Do Wireless Stack Lights Need WiFi?
Andon Lights with their own network?
Our Wireless Andon lights do not have to use your facility's WiFi network. They have their own built-in wireless communication system that operates independently. There are no routers, no network passwords, no IT department involvement.
This is one of the most common questions we get, and the confusion is understandable. The word "Wireless" usually makes people think of WiFi. But our wireless tower lights use a completely different approach.
How Our Wireless System Communicates
Our wireless stack lights use a proprietary mesh network built into each device. The devices communicate directly with each other using their own wireless protocol. They do not connect to your WiFi router, your company network, or the internet.
When you power on the devices, they automatically find each other and form a mesh. Messages are passed from device to device until they reach their destination.
Bottom line: You can deploy our wireless Andon system in a facility with no WiFi at all.
Why Not Use WiFi?
There are good reasons our wireless tower lights use their own network instead of WiFi:
No IT Dependency
WiFi-based systems need to be configured on your company network. That means involving your IT department, dealing with network security policies, MAC address whitelisting, VLANs, and firewall rules. Our system avoids all of that. You plug it in, and it works.
No Network Congestion
Factory WiFi networks are often already loaded with other devices: scanners, tablets, printers, MES systems. Adding signal lights to that network can introduce latency or compete for bandwidth. Our system uses its own dedicated communication channel, so it does not add any load to your existing network.
Better Security
Because our system is not connected to your network or the internet, it is inherently isolated from network-based threats. There is no attack surface for someone to exploit through your company WiFi.
Our System vs. WiFi-Based Systems
| Our Mesh System | WiFi-Based Systems | |
|---|---|---|
| Requires WiFi | No | Yes |
| IT involvement | None | Required for setup and security |
| Network load | Zero impact on existing network | Adds devices to your WiFi |
| Range extension | Every device extends range | Limited by access point coverage |
| Setup | Pre-programmed, plug and play | Network configuration required |
What Do You Need to Install?
The requirements are simple:
- A power outlet for each wireless tower light and each Andon Remote Controller. Our wireless lights plug into a standard 110V outlet.
- Line of sight helps but is not required. The mesh network can route through walls, shelving, and equipment. More devices in the mesh means more paths for signals to travel. It is possible for some objects to hinder the signal. Call, and we can help evaluate your situation.
When you order our wireless Andon lights together, we pre-program them at our facility. They arrive ready to plug in and use.
Learn More
For related topics, check out these guides:
Questions About Our Wireless System?
We are happy to walk you through how our wireless Andon lights work and help you decide if they are the right fit for your facility: no WiFi required, no IT headaches.