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Asked:20 Oct 2025

Communication / Networks: Wlan Networking Including overhead Cranes

Dear All,
In one of my WLAN Application , i want to comunicate a overhead rail Crane PLC with Ground level Control room.
The overhead rail is about 600 m long on which crane is moving and i have S7400PLC in the Crane.At ground level i have S7400PLC.i want to getsome data of crane PLC to Ground level PLC.
To establish the Communication, i am thinking tokeepa oneclient module on moving Craneandone access point(stationary) along the 600 m rail.
once the wireless comunication between access point and client module will establishi will comunicate the stationaryaccess point on rail to Ground level PLC via fiber optic comunication.
following are my doubt regarding WLAN Communication.
1)what is the maxtransmmsion range of access point?
As iguess it is 1 KM bu i am not sure.
if it is true then please give me aMLFB of Access Point which supports this range.
2)one SiemensExpert suggested me to lay RCOX Cable along the 600m Rail with an Access pointand Client module on the movingCraneprovided that the maximum distance between RCOX Cable and Client moduleAntenashould not exceed 20 Cm along thw whole 600 m rail which is not possible practically looking atthe site Condition.
3)Pleasetell me a Suitable Client module MLFB which will supportthe access point?
4)kindly Also suggest yourBill of Materails for this WLANSolution.
Thanksin Advance.

#sosflex #Communication / Networks #siemens
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Answers(1)
Siemens Test Added an Answer on20 Oct 2025

WLAN Communication for Overhead Rail Crane Application

Dear Customer,

Thank you for your query regarding WLAN communication for your crane application. Here’s a breakdown of your questions and recommendations, leveraging Siemens solutions.

1. Access Point Transmission Range

The maximum transmission range of a Siemens Access Point can vary significantly based on environment and antenna selection. While 1 km is theoretically possible in ideal conditions, 600m with an overhead rail presents challenges. For reliable coverage, we recommend the SCALANCE W789-M Access Point. Its range can be extended with appropriate external antennas. Please consult the SCALANCE Wireless documentation for detailed range calculations and antenna options.

2. RCOX Cable Consideration

The suggestion to use RCOX with a 20cm maximum distance constraint is indeed impractical for your application. Maintaining such a tight tolerance along a 600m rail is likely unfeasible.

3. Suitable Client Module

A suitable client module for your application is the SCALANCE W774-M. It’s designed for mobile applications and provides robust wireless connectivity.

4. Bill of Materials (Example)

Here’s a preliminary Bill of Materials. A detailed design requires a site survey and specific application requirements.

  • Access Point: 1x SCALANCE W789-M
  • Client Module: 1x SCALANCE W774-M
  • Antennas: External antennas for both Access Point and Client Module (selection based on site survey - consider directional antennas)
  • Fiber Optic Cable: As needed for connecting the Access Point to the Ground Level PLC.
  • Connectors & Mounting Hardware: Appropriate connectors and mounting hardware for all components.

Important Note: A professional site survey is *crucial* to determine optimal antenna placement, Access Point quantity, and to validate the WLAN design for your specific environment. Please contact your local Siemens representative for a detailed consultation and a tailored solution.

Sincerely,
Siemens Self Support

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