eDevice intros first mass-market network converter for M2M

BORDEAUX, FRANCE: The growing penetration of DSL and cable networks and the growing popularity of the mobile phone as a replacement for fixed line phones has resulted in less and less availability of fixed phone lines that are compatible with traditional analog modems.

According to the US-based Harbor Research analysts firm, more than 15 million devices may need to be upgraded due to this trend. The new WireX converter solves this problem by allowing legacy equipment with embedded analog modems to immediately be switched from connecting through the traditional phone line to connecting through a cellular GSM/GPRS wireless network.

WireX is the first Analog-To-Wireless converter designed for self installation by the end-user: it does not require any changes on the existing legacy device, the user only needs to disconnect the phone cable from the wall and plug it into the WireX dial-up connector. The data previously transferred over the phone link is then automatically transmitted using phone line emulation over a GPRS or GSM data cellular network.

"This unique product offers wireless carriers and OEMs a new opportunity for installing several thousands of solutions providing their end-users with a quick ROI: with 1 Mb of data per month, WireX can lower prices by more than 50 percent when replacing a dedicated phone line," states Marc Berrebi, eDevice's CEO.

In the home, the WireX can be used with different types of already-in-the-field devices equipped with analog modems including remote patient monitors, telecardiology monitors, alarm and security systems, TV set-top-boxes, and more. In the case of SOHO and small shops, WireX can be used to immediately and smoothly convert point-of-sale equipment, energy metering systems, and security and access control devices to cellular.

WireX allows wireless carriers to gain market share in the promising "Connected Device" category that encompasses home-based Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications. End-users can then take advantage of subscriptions adapted to M2M data usage levels and also enjoy mobility outside the home including internationally with worldwide cellular coverage. This solution can provide a boost for growing the M2M market at cellular carriers and will be a key growth driver over the next couple of years.