Author: admin admin

The Internet of Things (IoT) is defined as physical objects that are embedded with sensors, processing ability, software, and other technologies. They connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet or other communications networks. Your cell phone is the perfect example of an IoT device.

Machine to Machine (M2M) is direct communication between devices using any communications channel such as wired and wireless. This can include industrial instrumentation, enabling a sensor or meter to communicate the information it records to application software that can use it. By that definition, the utility smart meter in your home is a great example of an M2M device.

They are very similar technologies with two main differentiators:
1. IoT devices communicate over a network without a direct connection (normally the internet, hence the name), whereas M2M devices can be connected to each other directly, and with no human intervention.
2. IoT devices have an onboard processing capability, which is not a requirement for M2M devices.

There are close to 14 billion IoT devices in the world today (2021) and there will be an estimated 25 billion by 2030. M2M connections are at approximately 2.8 billion globally and are expected to grow at an even faster rate than IoT connections.

It is shaping up to be a future where everything is connected! Vehicles will communicate with each other, with pedestrians, and with infrastructure. Healthcare will have advanced patient monitoring, decision systems, and integrated command centers. Manufacturing will have automated guided vehicles, augmented reality, and AI vision quality checking. When you are out shopping, you can expect enhanced personalization and a frictionless shopping experience – one where you can leave the store without going through checkout or self-service.

Whether it be IoT or M2M, the devices that will make this connected future a reality will need to communicate with each other seamlessly and reliably. Today, some of the many communications technologies that are available are:
1. RFID
2. Ethernet
3. Wi-Fi
4. VHF/UHF/SHF radio
5. Bluetooth
6. DSL
7. Fiber

There are many networking and backhaul options available today, including:
1. Local Area Networks (LAN)
2. Wide Area Networks (WAN)
3. The Internet
4. Power Line Communication (PLC)
5. Mesh networks
6. WiMAX networks
7. Satellite networks
8. Cellular/mobile networks

Device connections often include a combination of technologies, networking, and backhauling. Cellular 5G networks will also be a huge enabler of IoT and M2M.

Here at Blue Sky Network, we specialize in IoT device connection for remote devices using satellite and cellular networks. Contact us if you would like to learn more about remote device connection.

SkyRouter from Blue Sky Network is a fleet management solution that tracks and monitors assets operating anywhere in the world. This customizable cloud-based software provides a secure web interface to display and communicate mission-critical data.

Equipped with many advanced features, SkyRouter enhances safety, security, and operational efficiency. Its capabilities include two-way messaging, telematics data, geofencing, smart events and smart alerts.

SkyRouter operates seamlessly on a mobile, tablet, or cloud-based application and on a PC. It scales up to a sizable format for operation center screens and scales down to mobile format for smart devices. User account access can also be scaled up or down – from a single user to a large organization.

Functioning as both a single-page app and a progressive web app, SkyRouter is fast and reliable. Round trip time from the asset to the operations center is as quick as 4 seconds. The server is always connected and it uses push technologies to ensure everything is synced.

For more information regarding military communication solutions provided by Blue Sky Network, visit www.blueskynetwork.com.

Download our free ebook to learn the best tactics to optimize fleet operations:

Did you enjoy this post? Sign up for our newsletter to receive similar articles directly in your inbox!

Maximizing Military Communications

Government and military organizations often appoint operations managers with the crucial task of finding and implementing a secure, military-quality communication system. To achieve the expected level of military communication effectiveness, operations managers must source and leverage only the highest-performing solutions. So, with many options to choose from, it’s important to understand what features and functionalities are required for mission success.

Military communication solutions should come equipped with a foundational level of safety, security, and redundancy, including a powerful service network. This network should stand against the extremes, as any break in connectivity may impact the team’s ability to communicate. In the following paragraphs, discover what to look for in a military communication solution, including:

• Remote Connectivity Considerations
• Communication & Fleet Tracking
• Fleet Management Software
• Compliance & Regulatory Standards
• Scalability

Remote Connectivity Considerations

Some government and military missions are carried out in remote locations or areas where cellular service is spotty or unreliable. Incorporating satellite phone systems and fleet tracking tools for portable and stationary assets can ensure military communications never go offline. There are also dual-mode options for those traveling in and out of cellular range. This least-cost alternative leverages the nearest and strongest available signal, defaulting to cellular, when possible, to help reduce service costs.

When satellite signal is the only option, look for military communication services leveraging LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite networks. LEO satellites are located closer to Earth than GEO (Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit) satellites, resulting in a shorter transmission path, stronger signals, lower latency, and quicker registration time.

Iridium^® is an LEO satellite network provider with 66 globally positioned satellites. Each of the Iridium^® satellites is linked to as many as four others, creating a seamless network connection. This network routes traffic among satellites to ensure continuous global coverage, even in areas where traditional networks are unavailable.

