M2M Device Networking:

Enabling New Possibilities for Preventive Maintenance (cont.)

By Marty Huff

(Got to beginning page of Device Networking Technology Article)

The Intelligent Device: Where The Data Originates

Intelligent devices include PLCs, I/O modules, and sensors - essentially any device, machine or appliance containing a microprocessor. These devices are programmed to read, and sometimes react, to actions and conditions such as motion, voltage, pressure, flow, or temperature. Any device that has the capability to act or react to a command, communicate with other devices, control or be controlled, can broadcast data in an M2M application.

In many facilities, it is common for devices to be linked together and easily accessible via machine networks such as Data Highway Plus (DH+), DeviceNet, ModBus, etc. In many cases it is necessary to add an Ethernet card or wireless gateway to just one machine on the network to gain access to the majority of your facilities equipment.

It is also important not to overlook equipment that is less likely to be connected to the existing device network. Commonly overlooked equipment which is critical to the operation of a facility includes: plant air compressors, boilers, and high voltage stations, just to name a few.

M2M Components

There are basically four components in an M2M system: 1) the intelligent device (machine or appliance) where the data originates, 2) the gateway that extracts and translates data, 3) the network which serves the data and 4) the remote client which ultimately receives the data. M2M software applications are optional but can facilitate communications, enable Web access and provide the user interface.

Please See the following pages to continue with this Preventive Maintenance Technology Article...

The Intelligent Device: Where The Data Originates

The Gateway: Translates and Passes The Data To The Network

The Network: The Connectivity That Serves Data To The Remote Client

The Remote Client: The Destination Of The Information