In the world of industrial wireless communication, the need for robust, secure, and efficient technology is paramount. Two standout offerings from ESTeem—the Horizon 900 and the Edge 900—cater to these needs, though with distinct features and capabilities. This article explores the differences between the ESTeem Horizon 900 and the ESTeem Edge 900, shedding light on their specifications, applications, and ideal usage scenarios.
Data Rate and Network Capabilities
A critical difference between the two models is their data transmission capabilities. The ESTeem Horizon 900 supports a variable RF data rate from 1 to 72 Mbps, leveraging OFDM modulation to provide higher bandwidth and speed, akin to WiFi devices. This capability is particularly beneficial for applications requiring the rapid transfer of large amounts of data across a network, such as in smart manufacturing or IoT integration.
In contrast, the ESTeem Edge 900 offers a fixed data rate of 1 Mbps, which, while sufficient for many industrial applications, does not support the high-speed data transfer that more complex operations might demand.
Security and Network Reliability
Security is paramount in industrial settings to protect sensitive data and operations. The ESTeem Horizon 900 offers comprehensive security features including WPA2, WPA, AES-128/256, TKIP, WEP-64/128, and MAC ID filtering, providing flexible options to meet varying security needs. It provides downward compatibility to previous generation of radios (195Ed) and their use in complex networks. The ESTeem Edge 900 offers a single level of security with the AES-256 encryption. The AES-256 encryption is the highest level of security offered. The ESTeem Edge 900 also offers budget-friendliness without extensive customization.
Furthermore, the ESTeem Horizon 900 excels in creating scalable, self-healing wireless mesh networks, enhancing network reliability and uptime through automatic re-routing in case of a node failure. This feature is absent in the ESTeem Edge 900, which supports only basic master/client repeater capabilities.
Frequency and Power Output
Both the ESTeem Horizon 900 and ESTeem Edge 900 operate on the 902-928 MHz frequency band, ensuring they are well-suited for North American industrial applications. However, the ESTeem Horizon 900 boasts a higher RF power output at 30dBm compared to the ESTeem Edge 900’s 24dBm, allowing for greater signal strength and range.
Industrial Suitability and Mounting Options
Both devices come housed in an industrial case with NEMA 4 rating, making them suitable for harsh environments and capable of being pole-mounted. This rugged design ensures that both models can withstand the rigors of industrial environments such as water/wastewater treatment facilities, oil and gas operations, and mining sites.
The choice between the ESTeem Horizon 900 and the ESTeem Edge 900 largely depends on the specific needs and budget constraints of the application. The ESTeem Horizon 900 is suited for high-speed, complex networks requiring advanced security and network management features. It is ideal for sectors undergoing digital transformation needing robust, fast, and secure network connectivity. On the other hand, the ESTeem Edge 900 offers reliable performance at a more budget-friendly price point, perfect for straightforward applications that do not require high throughput or complex network configurations. Each device provides a tailored solution, ensuring that industrial communications remain uninterrupted, secure, and efficient.