Smart Grid: IoT’s Next Frontier
If smart grids across the world are headed towards an IoT frontier, what come’s next? According to a recent report, Ericsson estimated there will be 1.5 billion IoT devices adopted by the utility and energy industries as early as 2020. The rise of the smart grid seeks to tackle energy producers’ needs to direct power and resources as efficiently as possible. It’s not enough to know where all the utility lines are located, the modern digital age requires monitoring and sensors placed across all assets in the field, so that providers can relay actionable intelligence across the enterprise as quickly as possible. In the event of a power outage, for example, sensors can inform the field technicians where along the line the fault has happened, thus saving time on troubleshooting and enabling faster restoration of power to the customer base affected. An example would be Florida Power & Lighting (FPL), who is in the process of installing 20,000 smart grid devices across their state. Already these devices are saving an estimated 100,000 visits from technicians, since these smart grid devices can automatically fix small outages automatically. Computer Business Review reports that, “The world’s traditional electrical network – simple and linear, with centralized energy production and passive consumption – is undergoing a transformation to a much more complex, interconnected, and interactive model: the Smart Grid. However, for this network to become intelligent, users will require connectivity, simplicity, and security. They will also need access to a reliable and safe energy source that guarantees optimal operation of their installations, infrastructures, and equipment.” Perhaps more advanced smart grid solutions comes with a price, as many early IoT adopters are finding out. Storing, transferring and relying mission-critical commands across an IP address does expose potential cybersecurity risks as information and remote controls move from Sensor-2-Server. Experts are saying it’s not if a cyber attack will happen, but when the smart grid will be hit. Despite the need to adopt new technologies within the evolving digital landscape, utilities must establish a holistic security plan to not only address physical security measures, but also the data transmission paradigm from each individual end point on the network and back to the corporate IT office. Security through obscurity is not a solution. There are many common attack vectors for industrial devices that become even more relevant when considering that smart grid infrastructures are becoming fully networked, geographically dispersed projects.
Machine Hackathon: DARPA Plays Cyber Capture the Flag
A machine hackathon is about to take on a whole new meaning as Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DRAPA) prepares to hold it’s first ever machine-only hackathon. With a specific focus on cybersecurity, this cyber version of Capture the Flag (CTF), is DARPA’s way of combating the onset of cyber attacks in real-time. DARPA’s normal approval process is lengthy; once a potential threat is recognized and a software solution has been created, it has to be tested and approved before it can be implemented, and by the time the software fix is ready to be used across the board, another threat looms on their horizon. Some of you might be asking, “What is DARPA and who are their finalists in this cyber challenge?” Not to worry, the short video below provides some background and context. The contest is truly a battle of the minds, as hacker teams try their hand at reverse-engineering software to seek out and find weakness in the system and fix those holes while attacking other machines at the same time. Those teams that are successful in both attacking and fixing holes capture the digital flag and win points in the ongoing process. This competition will take place in conjunction with the annual DEFCON, the longest running annual hacker competition. Before we start thinking that we’re living a modernized version of “Hackers,” there are a few more things to know. First, this is really a battle of software. The final teams were given a DARPA computer to code and must create a software platform to interact with the DARPA database. Once the competition begins, the teams will not be able to intervene if their software fails to see a weakness or is attacked by another team. The goal is to create an artificial intelligence (AI) software that is capable of responding in real-time to potential threats and weakness within its databases. Wired has added this contest to their radar, saying, “DARPA has gone full Tron. It might feel more like a video game, than a hacking contest, as DARPA has arranged for a visual diagram to be displayed on the big screen, that will show each attack and from what machine the attack came from.” Whether you believe Wired or the other tech experts, this type of machine AI is hoping to turn the tables on the war on cyber safety. Instead of waiting for an attack to strike, DARPA’s intuitive software will attempt to seek out weakness autonomously giving the Defense Department the added edge it needs to prevent leaks in the system. This is another intriguing example of how machine learning is becoming integrated into so many facets of the world at-large. Whether you make your way to Las Vegas to witness the DARPA’s version of CTF or not, that fact is we continue to add more M2M and IoT solutions to our daily lives. It’s only natural we find new ways to have machines assist us.
