How to connect Bluetooth® instrumentation with the IIoT

In industrial automation, accessing device configurations has traditionally required multiple adapters and interfaces. Typical scenarios include requests for RS-485 adapters, HART interfaces, Ethernet cables, or even tools for 4–20 mA signals. This complexity often results in delays and inefficiencies.

Such challenges are common across manufacturers. Depending on the protocol and device type, a specific interface is often necessary to retrieve parameters or perform diagnostics. While solutions that completely eliminate dongles are still in development, wireless technologies already offer fast access to devices.

Protocols like WirelessHART have gained popularity, yet their adoption remains limited compared to traditional 4–20 mA connections, despite offering remote access to diagnostic and configuration data. This raises an important question: how can wireless be implemented effectively in smaller applications?

The answer lies in devices equipped with an additional protocol - Bluetooth®. This technology enables quick and easy access to device data while maintaining the standard 4–20 mA signal for controller connectivity.

Replacing a device with a similar model is far easier than switching to one with a different protocol. However, modernization is inevitable, and during this transition, accessing diagnostic and configuration data remains critical.

New field devices now offer dual communication capabilities. They maintain traditional 4–20 mA integration while providing configuration and diagnostic access via a mobile application on a smartphone or tablet. This local connectivity requires the field engineer to be physically near the device.

For smaller applications, another challenge arises: how to remotely access diagnostic data collected through Bluetooth® and integrate it into broader systems? The solution is here—Bluetooth® devices can now transmit diagnostics to the cloud using IIoT services. Remote applications can also incorporate primary and secondary process variables into existing systems.

Implementation is straightforward and can be achieved in three steps, enabling organizations to begin their IIoT journey by thinking big but starting small.

Organizations seeking to leverage Bluetooth® technology in existing plants or new applications can achieve this through three straightforward steps. Following these steps ensures that all relevant data is securely available in the cloud, ready for integration and analysis.

Modern field devices increasingly support Bluetooth® communication, simplifying connectivity and configuration. For example, replacing a temperature transmitter can now involve selecting a model that combines Bluetooth® with traditional 4–20 mA or other technologies. For new applications requiring remote monitoring, Bluetooth® devices provide an efficient way to collect data locally and transmit it wirelessly to an edge device.

Once a Bluetooth®-enabled device is installed, its data can be collected and sent to a cloud solution via an edge device, such as the Endress+Hauser FieldEdge SGC200. The FieldEdge SGC200, powered locally, connects to up to five Endress+Hauser devices within a 20-meter range and transmits primary process values (PV), secondary process values (SV), and NAMUR NE107 status information. Communication with the cloud occurs via 3G or 4G using a built-in global SIM card, with encryption ensuring maximum security. Importantly, this connection is one-way: the edge device reads data cyclically, preventing any remote control of field devices.

To complete the setup, a cloud service subscription is required. Offerings such as Netilion provide a comprehensive IIoT ecosystem, including the edge device, cloud infrastructure, and an Application Programming Interface (API). The cloud platform consolidates all field data in a secure environment. Netilion Connect uses a REST/JSON API, enabling straightforward data consumption and integration into control systems, SCADA, or custom applications. This approach offers flexibility and scalability, allowing organizations to leverage field data securely and efficiently.

Implementing Bluetooth® technology in small-scale applications is a practical first step toward digitalization. Below are several use cases that illustrate its potential when combined with IIoT cloud services:

Critical assets can be monitored remotely using Bluetooth® devices. This approach provides NE107 device status information, enabling health monitoring that reduces unscheduled downtime and supports a shift from corrective to predictive maintenance through historical diagnostics.

By using Endress+Hauser Bluetooth® devices together with FieldEdge, simple level monitoring becomes accessible from any location. Data and diagnostics can be integrated into existing systems via Netilion Connect. For inventory management, additional solutions such as Netilion Inventory or SupplyCare offer enhanced functionality.

For smaller installations involving level, flow, or temperature monitoring, Bluetooth® devices combined with FieldEdge SGC200 and API integration provide a flexible, cost-effective solution. Minimal infrastructure is required to collect and transmit data securely, ensuring accessibility wherever needed.

Bluetooth®-enabled devices offer a simple and effective way to transfer critical data to the cloud. Combined with edge devices and API-based solutions, this approach ensures secure data collection and provides the flexibility to integrate information into any system of choice.