In addition, M2M is used to signify the current movement within the telemetry space to bring the concept of remote data acquisition and control to a larger audience than previously possible. In the past, telemetry systems were the exclusive domain of very large well financed organizations. Large oil and gas companies and electric utilities, through the use of extensive customer built dedicated data networks, were a couple of the first organizations to extensively use telemetry. Also, NASA, in the 1960’s, used telemetry extensively to monitor the Apollo space craft in route to the moon.

However, with the advancement of technology, the improve capabilities and coverage of wireless cellular technologies (CDMA, GSM, Mobitex, etc.), and the drop in cost of satellite data services, telemetry has become more accessible. This accessibility is the core of M2M.

The key pieces of a typical M2M system include:
1) A device or group of devices capable of replying to requests for data contained within those devices or capable of transmitting data contained within those devices autonomously.
2) A communications link to connect the device or group of devices to a computer server or another device.
3) A database to store the data that has been retrieved from a device or group of devices.
4) A software agent, process, or interface by which the data can be analyzed, reported, and/or acted upon.

An example of M2M technology might be a set of devices that monitor traffic in a city and communicate the information to the city's traffic lights in order to regulate the flow of traffic. Another example is the previously mentioned use of M2M by NASA to monitor the Apollo space craft during missions to the moon and, more currently, to monitor Space Shuttle missions.

M2M is used in telemetry, data collection, remote control, robotics, remote monitoring, status tracking, road traffic control, offsite diagnostics and maintenance, security systems, logistic services, fleet management, and telemedicine.

Detailed examples:

Oil & Gas