Since industrial wireless is still an evolving technology, many manufacturing engineers are reluctant to try it in their plants. Jeremy Bryant, an automation technology specialist at Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. (Alpharetta, GA) says several concerns are hindering widespread implementation, including a perceived higher cost than wired solutions; concern about RF interference; lack of knowledge and experience of the wireless technology; concern about reliability; concern about signal reception, drop outs and blockage; concern about security in wireless solutions; and confusion over standards.
Cost is a big concern, because wireless sensors can be three times more expensive than traditional technology. However, "a lot of companies look at initial cost, rather than overall system lifetime cost," says Jesse Hayes, product manager for automation components at Schunk Inc. (Morrisville, NC). "When you factor in maintenance costs and other issues, wireless technology may actually be more economical."