Remote - M2M Special Issue 2012 - (Page 8)

Feature Article Java Embedded M2M Wireless Modules: Smart, Small, Cost Optimized Axel Hansmann, VP, Strategy and Marketing Communications Florian Denzin, Director, Product & Portfolio Management Cinterion The cellular Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications industry emerged in 1995 when a small division of Siemens, which would later become Cinterion, set out to develop a ruggedized GSM data module that would connect industrial machines in the field with backend computer systems and data bases. In the years since the industry’s birth, M2M data modules have continuously evolved, offering increasingly faster and more robust technologies to meet the needs of an expanding list of vertical markets. Today, M2M technology is extremely sophisticated with modules offering an array of innovative features and capabilities to help transform business practices including: embedded Global Positioning (GPS) technology, flexible Land Grid Array (LGA) surface mounting, embedded M2M optimized SIM cards known as Machine Identification Modules or (MIMs), and embedded Java, which is arguably the most important enabling technology for accelerating M2M adoption and advancing the Internet of Things (IOT). Oracle’s Java is the most pervasive open standards programming language used around the world. It runs on more than 850 million personal computers worldwide and on billions of devices ranging from embedded solutions and mobile phones on the low end, to enterprise servers and supercomputers on the high end. It follows that the Java developer community is among the largest and most well established in the industry, with extensive tools to help simplify design and enable application testing and debugging in commonly used development environments such as Eclipse or Netbeans. As M2M technology emerged, it didn’t take industry pioneers long to realize the importance of leveraging Java to help connect equipment and machines and simplify the complex M2M value chain. Cinterion has leveraged Java as an integral tool and powerful platform upon which to structure complex M2M solutions; from the vertical-specific technology that interfaces with the wireless module, to security hardware (SIM cards) that safeguards communications, to the service delivery component that integrates with the cloud and back-end host system. Cinterion was the first M2M player to define a Java profile optimized for use in the M2M environment. In 2003, the company launched the first M2M module to support embedded Java processing and at the same time, minimized the footprint of the virtual machine while maximizing the use of the module’s inherent processor power and memory. What was considered a small, yet revolutionary innovation at the time, has proven to be a highly strategic advancement and the dawn of a growing trend in M2M application design. Almost a decade later, Java has been adopted in a wide range of vertical markets, from smart energy and healthcare to fleet management and automotive applications. There are a myriad of advantages to Java on M2M modules, which explains why it has emerged as the leading platform for end-to-end embedded applications. Perhaps, nothing is quite as powerful as its ability to improve the bottom the line, Java helps significantly reduce development costs. In the hierarchy of technology solutions, Java is located on the easily acces8 www.RemoteMagazine.com Why Java? Java and M2M – a Growing Trend sible application layer of the module, and applications running on Java do not interfere with or affect module approvals or certifications. Application development is decoupled from the long cellular approval and certification process and which shortens development cycles. Faster development cycles means faster time to revenue for OEMs and faster time to ROI and optimized operations for implementers. Java can also eliminate the need for an extra application-processor and memory components by fully leveraging the module processing and memory resources, running complete applications directly on the embedded Java virtual engine. Without extra processors and memory components, Bill of Materials (BOM) is optimized plus applications are smaller and easier to integrate in M2M solutions. Less complexity makes manufacturing easier and more cost effective as well. Java on M2M modules streamlines development by facilitating end-to-end interworking between backend systems, host applications and security elements. The module serves as a hub between the vertical application and other components of the M2M solution. Yet at the same time, it preserves the integrity of each portion of the solution. For instance, the vertical application is easily accessible but not overburdened with connectivity tasks, while the backend relies on the powerful Java platform for protocols and security extensions. All essential elements for connecting the vertical application into the M2M fabric can reside in Java, making development, management and reuse much easier. In addition, Java enables a suite of value added functions such as security, internet services, Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and remote provisioning, which are especially important in M2M applications that operate in the field for 10 years or more. Moreover, M2M Java development is inherently flexible offering a high quality, free-ofcharge Integrated-Development-Environment (IDE) for either Netbeans (Oracle/SUN) or Eclipse (IBM initiated project). This enables fast and efficient M2M application development and software testing with most standard desktop systems. Special on-device debugging capabilities allow easy application testing in the target hardware configuration. Finally, Java offers improved security for M2M applications based on Java’s marketproven “Java sandbox” philosophy, protecting system and application. Unique Advantages of Java in M2M Gemalto is strategically committed to Java as the platform for embedded module applications. Aligning embedded applications on Java creates a coherent, layered end-to-end environment consisting of Java-enabled SIM cards (Java Card), Java-powered Cinterion modules as well as a powerful engine behind cloud-based M2M service delivery platforms such as the one offered by Sensor Logic. This consistent offering is unique in the M2M industry and a key advantage to helping OEMs and implementers quickly design and deploy seamless solutions that help generate revenue. This year, Gemalto is introducing the next generation of Cinterion Evolution products, the industry’s first portfolio of M2M modules spanning from 2G GPRS to 3G HSPA that all support Java. One of the new modules, EHS5, successfully miniaturized 3G HSPA connectivity to an unprecedented 18.8 x 27.6 x 2.3 mm - the smallest LGA 3G form factor currently available in the M2M market. Samples and development kits of EHS5 are now available with global commercial availability, FTA approvals and MNO certifications expected in Q4 of 2012. Java and M2M: From Module to MIM to Cloud-Based Services http://www.RemoteMagazine.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Remote - M2M Special Issue 2012

Remote - M2M Special Issue 2012
M2M – The New Service Paradigm for Smart Manufacturing
Making Energy Smart
Java Embedded M2M Wireless Modules: Smart, Small, Cost Optimized
2020: A Brave New World of Three Trillion Connected Devices
New Products
Industry News
Managing the 2G Sunset

Remote - M2M Special Issue 2012