IoT Evolution Expo 2016 Recap
IoT Evolution Expo invaded Las Vegas this week by taking over Caesars Palace. The conference focus was to be a premier source of information needed to help drive your enterprise forward with the latest in IoT applications. A few of the tracks found this year at IoT Evolution included IoT Security, Fog Computing and IoT Enterprise. Overall this expo gave attendees the chance to listen to various talks and panel discussions, as well as hands-on demos on the exhibitor floor, and evening networking nights with industry experts and peers. Here are some of the posts during the event: Diving into the IoT Evolution sessions, we learn the weakness of our smartphone. Godfrey Chua, analyst at Machina Research, informs us that the smartphone can be a very weak link in IoT and M2M communications when it is used as a remote control. And…IoT Evolution continued with more panel discussions. Yann Kulp, VP SmartSpace North America with Schneider Electric tells us that, the panel with GE, Amazon, US Celluar and Argus Insights offered intriguing updates with the use of Wiser Air in your home and other Wi-Fi IoT applications. FreeWave was fortunate to participate this year on both the Oil and Gas: Pirates and Protection, as well as the Brown Field Round Table: What to do when it’s too late to start again panel discussions. The Pirates and Protection panel give us all a chance to dive deeper into the critical industries and what IoT secure options area available for these remote locations. My second panel of the night with the Brown Field Round Table gave attendees to hear real world case study examples of Sensor-2-Server implementation challenges with blending older SCADA systems with the latest IoT solutions for continuous real-time results. Time to see an IoT application at work! James Brehm & Associates tried their hand at capturing this IoT conference with virtual reality technology. A new solution from RICOH THETA. The 360 angle is best viewed prior to hitting up Margaritaville. Interesting to see the “Workspaces & IoT” concept discussed as well. Digital workspaces takes center stage at IoT Evolution as Global Workspace Analytics reports 3.7 million U.S. employees now work from home. Cynthia Artin with IoT Evolution informs us that,”while the IoT is arguably taking off faster in more industrial domains (factories, farms, transportation), and has the most “sizzle” in consumer domains (smart homes, smart cars, fitness wearables), there is new energy forming around IoT enhanced offices.” Now as this year’s IoT conference comes to a close, we remember all the ways IoT will change our enterprise and our life this year. One thing is clear, the more we innovate, the more we strive to become more efficient, automated and safety operated within fog computing and cloud applications. We hope you have enjoyed this week’s roundup, as always tells us about your IoT highs and lows.
IIoT Top News: Machine Learning
Machine-to-machine (M2M) learning is an integral apart of the expanding world of Industrial IoT. Over the past few months we have given attention to manufacturing and its current digital disruption, but have failed to show the direct impact smart M2M and IoT technology is having on the industry. So, this week we are diving deeper into the term machine learning and how it connects to manufacturing both today and in the future. Before we get to our news round up let’s start by re-defining M2M, to ensure we are all on the same page with its purpose and meaning. Gartner has defined machine-2-machine communications as “something used for automated data transmission and measurement between mechanical or electronic devices.” Now, that we have defined M2M, its time to check out our top news round up for the week on how M2M applies to both manufacturing and IoT. 10 ways machine learning is revolutionizing manufacturing Machine learning is poised to improve manufacturing by streamlining the process of OT and IT, thus increasing efficiency and lowering overall operation costs. Louis Columbus at Forbes believes that “Every manufacturer has the potential to integrate