Distribution I M2M SIM Cards
The basis for the Smart Factory
Whether the Internet of Things becomes a reality the scope of networking is increasing as more and more data is transferred between machines. Special M2M SIM cards and chips will ensure uninterrupted network coverage, as Bernd Hantsche explains
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egardless of whether or the extent to which the Internet of Things will become a reality based on scenarios such as the Smart Factory, the Smart Grid, the Smart Home or Industry 4.0 – the fact is that the scope of networking is already increasing today and that steadily growing volumes of data are being transferred from machine to machine, wirelessly in most cases. Special M2M SIM cards and chips ensure uninterrupted network coverage and the necessary performance, integrated security and technical support as well as complete real-time cost control. The SIM cards from m2mAIR, for example, are not comparable with conventional end-customer models because their tariffs, services and support are systematically tailored to meet the requirements of M2M applications in the various vertical markets. m2mAIR is a division of Telit Communications PLC and the network partnership is with Telefónica. As a result, users have a choice of tariffs around the world; even medium-sized and smaller projects can benefit from tariffs that would otherwise normally be reserved for larger projects. However, the SIM cards do not need to be linked to a Telit module and may be used with any other module.
14 September 2014
Developers of M2M applications can choose between standard SIM cards, models with an extended temperature range, and SIM chips. M2M SIM cards and chips designed to withstand extended temperature ranges are available for fields of application with extreme temperatures. Whereas conventional SIM cards are generally only specified for temperatures up to 55°C, these cards can withstand temperatures from -40°C to +105°C. They are also compliant with ETSI TS 102.671. In harsh environments exposed to shocks or vibrations, SIM chips that are soldered directly to the board offer the degree of ruggedness required. They also score highly due to their low space requirements.
Transparency and flexibility At the heart of the system is a web-based portal for managing the SIM cards and chips. The Management Services available here cover the entire life cycle of the cards. A key aspect for manufacturers of M2M applications is the ability to activate services exactly when they are needed. This is because they generally have numerous SIM cards in stock before they install them and before they are ultimately actively used by the customer. Any charges incurred during
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customer when he or she actively uses the cards. m2mAIR also offers a range of programming interfaces (API) that also allow the implementation of customer- specific rules.
This life-cycle management is accompanied by comprehensive technical support and troubleshooting services – ranging from developer support for manufacturers to a help desk for users.
interruptions thanks to remote monitoring, real-time alarms, remote diagnostics and remote error fixing as well as support for remote AT commands.
Costs under control While the systems are operating, users have constant access to a real-time overview of all user profiles and usage patterns. This guarantees total cost control
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this time are borne by the development company. To avoid this situation, the portal can be used to activate services either manually or automatically using rules based on thresholds, e.g. after the first data transmission in excess of 100 kB. In this context, it is possible to choose between different activation and billing states, e.g. "test ready" and "active". This means that charges are only billed to the
Particularly in the case of newly developed applications, a specific percentage of the units will not function correctly when they commence operation - despite the extensive testing conducted during the development process. In this scenario, technical support and troubleshooting professionals can provide valuable services. Active remote troubleshooting ensures that the SIM cards work free of errors and
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