What is M2M
M2M stands for Machine 2 Machine. M2M is the ability of machines, assets and devices to exchange information with people, a business or an enterprise. M2M enhances operations to reduce costs, increase revenue, provides a much more efficient service organization etc.
The potential for wireless M2M solutions is limitless. By connecting machines, companies can improve control and access over machines and other assets, they can also track and monitor a machine or environment over the entire lifespan of that machine or customer.
M2M applications are often referred as wireless but can also operate through the LAN’s Internet, leased lines or the telephone network. M2M can be used for both fixed and mobile objects.
Wireless-Fixed M2M (telemetry) applications include the monitoring and control of alarm systems, industrial processes, electronic payment terminals, vending machines and meter reading (gas, water, electricity, etc.). Also included is service and maintenance in areas such as lifts, escalators, vending machines and point-of-sale equipment.
Wireless-Mobile M2M (telematics) applications include fleet and freight management solutions such as cargo tacking, route planning, order management, and logistics for road, rail, air and sea. Also included in this category are auto telematics with driver navigation, safety, vehicle diagnostics, car security, mobility services, and traffic information.
The M2M communication begins with obtaining data from a machine or device into a collection device or technology. The way to do this can be any communication method like:
I/O signals (Analog, digital inputs / outputs etc)
Communication protocols
Serial based protocols (RS232, RS485) like Modbus, DF1 etc
Ethernet based protocols like Modbus TCP, Profinet etc.
Fieldbus networks like Profibus, CAN, Devicenet, LonWorks etc
Once the information is obtained it can be sent over some network to reach a central server. This is typically the GSM/GPRS network, Telephone network (PSTN), Satellite or the Internet. The data can be transferred as real-time data or be stored locally in the collecting device to be sent later on. This is suitable if the application is not time critical and to reduce cost for sending data. The application can often be programmed to send complete data on a time scheduled basis or anytime upon request from the central server.
When the data is sent to the central server it is possible to do any kind of user application ir integration to existing systems. Examples of central server applications are:
Web portal to monitor and control data
Integration to business administration systems
Alarm forwarding to mobile phones
Data logging for trending learning about behavior how equipment is used
Integration to GPS system to track devices