Communication & Fleet Tracking

Using a single service solution for military communication and fleet tracking helps reduce operational strain and downtime needed for installation and training. A low SWAP device offers flexible mounting options for easy access, discrete placement, or multi-use purposes, including portability. Look for devices that have several ports for sensors, phone lines, and a power source.

For fleet tracking, telemetry, diagnostics, and data management, a device with legacy connectors provides you with a broader range of data collection and remote fleet management capabilities. POTS (Plain Ordinary Telephone Service), PTT (Push-to-Talk), and VoIP (Voice over IP) options are available with these types of military communication systems, so look for services that best meet your needs. A separate, DOD-compatible docking station may be required if over-the-air security is a concern. The 9575A Docking Station by Blue Sky Network is the only docking station that supports General Dynamics’ Iridium 9575A satellite phone handset. This docking station also allows for easy integration into existing POTS telephone systems.

Fleet Management Software

With a comprehensive device in place (enabling two-way voice and data traffic), you will need a platform to measure and manage results. Select a service that comes equipped with a secure, cloud-based web portal. The ideal military communication and fleet management ecosystem sends real-time information back and forth, presenting it in an easy-to-read dashboard and customizable user interface.

Compliance and Regulatory Standards

Ensuring your solution meets the compliance, regulatory, and safety standards of your mission is critical. Many government entities require levels of certification or compliance within an industry, including for specific vehicle or asset use, duration of vehicle or asset use, and/or use while in a geographic location.

Scalability

No matter the size of your mission or military communication needs, having a scalable solution can help improve operational efficiency through automated reporting, alert settings, and easy-to-use messaging tools. For example, when an exception event occurs, automatically notify the team or select members of the group. These notifications can be in the form of SMS messages, emails, and automated voice recordings and can usually be created and modified on your fleet command center software.

The Blue Sky Network Advantage

Blue Sky Network products and software solutions use the Iridium^® satellite network to enable real-time military communications and fleet management. Intelligence, reconnaissance, and other mission-critical operations are effectively achieved through Blue Sky Network’s suite of services and are trusted by organizations around the world. Blue Sky Network’s military communication solutions meet several aviation and fleet management standards, including:

• Compliance with U.S. Forestry Service Standards
• Compliance with AS9100/ISO9001 Standards
• Compliance with NASA Standards
• AES 256 Encryption
• DO-160G Standards
• NVIS Compliance — MIL3009
• Lockheed Martin OEM — C-130
• Sikorsky OEM — UH-60
• Compliance with United Nations (UN) Standards

Military Communication Hardware

Blue Sky Network offers a variety of FAA-approved, fixed installation GPS tracking devices for the aviation industry. Portable tracking devices are also available, complete with internal and external antenna options for low-cost flight tracking and military communication for operators who do not require a fixed installation. The HawkEye 7200A satellite tracking device meets and exceeds the proposed International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Aeronautical Distress Safety System (GADSS) required performance criteria for Transport Aircraft.

For land-based missions, Blue Sky Network’s HawkEye 5500 is a dual-mode, real-time tracking and vehicle management solution. It offers full integration of on-board systems, support for both light and heavy-duty vehicles, two-way messaging, a remote emergency switch, audible alerts, and customizable application integration.

Maritime military communication is supported by products such as the HawkEye 6300 which enables live ship tracking from anywhere in the world. The easy-to-install boat tracking device comes with various mounting options for both covert and non-covert military operations. With the associated app, the HawkEye 6300 also lets you send and receive short emails and SMS messages via Bluetooth from any Android or iOS device.

Scalable Software Solution

SkyRouter^® is Blue Sky Network’s comprehensive fleet management solution that can track, monitor, and communicate with all your assets, anywhere in the world, from one interface. This cloud-based platform works with Blue Sky Network hardware to provide a secure web interface that displays positions on various overlay maps. It also handles two-way message traffic, events, alerts, and telematics data.

For more information regarding military communication solutions provided by Blue Sky Network, visit www.blueskynetwork.com.

Download our free ebook to learn the best tactics to optimize fleet operations:

—

Did you enjoy this post? Sign up for our newsletter to receive similar articles directly in your inbox!

How to Identify the Most Effective GPS Vehicle Tracker for Your Fleet

Operations managers are always looking for ways to maximize travel safety and efficiency while reducing associated costs. One way to do this is by selecting a vehicle tracking solution that monitors and reports data related to diagnostic activity and driver behavior. These GPS vehicle trackers capture important information to help identify areas for business optimization.

However, not all tracking devices are created equal, and distinct qualities define the best ones. This article contains key features and functionalities to look out for when comparing GPS tracking options for your fleet. These critical capabilities and connectivity options (such as dual-mode, cellular, and satellite coverage) can not only assist with improving safety measures and reducing operational costs, but they can also help facilitate needs such as:

• Total Vehicle Support
• Dual-Mode Connectivity (Cellular & Satellite Networks)
• Time/Location Identification
• Network, Phone, & Global Internet Access
• Crash Detection and Harsh Driving Indicators
• Secure Network Requirements
• Technical Specifications & Integrations (e.g., Cargo Identification, RFID, 2-Way Bluetooth Connectivity, Multiple Sensor Ports)

Read more to learn more about the benefits of these top vehicle tracking services.

