The installed base of wireless IoT devices in industrial automation
July 2015
News
According to a new research report from Berg Insight, the installed base of wireless IoT devices in industrial automation reached 10.3 million in 2014. The number of wireless IoT devices in automation networks will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.2% to reach 43.5 million by 2020.
There is a wide range of wireless technology used in industrial automation with different characteristics and use cases. 802.15.4 based standards such as WirelessHART and ISA100.11a are major contenders at the field level in process automation networks. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are the most widespread technologies in factory automation while cellular connectivity typically is used for remote monitoring and backhaul communication between plants. The increasing popularity of Ethernet based networks in factory automation is one of the key drivers for the popularity of Wi-Fi in such applications. Increased usage of standard devices such as tablets and smartphones in, for example, mobile HMI solutions is also an important driver for the adoption of Wi-Fi as well as Bluetooth in automation equipment.
Further reading:
Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments
News
Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments to support grid readiness for the AI era.
Read more...
Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...
What to expect at Africa Automation Indaba 2026: From AI readiness to bankable automation projects
RX Africa
News
Africa Automation Indaba 2026 will give delegates a practical view of what it takes to move automation from ambition to implementation with a two-day programme focused on industrial readiness, skills development, policy alignment, investment realities and the future of intelligent operations.
Read more...
SKF achieves SaiMechE CPD accreditation
SKF South Africa
News
SKF South Africa has achieved SaiMechE CPD accreditation, a decisive step that empowers the next generation of engineers.
Read more...
Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy
ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
Read more...
One visit, five shows: practical solutions for safer, smarter operations
News
Five co-located shows will bring together the full picture of how organisations manage risk, compliance, infrastructure and energy.
Read more...
From the editor's desk: A little bit of magic
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Whatever your view is of America today, the Artemis II mission showed the world that it can still deliver moments of wonder. For a few days, the chaotic headlines gave way to something more. Who could
...
Read more...
Electra Mining Africa 2026
News
Electra Mining Africa will take place at Nasrec, Johannesburg from 7 to 11 September 2026.
Read more...
Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
News
In a powerful recognition of excellence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Thabisile Phumo won the Woman in Mining and Engineering award at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
Read more...
AVEVA to spotlight industrial intelligence at AVEVA Day
News
AVEVA will host AVEVA Day South Africa 2026 on 22 April with the theme ‘Accelerating Africa’s Industrial Future: Harnessing AI, Digital Twins and Data-Driven Operations for Sustainable Growth’.
Read more...
printer friendly version