Westermo Launches Wi-Fi 6 Access Points for Industrial Vehicle and Rail Applications

Ibex-1310 and Ibex-1510 enable high-performance Wi-Fi networks in demanding and device-dense environments

Westermo has added two new access points to its Ibex range of WLAN solutions to provide high-performance data communications onboard trains, industrial vehicles and outdoor applications. The Ibex-1310 and Ibex-1510 are concurrent dual band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) access points and clients designed to meet the IEEE 802.11ax standard, also known as Wi-Fi 6. By delivering enhanced performance and speed, especially in device-dense environments, the access points create networks that better support applications such as maintenance access, train data offloading and management systems, and hotspots for passenger Wi-Fi.

The Ibex-1310 is approved for use on industrial vehicles, while the Ibex-1510 has been tested and certified to meet rail standards EN 50155 and EN 45545-2, allowing deployment both onboard trains and trackside. The devices are designed to withstand the tough environment onboard vehicles, including the exposure to constant vibration, extreme temperatures, humidity and demanding electromagnetic environments. An extremely compact and power efficient design enables easy integration in space-restricted installations.

“Wi-Fi 6 is the next-generation wireless standard, that provides improved performance in areas containing lots of connected Wi-Fi enabled devices, faster data transfer speeds, and functionality to enable lower power usage from connected devices,” explained Sami Anttila, Business Development Manager, Westermo. “The new Ibex access points have been designed to deliver these benefits within the demanding environments typically found onboard trains and buses.”

A range of design and construction features helps to ensure a high degree of reliability over an extended lifecycle, which reduces total cost of ownership. A GORE-TEX® membrane prevents internal condensation, while IP66 protection prevents ingress of water and dust, even at the quick connect QMA connectors available on the Ibex-1510. A high level of isolation between all interfaces enables direct connectivity to vehicle auxiliary power and protects against overvoltage and surges.

As with all Westermo networking technology products, the access points are very easy to install, operate and maintain. The two devices are powered by Westermo’s robust and easy to use SW6 operating system, which provides the latest cybersecurity features and updates.