and in some cases, using wi fi wgb for not so mission, critical connectivity. MPO is a great benefit here, with packet duplication/deduplication of that mission-critical PLC. Ports and terminals, fluidity, connectivity to these vehicles using multiple 90 degree horn antennas off of those high mast light poles to provide connectivity for terminal operating system (tos) applications. Train to ground for mission-critical traffic backhaul, as well as not so mission-critical wifi ap backhaul, passenger signage and VoIP e-tel Open pit mining, combination of fixed PtP and PtMP backhaul to temporary trailer setups, and then configuring fluidity to those large mining vehicles. Great for ad hoc environments with constantly changing topology and redesigning with line of sight in mind. Jeremy- I really like the new hardware, no more overly protective hiding of my M12 cable. Use cases & Stories * Scott – I deployed what was originally a FluidMesh system for a wood chip yard for a paper mill. Four giant automated machines for the dispersal and reclamation of wood chips for the beginning of the paper making process. Two monster chip “Stackers” and two giant chip “Reclaimers” [https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf4bWDNIEYNEiMySkRG7SkY7x6zkSKhDEZOs0NoOI7SYAPb2BbKw7wNTkwLDRCB9QtUVpg70hsFytScnB25mDabJR3AHeNCR8IWeHPq345Jx4v6OHBipxCQoUWPeRpnmitJQNHuQw?key=uuc5vbr6LrvXtKlgCJYRjQ] * Deployment ran great for several years. Ended up replacing original FluidMesh hardware with updated C-URWB hardware due to FM being end-of-life and could not get spares (well, and one did fill with water after a particularly bad storm) * Jeremy – I have participated in several POCs for passenger rail control, a Smart Farm using Fluidity and FluidMax as the backhaul. Commissioned production systems include several steel mill cranes, a port or two, some modified R-Coax applications, several themed rides, and a partridge in a pair tree. If you would like to connect with Matt Virus or Igor Moiseev or learn more about their employer, Cisco, then check the following: Matt Virus – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-virus-1953869/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-virus-1953869/]  Igor Moiseev – https://www.linkedin.com/in/igormoiseev1989/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/igormoiseev1989/]  Cisco  – https://www.global-business.net/https://www.cisco.com [https://www.cisco.com/]/ go/curwb  Unplugged Connectivity – https://www.youtube.com/@getunplugged [https://www.youtube.com/@getunplugged]  If you would like to connect with Scott or learn more about his employer, Global Process Automation (GPA), then check the following: Scott McNeil – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/]  GPA – https://www.global-business.net/ [https://www.global-business.net/]  If you would like to connect with Jeremy or learn more about his employer, Prism Systems Inc, then check the following: Jeremy Baker – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/]  Prism Systems Inc – https://www.prismsystems.com/ [https://www.prismsystems.com/]

IWS Episode 18 Show Notes –  The Magic of BLE! Free 3D Printer Plans! * Oscium WiPry790x and Clarity/Lucid DIY bracket posted on Thingiverse. Bring your own hair ties. * https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943 [https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943] Upcoming Events! * Wi-Co  * UK South, London – 9/10-11 * Register now! * https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wi-co-gathering-the-herds-london-uk-tickets-1345627029669?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wi-co-gathering-the-herds-london-uk-tickets-1345627029669?aff=oddtdtcreator]   * Montreal, Canada – 10/1 * Register now! * https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wi-co-bringing-the-herd-together-montreal-qc-ca-tickets-1297281677419 [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wi-co-bringing-the-herd-together-montreal-qc-ca-tickets-1297281677419]   METAGEEK UPDATE NEWS: * On Monday, July 14th, Metageek will be dropping their latest update for Chanalyzer. In this update they will have channel breakouts for both Bluetooth Standard/Classic (79) and Bluetooth Low Energy (40) The Basics of Bluetooth Handy spectrum reference, Bluetooth channels included. https://spectrum.potatofi.com/ [https://spectrum.potatofi.com/] [https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf655P5j-nBNY8HMlfJK6humOftLxfYxyUgB4G1bvkh-ErgHjCge6-YxQ7hUm8EEyGOncff0q29SZjyKuf-YFlpnzb_ifJfs0btQeIx7ofnpNNIVfyHfbhvYONAevrUoT1lI1_3_g?key=bk0f4b8kIkt4au2aAFHBEA] [https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfPnrwJPT9NVaBwheTk8I1JuAT_RxdPG2zJJRjgEp1Gv246-Nbw8m4Y_7qKghuYyR2TAWDIJgZV1rhxaiWDxdvZAyRRe_q5lBi3NxtahSngrxUn1SyfpLBGO0mv_nF9vKxlw9bJ?key=bk0f4b8kIkt4au2aAFHBEA] Class 3 * Maximum Power Output: 1 mW (0 dBm) * Typical Range: Up to 1 meter (3 feet) * Applications: Wearables, fitness trackers, and devices where low power is critical * Notes: Rarely used due to extremely limited range. Class 2 * Maximum Power Output: 2.5 mW (4 dBm) * Typical Range: Up to 10 meters (33 feet) * Applications: Most smartphones, tablets, laptops, and Bluetooth headsets * Notes: Most common class for consumer electronics. Class 1.5 * Maximum Power Output: 10 mW (10 dBm) * Typical Range: Up to 20 meters (65 feet) * Applications: Some Bluetooth headsets and mid-range devices * Notes: Not as common as other classes; sometimes grouped with Class 1 in specifications. Class 1 * Maximum Power Output: 100 mW (20 dBm) * Typical Range: Up to 100 meters (330 feet) * Applications: Industrial equipment, long-range wireless peripherals * Notes: Both devices must be Class 1 to achieve maximum range. Key Points * Range depends on both devices: The effective range is determined by the lower class (lower power) device in the connection. * Power vs. Range: Higher power output allows for greater range but increases energy consumption. * Class 2 is standard: Most consumer Bluetooth devices use Class 2 for a balance of range and battery life. All about BLE (in general) * Ultra-Low Power Consumption: BLE is optimized to use minimal energy, allowing devices to operate for months or even years on small batteries. It achieves this by keeping the radio off most of the time and transmitting data in short, infrequent bursts. * Short-Range Communication: BLE typically operates within a range of 10 to 50 meters indoors, but with Bluetooth 5.0 and newer, the range can extend up to 150 meters in open environments. * Efficient Data Exchange: BLE is designed for applications that require periodic transmission of small amounts of data, such as sensor readings or device status updates. It is not suitable for continuous, high-bandwidth tasks like audio streaming. * Fast Connection and Low Latency: BLE enables quick device discovery and connection, with latency as low as 6 milliseconds—much faster than classic Bluetooth, which has around 100 ms latency. * Frequency and Channels: BLE operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM band, using 40 channels (each 2 MHz wide), compared to 79 channels in classic Bluetooth. This helps reduce interference and improve efficiency. How BLE Works * Advertising and Scanning: BLE devices periodically broadcast small advertising packets on three primary channels. Other devices scan for these packets to discover and connect with peripherals. * Connection Roles: BLE uses an asymmetric design: * Central: Typically a smartphone or computer, handles more processing and power. * Peripheral: Usually a sensor or wearable, optimized for minimal energy use. * Data Transmission: Once connected, devices exchange data in short bursts, then return to sleep mode. This pulsed operation leverages battery recovery effects, further extending battery life. BLE employs two main channel selection algorithms for frequency hopping: 1. Algorithm #1 (CSA #1) * Introduced in the original BLE specification. * Uses a simple, incremental approach to select the next channel. * The sequence is uniform and deterministic, without randomization. * Primarily used in earlier versions of BLE. 2. Algorithm #2 (CSA #2) * Introduced in Bluetooth 5.0 to enhance security and randomness. * Generates a pseudo-random sequence of channels for each connection event. * Provides better distribution and reduces predictability, making it harder for attackers to track or jam communication. * Now the preferred algorithm in modern BLE devices. Adaptive Frequency Hopping (AFH) * BLE divides the 2.4 GHz band into 40 channels (each 2 MHz wide), with 37 used for data and 3 for advertising. * AFH continuously monitors the radio environment for interference. * Channels identified as “bad” (due to high interference or error rates) are excluded from the hopping sequence. * The