For IT and OT teams, extending secure Wi-Fi connectivity to legacy Ethernet-based devices is a constant challenge. Whether in hospitals, factories, warehouses, or mobile fleets, the inability to retrofit older devices with wireless interfaces slows digital transformation.
The Silex BR-330AC-LP solves this problem. Available from Rugged Limited UK, it is an 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi bridge that combines:
- Ultra-low power consumption (<2.5 W RMS)
- Enterprise-grade authentication and encryption
- Fast roaming (802.11r) for mobility use cases
- Support for single or multi-client bridging (up to 16 Ethernet devices)
- Centralised management with AMC Manager® and kitting utilities
This makes it one of the most versatile and IT-ready wireless bridges available, enabling true IT/OT convergence without replacing existing infrastructure.
Core Architecture & Network Features
Ultra-Low Power Operation
At less than 2.5 W RMS in active use, the BR-330AC-LP consumes ~45% less power than comparable enterprise bridges. This is critical for:
- Battery-powered medical carts
- Mobile robotics (AGVs, forklifts, drones)
- Remote sensor networks running off DC power or solar
Low power draw extends runtime, reduces heat generation, and allows integration with portable power banks.
Bridging Modes
- Single Client Mode – one Ethernet device connects directly to Wi-Fi through the bridge.
- Multi-Client Mode – up to 16 Ethernet devices behind a hub/switch can be bridged simultaneously.
This enables IT teams to retrofit clusters of PLCs, sensors, or OT devices into enterprise WLANs without new cabling.
Fast Roaming (IEEE 802.11r)
The BR-330AC-LP supports fast roaming, enabling mobile devices to move between APs with minimal session disruption.
- 802.11r Fast BSS Transition (FT) – requires compatible WLAN infrastructure.
- RSSI Threshold-based scanning – device roams when signal drops below configurable limits.
- Reduced handoff latency – vital for AGVs, VoIP handsets, and medical telemetry where packet loss or downtime can disrupt operations.
Enterprise-Grade Security
Security is a major consideration when bridging OT devices into enterprise IT domains. The BR-330AC-LP includes:
- Authentication: WPA2-Enterprise, WPA3, IEEE 802.1X with RADIUS integration
- Encryption: AES, TKIP, WEP (for legacy support)
- TLS 1.2 support – ensures secure encrypted sessions
- MAC address filtering – restricts bridge access to approved OT endpoints
This ensures that only authorised devices gain access, reducing risk during IT/OT convergence.
Remote Device Management
Managing dozens—or hundreds—of bridges requires automation. The BR-330AC-LP supports:
- Integrated HTTPS web GUI – for local setup and diagnostics
- BR Kitting Utility – plug-in for AMC Manager® that allows batch configuration and provisioning
- AMC Manager® – enterprise-level centralised monitoring, configuration, and firmware management
This allows IT administrators to deploy at scale, maintain version consistency, and perform remote troubleshooting.
Deployment Scenarios
Healthcare IT
- Securely bridges Ethernet-only medical devices (diagnostic, imaging, monitoring) to hospital WLANs
- Works with WPA2/WPA3-Enterprise & RADIUS authentication to comply with healthcare cybersecurity policies
- Low power makes it ideal for battery-powered mobile carts
Industrial / Manufacturing OT
- Provides wireless backhaul for legacy PLCs, HMIs, CNC controllers
- Enables mobility for AGVs and robots with fast roaming support
- Reduces cabling costs when reconfiguring production lines
IoT & Edge Infrastructure
- Bridges Ethernet sensors, controllers, gateways into Wi-Fi networks
- Useful in smart agriculture, environmental monitoring, and smart buildings
- Can operate from USB or DC power in low-energy IoT environments
Retail & POS
- Connects POS terminals, kiosks, and signage securely to Wi-Fi
- Eliminates Ethernet cabling in pop-up shops or dynamic retail layouts
- Maintains secure PCI-compliant environments with 802.1X
Mobile / Field Operations
- Adds wireless connectivity to field equipment, kiosks, mobile labs, and command vehicles
- Supports 5 GHz channels for high-bandwidth, low-latency backhaul
- Roaming capability ensures smooth connectivity in warehouses and transport hubs
Technical Specifications (for IT teams)
- Ethernet: 1 × RJ-45, 10BASE-T / 100BASE-TX (auto-negotiation)
- Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band (2.4/5 GHz), 1T1R
- Security: WPA3, WPA2-Enterprise, WPA/WPA2-Personal, 802.1X (EAP methods supported via RADIUS)
- Encryption: AES, TKIP, WEP (legacy)
- Roaming: IEEE 802.11r Fast BSS Transition (requires AP support)
- Management: HTTPS web GUI, AMC Manager®, BR Kitting Utility
- Power: <2.5 W RMS (DC 5 V, 0.55 A); transient peaks <4.25 W
- Operating Environment: 0–50 °C, 20–80% RH (non-condensing)
- Form Factor: 126 × 75 × 24 mm, 255 g
- Warranty: 5 years
Why It Matters for IT/OT Convergence
The BR-330AC-LP addresses three key IT concerns:
- Security Compliance – WPA2/3-Enterprise, 802.1X, TLS 1.2 ensure corporate policies are upheld.
- Operational Flexibility – legacy OT devices gain mobility and WLAN integration without redesign.
- Scalability – AMC Manager® allows deployment and monitoring across large distributed sites.
For IT leaders tasked with enabling digital transformation while protecting network integrity, this device is a low-risk, high-impact enabler.
Rugged Security. Enterprise Flexibility.
Now available through Rugged Limited UK, the Silex BR-330AC-LP Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi Bridge equips IT and OT teams with the tools to extend secure wireless connectivity to Ethernet-only devices. From healthcare to Industry 4.0 deployments, its enterprise-grade security, fast roaming, and low-power design make it the bridge of choice for mission-critical environments.
For technical documentation, pricing, or deployment guidance, visit the Silex BR-330AC-LP product page or contact Rugged Limited directly:
📞 01474 240120
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.rugged.co.uk
BR-330AC-LP – Extend your network. Secure your future.
