- January 25, 2024
- Pepperl + Fuchs GmbH
January 2024 - Pepperl+Fuchs has introduced the hazardous area-rated Smart-Ex 03—a robust 5G- and Wi-Fi 6-capable smartphone. The 6-inch device combines the expertise and know-how of Pepperl+Fuchs’ two subsidiaries–ECOM Instruments, a pioneer in explosion-protected mobile devices, and Aava Mobile, an expert in industrial tablets and wireless technologies. The device scores with global, competent and customer-oriented support.
Approved for use in Zone 1/21 and Div. 1 and equipped with AndroidTM 13 operating system, the smartphone complies with the latest technical standards such as 5G, Wi-Fi 6 and eSIM—making it ideal for flexible global use in public and private networks of mobile network providers or companies. Due to fast and security-focused transmission of large amounts of data, users benefit from modern functions for communication and collaboration. These include, for example, remote support, video conferencing, or digital radio communication with lowest latency by means of Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC).
“We have built up in-depth expertise in communication infrastructures over many years, which is also reflected in our collaboration with Ericsson," explained Jörg Hartleb, Head of Product Management for Mobile Computing and Communications at Pepperl+Fuchs. "We have incorporated this expertise into the development of the Smart-Ex 03. As a result, users in hazardous areas in a large variety of industries benefit from a rugged 5G- and Wi-Fi 6-capable smartphone that supports the latest technical standards and ensures excellent connectivity."
Created for a wide range of applications
Another advantage: With the Qualcomm QCM6490 processor, the Smart-Ex 03 is predestined for a variety of applications such as communication, digital workflows and work order management, operational safety, scanning, asset management, predictive maintenance, augmented reality applications or IoT integration.
“The Smart-Ex 03 is an advanced, rugged 5G device powered by the Qualcomm QCM6490 processor, supporting international wireless connectivity for comprehensive coverage. The QCM6490 combines best-in-class features, intelligent computing and on-device AI for powerful long-term performance in even the most challenging environments,” added Sebastiano Di Filippo, senior director, Business Development at Qualcomm Europe, Inc.
The smartphone has an ultramodern camera that is precisely tailored to the requirements of industry for scanning, documentation or video conferencing. Even in harsh industrial environments or in sunlight, the camera delivers accurate and high-quality results. It offers companies robust technology and excellent connectivity, especially in industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, energy and mining. In line with the Pepperl+Fuchs “Enterprise Mobility” concept, the smartphone ensures maximum efficiency in terms of digitalization and cost savings.
With Desktop Mode and complete support of the USB 3.1 Type-C standard, the device can be connected directly to a computer monitor, keyboard and mouse via a multiport adapter or a docking station and can serve as a cost-effective alternative replacement to a desktop PC. This not only facilitates the further use of the data collected in the plant, which does not have to be transferred to another device first, but can be transferred to the company network via a direct Ethernet connection. As a further convenience and security feature, the Smart-Ex 03 is the only explosion-protected smartphone on the market with a fingerprint sensor that allows unlocking without entering a code and offers additional security through multi-factor authentication.
Innovative security architecture
The successor to the Smart-Ex 02, which has been redesigned from the ground up, impresses with its enhanced safety architecture, which is particularly useful in potentially explosive areas. This includes, for example, self-monitoring of hardware and software through device health monitoring.
Sophisticated diagnostic tools, detailed log files and remote control by corporate IT pave the way for continuous device monitoring and targeted troubleshooting. Users moreover benefit from the Pepperl+Fuchs global sales and service network with over 80 locations and remote support. This guarantees direct contact and availability of highly qualified experts at all times.
5G for superb connectivity
The 5G radio standard in particular allows the Smart-Ex 03, which also supports 5G Standalone (SA), to provide excellent connectivity. 5G has paved the way for industry 4.0 by significantly accelerating machine-to-machine communication.
Pepperl+Fuchs is currently in the process of having the smartphone tested and approved by international mobile network operators to ensure optimal network performance—including T-Mobile US, Vodafone, Orange, Telefónica, KPN, Claro, LG U+ and AT&T, among others. This ensures optimal connectivity around the globe—on both public and private mobile networks. At the same time, eSIM significantly simplifies device and network management. This means that network changes can be made flexibly and remotely without having to replace a physical SIM card. In addition to an eSIM, the Smart-Ex 03 can also be used with a nano-SIM.
Cutting-edge operating system supports segmented networks
The device’s software also meets the latest technical standards: With AndroidTM 13, the Smart-Ex 03 has a leading-edge operating system that optimally supports communication in segmented networks. The smartphone can be upgraded to at least AndroidTM 15 in the future. The hazardous area-rated device meets the high requirements for AndroidTM Enterprise Recommended and satisfies the highest demands for business use and security. And last but not least, up to 128 GB of internal memory provides sufficient capacity for all the digital documents and records that mobile workers need during their assignments.
Go to Pepperl + Fuchs GmbH website