channel map, updated dynamically, ensures only “good” channels are used for hopping. How It Works * At each connection event, the devices select the next channel using the current channel selection algorithm and the updated channel map. * The hopping sequence is synchronized between connected devices, ensuring reliable and interference-avoiding communication. FeatureAlgorithm #1 (CSA #1)Algorithm #2 (CSA #2)IntroductionOriginal BLE specBluetooth 5.0Selection MethodIncremental, deterministicPseudo-random, more secureRandomizationNoneYesInterference AvoidanceBasicImprovedCurrent UsageLegacy devicesModern BLE devices Key Takeaways * BLE uses adaptive frequency hopping (AFH) with either Algorithm #1 or Algorithm #2 for channel selection. * Algorithm #2 is now the standard for newer BLE versions, offering improved security and interference mitigation. * Channels are dynamically assessed and “bad” channels are avoided in real time to maintain reliable connections. General questions about Aunex BLE Do the Dataeagle series of radios use BLE as per the standard set forth by the Bluetooth SIG or do they modify it in any fashion? How does Aunex get such crazy ranges/distances out of BLE? * Special software? * Low level chip access? * Proprietary marshmallow magic? What kind of latency do you see for data transport?  * 100ms?  * 50ms?  * Less? What other products  If you would like to connect with Tobias or learn more about his employer, Aunex, then check the following: Tobias Meyer – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobimeyer/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobimeyer/]  Aunex Inc. – https://www.global-business.net/https://aunex.io/en-us/ [https://aunex.io/en-us/]   If you would like to connect with Scott or learn more about his employer, Global Process Automation (GPA), then check the following: Scott McNeil – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/]  GPA – https://www.global-business.net/ [https://www.global-business.net/]  If you would like to connect with Jeremy or learn more about his employer, Prism Systems Inc, then check the following: Jeremy Baker – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/]  Prism Systems Inc – https://www.prismsystems.com/ [https://www.prismsystems.com/]

Free 3D Printer Plans! * Oscium WiPry790x and Clarity/Lucid DIY bracket posted on Thingiverse. Bring your own hair ties. (Scott tell me how much you love it.) * https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943 [https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943] Upcoming Events! * Wi-Co  * Bordeaux, France – 7/3 * Register now! * https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/france-july-2025 [https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/france-july-2025]   * Bay Area,  CA – 7/7 * Register now! * https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/bayarea-june-2025 [https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/bayarea-june-2025]   * OT SCADA-Con presented by Automation Ladies * https://www.otscada.com/ [https://www.otscada.com/] * July 23-25th in Houston (Might be hot, so wear your cargo shorts) * Here are a few of the topics that they will have speakers present on: * PLCs and I/O, HMI, Machine Safety, Machine Vision, Robots, Cobots, DCS, OT Cybersecurity and many more.  * Automation Ladies Podcast – https://www.automationladies.io/ [https://www.automationladies.io/]  On With The Show… * What is an AirCheck G3. What can you use it for? How is it different from other tools? * Ruggedized handheld solution * Android based device, capable of running additional approved apps from the NetAlly app store * All in one * Incredible battery life * Both passive and active testing * Not only a site survey and spectrum analysis tool, it is more of daily troubleshooting and validation solution * Can be used for network discovery and topology mapping * Supports external antenna for device location * You can expand its functionality by using USB accessories or installing third party apps. [https://industrialwifishop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/aircheck-g3.png?w=347] The Breakdown * Active / Passive surveys * 1 single device to carry around, no adapters or tethers to other devices * Auto samples while you move, just like most other survey devices * Simply tap when you change direction * Load drawings / floor plans to Link-Live cloud