• Which connectivity technologies can support a complete indoor factory?

Most factories rely on a hybrid architecture: a wired Ethernet backbone combined with wireless access for mobile robots. This balances coverage, bandwidth, reliability and scalability across large indoor environments.

• How can I ensure robust, low-latency communication for safety-critical functions?

Safety-critical communication should use deterministic technologies such as industrial Ethernet or TSN. Safety traffic must be isolated from non-critical data to guarantee predictable latency.

• Which connectivity standard is most suitable for different robotic applications?

There is no universal standard. Stationary robots typically use Ethernet, mobile robots rely on Wi-Fi or private wireless, and long-range or power-sensitive applications benefit from low-power wireless technologies.

• How do I decide between wired and wireless connectivity?

Wired connections offer determinism and reliability, while wireless enables mobility and flexibility. Most robotic systems combine both, assigning each where it delivers the most value.

• How can I achieve long-range communication with good bandwidth and low power consumption?

Technologies such as Wi-Fi HaLow provide a compromise between range, throughput and power consumption. The optimal choice depends on deployment density and data volume requirements.

• Is Wi-Fi HaLow a replacement for traditional Wi-Fi?

No. Wi-Fi HaLow complements traditional Wi-Fi by covering long-range, low-power use cases, while conventional Wi-Fi handles high-bandwidth applications.

• What typically limits scalability in large robotic deployments?

Roaming behaviour, interference, and unmanaged network traffic are common bottlenecks. Centralised network management and clear prioritization policies are essential.

• How does connectivity choice impact security?

Each communication interface introduces a potential attack surface. Security must be applied consistently across wired and wireless links to avoid weakest-link vulnerabilities.

• Should connectivity security be handled at system or component level?

Security should be addressed at system level, combining hardware capabilities, firmware and network architecture. Relying on individual components alone is not sufficient.