Leased lines have been the most common way for devices to communicate over a wide geographical area for decades. Typically, an analogue modem connected to each end of the line would interface with the RS-232 or RS-485 ports on an RTU, PLC or SCADA. Since then, time and technology have progressed and telecoms suppliers around the world are withdrawing support for leased lines. The replacement technology is IP based broadband over fixed-line, or more commonly, over 4G (LTE) and presumably, it will be 5G in the future.
Westermo provides a range of solutions for seamlessly connecting legacy serial devices to the replacement broadband technology.
• No code, configuration, or hardware changes will be required for the remote device
• Communications over broadband is much more cost effective than leased line
• Communication between sites is protected by encrypted VPN (IEC 62443 Data Conduit)
• Futureproof the remote location, when it is time to upgrade the site to full IP connectivity
Broadband routers from Westermo are equipped with serial ports. The serial interface works the same way as a serial port on a router which means that the end device will not be aware that the media has been exchanged for broadband. The only difference is the method of data transport. When a datagram is received from the connected device it is inserted into an IP packet and transmitted to a preconfigured IP address. An IP device receiving a serial datagram strips off the IP wrapper and passes it to the serial interface.
Typically, the routers at either end of the conversation are linked by a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN, in essence, can be seen as a pseudo leased line. The advantage is that the data is encrypted between the two routers regardless of whether the VPN passes over the public Internet or a private network.
The robust and compact Merlin 4400 cellular router is the ideal fit for utility and industrial applications. Featuring zero-touch large-scale deployment and comprehensive cybersecurity capabilities, such as secure boot and TPM (Trusted Platform Module).
Learn moreModem emulations that enable legacy dialup applications to be seamlessly migrated to a broadband alternative technology.
Westermo provides a range of solutions for seamlessly connecting legacy serial devices to the replacement broadband technology.
For decades we have offered products and solutions for remote access networking applications. Our extensive product range and deep understanding of applications ensure that we can offer the best solution for your needs.
Cellular connectivity enables the ability to monitor sites holistically.
Gain an overview of sites that were either once manned or relatively invisible.
Keeping your remote industrial networks and systems secure has never been more critical.
Cost effectively deploy and carry out maintenance of thousands of routers.
Protocol conversion enables one common stream of data to be transmitted or received to the top-end SCADA.
Migrate legacy serial devices from dial-up or leased line modem communications to serial over IP broadband.
Carl de Bruin
International sales
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