FTP Data Station 3

Centralized Data Storage with the FTP Data Station 3 from Wiesemann & Theis

The FTP Data Station 3 from Wiesemann & Theis is a compact and versatile solution for centralized storage and management of data in industrial and office environments. As an FTP(S), TFTP, and Samba server, it offers flexible access options to the internal memory or a USB-connected storage medium. With the unique data tank station feature, files can be transferred to a USB storage device at the push of a button, making the FTP Data Station 3 ideal for mobile setups without network connection. Thanks to easy commissioning via WuTility, support for Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), and the robust design for DIN rail mounting, it is perfect for Industry 4.0, measurement data archiving, and other data-intensive applications. This article highlights the technical features, applications, and benefits of this innovative data storage solution.

Flexible Data Access via FTP(S), TFTP, and Samba

The FTP Data Station 3 combines the functionality of an FTP(S) server, a TFTP server, and a Samba server in one compact device. This versatility allows access to the device's internal memory or a connected USB storage medium via various protocols commonly used in different application scenarios. The FTP(S) server provides secure data access over encrypted connections, ideal for transferring sensitive data. The TFTP server is optimized for fast and simple file transfers, while the Samba server (SMB) enables file access in Windows networks. This flexibility makes the FTP Data Station 3 a central platform for network data storage that integrates seamlessly into existing infrastructures.

A typical application scenario is measurement data archiving. For example, several web thermometers (e.g., Web Thermometer Pt100/Pt1000) in a network can be configured to regularly send their readings via FTP to the FTP Data Station 3. The collected data is centrally archived in the internal memory or on a USB storage device and is available for further processing, analysis, or reporting. This centralized storage simplifies the management of measurement data and increases efficiency in data-intensive applications.

Data Tank Station Feature for Mobile Applications

An outstanding feature of the FTP Data Station 3 is the data tank station function, specifically developed for mobile setups without network connection. In this mode, files stored on the device can be transferred to a connected USB storage medium at the push of a button. This function is ideal for scenarios where data from mobile units, such as vehicles, construction machinery, or temporary measurement stations, needs to be physically collected at regular intervals. The simple data transfer at the push of a button makes the FTP Data Station 3 a practical solution for data collection in remote or network-free environments without requiring complex network connections.

Easy Commissioning and Intuitive Configuration

Commissioning the FTP Data Station 3 is straightforward and completed in a few steps. Using the WuTility software, the device is ready for operation with just three clicks, minimizing integration effort. Configuration is done via a web-based management interface that offers a user-friendly interface to adjust settings for FTP(S), TFTP, and Samba access, DHCP integration, and the data tank station feature. Administrators can, for example, define access rights, storage locations, and transfer intervals to meet their specific application requirements. Support for DHCP facilitates integration into existing networks by enabling automatic IP address assignment. This ease of use makes the FTP Data Station 3 ideal for network administrators and automation engineers who need a fast and reliable solution for network data storage.

Robust Interfaces for Industrial Applications

The FTP Data Station 3 features an Ethernet interface for network connection and a USB interface for connecting external storage media. The Ethernet interface supports reliable data transmission and is optimized for use in industrial environments. External storage media such as USB sticks or external hard drives can be connected via the USB interface to expand storage capacity or utilize the data tank station feature. The device's robust design, including the option for DIN rail mounting, makes it ideal for use in demanding environments such as production halls or data centers. These interfaces provide a flexible and scalable solution for measurement data archiving and data storage.

Comparison with Other Storage Solutions

Compared to conventional network storage solutions (NAS) or cloud-based services, the FTP Data Station 3 offers a specialized solution for industrial applications. While NAS systems often provide extensive features and complex configurations, the FTP Data Station 3 focuses on the core tasks of centralized data storage via FTP(S), TFTP, and Samba as well as the data tank station function. Its compact design and easy commissioning make it especially suitable for scenarios requiring rapid integration and minimal maintenance. Compared to cloud solutions, the FTP Data Station 3 offers the advantage of local data storage, enhancing data security without the need for an internet connection. For applications requiring additional security features such as firewalls or VPNs, other Wiesemann & Theis products, like the Microwall VPN, provide suitable alternatives.

Versatile Applications

The FTP Data Station 3 is designed for a wide range of applications in Industry 4.0, automation technology, and building technology. In production environments, it serves as a central measurement data archive, for example, for sensor data from web thermometers regularly transmitted via FTP. In mobile applications like construction machinery or vehicles, the data tank station feature enables simple data collection without network connection. In data centers or office environments, the FTP Data Station 3 can be used as a network data storage for log files, configuration backups, or other data that need to be accessed via FTP(S), TFTP, or Samba. Other applications include IoT data backup, production data archiving, and data distribution in distributed systems.

Flexible Power Supply and Standards Compliance

The power supply of the FTP Data Station 3 is provided either via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) with phantom power over data pairs or supply via unused wire pairs, or via an external power supply (24V-48V DC) through a screw terminal. Buffer capacitors ensure a controlled shutdown in case of power interruption, increasing data security. This flexibility facilitates installation in various environments, from offices to industrial facilities. The device complies with standards and offers high immunity to interference according to EN 61000-6-2 and low interference emissions according to EN 55032:2015 + A1 Class B, EN 61000-3-2, and EN 61000-3-3. These features guarantee reliable and disturbance-free operation even in demanding industrial environments.

Please note: No power supply unit is included in the scope of delivery.

Durability and Reliability

The FTP Data Station 3 is designed for continuous operation and comes with a five-year warranty. Its robust design and capability of DIN rail mounting make it ideal for use in industrial environments. The powerful hardware platform ensures reliable data transmission and storage, even under high data loads or complex networks. The combination of easy commissioning, flexible interfaces, and sturdy construction makes the FTP Data Station 3 a durable solution for network data storage and measurement data archiving.

A Future-Proof Solution for Centralized Data Storage

The FTP Data Station 3 from Wiesemann & Theis is a compact and versatile solution for network data storage and measurement data archiving in industrial and office environments. With its support of FTP(S), TFTP, and Samba, the unique data tank station feature, and easy commissioning via WuTility, it offers a flexible platform for Industry 4.0, data collection, and secure communication. The robust hardware, PoE support, and standards-compliant design make it ideal for applications requiring a reliable and low-maintenance storage solution. Whether for sensor data archiving, data collection in mobile setups, or providing network data – the FTP Data Station 3 is an indispensable tool for professional users.