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What is M2M?

M2M stands for “machine-to-machine” communications. Essentially, it is the exchange of data between a remote machine and a back-end IT infrastructure. The transfer of data can be two-way:

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Uplink to collect product and usage information
•Downlink to send instructions or software updates, or to remotely monitor equipment.

In the past, the high cost of deploying M2M technology made it the exclusive domain of large organizations that could afford to build and maintain their own dedicated data networks. Today, the widespread adoption of cellular technology has made wireless M2M technology available to manufacturers all over the world.

As shown below, wireless M2M applications include connectivity-enabled devices that use a cellular data link to communicate with the computer server. A database to store collected data and a software application that allows the data to be analyzed, reported, and acted upon are also key components of a successful end-to-end solution.


As RIM has demonstrated in the PDA business, connectivity can transform an industry and generate tremendous value. With connectivity, traditional hardware makers currently earning margins on a one-time, per-device basis can realize new recurring revenue and profit streams. Connected device providers can also reduce or eliminate support costs by allowing their connected machines to be serviced remotely. The ability for any device or machine to communicate wirelessly—not just cell phones and PDAs—enables value beyond what we can even imagine today.

Through connectivity, new value, new products, and new applications that were not possible even a few years ago are being brought to market as manufacturers realize enormous benefits from their ability to:

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Create new recurring revenues from ongoing services
•Develop whole new product lines that rely on real-time two-way connectivity
•Perform diagnostics and repairs remotely
•Monitor machine status and usage in real time
•Increase profitability by lowering service costs and improving product performance

Fast Growing Adoption

As a result of this value, there has been a significant growth in the adoption of M2M communications in the last two years. Global 500 companies from General Electric to Xerox , General Motors and ABB have publicly announced M2M initiatives. According to ABI Research, over 20 million cellular M2M modules (the transmitters required for a device to communicate) shipped in 2007 and these shipments are growing at over 30% per year.

Jasper Wireless works closely with manufacturers and OEMs in many different industries to help them build wireless applications that capitalize on M2M’s enormous market opportunity. To learn more about how Jasper Wireless can help you, select your industry from the list below. To learn more about how Jasper Wireless can help you, please select the proper section from the ones below: