In response to the momentous wave of digital transformation, the collaboration between NEXCOM and IBM is aimed to facilitate the use of big data harnessed from industrial IoT to allow for more data-driven decision-making and increased productivity.

NEXCOM has collaborated with IBM to help manufacturers delve into big data using analytic applications in the cloud. Taking the industrial and manufacturing sector by storm, big data is catalyzing the convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT). In response to the momentous wave of digital transformation, the collaboration between NEXCOM and IBM is aimed to facilitate the use of big data harnessed from industrial IoT to allow for more data-driven decision-making.

The industrial and manufacturing sector see big data as a tool to increase efficiency, reduce cost and waste, and explore new business models. As different clients have different agendas, quickly responding to all clients needs requires a configurable IoT gateway solution with flexibility from data acquisition to data. This is the essence of IBM and NEXCOMs collaboration.

"With an expertise in industrial network communication, NEXCOM has broken barriers in multi-protocol data acquisition by utilizing a plethora of manufacturing equipment and field devices while leveraging IBM® Bluemix™. This enables NEXCOM to create the Connect-to-Cloud (C2C) software engine with ease. For the purposes of data analytics, archiving etc., the C2C software engine—built with Node-RED along with APIs on IBM Bluemix—employs the "software-defined data path" method for provisioning and configuring connections between edge devices and cloud applications," said YC Cheng, Assistant Vice President of NEXCOMs IoT Automation Business Group.

IBM Bluemix is the cloud platform that helps developers rapidly build, manage and run web and mobile applications. It enables developers to build and deploy new applications, embrace development and operations and extend existing IT investments with cloud integration services.

Under the partnership, NEXCOM has developed the NIO 100 series in which industrial IoT, big data, and cloud services come together as a cloud-ready IoT gateway solution. The solution provides a web-based user interface for not only software-defined data paths but also remote asset management. With a few clicks, drags, and drops, manufacturing machine vendors can start managing on-site machines, processing field data, and handling local events. End users such as factory operators can also benefit from the reduction in unexpected operation interruption.

"NEXCOM has a worldwide client base. Working with a global technology service company like IBM brings several gains," added Cheng. "IBMs broad domain knowledge and datacenters around the globe are important as massive development support to NEXCOM."

About NEXCOM: Founded in 1992, NEXCOM integrates its capabilities and operates six global businesses, which are Multi-Media Solutions, Mobile Computing Solutions, IoT Automation Solutions, Network and Communication Solutions, Intelligent Digital Security, and Medical and Healthcare Informatics. NEXCOM serves its customers worldwide through its subsidiaries in five major industrial countries. Under the IoT megatrend, NEXCOM expands its offerings with solutions in emerging applications including IoT, robotics, connected cars, Industry 4.0, and industrial security.