According to Laubner, it’s still too early for 5G in intralogistics

Regarding the question of whether 5G is the solution for the industry, the answer from Andreas Laubner GmbH is: Not yet. A smoothly running industrial WLAN remains the key to success for every company. In intralogistics, seamless roaming and network planning play an extremely important role.

(Maxdorf) Especially for technology mounted on forklift trucks, seamless roaming and good network planning play an essential role. However, for the industrial environment, 5G is still not the perfect solution. Many end devices still do not have the capability to receive 5G. Upgrades will occur at the earliest next year. Additionally, 5G reception is still inadequate in many halls and warehouses. This is particularly true if the warehouse is located outside urban areas and/or is convoluted. There is also a dependency on the provider, which brings risks with it.

WLAN infrastructure belongs in professional hands

Mobile computers therefore require WLAN when effective real-time communication is demanded. For communication in production and storage, the establishment of a WLAN infrastructure is therefore essential. Planning and execution should definitely be entrusted to professionals early on. If the WLAN infrastructure is set up incorrectly, disruptions can only be corrected with great effort. Laubner’s employees specialize in planning and illuminating comprehensive WLAN networks in industrial environments. Such an approach is essential from a certain company size. Michael Hillenbrand, authorized signatory of Andreas Laubner GmbH and specialist in radio illumination, emphasizes: “A WLAN infrastructure is heavily dependent on the placement of access points as well as the execution of the configuration.” However, this topic is often neglected in many installed radio networks. Hillenbrand knows from personal experience: “A poorly installed radio network causes problems that are difficult to solve later.”

Problem analysis is costly

The analysis of the problem is often time-consuming and costly. To avoid such inconveniences, companies can rely on the Maxdorf system house. “Through technical training and practical experience from numerous projects, we support companies in the context of a professional radio measurement to optimally set up their radio network,” says Hillenbrand. The radio measurement is the basis for WLAN configuration according to customer-specific requirements. At Laubner, they rely on the technology of partners Ekahau and Ruckus Wireless. Following the measurement, the company receives a detailed documentation. This documentation graphically represents the planned radio illumination with heat maps. Regular configuration and maintenance, which are due after the initial setup, are also part of the service offering of Andreas Laubner GmbH. Photo: © Andreas Laubner GmbH