Computers have been used for factory automation applications for many years.  With the introduction of device server products like Silex’s SX-500 and SX-550 , devices like programmable logic controllers and process control equipment can now be connected to networks. By networking these types of devices, central computers can provide centralized monitoring and control, and can also update corporate databases with relevant production and quality data.

One of the biggest applications for factory automation device networking is in barcode applications. Barcode information is critical for corporate inventory control, so networking allows this information to be directly transmitted into relevant the corporate databases without the need for any manual intervention. Wireless capability is key for networking barcode devices, because these devices must be mobile in order to track inventory throughout a warehouse. Moreover, excellent wireless roaming capabilities are very important, because a mobile barcode device may have to pass through several different access points in a large warehouse.

Another big application is scales/weights and measures. Silex has been very successful in this application, which is covered in a separate application page in this website. As with barcode devices, wireless capabilities are now becoming very important for scales, which are now incorporated into forklifts and other mobile devices.