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Secure remote machine access takes 15 minutes to set up

16 September, 2014

A Danish communications specialist, Secomea, has developed a M2M (machine-to-machine) communications system which, it says, provides secure remote access to machines and takes just 15 minutes to set up. The system provides simple, but secure, access to remote devices including PLCs, HMIs, drives, I/O blocks, and even USB and serial devices.

Commissioning does not need IT skills, a VPN (virtual private network), a fixed IP address, or open ports in firewalls that would worry IT departments. It works over the Internet or a mobile network and allows users to connect remotely and securely to machines to perform programming, monitoring and data-logging.

The Secomea system consists of three key elements:

•  the SiteManager controller, which connects to machines via Ethernet, serial or USB, and comes in a choice of models, depending on whether you want to communicate via a LAN, WiFi or 3G;

•  the LinkManager – a Web- or Windows-based client with a simple interface that allows single-click connections to the devices you are monitoring; and

Secomea's remote access system is said to be easy to set up and secure

•  the GateManager – an M2M communication server that links the first two elements and handles the connections and encrypted traffic. It is available either as a cloud-based service or a stand-alone server.

User access is controlled via a simple drag-and-drop interface, and the system provides multi-level authentication and AES/SSL encryption.

In the UK, the Secomea system is available from X-STK|Applied Automation, which has bases in Plymouth and Cardiff and is a division of Applied Automation (UK). “We are already seeing a lot of enthusiasm for Secomea,” says its managing director, David Rowe. “The ease of use and state-of-the-art security sets it apart from other remote access options. With a starter pack at £345, Secomea is a cost-effective solution. Return-on-investment is achieved quickly as savings are made on travel costs and time.”




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