machine learning into their operations and become more competitive by gaining predictive insights into production.” IoT will recharge Machine Manufacturers Manufacturing can look to software companies as an example of how IoT can implement creating a smarter M2M network. Timothy Chou with CFO.com writes, “Today, manufacturers of machines — whether seed drills, chillers, or CT scanners — can leverage the path paved by the software product companies through three new business models: service and support; assisted services and machine-as-a-service.” Climbing the IoT Mountain–by adding M2M to manufacturing Manufacturing is only at the beginning of its ascent into IoT and M2M, so there are many more bumps and obstacles a long the way for the industry to fully integrate. Ronnie Garrett with Supply & Demand Chain Executive describes IoT and M2M manufacturing implementation as, “Standing at the foot of Mount Everest, ready to climb the world’s tallest mountain. You know you want to get to the top but you aren’t really sure how you will get there or what obstacles you’ll encounter along the way.” Cybersecurity is manufacturing’s biggest risk factor Manufacturing needs to continue to add M2M automation and big data analytics to the shop floor, but a threat to the overall industry is manifesting itself in the cybersecurity world. Ian Wright with Engineering.com informs writes, “A new report from BDO indicates that 92 percent of manufacturers cited cybersecurity concerns in their SEC disclosures this year. According to BDO, this represents a 44 percent increase compared to the first Manufacturing Risk Factor report in 2013.” As we wrap up our top news for the week, we realize the need to fully implement advanced machine learning across the manufacturing world will take more than a simple flick of the wrist. With that said, we leave you with a cautionary tale of when automation goes wrong. It was recently discovered an airport in India had an sign translated with automation software which read, “eating carpet strictly prohibited” — of course this was not the translation they had meant to display. Regardless, as we move towards a fully integrated M2M world, we will have to adjust our equations depending our our intended outcome, much like the world is finding with the love/hate of language automation. Hope you have enjoyed this week’s top news, as always tell us your thoughts on M2M and how it might impact your world!
Internet of Things Expo: What to expect this week
The Internet of Things (IoT) is essential for both enterprise and personal, everyday use. Leading research firms agree that IoT will experience an unbelievable boom, possibly into the tens of billion devices by 2020 as computers, smartphones and sensors all require connectivity. This week’s Things Expo is a SYS-CON Media annual event, designed to help make sure your enterprise is IoT-ready with 80 breakout sessions focusing on many aspects of IoT, including big data’s use with predictive analytics, smart grid and Industrial IoT (IIoT), wearables, identity in IoT and modem data centers, among many other tracks. Here is a sneak peek at keynote Internet of Things Expo speaker Chris Matthieu. Also…Check out this clip of a Things Expo Power Panel It is going to be an action-packed three days of IoT information dumps from the experts. If you have the chance to be in New York this week, be sure to check out this conference and soak up some knowledge. Scott Allen, CMO of FreeWave, will be presenting “Sensor-2-Server: Intelligent Communication at the Access Layer” at ThingsExpo on Tuesday, June 7th from 4:40 – 5:15p.m. EDT. (http://www.cloudcomputingexpo.com/event/session/3238). Sensor-2-Server™ (S2S™) intelligent communications for the access layer can collect and transport the data that supports higher-level analytics. As IoT becomes adopted by industrial markets, there is going to be an increased demand for video, voice, data and sensor data communication from the outermost layer of the network. Let us know what you think. Which aspects of IoT are most interesting to you? What needs more coverage and information?
