Smart manufacturing is continuing to deploy diverse technologies to improve the performance of automation. This special report on next generation machine control looks at how AI, PLC virtualization, new controllers and software tools will provide solutions for real-time control, data connectivity and secure operations.

The Wireless Broadband Alliance’s 6G Vision calls for greater industry collaboration if ubiquitous connectivity is to be achieved. Its vision statement outlines WBA goals for 6G and recommendations to ensure the 6G opportunity resonates beyond the technical community, appealing to policymakers, businesses and end-users.

Industrial Wireless enables secure and reliable wireless connections for industrial applications. Depending on requirements, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 are continuing to provide excellent solutions. Industrial 5G is also making an impact by enabling smarter, responsive, and more efficient factory operations.

As smart manufacturing continues towards Industry 4.0, the role of private 5G networks becomes increasingly pivotal. Moxa’s contributions in mitigating pain points and providing robust solutions position the company as a key player in shaping the future of connectivity in smart manufacturing.

The merits of 5G wireless communications on the factory floor are obvious, but as with any networking technology that promises to disrupt the status quo, it will take time, resources, and a concerted effort to ensure all factories can benefit from the investment.

5G technology features make it capable of supporting the requirements of factory control systems for real-time determinism and six nines (99.9999%) availability. Yet the real-world experience of most mobile handset users is weak or nonexistent, and of occasional and unpredictable dropped connections. This article looks at the realistic prospect that…

5G and Wi-Fi6/6E wireless technologies are now enabling standard, real-time communication in control processes, which was previously reserved exclusively for wired communication or proprietary wireless solutions. This is opening up new possibilities for industrial automation and smart manufacturing operations.

The wireless exchange of data enables even the smallest devices in manufacturing systems to be easily integrated into the production network. The information from these coupled devices can then be used to improved the availability, performance and quality of the manufacturing process.

5G cellular technology is poised to bring new capabilities to smart manufacturing operations. The four releases slated for 5G included Releases 15, 16, 17 and 18 — and the latest releases each bring both significant changes and opportunities to leverage enhancements in production environments.

Industrial 5G is changing the way companies make decisions, manufacture products and maintain factories. Thanks to Industrial 5G, the MF-K factory has become an example that has proven that companies will even further increase efficiency and productivity as they implement real-world applications.