The LTX-100 all-in-one network gateway from BinMaster.
Advanced inventory management systems are essential for efficient, well-informed operations. These solutions typically consist of level sensors, network devices, and integration with house controls, on-site digital displays, and/or IoT software.
Automated sensors eliminate tedious manual measurements and ensure employee safety. Workers can easily prevent overfills, ensure continuous material supply, and anticipate replenishment when bulk material runs low in bins, tanks, or silos.
However, the complexity—and costs—of inventory systems accumulate quickly, especially when multi-site management is required or when planning for future scalability.
At the heart of wireless industrial inventory systems are network gateways that collect level measurements, convert data to the appropriate protocol, and deliver information to the user’s choice of display interfaces.
A wireless, long-range (LoRa) transmission-based gateway—such as BinMaster’s LTX-100—simplifies system layouts, eliminates the need for expensive wiring and electrician visits, and greatly reduces costs.
Fundamentals of the All-in-One Gateway
The LTX-100 gateway is suitable for new or existing systems in any liquid or solid bulk processing industry. Its compact size, affordable price, and modular design ensure flexibility and the ability to serve operations of any size.
An LTX-100 device continuously transmits data from sensors to ensure timely inventory delivery. During wireless operation, the device utilizes LoRa to transmit data up to one mile line-of-sight to another LTX.
The module’s current expansion cards support 4-20 mA input and the HART protocol. Additional optional expansion cards will be available in the future to support Modbus, 4-20 mA output, and input/output relays.
The LTX-100’s all-in-one capability enables it to support HART and Modbus devices in a daisy chain, 4-20 mA devices, and BinMaster’s SmartBob protocol. It can also serve as a wire replacement to communicate via LoRa to another LTX-100.
Future developments will enable integration of relays to trigger a measurement or monitor process controls in real-time using remote or on-site inventory software, including the BinCloud® and Binventory® 2.0 platforms.
A typical system layout for a LTX-100 gateway.
Downsize Your Configuration While Maintaining Full-Scale Efficiency
The LTX-100 allows operators to reduce the need for multiple communication devices in their data transmission chain. It replaces analog expansion hubs, HART consolidator modules, long-range transceivers, wireless transceiver radios, and existing network gateways.
This benefits operations’ bottom line by:
- Reducing Complexity: Various network functions are integrated into one device
- Streamlining Data Delivery: Reduce the risk of transmission errors, signal interference, or interruption
- Minimizing Spend: Skip unnecessary hardware and subscription costs
- Optimizing Labor: No need to hire electricians and IT specialists for installation, or outsource consultants for layout planning
- Aiding Scalability: Upon network or worksite expansion, simply incorporate LTX-100 consoles as needed
BinMaster’s application experts work with each customer to personalize their network. Each LTX-100 is shipped pre-configured and with a unique IP address, ready to operate as an out-of-the-box solution for linking level sensors, plant controls, PLCs, and monitoring software.
Solve Supply Chain Complexity with Single Sourcing
An inventory system with reduced intricacy relies on efficient supply chains to minimize disruptions. This is not exclusive to bulk material fulfillment; it also applies to procurement of manufacturing equipment, measurement technologies, and replacement parts for proactive maintenance.
By single-sourcing level sensors, network devices, accessories, and inventory monitoring software from BinMaster, users receive attentive service from application experts, technical support, and a team dedicated to customer satisfaction—all based in the United States.
All components of an industrial inventory network are available from BinMaster, including key accessories for the LTX-100: mounting brackets, additional cable glands, power supply, and cellular antenna extenders.
The LTX-100 gateway connects level sensors to remote inventory monitoring software and local control systems.
Enter Industry 5.0 with Interconnected Inventory
Reducing inventory system complexity has vast benefits: more flexibility, improved communication, and the ability to make better, more informed decisions due to all departments accessing the same real-time data. When operations run smoothly and reliably—while also minimizing safety risks, contracted labor, and overall costs—the result is a productive boost in ROI.
No matter the size of a business, the number of vessels requiring level measurement, or the number of employees who need visibility into automated monitoring software, the combination of BinMaster level sensors and the LTX-100 gateway creates a simpler, safer, more cost-effective system for any industry.
To learn more, visit BinMaster.com today.