IIoT + S2S = Industrial Innovation at the Access Layer
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is moving at a rapid pace towards a higher intelligence platform to help collect, protect, transport and control data at scale from a myriad of sources. The access layer in the IT landscape is now particularly becoming an innovative technology environment with many new sensory solutions available to bring intelligence back to the core systems and analytics engines. Another area to consider when discussing IIoT are the individuals working with these technologies today, tomorrow and in the future. To start, the younger/millennial generation is entering the workforce in droves and is arguably the first generation open to big data integration and as part of IoT application solutions. Now that IT and Operations personnel work closer together than ever before, there is a need to be able to share the sensor data across the access layer. On the other hand, the older generation is trusting of the SCADA data systems they have been using for years, and are slow at first to adapt to the new intelligence created in the access layer. How Does an Enterprise Address this Transition? One strategy is IT/OT convergence, which promotes a single view of an enterprise’s information. Process-management tools help ensure that every person, machine, sensor, switch and device in an organization has accurate information in the best form and at the right time. As OT products—for example, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and remote terminal units (RTUs)—become more aligned with IT infrastructure and applications, getting OT information integrated efficiently with IT systems at a process level is difficult enough for many companies. Getting IT and OT systems to work together to maximize business efficiency — while avoiding negative consequences, risks and pitfalls in the process —makes the task more challenging. However, thanks to new technologies, this process is becoming more practical and is creating the opportunities for huge economic benefits when these two disciplines are successfully integrated. Evolution of Sensor-2-Server (S2S) (As described by Brandon Lewis, Technology Editor for IoT Design) S2S architectures define a method for communicating data collected by sensor platforms at the access layer of an IoT network back to servers at other layers, including but not limited to centralized servers in the core network. This type of architecture allows sensor data to be transmitted to points in the network that are best suited to the specific type of analysis, decision making, and control, which in an industrial deployment could be a SCADA controller located at the aggregation layer rather than a mass dump of heterogeneous data from hundreds or thousands of endpoints back to the core network. For critical IoT systems that require real-time or near-real-time analysis of sensor data, this more localized communications can speed decision cycles using data in motion rather than waiting to parse data at rest. Want to Learn More about S2S and the Future of Industrial IoT? For more information and a full discussion on S2S and the future of IIoT, please check out this recent interview with the IoT Roadshow and Scott Allen. You can also listen to the SoundCloud recording below!
ENTELEC 2016 Conference News Roundup
This past week many of you migrated to Houston, Texas for the annual Energy Telecommunications and Electrical Association Conference (ENTELEC). This user association had around 200 vendors, that mainly focus on control technologies that are used by petroleum, natural gas, pipeline and electric utility companies. In honor of this being the 88th year of ENTELEC, Richard Nation, a fellow board member with Copano Energy gives us a brief history on how this association formed and evolved over the years. Now take a moment and watch this video, its only a few minutes long, so get to watching! A brief history on ENTELEC https://youtu.be/OaSMd2__naQ In case you missed it, we have a full recap here to fill you in on all the happenings at this year’s conference! ENTELEC 2016 started off with a bang, with the keynote address from Carey Lohrenz, the first female F-14 Tomcat Fighter Pilot with the Navy. Carey shared her winning experiences working aboard an aircraft carrier. These tools she explains, can be translated to everyday life in order to reduce error under pressure. Once the conference got under way, the ENTELEC team wanted to remind everyone, “they think you are kind of a big deal.” Inviting everyone to stop by their main booth throughout the conference. The Pipeline & Gas Journal snapped a picture of networking in action, as the communications and control technology experts got a chance to mingle during the opening day of ENTELEC. It was an action-packed conference, filled with speaking, networking, demonstrations and overall knowledge sharing. Hope you have enjoyed this week’s round up; as always tell us what we missed!
Who’s Your Betamax of IoT Standards?
Image Courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons In the world of IoT/IIoT an explosion of standards has fallen upon us. While we all can agree that standards are what binds our current communication infrastructures together, it does take time for the victorious standard to rise to the top of adoption. Some of us remember the battle that arose in the video tape arena between VHS and Betamax (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Videotape_format_war). While Betamax’s claim to fame was the superior picture, VHS had the longer recording time and a larger backing from the industry. In the end VHS won. And who can remember the tale of HD-DVD vs Blu-Ray, token-ring vs 10Base-T or WiMax vs LTE? Enter the IoT/IIoT wannabes. In the communication protocol arena we have standards such as 802.15.4 (ZigBee), 802.11ah (Wi-Fi HaLow) and LoRa that want to use the 900 MHz spectrum to connect your devices back to a gateway and then to your cloud. There are also application software framework standards such as Thread, Alljoyn, IoTivity, Arrowhead and LWM2M. I won’t even mention all of the cloud platforms that aim to bring all of these pieces together in one place. Really, how many people think about the actual physical mechanisms that enable connectivity throughout the world? And within that, who thinks about the standards set by organizations that dictate the best method for connecting all our devices? Standards have the potential to affect ranges of communication, battery life on remote devices, signal interference, and many other things. The interesting part about the race to the top, so to speak, is that the standards mentioned above all have viable aspects that could potentially make them the ideal solution for connected infrastructure. Many of these standards have consortiums with major players such as Google, Microsoft, ARM and Samsung, all of which play at different places in the IoT/IIoT theatre. So, unlike the tail of Betamax, many of these standards have the backing of multiple entities. But, who’s going to win? Which standard will come out on top? Or, will we find ourselves with multiple standards because we can’t agree on one to do the job? What do you think? Who is your Betamax pick for IoT/IIoT?
