The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to gain a lot of hype, especially as consumer awareness rises – people are realizing how machine to machine (M2M) technology can impact the way they live, drive and communicate. But what many people don’t realize is these IoT solutions are only as strong as the technology inside them; the revolution of connected devices is working behind the scenes, and the intelligence comes from within, with embedded technology.
Machines are getting smarter and the number of sensors they use is increasing. These sensors are embedded in devices to give M2M solutions their magic – they can detect nearby cars, weather information, movement levels and more, and relay that data back to other machines or devices.
Embedded technology also enables connectivity, which makes all of this M2M communication possible. M2M gateways receive data from wireless networks and convert it so it can be sent to the network operation center. Gateways can manage data security features, such as authentication and access control, and it functions as a protocol converter, but can take high-bandwidth IP and convert it so data is optimized for transfer over a cellular network.
One concern about the IoT is the fragmentation between partners and vendors, between software and hardware. Different applications are equipped with different chips, systems and gateways, making it easier for hackers to find loopholes in connections and data communication. An article in Wired highlighted the different patches in security updates in software, which makes the security vulnerabilities more easily found. The solution is to put pressure on embedded system vendors to design systems carefully and make it easy for security tools and software updates.
Multi-Tech (News - Alert) Systems is one company working to enable M2M communication with its services and solutions, including embedded device networking products. The company’s open communications gateways, cellular modems and embedded device networking solutions make it easy to add communication capabilities to products.
Its products enable M2M communications applications across a number of industries, including transportation, energy, healthcare, financial, retail and remote monitoring, helping companies reduce costs, save time and enhance services. Whether an organization is looking to set up shop remotely, monitor assets in real-time or improve efficiency, Multi-Tech has a solution that can help.
Visit www.multitech.com to learn more.
Edited by Cassandra Tucker