What are Wireless Andons?

Wireless Andon lights are the plug-and-play solution for when running cables is impractical or too expensive. This guide explains how the wireless communication works, the range of wireless tower lights, and our wireless andon catalog.

Our wireless Andon devices including tower lights, controllers, and Andon stations with buttons.

The Basics: A Mesh Network

Our wireless Andon system uses a mesh network for communication. Every device in the network helps pass messages along to their destination. Each device is capable of making routing decisions to ensure the signal takes the most efficient path. If a device is added or removed from the network, the mesh protocol will automatically update the routing table without operator intervention.

Our wireless Andon system uses a self-healing mesh network. Each device acts as a node and can relay messages to other devices.

Range and Coverage

The maximum range for our Wireless Stack Lights is 125ft in typical conditions. Every device you add to the network extends the range of the mesh. Devices that are further than 125ft apart can still communicate as long as there are other devices along the way to pass the signal. That means an entire factory can have seamless wireless communication with a simple plug-and-play installation.

Teams of Andons

Multiple wireless Andon lights can be organized into teams so that they share the same light status. Devices on a team will communicate with each other to propagate the light status without affecting the other teams on your mesh. All devices share the same mesh network despite their team assignment, which helps extend the mesh network's range and facilitate signal delivery.

For a deeper look at how teams work, see our guide on what are teams.

Wireless Stack Light Catalog

Wireless Andon Station

A wireless tower light with built-in control buttons. You can configure it with up to 5 color tiers and a built-in buzzer. The buttons control the attached lights and other wireless Andon devices on the same team. Ideal for operator stations where two-way communication is needed.

Wireless Tower Light

A wireless stack light that is configurable with up to 5 color tiers and an optional buzzer. This device lacks buttons and is intended to be controlled by another device on its wireless team such as an andon station, controller, or IO module. Mount it in high-visibility locations like warehouses, maintenance offices, or above production lines where teams need to see the status.

Wireless Controller

A wireless controller behaves like the Andon station but in a smaller form-factor. Indicator lights on the remote let you see the status of the team it's a part of. Mount it at a workstation, supervisor desk, or control panel to give operators direct control over surrounding tower lights.

Wireless I/O Module

A wireless input/output module for integrating external components into your Andon system. It has a set of input and output leads, so you can connect it to a PLC, switches, or other machines. The inputs and outputs are passed wirelessly to other Andon devices on its wireless team. Available with inputs only, outputs only, or both.

Wireless Repeater

A dedicated range extender for your wireless Andon system. Place it between devices that are more than 125ft apart to bridge the gap. The wireless repeater relays mesh network traffic to its destination. Plug it into a 110V outlet, and it automatically joins the mesh.

Learn More

For related topics, check out these guides:

• What Are Teams?
• Do Wireless Stack Lights Need WiFi?
• What Is an Andon Light?
• Choosing the Right Stack Light