Empowering Fresh Network Connectivity for Fermented Dairy Production

A medium-sized food company in Illinois is seeking FS's support to build an efficient wireless network system. Specialising in fermented milk drinks, yogurt, ice cream, and dairy alternatives, the company aims to provide probiotic-rich products for health-conscious consumers and continues to innovate to meet market trends.

As the business rapidly grows and the number of stores increases, the existing network can no longer meet demands. The company needs full coverage of warehouses and stores, with fast, stable Wi-Fi to simplify daily operations and improve efficiency.

The wireless network solution will include remote management and monitoring, enabling the IT team to oversee network status in real time and quickly address issues, reducing maintenance costs. A streamlined deployment process will ensure quick online setup with minimal disruption. By enhancing network security and reliability, we aim to deliver a seamless experience, boost client satisfaction, and support the company's growth.

The food industry in which the client works has strict environmental requirements for low-temperature storage of dairy products such as yogurt and kefir. At the same time, due to rapid scale expansion, it faces the challenges of multi-point network deployment and management and maintenance.

Food storage often operates in low-temperature environments, which places strict requirements on the performance of wireless devices. The equipment must be able to withstand low temperatures and ensure stable operation at -20°C or lower. Temperature changes may cause equipment failure or signal attenuation, affecting the stability and reliability of the network. Therefore, it is necessary to select equipment suitable for low-temperature environments and conduct sufficient testing.

The impact of network coverage and signal interference is as important as ever. Accurate access point layout design ensures complete wireless coverage and minimises blind spots. The equipment must also have strong anti-interference capabilities to offset potential problems from building structures and electronic equipment.

With the expansion of food storage stores, client's companies need to manage wireless networks in multiple warehouses, distribution centres, and stores to understand the transportation status in real time. Lack of centralised management may lead to inconsistent network configuration and difficulty in troubleshooting, which in turn affects overall operational efficiency. Therefore, a unified platform is needed to centrally manage and monitor all wireless devices to ensure consistent network configuration and efficient operation.

The deployment and maintenance of wireless networks needs to consider the costs of equipment procurement, installation, operation and management. Select cost-effective equipment and optimise network architecture to reduce overall costs without affecting network performance and reliability.

The client requires support for four facilities across three states, focusing on remote switch deployment. The main products FS provides to client, including switches, access controllers, and access points, can all be efficiently managed through a single interface. The AC can also manage the APs, maintaining network stability and efficiency as the business grows. With FS's Airware platform, the network infrastructure can be centrally managed and monitored, ensuring seamless connectivity, simplifying deployment processes, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

The client chose the S5860-20SQ switch for its exceptional flexibility and robust features. Supporting 1/10/25/40GbE interface speeds, the switch adapts to various network needs. It is equipped with a 1+1 hot-swappable power supply and intelligent fan management, ensuring reliability and minimal downtime. Additionally, it supports a comprehensive range of security protocols, including 802.1X, RADIUS, TACACS+, AAA, and ACL, providing extensive network protection.

To simplify installation and reduce the need for additional power sources, FS has paired the S5860-24MG-U PoE++ switch and the S3410-48TS-P PoE+ switch. The S5860-24MG-U features 24 multi-rate ports, ensuring high-speed connectivity for various devices used in food processing. Both switches can directly power multiple APs, such as the AP-N515 or AP-505, via Ethernet cables, providing extensive Wi-Fi coverage. Designed for low-temperature warehouses and cold storage environments, the AP-T565 uses a built-in omnidirectional antenna and is equipped with a high transmit power of 28dpm to achieve a wider coverage area.

This wireless network deployment solution will significantly improve work efficiency and client experience. With a fast and stable wireless network connection, employees can smoothly place orders online and share warehouse logistics data, thereby improving overall operational efficiency. At the same time, the comprehensive Wi-Fi network has enhanced customer satisfaction in the store. In addition, remote management and monitoring functions simplify network management, reduce maintenance costs, enhance network security, and protect private data. All of this will support the company to flexibly respond to market changes, promote the continued growth of its business, and promote the realisation of sustainable development goals.