Abstract
As wireless devices such as mobile phones and laptop computers become more reliable and cost effective, there is growing interest amongst the process industry as to the benefits to be found from enabling such devices to be used in hazardous areas. However, unlike most industries, this is not a simple task. Installing wireless networks in hazardous areas requires careful, expert planning and execution. John Hartley, Technical Director of Extronics, explains the hazards posed by radio frequency sources, the issues involved when installing wireless networks in hazardous areas and how to minimise the potential risk.