New sensor-to-cloud platform for industrial process monitoring using cellular data transmission

SignalFire Wireless Telemetry have announced the expansion of its wireless IoT product offering with the Ranger, a cellular-based transmitter and new 4G LTE-M platform. This next-generation remote monitoring solution for the industrial sector truly delivers the promise of sensor-to-cloud with a plug-and-play experience.

The Ranger is a cellular transmitter that utilises the latest LTE CAT M1 technology to connect industrial sensors to the cloud for remote monitoring, control and alarming. By connecting directly to the cloud, the Ranger bypasses local networks to offer a more secure connection without adding more work for IT departments. Just like the legacy SignalFire telemetry products, the Ranger is designed to work with a wide range of sensor types and brands, making it easily integrated into industrial monitoring systems.

The Ranger is equipped with two (2) digital inputs, one (1) analog input and one relay output. The digital inputs can detect on/off status or frequencies up to 2kHz. The analogue input can be set to 1-5Vdc or 4-20mA and is powered by the integrated battery pack. The relay output is a latching double pole single throw type, capable of loads up to 2A @ 30Vdc, 0.3A @ 110Vac or 0.5A @ 125Vac. Furthermore, the built-in GPS allows for tracking the location of the RANGER and its measurements on a map.

The Ranger comes complete with a web- and mobile-friendly SignalFire Cloud interface, which allows users to remotely monitor assets, view trends, and receive alarms either by text or email. It also provides for remote configuration and troubleshooting of the Ranger node and the sensor to which it is attached. The SignalFire Cloud uses secure MQTT technology for integration with private cloud platforms, when applicable. Operators can turn on/off the relay output from the Cloud interface to remotely control pumps, motors, valves and more.

“LTE CAT M1 technology is uniquely suited to IoT, allowing battery-powered sensor devices to efficiently communicate utilising existing cellular networks,” said SignalFire GM, Josh Schadel.  “SignalFire’s new platform will provide application-specific solutions that are reliable as well as easy to install and maintain. This exciting new technology will enable monitoring of sensor data that was previously difficult or impossible to do.”

“SignalFire is breaking the norm by using cellular technology for the industrial sector because there is a need for monitoring isolated measurements or ‘lone rangers’ where it is cost-prohibitive or complicated to simply get a reading from a sensor.  So, we focused on a do-it-yourself user experience and designed the RANGER sensor-to-cloud platform,” said Sandro Esposito, VP Sales and Marketing.     

Cloud connectivity removes barriers in collecting data from assets located in impassable locations.   For example, when configured with the sensor-to-cloud Ranger, a user can monitor pipelines in mountainous terrain to ensure proper gas distribution. Companies also can track fluid levels of vast tank farms in remote locations through a cloud connection accessible by any smart device.