Field Wireless Network

RouterOS Wireless Networking
1

Hello,

I’m looking for some ideas on how to setup the network concept in the attachment. I am interested in using the Mikrotik Metal 52 AC on test DAQ systems in an agricultural setting. Each of the ruggedized PC and Metal units would be placed on a tractor, and establish a simple TCP/IP connection between the two in order to exchange data. The ruggedized PC in each tractor is set as a static IP and would connect to the Metal 52 AC via an Ethernet cable. The tablet PC would need to connect wirelessly using a dynamic IP assigned by one of the Metal 52 ACs. I would like to use a common SSID and, if possible, an identical setup to the two Metal 52 ACs. Is this possible? And if so, how should the units be configured?

Thank you in advance for your help.
Field Network.pdf (36.7 KB)

2

Good Morning,

for those of us who don’t know nothing about farming… :smiley:
How far appart are the tractors during normal operations ?
10m, 100m , 1 000m, 10 000m ???

3

Hello - thanks for the response. During most of the operations, the distance between tractors will be 100-500m line of sight. Constant connection is not necessary, as once the units are back in range, data exchange will easily be caught back up (total data transfer is minimal).

Thanks.

4

I had to solve similar Problems in the Past…

For the Customer Mobile-Device connectivity was important,
so we used an wAP ac LTE kit on the “Main” tractor
Basic Setup:
→ WLAN 2.4Ghz for the Tractor-Network
→ WLAN 5Ghz for the Wireless device in the Tractor (Tablet, Phone, etc..)
→ ether1 & 2 for Wired-Device, like Computer, sensors, etc…
→ LTE: Optional / Reserve for future use

Every other Tractor & Truck used a WAP ac (without LTE)
With a similar Setup:
→ WLAN 2.4Ghz for the Tractor-Network
→ WLAN 5Ghz for the Wireless device in the Tractor (Tablet, Phone, etc..)
→ ether1 & 2 for Wired-Device, like Computer, sensors, etc…

5

But i don’t see the Problem using Metal 52 ac in your case.
It’s Cheaper + has more Range !!

whichever solution you adopt :
→ Mounting is always going to be a problem…
Mikrotik device’s aren’t really “Waterproof” only IP55 (it may survive the Rain, but not the presure washer)
Tractor’s are big Metall things, that block Wireless-Connectivity =)

→ Powering the Device isn’t the Problem
But if you connect the Mikrotik via the ignition switch
It won’t shutdown properly, so shorter Life-expectancy

6

Thanks again for the response. WinBox looks to be incredibly detailed in giving the user options for setting up the devices, but a bit daunting for me. Do you have any recommendations for good instructions on how to setup the 52AC per your advice?

Thanks again!

7

Mikrotik has a very steep learning curve…

I recommend looking for a local Distributor of Mikrotik-Products (https://mikrotik.com/buy)
Most of them have experienced IT-Staff that can quickly and easely Configure the Hardware.
It will cost you a bit more $ (or €) , but it’s usually the best Solution.


But if you don’t have any money, but a lot of Time…
or just want to learn about Networking =)

You will have to learn the Mikrotik Basic + Wireless Ptp

Mikrotik-Reference
→ https://www.youtube.com/mikrotik/playlists
→ https://wiki.mikrotik.com/wiki/Manual:TOC

Youtube
→ https://www.youtube.com/c/TKSJa/playlists
→ https://www.youtube.com/c/TheNetworkBerg/playlists
→ https://www.youtube.com/c/MAICTConsult/playlists

Books
→ Theory, laboratories and exercises for Mikrotik RouterOS
→ Networking with MikroTik: MTCNA Study Guide