SMG - data transmission system

The SMG (Slotted Microwave Guide) data transmission system is highly suitable for automation applications as it transmits contactless and free of interference high rates of data up to 10 Mbit/sec to tracked machinery and opens solutions to multiple applications due to its variable conception. Catalog 9e

General Description
SMG was originally developed by MBB (Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm), now DASA (Deutsche Aerospace), to transmit data to the magnetic levitation train (»Transrapid«) travelling at speeds of up to 250 mph. VAHLE acquired this product by the end of 1994 and now has worldwide over 1,000 installations successfully in operation.

VAHLE has embarked on an extensive development program to increase the SMG application range. Presently there are already data interfaces available for the most commonly used bus systems. Heavy-duty construction makes it possible to install SMG in arduous and environmentally difficult locations; for instance a great number of SMG waveguide systems are functioning reliably in steel mills, foundries and harbours.

The SMG data transmission system operates economically already with single channel transmission and low data rates. Modular design easily expands the system to handle at relativley low cost medium and high data rates as well as multi-channel configurations. When combined with VAHLE conductor systems for the current supply, SMG data transmission systems become a reliable high-performance component package capable of handling a wide variety of applications as demanded by current and future automation technology.

Features

The SMG data transmission system transmits digital serial data as commonly used with data transmission networks; additionally, video signal transmission is possible. Special transceivers (transmitters/receivers) with interface modules for the most commonly used bus systems employ frequency modulation to prepare the digital serial signals for transmission.

To transmit in full duplex two carrier frequencies at approx. 2.4 GHz are available. The microwave signal propagates within an slotted, hollow aluminium extrusion (waveguide) between the transceivers. A transparent structure and the support of numerous data protocols simplify the integration of the SMG data transmission system into the existing bus system. If required, VAHLE can provide engineering support for this task.

The following characteristics distinguish VAHLE SMG data transmission technology:

• No interference as microwave is completly contained by SMG waveguide.
• Non-contact transmission technology offers maintenance free operation.
• SMG directly combines with all VAHLE conductor systems and may be installed simultaneously.
• Faultless transmission of high data rates, up to 10 Mbit/sec.
• Large bandwith allows full duplex transmission of six data channels simultaneously.
• Dynamically very efficient transceivers permit transmission up to 1.000 m without amplification.
• Simple integration into existing bus systems and upgrade possibility is facilitated by modular design.
• E-stop capability as per stop category 1, protection stage 3, with TÜV certification.
• Multiple vehicles on one waveguide.
• Uninterrupted data transmission independent of operating speed.
• Environment such as temperature, rain, fog, dust etc. does not degrade the quality of the transmission.
• SMG is also suitable for systems with curves, track switches, interruptions, etc.

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