Lantronix takes next step in device networking with an embedded device server and network operating system.
Coining the term "machine-to-mainstream" from "machine-to-machine," Chris Humphrey, vice president of marketing for Irvine, Calif. networking company Lantronix, announced two technologies bringing data-center grade information exchange capabilities to embedded devices arrayed throughout private networks and the Internet. Device networking was dominated by serial-to-Ethernet converters that linked devices and machines to each other. "Machine-to-mainstream" networking is designed to take the next step integrating machines to mainstream information technology (IT) applications.
One of the most interesting (to me) features is support for RSS--and they call it Really Simple Syndication. I am preparing a short presentation to the MESA conference at the end of the month that emphasizes the coming role of RSS. Now Lantronix tells me that IT managers are asking for RSS support in device networking. RSS is a "syndication" type of communication, or I liken it to publish/subscribe. Based on XML, it's a great way to pass information that doesn't update frequently.
The new XPort Architect (AR) embedded processor module is the first product to take advantage of the Lantronix' Evolution Network Operating System (ENOS). Designed to connect devices with secure business and control applications, the XPort AR takes advantage of the same high-level data transport and security mechanisms adopted worldwide by IT professionals. These products extend the company[base ']s product line with more memory, processing power and data-center protocols for applications requiring increased on-module intelligence and customization.
The XPort AR module includes a complete embedded computer, an Ethernet 10/100 Mbps interface along with an on-board network operating system and web server in a miniaturized RJ45 package, about the size of two sugar cubes. The fully integrated XPort AR can be used as a device's central processing unit (CPU), allowing developers to add their own device-specific intelligence through an Application Programming Interface (API). The Power over Ethernet (PoE) pass-through feature eliminates power cables to the device, making the XPort AR a fully IEEE PoE standards-compliant embedded device server module.
There are a lot of features in this little device that product line manager Rahul Shah likens to the size of two or three sugar cubes (depending upon the model).
I think this is a good and logical extension to this category of equipment. A few years ago companies in this category were simply providing ways to get legacy serial equipment on the Ethernet backbone. Now some real device functionality is coming along. The technology is starting to catch up with the concept. This puts pressure back on arch-rival Digi, the only remaining competitor in this part of the M2M market. Opto 22 led the way in industrial M2M partnering its I/O products with Nokia cellular technology. Now, Phoenix Contact, Turck and Wago are beginning to leverage their I/O products to tap the M2M market.
More on M2M coming later.
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