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HPE aims to be IoT network services enabler for connected cars, cities

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is doubling down on platforms to enable Internet of things services as well as manage deployments.
Written by Larry Dignan, Contributor

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is launching a virtual network platform that will better connect mobile and Internet of Things connections as well tools to automate deployments of sensors and various end points to connect autos, buildings, and cities.

These platforms are tied to gear from its Aruba unit. The Aruba products include the Aruba ClearPass Universal Profiler and Aruba 2540 IoT-ready Access Switches.

But what's interesting is how HPE is partnering and putting itself into the IoT food chain with interesting models. For instance, HPE's Mobile Virtual Network Enabler is a platform that is a cloud-based tool that includes established deals with telecom carriers around the world.

"HPE will provide a single rate card to allow communications service providers and enterprises to build their own mobile virtual network operations," said Jeff Edlund, CTO of communications and media solutions, software and services.

Also: Louisville and the Future of the Smart City

What's the model? Edlund said there are a few models including traditional licensing, but HPE is also looking to take a cut of the IoT connection pie. Edlund explained that the traditional carriers have business models build on average revenue per user and the smartphone. The Internet of Things doesn't consume that much data so the model is tricky. "HPE can on board and do it at price points where it makes sense. For a connected car, maybe it's $1 per device," he explained.

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In other words, as more companies start providing their own networks they can offer services virtually. A company like BMW could offer services for $10 a month and pay HPE $1 without forging agreements with carriers in every geography. HPE could become an IoT service enabler that allows customers to resell connectivity.

The Universal IoT Platform from HPE is designed to push automation to lightweight sensors for things like smart parking. The Universal IoT Platform can provide device management as well as provide physical and electronic SIM cards. Enhancements include:

  • Support for more machine-to-machine standards.
  • Device management.
  • Support for multiple gateways based on the LoRa standard.

Ultimately, hardware and software will be integrated across multiple industries and mix and match mobile networks, wide area and local area networks and the internet. "IoT is like the early days of the connected campus and we're starting to see interesting use cases," said Christian Gilby, director of product marketing at HPE's Aruba unit.

Here's a look at how the City of Louisville is approaching IoT and the smart city.

Once all the parts are connected HPE has a stack of IoT tools via partners, Aruba and its software.

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