M2M Newsroom

The latest generation of m2m communications is taking business into new territory. The evolution of m2m communications reflects the growing reach and sophistication of underlying communication networks.

Evolution

So far, we have seen three distinct phases: wired communication, linking one device to another over a local or wide area network; wireless communication, linking devices anywhere in the world to a central control point via global cellular networks; satellite or hybrid cellular/satellite communication linking devices in remote or inaccessible areas not covered by cellular networks.

Remote

Global m2m communications is opening new opportunities for business. One example is the ability to track cargo throughout its journey on land or sea. While cellular-based systems provided increasing levels of coverage around the world, monitoring cargo at sea had been a problem because of the lack of cellular coverage. Using satellite networks to collect and transmit data from the tracking devices on board ship means that global cargo tracking using m2m communications is now a reality.

Health

Hybrid networks are also enabling medical authorities to take telemedicine to patients in remote territories. In Africa, for example, m2m communications are an integral part of the fight to bring diabetes under control. Patients in remote communities with no local medical facilities are fitted or issued with devices that monitor their insulin levels, transmitting data automatically to a doctor. If the device issues an alert, the doctor can take immediate action to control the patient’s condition.

Green

The pressure to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption is encouraging businesses to adopt and implement greener policies. A new generation of energy management systems enables businesses to monitor and change their energy consumption in real time. Monitoring devices fitted to equipment that consumes high levels energy transmit data via m2m communications to a small panel that gives the user full control on the premises.