Machine-to-Machine (M2M)

At Gemalto we’re constantly exploring new technologies that serve both to enhance digital security and impact positively on society and the environment. In 2010, following the acquisition of German company Cinterion, Gemalto established a leadership position in Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication modules, Machine Identification Modules (MIM) and device management.

M2M technology connects machines across a wide range of industries – reducing costs and improving efficiencies. It uses GSM and UMTS networks to establish two-way communication of data between devices, opening up new channels and possibilities for customers. It provides assets and machines with unlimited access to these networks due to their worldwide coverage, seamless roaming and flexible access at each location.

M2M plays a key role in remote maintenance and control, metering, payment systems, security systems, healthcare, fleet management, environmental monitoring and more. It can be used to monitor electricity networks or send alerts to health professionals and emergency services. Recent European legislation has also promoted the use of M2M in automotive emergency call (eCall) systems which help to save lives and increase road safety, smart metering for smart grids, stolen vehicle tracking and intelligent traffic systems.

M2M and sustainability
With its affiliate company, Cinterion, Gemalto is exploring the positive environmental impacts of new M2M applications, for example through:

  • Remote metering, which reduces the need for manual meter reading, cutting down associated travel and CO2 emissions;

  • Home energy monitoring, which is anticipated to become part of our daily lives in the next ten years.
    This allows people to monitor their energy use, for example through smart feedback about their consumption of electricity, gas and water. It also helps them to understand the potential environmental impact of the goods they may buy, and to make purchases based on accurate information on energy efficiency;

  • More economic and ecological vehicle fleet management. Using M2M technology, businesses can monitor their fleets remotely and carry out more efficient logistical planning based on vehicle freight and destination. This can help to increase fuel efficiency and save time, reducing costs and CO2 emissions;

  • Eco-drive applications, which monitor the style of commercial vehicle drivers and, by providing remote advice, help to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions;

  • Demand response management applications, which help reduce the use of oil, gas and coal in the generation of electricity by balancing its production (especially from fluctuating renewable sources like wind and sun) with its domestic and industrial consumption.

With these and other key benefits, M2M is becoming a vital technology for companies and governments aiming to improve efficiency and meet carbon emissions targets.

Tackling climate change

In 2009 a leading telecommunications operator, in collaboration with a global management consultancy, published a report concerning its industry’s role in tackling climate change. It identified 13 wireless telecommunications opportunities that together have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 113 megatonnes (Mt) per year. This would cut associated energy costs by € 43 billion across 25 EU member states by 2020 if fully implemented.

According to the report, 1 billion mobile connections would be needed to achieve these savings – of which 85% would be M2M connections.

See also

Cinterion acquisition

In June 2010, Gemalto acquired Cinterion Wireless Modules GmbH (CWM). Cinterion is the leading provider of industrial M2M wireless communication modules, with approximately 26% market share. The business was started in 1995 and has major centers in Munich and Berlin, Germany. With Cinterion, Gemalto is now at the forefront of M2M expansion and development.

SmartGrid award
In March 2010, Gemalto’s MASSIM program received a 2009 SmartGrid Product of the Year Award from Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC) and Intelligent Communications Partners.

The MASSIM concept is an M2M-specific program.

It is designed to detect whether a MIM has been removed from a utility meter and replaced illegally within another device. This process ensures the essential connectivity with the smart grid system is tamper-proof, protecting the utility and wireless operator from fraud.

M2M definitions

• M2M (Machine-to-Machine) technology enables wireless communication between machines for applications such as smart meters, mobile health solutions and many more.
• An M2M module works somewhat like a cellphone, but has none of its normal features (i.e. no display, keypad or battery). Instead, it uses an embedded cellular datacard which is specially designed for industrial applications and a long lifetime in harsh environments. It needs only a MIM to authenticate itself and connect to the mobile network, where it can transmit data bi-directionally.
• A MIM (Machine Identification Module) is the equivalent of a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module). Specific features mean it can be used in machines and enable authentication. MIM is a Gemalto-registered Trademark.