Comtech announces the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module

September 29, 2004

An enhanced TCP/IP wireless GSM/GPRS module designed for OEM Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications, supporting Automated, E-mail and FTP modes for stand-alone operation and ease of integrating remote machines with central management applications.

Comtech today announced the release of the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module. It not only includes a GSM/GPRS modem and TCP/IP stack for ease of communication over the Internet, but also supports higher application level modes suited to M2M applications.

The automated mode enables the GSM/GPRS module to wake-up upon an I/O change, on-board Real Time Clock (RTC) schedule or network prompt and automomously report I/O status via SMS, GSM or TCP/IP socket connection over GPRS and the Internet. This is ideal for standalone applications where there is no local microcontroller. The µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module supports 4 analogue inputs and 8 digital I/O. It can log data from the OEM equipment over a TTL/RS232 host serial port into an on-board E2prom memory.

The E-mail mode enables the GSM/GPRS module data log to be sent as an E-mail attachment. Likewise the FTP mode supports data transfer between the on-board data log and central FTP server. A key feature of the FTP mode is the support for streaming data directly to the host serial port for large data files.

Application Examples:

The GSM/GPRS module is the first of a family of intelligent GSM/GPRS modems with a common feature set. The µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module supports a wealth of features that can be used in many varied ways. Typical examples of are as follows utilising the different operating modes:

  • Test Machines. OEM manufacturers deploy test machines in high volume applications to optimise products and increase reliability prior to full release. Typical applications include domestic appliances, vending machines etc. The µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module enables the OEM machine to log usage, status, diagnostics and alarm data into the on-board E2prom (over the TTL/RS232 serial port) and e-mail this as an attachment to a central application. The central application could be a simple utility program to gather data into an Excel spreadsheet that enables reports to be generated.
  • Automated Standalone Machines. Consider an oil tank where the level needs to be measured, to aid re-fueling and logistics. In the automated mode, the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module can generate an SMS on a scheduled basis (e.g. daily) to report the status of float switches and other sensors attached to the equipment. If required, central users can poll the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module I/O status on demand or prompt it to report its status using patented techniques.
  • Content Delivery. Consider an electronic display in a retail environment that provides customer information or brand awareness through advertising. Graphical based "content" can result in large files, which need to be downloaded remotely to the display to eliminate site visits. By acting as an FTP Client, the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module is able stream the file from a central FTP server directly to the attached display.
"We recognise that simple solutions work best for our customers, where solving specific core problems enables them to demonstrate the benefits of M2M technology rapidly - both internally and to their customer base",said Steve Whitehead, Technical Director, Comtech Holdings Ltd."The µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module has been specifically designed to achieve rapid time to market with minimal investment by integrating core application level features complemented by a toolset which enables rapid application upgradability both locally and remotely."

Applications

The applications for the GSM/GPRS module are endless and include Automated Electronic Signs, Traffic Systems, Remote Utility Metering, Vending Machines, Gaming Machines, Environmental Monitoring, Domestic Appliances, Security Systems, Tank Level Monitoring, Parking Meters, Ticket Machines, Cold chain, HVAC … etc.

Development Tools (Starter Kit and PC Configuration Tool)

This launch is complemented with the release of a PC Configuration Tool and a development Starter Kit to simplify evaluation and aid design integration. The PC Configuration Tool supports easy to use graphical configuration of each mode, firmware upgrade utility and test functionality to verify configuration within the PC environment. The Starter Kit includes a µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module, antenna, power supply, serial cable, PC Configuration Tool, I/O simulator board, CDROM and RS232 adapter for interfacing to the development PC.

Customisation

Comtech offer design customisations for the µWEB Lite GSM/GPRS module, by incorporating customer and market specific application needs.

Contact M2M Sales

E-mail: sales@comtechm2m.com

Tel: +44 (0)1204 664333

Fax: +44 (0)1204 664334

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