Serial Module offers short-range wireless functionality.
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Press Release Summary:
Bluetooth Intelligent Serial Module allows industrial processing and manufacturing equipment to be wirelessly linked to Process Logic Control systems. Product enables transfer of data and operating commands without need for cables, acting as dumb serial-connected device to host system. Interface uses AT commands which control various operations, and device uses flash memory to implement Bluetooth functions.
Original Press Release:
TDK Systems Clears the Cables from the Factory Floor
Brings short-range wireless functionality to industrial sector
Boston, MA - December 9, 2002 - TDK Systems has launched a Bluetooth Intelligent Serial Module that allows industrial processing and manufacturing equipment to be wirelessly linked to Process Logic Control (PLC) systems.
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless standard which enables the transfer of data and operating commands without the need for cables. This will significantly reduce risk, maintenance and downtime, particularly in highly corrosive and explosive environments.
Development of new processing equipment typically takes from 12 to 18 months and costs in the order of $150,000. By providing modular devices, such as the Intelligent Serial Module, developers can significantly reduce the cost and time of system integration; the module is fully approved and does not need further compliance testing by the integrator.
TDK Systems' Intelligent Serial Module acts as a dumb serial-connected device to the host system, which could be anything from vending machines to process management devices. Its interface uses AT commands which control the various operations and the device uses flash memory to implement its Bluetooth functions.
"By developing a 'building-block' product, TDK Systems is helping system designers, OEMs and integrators to reduce both the cost and delivery time of new equipment," said Nick Letheren, head of research and development at TDK Systems. "Bluetooth technology has already proven itself as a very useful and highly interoperable means of connecting various types of mobile computing and telephony devices. As such, we see it having a very big future in the industrial sector in 2003."
According to the Bluetooth Industrial Automation Study Group, sales in this sector could reach US $1 billion by 2006 and $3 billion by 2008.
Samples of the Intelligent Serial Module are available through Flint Distribution (+44 1530 510333). For further information visit www.tdksystems.com or www.flint.co.uk.
For further information on TDK Systems, please visit LEWIS' virtual press room at lewisvpr.com/clients/tdk.html
About TDK Systems
TDK Systems, part of the $5.6 billion TDK Corp. (NYSE: TDK), specializes in the design and development of products for the wired and wireless markets. TDK Systems' strong understanding of both PC and telecoms places it in a unique position to develop solutions for the wireless market. The company is a founding member of the Bluetooth Consortium and is actively researching and developing solutions for next generation networks. All of TDK Systems' designs are aimed at turning wireless into a practical end-user solution, providing the ultimate in compatibility and interoperability.
All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.
