The IoT industry has several challenges
Each new innovative sensor/device entering the market supplies a proprietary API, smartphone app, and back-end monitoring platform (usually cloud-based). This creates a proliferation of interfaces and apps, with data that must be integrated at the back end to provide a unified view.
This presents a serious problem for operators and analysts who are challenged with "swivel-chair" monitoring of critical data from multiple device manufacturers who supply their clients with proprietary APIs and User Interfaces.
The data transmission, from the monitoring station to a remote monitoring center, presents unique security, network connectivity, data veracity, and latency challenges in meeting the critical service level agreements (SLAs) for real-time monitoring for each use case.
This also makes a new monitoring channel available, which was previously unavailable. A new solution had to be developed using this channel to transmit data securely and reliably.
A possible approach would be to capture the image on the monitor via an optical method and transmit the images at a specific frequency to the remote monitoring station. We encountered several practical challenges to this implementation that did not meet the stringent business requirements of the operators.
The challenge was replicating the monitoring station text and images at the remote location (which could be dozens or hundreds of miles away) within a very stringent time interval. The goal was to enable real-time waveform and textual data analysis, using appropriate AI-enabled tools to provide diagnostics and reports that could positively impact timely intervention and response.
Netracity Technology Solutions
The Netracity Appliance solves these problems with a combined hardware and software solution to enable reliable, secure, real-time data capture from the available monitoring station display ports.
The safe, verified data is captured and encapsulated into industry-standard compatible messages and transmitted in near-real time directly over the connected internet via available network access methods - wifi, broadband, narrowband, and optical fiber technologies. The Netracity Appliance supports all of these technologies. Equipped with a suite of advanced features and operational modes, our appliance provides unparalleled flexibility, offering industry-agnostic applications with capabilities that extend beyond traditional environments.
Capturing data from multiple sources via the monitoring station and providing a bridge to cloud systems, Netracity uses a patent-pending approach not only in the capture of the monitoring station data but also in the grooming of the streaming data to the cloud, enabling the processing of simultaneous data streams from thousands of netracity appliances. Netracity delivers robust performance in the most demanding scenarios.
Key Features of the Netracity Appliance
Edge Processing Power
Our appliance runs on powerful hardware optimized for edge processing, ensuring that data is captured, processed, and stored with minimal latency. Equipped with adequate buffer storage, it provides a reliable solution for industries that require high-performance data collection at the source.
Multi-Mode Data Capture
The appliance offers multiple DCF (Data Capture Framework) operational modes, including the transmission of numeric/text values, image uploads, or a combination of both. Whether your data needs are text-based or image-driven, the appliance adapts seamlessly to your requirements.
Configurable Data Capture
The appliance captures data from configurable regions of interest via HDMI, VGA, or USB inputs. Capture frequency is fully customizable, enabling users to set data intervals according to specific operational needs. Ideal for a variety of applications, this feature supports comprehensive data extraction in real-time.
Support Multiple Display Mode
Our appliance supports multi-display modes with dynamic switching, allowing users to view data
in the most appropriate format for their specific context.
Integrated OCR algorithms enable
accurate data interpretation, further enhancing usability.
Bridge Server for Data Aggregation
Designed for edge data collection via LAN, the appliance serves as a bridge server, aggregating
data and transmitting it at regular intervals (typically in minutes).
This ensures continuous data
flow, even in environments where networking can be unpredictable.
Adaptive Transmission
The Netracity Appliance is highly adaptive, able to connect to any backend system, whether it’s a local network or a cloud-based remote server. Should the network experience a disruption, the appliance backfills data once the connection is restored, operating in either synchronous, asynchronous, or forced asynchronous modes.
Versatile Data Transmission Formats
Capable of transmitting data in various formats—JSON, CSV, TXT, HL7v2 or custom—the
appliance ensures flexibility to meet the demands of multiple industries.
This allows seamless
integration with existing systems and workflows.
Resilient Data Capture
In cases of feed outages or capture errors, the appliance auto-hibernates, conserving resources until normal operations can resume. With an estimated 48-hour storage capacity (per second capture frequency, single VM, no local DB), the appliance is built for resilience in data collection.
Disconnected Mode Functionality
The appliance can operate as a disconnected data capture and transport device, making it suitable for remote or off-grid deployments. Once calibrated for specific equipment, it requires only simple on/off operation, streamlining workflows and reducing the need for constant monitoring.
Multi-Tenancy Support
Support for multi-tenancy is built into the appliance, allowing for efficient management of
multiple users and equipment across different operational environments.
DCF virtual machines
ensure isolated environment for each tenant. This ensures hard data partitioning while optimizing
system utilization.
Built-in Data Validation and Local Storage
Basic validation rules can be applied to data before transmission (non-bridge mode). Additionally, the appliance can store waveforms and other vital data locally, eliminating the need for network connectivity between the device and the equipment, thus removing potential networking break points.
Dynamic Functionality Injection
DCF Hooks are provided to allow runtime functionality injection, such as edge anomaly
detection for early warnings.
This feature makes the appliance not just reactive but also
predictive, ideal for monitoring environments where rapid response is critical.
In-Memory Cache with Optional Persistence
For analysis, the appliance features an in-memory cache with optional persistence, allowing for sliding time window analysis, trend identification, and more. This ensures that users can gain actionable insights from their data in real-time.
Robust System Control & Maintenance
API Integration
With comprehensive APIs, the appliance supports various institutional operations, allowing for seamless integration with other enterprise systems, regardless of the industry.
Zero-Touch Operations
For organizations requiring predictable network connectivity, the appliance includes features for zero-touch operations, secured via IP whitelisting. This ensures that the device remains secure while offering hands-off management.
Hot Configuration & Calibration
From our Netracity Control Center (NCC), users can manage calibration and configuration settings remotely. Hot configurations allow settings to be deployed on-the-fly without disrupting ongoing operations.
OTA Updates & Scheduled Maintenance
Regular over-the-air updates keep the appliance secure and up to date, while scheduled maintenance activities—like hot resets and system housekeeping—ensure ongoing optimal performance.
Optional Attachments & Modules
Battery Pack
An optional battery pack provides sustained power for up to 60 minutes, ensuring continuous data capture even during power outages. Ideal for environments where the appliance is not plugged into a UPS, especially during transit or remote operations.
Wi-Fi Module
A Wi-Fi module allows for connectivity to a local router or hotspot during transit, providing flexibility in data transmission. While LAN connections to routers are recommended for predictable performance, the Wi-Fi module offers a reliable alternative when needed.
Empowering Industries Through Seamless Integration
With the Netracity Appliance, businesses and institutions across various industries can achieve seamless data capture, processing, and transmission. From edge computing to advanced data analysis, our appliance is built to meet the ever-evolving demands of modern operations. Whether you're working in healthcare, logistics, or manufacturing, the Netracity Appliance is the flexible, scalable solution that brings real-time data to your fingertips.
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Netracity
Last mile connectivity is not just important, but critical to the success of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Netracity provides substantial tools and solutions to accelerate business growth and create a sustainable innovation ecosystem. We have developed expertise, over several decades, in delivering products and executing business engagements in a cross-geographical, hybrid technology landscape established by strong SLA-driven rigor. If you think we can help, schedule an introductory meeting with us today.