The XStream, XTend, and XPress products provide the ability to wirelessly extend serial and Ethernet communications over long distances, using RF technology. The products are deployed and sold in pairs; i.e., a target device--such as an IP connected camera, for example--is connected via physical wires to one box, while the other box is connected (again via physical wires) to the network or other wired connection point. The device pair then communicates wirelessly over the 900 or 2.4 GHz radio frequency bands. The vendor states that no configuration is required.

The XStream is an RF modem for the extension of serial communications, USB, telephone, and RS-232 (dip-switchable to RS-422/485) models are available. The XStream can be used in either the 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz frequency bands; with operating ranges listed at 1,500 feet indoor and up to 7 miles outdoor (LOS) when used with the included 2.1 dB dipole antenna. 2.4 GHz ranges are up to 600 feet indoors and 3 miles LOS outdoors. When a high-gain antenna is used, outdoor ranges are extended to 20 miles at 900 MHz and 10 miles at 2.4 GHz. Performance is listed at 10 to 20 Kb/sec, and both 9600 baud and 19200 baud versions are offered.

The XTend is similar to the XStream, in that it provides serial communication extension with RS-232 or USB connections. The XTend, however, communicates only over the 900 MHz frequency band, boasting an indoor range of 3,000 feet and an outdoor LOS range of up to 14 miles when used with the 2.1 dB dipole antenna (outdoor LOS range extends to 40 miles when used with a high-gain antenna). Power output on the XTend is adjustable from 1 mW to 1 W; and performance is listed at 10 to 125 Kb/sec. AES encryption is also supported; 256-bit within North America and 128-bit elsewhere. The XTend can optionally be purchased with a NEMA 4-rated enclosure; and is also now available in a model with a Class 1/Division 2 rating for use in hazardous environments (specifically, those where volatile flammable liquids, vapors or gases may exist).

Finally, the XPress is an Ethernet bridge, facilitating Ethernet connections on both sides of the communication (a single 10/100 port is included on each XPress). Indoor and outdoor models are available, with indoor ranges of up to 1,000 feet and outdoor LOS ranges of up to 2 miles when used with a 2.5 dB dipole antenna. A high-gain antenna will increase the ranges to 2,000 feet and 15 miles, respectively. 128-bit encryption is also supported; and data throughput is listed at 935 Kb/sec.

The XStream, XTend, and XPress wireless bridges are available now. Visit the Digi International Web site for further information.