The Next Evolution Of M2M

By Brian Albright, Field Technologies magazine

Improved wireless networks and lower prices have made it much easier and more cost-effective to deploy machineto- machine (M2M) solutions in a growing number of applications. While in the past such systems were focused primarily on location data, users are demanding M2M communication that provides a much wider variety of asset data. "As a result of all these trends, M2M solutions are increasingly affordable and adaptable to a wide range of software-driven business and consumer applications," says Wayne Ward, vice president of the emerging solutions group at Sprint.

The primary attraction is real-time data that can help increase productivity, lower costs, and streamline operations for remote personnel. "Any type of remote or mobile monitoring is very hot right now," says John Horn, president of RACO Wireless. "No one wants to wait until the end of the day or the end of the week; instant data is becoming the standard."