MACHINE-TO-MACHINE (M2M) refers to data communications between machines utilizing 1) telemetry systems that enable the remote measurement and reporting of information, and 2) telecommand systems that send instructions and data to the machines to operate them remotely. In scenarios that leverage the internet and that embed computation (information processing) into the environment and the machines / devices, M2M is roughly equivalent to another term, the PERVASIVE INTERNET, The objective of the Pervasive Internet is to enable people to interact with more information-processing devices than they currently do, and in ways that suit whatever location or context they find themselves in.

M2M is typically accomplished through a family of sensors, middleware, software and applications that help improve efficiency and quality by tying together a myriad of sensors that transmit data to mission critical applications like EAM, ERP, and CRM. Early M2M data was transmitted via costly and power-intensive communications systems that include wireline-connected telephone or data / computer networks, and wireless cellular networks with satellite communications.

However, recent advances in radio frequency (RF) technologies and protocols now enable M2M data transmission via very inexpensive, low-power wireless sensor networks. These networks take advantage of licensed or unlicensed portion of the RF spectrum.

M2M promotes an environment where different types of devices can be connected through the Internet to share virtually any type of information. This makes for a seamless and automated flow of data and services and remote management and device control. Since wireless connectivity can exist in practically any machine, environment, and market, RFM enables OEMs and end-users to create a broad array of solutions that deliver new levels of “smart services” and commerce.

By building intelligence (awareness and connectivity) into products, Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and a variety of businesses are now beginning to deliver “smart services” that are offered via a platform of M2M enabled products that can report its real-time operational and maintenance status back to its manufacturer. By providing these value added services, manufacturers and software providers now have the opportunity to cultivate deeper and more long term relationships with their customers.

RFM companies’ not only enable M2M connectivity through our technology-leading wireless sensor networking, but also through our web-enabled enterprise asset management and computerized maintenance management systems that interpret and act upon sensor data can be customized to meet the needs of any industrial smart services application.