Remote - August 2011 - (Page 6)

Feature Article M2M Networks - When You Need Them and Key Considerations for Selecting One Alex Brisbourne, President and COO KORE Telematics The ubiquitous nature of today’s machine-to-machine (M2M) networks means that wireless connectivity often stands out as compared to hardwired options. IP connectivity works equally with or without wires, so as application providers weigh their IP connectivity options, the question becomes, “which factors should play a critical role in their decisions?” Cellular wireless certainly provides nearly unlimited freedom, but hybrid choices from Wi-Fi to mesh also offer their own unique benefits. This article will discuss the process of choosing the means for wireless IP connectivity that is right for your business. It will highlight the top eight considerations when choosing an M2M network and discuss each step in the M2M network services selection process. For instance, application providers and even end users must navigate a number of common unknowns and misconceptions for the M2M network itself, from differing cost models to network management service platforms. As a first step, M2M solution providers must evaluate the specific network needs for their application. Whether developing a wireless solution for mHealth, location-based services (LBS), utilities, security or any other vertical market, certain basic principles can be followed to create an efficient and effective M2M network strategy. These include, but are not limited to, the process of device certification (important for lifecycle service management) whether the application requires multiple network technologies for broader coverage, whether the end-user needs centralized device management, does the pricing need to be predictable month to month, are there international service expectations and life-cycle considerations, will there be a need for long-term device upgradeability and reliability. All come into play during the M2M network selection process. Setting the Stage Wireless technology of many protocols and use-cases, from Wi-Fi to WiMAX to satellite to cellular to RFID, has become an advantageous alternative for businesses across the globe but particularly in emerging markets. Organizations in every vertical industry are expanding into regions where wireline infrastructure has not been universally established with the ubiquitous footprint that most in the developed world take for granted. In North America, emerging government regulations for transportation safety, food safety, air quality, water quality and energy efficiency are Manufacturing Plant Process Control & Utility-Smart Grid Smart Metering Optimization Automation creating new pressures for M2M data services based on cellular and satellite services. This trend toward regulation and proof of compliance will proliferate internationally. Today, businesses must seek out new ways to save money, reduce inventory spoilage and shrinkage, as well PCTEL designs and manufactures high performance antennas to provide as adhere to regulatory mandates, making their people precise operation, maximum durability, and ease of installation for and processes more efficient while containing costs. applications in: As wireless connectivity marches further up the value ■ Process Control and Automation ■ Machine-to-Machine chain, enterprise IT organizations will soon lead a charge ■ Oil and Gas Communications to unbundle cellular M2M services from current wireless ■ Utility-Smart Grid ■ Mining Operations carriers. Why? Because as good as the carriers are at sup■ Manufacturing ■ Telemetry porting large, enterprise-wide, user-centric mobile devices and data plans, their lack of pure-play M2M specialization with the nuances and intricacies of M2M network services phone 630.372.6800 delivery and management stands in the way. Often, these toll-free 800.323.9122 consumer-focused carriers typically 1) lack technical website www.antenna.com support requirements for specialty M2M device manageemail industrial.wireless@pctel.com ment; 2) are deficient in providing, in many cases, of a comprehensive business management platform; 3) take a one-size fits all approach to rating and billing; and 4) are missing the real-time device usage alerts for devices using FOR YOUR CUSTOM, APPLICATION-SPECIFIC, more than their allotted data during a specific time period SCADA AND REMOTE or interval. All of these factors converge to make the case MONITORING ANTENNA for enterprise customers to take a look at specialty M2M DESIGNS CONTACT THE service providers as M2M proliferates throughout all PCTEL SALES TEAM. aspects of a company’s operations. Evaluating the Connectivity Options - Unbundling Cellular M2M Services TURN TO PCTEL FOR APPLICATION-FOCUSED SCADA & REMOTE MONITORING ANTENNAS 6 www.RemoteMagazine.com 3/2/11 8:13 AM 117110 PCTEL_RM_3sq.indd 1 http://www.antenna.com http://www.antenna.com http://www.RemoteMagazine.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Remote - August 2011

Remote - August/September
Contents
Banner Engineering Wireless Network Devices Assist in Cleanup and Restoration of Tennessee Wastewater Plant
Sirius and Solar Stik Team to Offer the New Solar Stik PRO-Cell
M2M Networks - When You Need Them and Key Considerations for Selecting One
New SCADA Technology Saves City Energy Costs
BGAN-Based SCADA Networks are Latest Solution for Remote Site Monitoring and Control
SCADA Security for Critical Infrastructure
Remote Monitoring & Control 2011 Conference Preview
Web-Enabled Ultrasonic Sensors Deliver Affordable Remote Tank or Vessel Monitoring
Telit Wireless Releases EV-DO M2M Module
Industrial Video Debuts Rapid Deploy Video System
ReliOn E-2500 Fuel Cell Offers Reliability in Small Package
New Data Loggers with Infrared Communications
Industry News
Calendar of Events

Remote - August 2011