account, name and calibrate. Multiple formats acceptable  * Push plans to the device and you are ready to go! * Completed surveys can be analyzed in Link-live, downloaded to AirMagnet or even exported to Hamina or other tools! * Spectrum Analysis * Honestly, used to be good for a few spot checks here and there but the new adapter (the NXT-2000) has completely changed NetAlly’s game with spec-an * Increased scan rates * Increased resolution * Much easier to recognize classic RF signatures like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and other notable protocols like FHSS/DSSS * Currently can only take snapshots of readings but actual recordings are on the development roadmap. [https://industrialwifishop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cyberscope-air.png?w=403] * Wi-Fi analytics (sheesh, where to start…) * General Wi-Fi network detection * W-Fi client detection * Per SSID * Wi-Fi type / protocols (wi-fi 3, 4 5 etc…) * Security types recognition and validation * Great tool called “Insights” which can identify and highlight potential issues based off of wireless best practices * Chanel widths * Legacy wireless types (wireless b for example) * Legacy security * TX power limits * Identifies devices with high/very high retransmits and highlights them * Full network scans on connected networks for device inventory and security checks/validation * Sooo much more! * Link-Live * One stop shop for analytics on everything the device reports * Little bit of a learning curve on site navigation / file structure * Outstanding graphs and charts depicting multiple different points of interest from the analytics. * These are easily downloaded in your choice of several different formats to include in custom reporting * Can share data with other link-live accounts  * What is a CyberScope? How is it different from an AirCheck? * NMap * Comes with 5 or 6 premade scripts ready to run * Can upload custom scripts to run * Access to other Android based apps Important links * Where can we see NetAlly in action? * https://www.netally.com/on-the-road/ [https://www.netally.com/on-the-road/]  * Aircheck G3 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5I1kWc2eao [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5I1kWc2eao]  * Cyberscope Air – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GriSMAbJ5c [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GriSMAbJ5c]  If you would like to connect with Julio or learn more about his employer, NetAlly, then check the following: Julio Petrovitch – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/https://www.linkedin.com/in/julio-petrovitch-99a050345/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/julio-petrovitch-99a050345/]  NetAlly – https://www.global-business.net/https://www.netally.com/ [https://www.netally.com/]   If you would like to connect with Scott or learn more about his employer, Global Process Automation (GPA), then check the following: Scott McNeil – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/]  GPA – https://www.global-business.net/ [https://www.global-business.net/]  If you would like to connect with Jeremy or learn more about his employer, Prism Systems Inc, then check the following: Jeremy Baker – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/]  Prism Systems Inc – https://www.prismsystems.com/ [https://www.prismsystems.com/]

Winners!  * Wi-Fi Explorer Pro 3 – The Definitive User Guide Giveaway Winner * There are two copies of the Wi-Fi Explorer Pro 3 – The Definitive User Guide by Nigel Bowden and Adrian Granados  * Winners were drawn randomly  * The winner from IT is – J. W. Hannam (book) * The winner from OT is – Heath Weeks (book) * Carlos Assunção (lic. key) * Robin Decloedt (lic. key) * Wi-Fi Explorer Pro 3 Software Winner if applicable * If you are curious about WE3 check out this awesome interview with Adrian Granados and Nigel Boden on Keith Parsons Heavy Wireless: Episode 45 for a deeper look at the tool. https://packetpushers.net/podcasts/heavy-wireless/hw045-a-comprehensive-guide-to-wi-fi-explorer-pro-3-features-insights-and-more/ [https://packetpushers.net/podcasts/heavy-wireless/hw045-a-comprehensive-guide-to-wi-fi-explorer-pro-3-features-insights-and-more/] * Oscium WiPry790x and Clarity/Lucid DIY bracket posted on Thingiverse. Bring your own hair ties. (Scott tell me how much you love it.) * https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943 [https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6991943] Upcoming Events! * Wi-Co  * Chapel Hill NC – 5/14 – Scott presenting “Fun with Spectrum Analysis! Interesting and crazy interferers I have recorded in the field!” * There are still a few more spots open! Register now! * https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/northcarolina-may-2025 [https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/northcarolina-may-2025]  * Philadelphia PA – 5/15 – Our good friend Ali will be there! * There are still a few more spots open! Register now! * https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/philly-may-2025 [https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/philly-may-2025]  * Nashville 5/29 – Jeremy presentation on CURWB * Not sure if spots are left, but it is going to be fun. * https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/nashville-may-2025 [https://wi-co.org/upcoming-events/nashville-may-2025]  * OT SCADA-Con presented by Automation Ladies * https://www.otscada.com/ [https://www.otscada.com/] * July 23-25th in Houston (Might be hot, so wear your cargo shorts) * Here are a few of the topics that they will have speakers present on: * PLCs and I/O, HMI, Machine Safety, Machine Vision, Robots, Cobots, DCS, OT Cybersecurity and many more.  * Automation Ladies Podcast – https://www.automationladies.io/ [https://www.automationladies.io/]  NIST In The News! * NIST-Led Industrial Wireless Standard IEEE 3388 Passes Important Review Steps * https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2025/02/nist-led-industrial-wireless-standard-ieee-3388-passes-important-review [https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2025/02/nist-led-industrial-wireless-standard-ieee-3388-passes-important-review]  * NIST stands for the National Institute of Standards and Technology * Rick Candell, NIST’s Industrial Wireless Systems Project Leader, and his team have led the working group developing the draft IEEE 3388 Standard. * The standard focuses on the Performance Assessment of Industrial Wireless Systems. * A major milestone was reached: * The draft passed the IEEE Standards Association RevCom (Standards Review Committee) review. * It received approval from the IEEE Standards Association Standards Board. * Key features of the standard: * Establishes a functional model for RF industrial wireless performance degradation factors (called “aggressors”). * Provides a reference test architecture for evaluating the performance of industrial wireless networks. * Target applications: * Manufacturing * Power generation * Precision time-sensitive sensing * Closed-loop control * Any mission-critical use where wireless is the primary communication mode * Benefits: * Enables standardized testing before deployment. * Enhances reliability of wireless systems in mission-critical environments. * Next steps: * Detailed specification of interference and propagation aggressors. * Creation of profiles tailored to specific industry verticals. * This milestone reflects: * The team’s dedication to advancing industry standards. * A strong commitment to fostering innovation in critical wireless communication applications. [https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc8drY0YzZHNYw3geV0IzBhOvwG9QJ-ouAwlHrUgFLhKY0zDP4nHbDIM7s3Ywwf3iedVy1xoJUEVhbyriQ2lrUx_w8t3dFE4BqXW8IFCho-9jrvwJ7D89SifvythjH4BTl0VVoBdg?key=FHER-UM7GlKiGzMXNay0KyQS] Growth of Industrial related Wireless communications The Exactitude Consultancy report on the Industrial Wireless Automation Market, published in April 2025, provides a comprehensive analysis of the market’s current status and future prospects. https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/51486/industrial-wireless-automation-market [https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/51486/industrial-wireless-automation-market] Market Overview: * 2024 Market Value: Estimated at $26.5 billion. * Projected 2034 Market Value: Expected to reach $50.8 billion. * Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): Forecasted at 6.9% from 2025 to 2034. * Historical Data Period: Covers data from 2020 to 2023. * Largest Market Region: North America. Market Segmentation: * By Product Type: 1. Wireless Sensors 2. Wireless Controllers 3. Wireless Gateways * By Application: 1. Process Automation 2. Factory Automation 3. Machine Automation * By End