Total Vehicle Support

Using a comprehensive GPS solution for tracking and fleet management helps reduce maintenance and downtime of device installation, upkeep, and training. Diagnostics readings and sensor controls, for example, allow visibility into vehicle and driver behavior. Activities such as hard braking, excessive idling, and route changes are just a few of the many action-based events monitored by advanced GPS tracking systems. Operations managers can even set up auto alerts to receive real-time notifications to their emails or phones.

Dual-Mode Connectivity (Cellular & Satellite Networks)

Look for devices that are dual-mode and least-cost routing. These specific functionalities enable the device to leverage cellular service when available. However, if cellular connectivity becomes poor or temporarily offline, it will automatically switch to satellite service.

The satellite technology should leverage LEO (Low-Earth Orbit) satellites for reliable connection in any weather, anywhere in the world. Iridium®, a leading satellite service provider, powers a LEO constellation of 66 satellites, offering continuous global coverage for remote and mobile operations.

Time/Location Identification

Time and location identification is critical, especially in the event of an emergency. Selecting a vehicle management solution that can support both large and small fleets can help safeguard your workforce, address preventative vehicle maintenance needs, and reduce emergency response time (should an accident occur). A user portal that displays driver locations and details can also assist with early risk detection, theft prevention, and travel time with just the click of a mouse.

Network, Phone, & Global Internet Access

Reliable network connectivity, 2-way communications, and internet access via your GPS vehicle tracker reduces the number of devices needed within each vehicle, downtime for device installation and maintenance, and training time for operations managers and drivers. These capabilities also provide added security and efficiency for your fleet. Dual-mode connectivity enhances these functionalities as access will remain available to the driver even when situated in remote or austere locations.

Crash Detection and Harsh Driving Indicators

Accelerometers assist with identifying at-risk driver behaviors such as harsh braking, hard acceleration, excessive idling, and long periods between ignition start and stop. Using these metrics as a performance goal can help curb unwanted driving behaviors and reduce roadway risks, including collisions. Safer drivers can also positively influence customer satisfaction rates and company reputation.

In addition to supporting safer roadways, these metrics can help with scheduling regular vehicle maintenance, including oil changes, new brake pads, and tire rotations. Regular maintenance minimizes the risk of vehicle breakdown and downtime between scheduled jobs. You may also find that vehicles last longer, resulting in decreased long-term operational costs.

Secure Network Requirements

For valuable payloads, private facilities, or worksites located in volatile areas, a secure network helps to keep information, cargo, and employees protected from threats. If a threatening situation were to occur, an easy-to-access SOS button arranged on the GPS vehicle tracker will alert emergency response personnel right away. For off-site operations crew, managers can view important fleet details through a secure online platform. This platform may come with various levels of user permissions for greater data security, even within the organization.

Technical Specifications & Integrations (e.g., Cargo Identification, RFID, 2-Way Bluetooth Connectivity, Multiple Sensor Ports)

Two-way Bluetooth connectivity provides the most comprehensive visibility and utility of a GPS vehicle tracker. Additionally, having the flexibility to connect other sensors with temperature-regulated cargo, RFID (radio-frequency identification), or other tracking/tamper-proof sensors, helps to ensure goods are safely transported to their destination.

Minimizing Costs While Maximizing Safety and Efficiency

With a GPS vehicle tracker that includes a comprehensive suite of features and functionalities, operations managers are sure to experience lower overhead costs and improved safety. So where do you begin your search? Let us introduce the HawkEye 5500.

The HawkEye 5500 by Blue Sky Network checks all the right boxes to help operations managers achieve their goals. This advanced dual-mode vehicle tracking and telematics solution uses both Iridium satellite and local GSM networks for continuous on-the-move coverage. It is compatible with both light and heavy-duty vehicles offering additional sensor ports for advanced cargo monitoring. The HawkEye 5500 provides global communications, professional-grade reporting features, and invaluable insights for a complete solution that will improve the safety and efficiency of your fleet.

The HawkEye 5500 is often installed into vehicles servicing military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and disaster response operations or for fleets located in areas where cellular service is unreliable. Other popular use cases include mining, long-haul trucking, border protection, and private security.

The HawkEye 5500 solution integrates seamlessly with SkyRouter, a fleet management user platform, for complete visibility of all connected assets. SkyRouter communicates with Blue Sky Network hardware, such as the HawkEye 5500, to provide a secure web interface that displays positions on various overlay maps. It also handles two-way message traffic, events, alerts, and telematics data.

Visit blueskynetwork.com/hawkeye-5500 for more information about the HawkEye5500 GPS vehicle tracker.

Did you enjoy this post? Sign up for our newsletter to receive similar articles directly in your inbox!