IWCE 2016: What to expect next week?
The International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE), is an annual event for communication technology professionals working globally in a broad range of the communications field, including energy, utilities, emergency response and municipality/infrastructure. This conference will get under way next week, from March 21-25, in Las Vegas. An estimated 7,000 individual industry experts are expected to attend from government/military; public safety (law enforcement, fire service and first responders); utility, transportation and business enterprise. IWCE will also feature around 370 exhibitors ready to show you the latest product innovations and trends forecasted this coming year. Donny Jackson editor of Urgent Communications, the official tradeshow media partner, believes that this year’s IWCE will give industry professionals a chance to get educated about the latest critical-communications technology, all while making key network contacts with industry experts. So, what else can we look forward to? IWCE promises to offer engaging content–with their 5-day comprehensive conference program; more quality time with peers; industry experts providing the latest strategies and tactics; minimal expenses–when you take advantage of conference discounts; structured networking opportunities; tangible handouts you can use throughout the year; more face-to-face learning time and more educational opportunities will be available this year. Excitement is building! Here are just a few of the people and organizations excited for next week’s event! Tune in next week for our IWCE insider recaps. Vegas here we come!
Difference Between Data Sheet Transmit Power & Data Stream Transmit Power
Image courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons You need to link a two production sites together in your IIoT network in order to move critical voice, video, data and sensor data (VVDS™) between the sites by deploying access points. So, you consider using industrial Wi-Fi Access Points to implement this short-haul, point-to-point (PTP) RF link between the two sites. Short-haul RF links out to 8 miles are very doable using industrial Wi-Fi Access Points with directional antennas. You evaluate potential Wi-Fi Access Points from their data sheet specs. This is given, and you select one. Now, there is one specification that is commonly misunderstood and leads to confusion when evaluating MIMO capable Wi-Fi Access Points and using them in either PTP or point-to-multipoint (PMP) IIoT networks as wireless infrastructure. Confusion and mistakes arise from the difference between the transmit power stated on the product data sheet and the transmit power of a single MIMO data stream of the Access Point. For example, a 3×3 MIMO Access Point data sheet states the transmit power is 27dBm for MCS4/12/20 data encoding in either the 2.4 or 5GHz band. This is typical, and not a surprise, but what is this transmit power really stating. The FCC limits and regulates maximum transmit power from an intentional emitter, e.g. Wi-Fi Access Points. For Wi-Fi devices, the limits apply to the aggregate transmit power of the device. In above product spec example, the transmit power stated is the aggregate transmit power for the 3 MIMO data streams. Still good? Yes. You have a Wi-Fi Access Point and the total transmit power is 27dBm. Now, you design your short-haul PTP link using Wi-Fi Access Points and directional antennas. What transmit power do you use in your RF link budget? 27dBm since it is the transmit power for the Access Point for the data encoding and the band you plan to use. Right? No. While 27dBm is the total aggregate transmit power for the Access Point, it is not the transmit power of an individual data stream. The individual data stream transmit power is roughly 5dB less than the aggregate transmit power found in the data sheet for a 3×3 MIMO product. Difference in Transmit Power versus Aggregate Power 1 Data Stream transmitting at 22dBm — Aggregate Transmit Power is 22dBm 2 Data Streams transmitting at 22dBm — Aggregate Transmit Power is 25dBm 3 Data Streams transmitting at 22dBm — Aggregate Transmit Power is 27dBm So here it is… If you use the transmit power from the data sheet in your RF link calculation without correction, your actual link distance will be approximately half what you expect for the planned fade margin or the link reliability will be less than what you expect for the planned link distance. When designing RF links for the IIoT networks, make certain you are using the correct transmit power in your RF link budget calculations.