User: 1. Manufacturing 2. Oil and Gas 3. Energy and Power * By Technology: 1. Wi-Fi 2. Zigbee 3. CellBluetooth Key Market Drivers * Adoption of IIoT: The increasing implementation of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies is enhancing connectivity and real-time data exchange in industrial settings. * Operational Efficiency: Wireless automation solutions are contributing to improved operational efficiency and cost savings across various industries. * Advancements in Wireless Technologies: Developments in technologies like 5G and LPWANs are facilitating faster and more reliable wireless communication. TOP 15 KEY COMPETITORS 1. Siemens AG 2. Schneider Electric SE 3. Rockwell Automation, Inc. 4. Honeywell International Inc. 5. ABB Ltd. 6. Emerson Electric Co. 7. Yokogawa Electric Corporation 8. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation 9. General Electric Company 10. Panasonic Corporation 11. Continental AG 12. Advantech Co., Ltd. 13. Omron Corporation 14. Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. KG 15. Belden Inc. Importance of Best Practices Best practices in industrial wireless applications are crucial for several reasons — they ensure reliability, safety, scalability, and long-term maintainability of the system. Here’s a breakdown of why they matter: 1. RELIABILITY Industrial environments are often full of interference (from motors, metal structures, etc.), so best practices help mitigate: * Signal dropouts * Latency issues * Data loss By following established design principles like proper frequency planning, antenna placement, and interference mitigation, wireless systems can perform consistently. 2. SECURITY Wireless systems are more vulnerable than wired ones. Best practices enforce: * Encryption protocols (e.g., WPA3, TLS) * Authentication * Access control to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats or sabotage. 3. SAFETY In industrial environments, failures can be dangerous. For instance, if a sensor signal is lost and a machine doesn’t stop, it could lead to injury or damage. Adhering to best practices ensures: * Redundancy * Fail-safe mechanisms * Real-time communication standards (like ISA100 or WirelessHART) 4. SCALABILITY & PERFORMANCE As operations grow, wireless systems need to: * Handle more devices * Maintain low latency * Manage network congestion Best practices guide network architecture that can expand smoothly (e.g., mesh networks, QoS policies). 5. MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING Standardized practices make diagnosing problems and upgrading systems easier by: * Using documented configurations * Employing remote management tools * Ensuring interoperability between devices from different manufacturers 6. COMPLIANCE AND STANDARDS Industries often need to comply with regulations like: * IEEE 802.11/802.15 standards * FCC/ETSI rules * Industry-specific protocols (e.g., IEC, ISA standards) Best practices ensure you’re not just compliant, but also audit-ready. 7. LONG TERM SUPPORT * Just general comments about how best practices keep things easy to use later. * Eliminates dependence on tribal knowledge Starting in May, the Industrial Wi-Fi Shop will begin releasing a series of wireless best practices guides. Topics will include everything from CIP Safety over wireless to best practices for radiant coax. Possibly redundant wireless links, iPCF,  These resources will be freely available to our audience as a way of giving back to the wireless community that has supported us. WHAT’S ON THE BENCH? What are some projects or technologies we have been trying out. WLAN Pi Go/WEPi Eero Pro/Con Halowlink mention some of the stuff from slack – tests people have. (enter giveaways, free hardware is awesome) Data Eagle WHAT’S NEXT? Aunex Tobias Meyer NetAlly TBA Maybe a different approach to RCoax If you would like to connect with Scott or learn more about his employer, Global Process Automation (GPA), then check the following: Scott McNeil – https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/americanmcneil/]  GPA – https://www.global-business.net/ [https://www.global-business.net/]  If you would like to connect with Jeremy or learn more about his employer, Prism Systems Inc, then check the following: Jeremy Baker – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyabaker/]  Prism Systems Inc – https://www.prismsystems.com/ [https://www.prismsystems.com/]