What is M2M?
M2M is an acronym for Machine-to-Machine, Machine-to-Mobile and Mobile-to-Machine . This is a new and emerging technology falling under the category of wireless mobile connections. This technology is defined in the simplest terms as a way to let machines talk to each other, perform reporting functions and executing specific commands with the least human intervention possible.

How does M2M work?
M2M works fairly simple. In a normal setup, a machine is deployed in a location, turned on manually and left behind, then later turned off all done by a human going to and fro to the machine. This is normal, but in some cases costly and difficult especially when the machine is located in a remote location not easily accessible (such as satellite dishes or antennas). Even if you attempt to connect the machine to your computer you cannot control it. If you put wireless antennas on the machine, you will still need to “digitize” the signals of most machines since many of them are not digital (like light bulbs and older TVs) to be able to translate the signals into commands that the machine will understand.

Using M2M technology, this becomes possible. An M2M-enabled device is attached to the remote machine. Using any GSM-capable electronic device (a cellphone for example), the human sends a signal usually via SMS using special keywords and commands to the number of the M2M device. The signal is then carried by the cellular network provider to the number the same way an ordinary text message is sent to another cellphone number. Once received, the M2M device translates the message then executes the command to the machine. End result: the machine follows the command as if the human himself performed the action physically.

How does M2M stay connected?
The technology uses existing GSM networks provided by mobile telecom companies around the world. As long there is a signal for a particular network, M2M can be deployed. One way to gauge this is by checking the signal strength of your cellphone.


Who benefits from using this technology?
Practically anyone may benefit. Similar to the Internet, it offers a vast selection of options on how to apply this technology to your business or organization, and all you need to do is know exactly what you want and how you want it done. M2M can be customized accordingly.

What business and industry types will be able to use M2M?
Again, almost all types of business will find something to use this with. Industry categories such as service providers, hotels, restaurants and clubs, manufacturing and distribution, logistics, banking and legal, academic and other industries will find something useful with M2M in various ways. The technology is not limited to high-end, hi-tech and IT-related industries.

Where and why was this technology developed?
European and American engineers co-developed this technology. Like Bluetooth before it, it is a collaborative effort among telecom leaders who seek out a common goal of developing new wireless technologies that will enable diverse machines to communicate. For example, before it was a PC, then it became PC-to-PC, then mobile phone-to-mobile phone, then a breakthrough: PC-to-mobile. With millions of other machines like microwave ovens, air-conditioners, cold storages and others, the next logical thing is to find a way to let these other machines become connected as well. The objective was to develop a new technology that is standardized and not brand-specific, similar to Bluetooth.

What are the components of a fully-functional M2M solution?
The following are necessary for M2M to work: a GSM modem, a SIM card with an active subscription to a GSM network service provider, and M2M software. With M2M Wireless Tech's solutions, all 3 components are included in the package, all tested for compatibility with each other, and highly-configurable.

Is M2M purely SMS-based?
No. Although SMS is vital to an M2M solution, the technology is not limited to it. GPRS and EDGE are also capable of using M2M. That said, SMS is however considered the prime mover of this technology.

We only have a small business. Do we really need this technology for our operations?
Whether you have a small business or a large corporation to run, M2M is suitable if you feel the need to have wireless mobile control. The good thing about this is that the solutions we provide are cost-effective and can be