Emerson Process Management is teaming up with Cisco Systems for open-standard solutions for wireless process and plant management applications that install easily and operate reliably in the process manufacturing environment.
Emerson's wireless process applications use self-organizing field networks for increased monitoring of plant data for control and asset optimization. Cisco wireless plant networks offer applications for worker mobility, voice-over IP communications, tracking of personnel and assets, and video applications. Both vendors have developed a services plan to design, specify, install and support wireless solutions for customers worldwide.
Many Emerson customers use Cisco's wired plant network applications today and will realize an advantage by extending their relationships to include wireless applications.
Emerson's wireless platform will extend the Smart Wireless capabilities of PlantWeb digital plant architecture to include wireless plant networks. The networks use the Cisco Unified Wireless Architecture, offering including industrial-class wireless access points, controllers and network management software, and plant applications such as communication, tracking, and worker mobility tools. 
Emerson will use the Cisco Unified Wireless Architecture to provide secure wireless LAN coverage and integration within the plant's existing IT infrastructure. This integration eliminates the need for a complex wireless overlay network. Cisco's Wireless Control System will centralize the configuration and management of the plant's Wi-Fi network, reducing overall cost of ownership.
"Networks and mobility are dramatically transforming our customers businesses and in-plant processes," says Maciej Kranz, VP of product marketing for Wireless Business Unit, Cisco. "By delivering a combined wireless architecture from Emerson and Cisco, we are enabling our manufacturing process customers to deploy flexible, scalable and safe wireless solutions and mobility applications in rugged plant environments."