With the recent availability of Wi-Fi 6 solutions, the launch of 5G pilot projects and new shared license spectrum policies, many are wondering: Can manufacturing go further down the wireless path? The short answer is yes. The long answer is that there are numerous nuances and complications related to the “when,” “how” and “at what cost” of implementing wireless in manufacturing.
For starters, the manufacturing industry relies on equipment with an expected lifecycle of at least 10 to 15 years. Approximately 80 percent of current factory connectivity is wired.
