Managing Remote Assets

The typical remote asset doesn't exist. There is simply no such thing. The problems associated with monitoring and controlling remote assets are as many and varied as the types of high value equipment being deployed. That's why designers of remote management systems need a shopping basket of capabilities to select from. And that's why Ctek's SkyRouter is ideally suited to be the integration platform for managing remote assets. With its extensive communication capabilities, built in GPS, and full range of I/O and power management capabilities the SkyRouter can easily find the asset in question and tell you how it is performing.

Communications

A SkyRouter can provide reliable IP communications over any wireless network to an entire class C LAN segment. Firewall protection keeps the uninvited out and optional VPN and encryption (IPsec) capabilities go even further to safeguard your communications. Bidirectional serial communications is provided over UDP or TCP through the SkyRouters versatile packet assembler/disassembler (PAD) services, allowing host end applications to access serial data using any communications port redirector. With Ctek's PAD feature you can easily implement a remote console feature or interact with installed PLC type products. And, out-of-band management commands over SMS create an additional layer of reliability that can help to eliminate a truck roll.  

Tracking

Determining where portable assets are located is a challenge. SkyRouter's built in GPS can simplify that problem economically. Usually when GPS tracking is deployed a location based server application is required. That makes sense for tracking delivery trucks but the cost of the AVL/LBS application often makes the economics of locating portable assets on a daily or weekly basis impractical. Ctek has solved that problem.
With a SkyRouter installed you can request the GPS position of the device and receive a response as either a text message or an email. The latitude and longitude provided can be plugged into any of the Internet mapping services and show you exactly where your device is located. SkyRouter can also ring-fence your asset and inform you when it has moved more than a specified distance. For most remote management applications these are the types of services required. However, if you do need a complete AVL/LBS server application the SkyRouter interoperates with products from all major software vendors.  

Monitor and Control

Ctek's Automation Control application provides the capabilities you need to monitor tank levels, temperatures, pressures, and digital events of all types. Our full range of output capabilities allow you to start/stop devices, reset equipment racks, or perform emergency shutdowns. Monitor and control communications with the Automation Control application is through a web based application that can be accessed from any Internet connected terminal and server based management applications can be implemented using Ctek's open XML interface which defines an open protocol to access any of the Automation control features.