WirelessHART Solutions

WirelessHART Solutions

WirelessHART solutions provide a flexible method of integrating measurement points into monitoring systems without adding new signal cabling. They combine gateways, adapters, and network management to extend HART-based communication over a self-organizing wireless mesh. This enables incremental deployment - adding measurement where wiring cost, access limitations, or schedule constraints would otherwise delay or prevent instrumentation.

System architecture centers on a WirelessHART gateway connected to the host monitoring system and a network of WirelessHART field devices (scalable to hundreds of nodes). Instruments transmit measured values at defined intervals to the gateway, which collects and makes data available to connected applications. Adapter concepts allow WirelessHART communication to be added to existing 4–20 mA or HART devices, enabling upgrades without replacing instruments or pulling new cable. FieldCare device configuration software can be used to configure the network and devices.

The primary benefits are speed and reach. Rapid installation supports projects with frequent expansions, temporary measurement needs, or commissioning windows that do not allow new conduit runs. Wireless links bridge obstacles and integrate difficult-to-access points, including moving or rotating equipment where cable management is challenging. Because the network is self-organizing, setup and commissioning effort is reduced compared with ad hoc point-to-point wireless arrangements.

Integration focuses on making wireless data behave like conventional plant data. Gateways interface to monitoring systems, while clear update and change-control practices keep network documentation aligned with the physical installation. Design considerations include placement for reliable radio paths, coexistence in the 2.4 GHz band, and power management for adapters and devices to balance update rates with battery or power budgets.

Typical applications include adding measurement on rotating machinery, mobile or skid-mounted systems, well heads, and remote assets where wiring is costly or disruptive. WirelessHART is also used to extend diagnostics and periodic measurements into existing areas without shutting down to pull cable, and to provide quick visibility during optimization projects where sensors may later be redeployed.

Forberg Smith, an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.