Modular Wireless Data-Acquisition and Control System

A modular wireless data-acquisition and control system, now in operation at Kennedy Space Center, offers high performance at relatively low cost. The system includes a central station and a finite number of remote stations that communicate with each other through low-power radio-frequency (RF) links. Designed to satisfy stringent requirements for reliability, integrity of data, and low power consumption, this system could be reproduced and adapted to use in a broad range of settings. Examples of potential applications include industrial instrumentation, home automation, wireless intrusion-detection systems, remote reading of meters, medical instrumentation, telecommunications, automotive systems, homeland security, and military reconnaissance.