Generation wireless technology advances asset management (2)

To help evolve next-generation wireless asset management systems, the platform distributes and optimizes responsibilities throughout the device. The MSP430 handles most of the power management, application, and I/O requirements. The GPS chip controls location-based services and is responsible for processing geo-fence calculations needed for advanced asset tracking services. If a fence violation is detected, the LoCosto processor takes over tracking responsibility while establishing, monitoring, and maintaining the IP connection. It also stores all connection parameters and hosts the TCP and UDP stack, enhancing overall operation. Transfer efficiency is achieved within the same processor by expanding on the transport. For designs that utilize rechargeable batteries, the GSM block also performs that task, reducing size, cost, and complexity.

Being energy efficient

In addition to the low-power hardware and breadth of device responsibility, it is important to ensure that next-generation systems provide flexibility and adaptability to create maximum efficiency. Additionally, these systems should offer current meters to give an indication of a device’s battery life.

For example, the Enabler LPP keeps track of how much time was spent in the different operating states, providing an accurate report of how much current has been used and where the energy is being spent. Based on that information, the application can choose to alter the operating parameters. For instance, if the device is getting frequent indications of movement but the GPS readings do not show and confirm associated movement, sensitivity settings can be altered remotely, and a new battery life projection will be calculated.

Graphical user interfaces can help designers create use case studies that will predict how long a device will last in the field. By doing so, designers can quickly see the effects on battery life if they change reporting intervals, GPS tracking times, and sleep intervals. With the Enabler LPP, once a Model is built, the application will automatically generate the script file needed to configure the device.

When this tag is used in conjunction with the Enfora Service Gateway Provisioner (Figure 3), the settings can be pushed to one or all devices in the field, simplifying maintenance, network tuning, and application performance. The software will store and forward configuration data to the devices, handle all protocol conversions, accept device data, and make that data available to standard database applications.

Connecting to the enterprise

Moving forward, asset management will play an ever-increasing role in corporate capital management and asset utilization. These wirelessly connected devices will help reduce operating expenses and improve business productivity. Through the Internet, this next-generation technology will enable powerful new levels of asset management and permit companies to connect a broader array of devices to their IT and accounting infrastructures.

Scott D. Constien is the VP of technology and CTO at Enfora, Inc., based in Richardson, Texas, where he is responsible for setting the company’s technology direction. He played a key role in leading Enfora’s technology migration from cellular digital packet data to GSM/GPRS product development. Prior to joining Enfora, Scott worked with INET Technologies and Texas Instruments Defense and Electronics Group. Scott graduated from the University of Texas in Austin with a BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering.