by Gary Mintchell | Jan 9, 2025 | Automation, Technology
CES goes on this week in Las Vegas. Qualcomm is there; I am not. But…I have news. I’ve also heard that Qualcomm is quietly taking chunks of business from Nvidia. Not sure about that, but the company does put out some quality chips.
This news regards Qualcomm Aware, a platform enhancing applications like IoT.
Highlights:
• Qualcomm Aware adds observability, monitoring and location services to enable the development of IoT solutions that meet specific needs and challenges of consumers and enterprises across a wide range of industries and use cases.
• By pre-integrating Qualcomm Aware software across select Qualcomm Technologies and third-party processors, Qualcomm Technologies will provide a simple, fast and cost-effective mechanism for developers and enterprises to access data on the state, health, status and location of device deployments.
At Consumer Electronics Show 2025, Qualcomm Technologies announced the next evolution of the Qualcomm Aware Platform, a cloud-based services platform that allows companies to add observability, monitoring, and location capabilities to intelligently connected devices across industries, including logistics, retail, energy, smart home, robotics and more. As a key component of the broader IoT Solutions Framework, Qualcomm Aware will eventually be pre-integrated across select Qualcomm Technologies chipsets and third-party hardware—adding value for OEMs and ODMs, enterprise users, distributors, retailers, and consumers.
As a horizontal enablement platform, Qualcomm Aware allows for a highly integrated way to add cloud-based observability and insights, geolocation, fine indoor positioning, firmware updates, and device management services to connected devices. This means that device manufacturers can unlock new insights on the connected devices they sell and take preventative actions to fix and troubleshoot devices. Similarly, retailers can understand how often their high-value inventory turns over and get alerts if items are stolen. Distributors can also view delivery efficiency and accuracy metrics for their fleets, and users of those devices can add longevity to devices by always having them equipped with the latest software, operating system, and features.
by Gary Mintchell | Jan 7, 2025 | Industrial Computers
Computing hardware has been part of my working life and study since the late 1970s. We incorporated PCs into automated assembly systems in the mid-1980s. Recently a publicist I’ve known for years signed on a new client that brings me back into computing technology innovations—Other World Computing (OWC). I’d never heard of the company only to discover the headquarters is located less than 30 minutes from my new home in northern Illinois.
I have successfully avoided the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) having had experiences exhibiting at the old COMDEX in Las Vegas. I am not there again this year. I do have news from CES by way of OWC. For you computer hardware junkies out there—enjoy.
OWC Archive Pro Now Includes Hedge’s Acclaimed Canister Software
Other World Computing (OWC) and Hedge announced a strategic partnership. Under terms of the agreement, every OWC Archive Pro purchase will now include a license for Hedge’s acclaimed Canister software for streamlined Linear Tape-Open (LTO) backups – a $399 value at no additional cost.
The alignment between OWC and Hedge addresses several critical challenges faced by professionals managing large volumes of data. As the demand for higher-resolution media and stringent compliance grows, organizations grapple with the complexity of securely backing up, archiving, and retrieving vast datasets. OWC Archive Pro, paired with Hedge Canister, simplifies this process with drag-and-drop functionality, automatic cataloging, and cross-platform compatibility, ensuring data preservation is fast, efficient, and reliable. This solution also mitigates risks associated with data sprawl, compliance failures, and operational inefficiencies, empowering users to focus on creative and business goals without compromising data protection.
The OWC Archive Pro Thunderbolt archiving solution for M&E pros, corporations, government branches, and small businesses seeking to preserve critical data, offers:
- A 577% ROI with up to 55% lower costs vs HDD storage
- Up to 18TB native and up to 45TB compressed storage capacity per tape cartridge
- Built-in IBM LTO-7, LTO-8, or LTO-9 drive options
- Up to 30-year tape longevity
- LTFS compatibility – archive files/folders with drag and drop ease
- Up to 300MB/s native, up to 750MB/s compressed transfer rates for fast tape creation
- Easy drag, drop, and retrieval of files with the included Hedge Canister archiving app
The Hedge Canister app offers:
- A canister filled to the brim with technology to ensure tapes are taxed as little as possible
- A canister that is at home on Windows just as well as on macOS – because all Hedge apps are crafted specifically for each OS, they make the most of what each OS has to offer
- Queuing – while transfers are running, keep queuing up new files and folders to be archived
- A Canister’s spanning engine that keeps track of your files across multiple tapes
- The all-new Library Manager — the only true drag-and-drop UI in the world for working with tape libraries
by Gary Mintchell | Jan 6, 2025 | Industrial Computers
Computing hardware has been part of my working life and study since the late 1970s. We incorporated PCs into automated assembly systems in the mid-1980s. Recently a publicist I’ve known for years signed on a new client that brings me back into computing technology innovations—Other World Computing (OWC). I’d never heard of the company only to discover the headquarters is located less than 30 minutes from my new home in northern Illinois.
I have successfully avoided the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) having had experiences exhibiting at the old COMDEX in Las Vegas. I am not there again this year. I do have news from CES by way of OWC. For you computer hardware junkies out there—enjoy.
OWC Unleashing Next-Level Performance, Connectivity, and Capacity for Creatives and Business Professionals
Other World Computing (OWC) announced its latest innovations: the OWC ThunderBlade X12, a game-changing professional-grade RAID solution – the next step in OWC’s TB5 solutions; and the OWC USB4 40Gb/s Active Optical Cable, for long-distance connectivity without compromising speed or reliability. OWC also announced the general availability (GA) of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub, redefining workflow efficiency with its unparalleled connectivity.
The OWC ThunderBlade X12 is the answer to Motion Picture Professionals and DITs looking for a production shuttle RAID capable of offering large amounts of storage at blazingly fast sustained speeds in a portable solution. To be more specific, the biggest problem this product solves is the need for a RAID solution compatible with RAID 5 that offers large amounts of storage at blazingly fast sustained speeds to streamline ingestion and backup times on set while also having a small footprint so that can be used as a shuttle drive. Beyond that, it’s also considered a premium editing drive for video editors and VFX artists working with cutting-edge workflows such as multi-cam sequences at 4K and 6K, 8K and 12K RAW video, or stereoscopic 360 VR (Spatial Video). It’s the ultimate shuttle RAID for production use and the premium external editing drive for cutting-edge workflows.
The OWC ThunderBlade X12 will be available in March.
The OWC Active Optical Cable is the fastest, most powerful, and most reliable solution for cost-effective long-distance connectivity of Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3/2 devices. It provides up to 40Gb/s of stable bandwidth, up to 240W of power delivery, and up to 8K video resolution at up to 15 feet. Featuring universal USB-C connectivity and optical fiber technology, it eliminates the 2-meter distance limit of traditional copper-based Thunderbolt and USB4 cables so devices can be placed further away for noise reduction, provide more convenient access, be hidden for a more aesthetic work environment, or enable more efficient cable management in professional settings.
OWC Active Optical Cable – Key Features/Functionality:
- Longer distance connectivity enables optimal placement of USB4 and Thunderbolt 4/3 devices for a highly organized, convenient, quieter, and productive workspace
- Work and play faster with up to 40Gb/s of stable data transfer speed over long-distance
- Connect to millions of Thunderbolt 4/3 and USB4/3/2 USB-C equipped docks, displays, eGPUs, PCIe expansion, external SSDs, RAID storage, and accessories
- Lab-certified to safely deliver up to 240 watts (3M) or 60 watts (4.5M) to charge your devices quickly
- Supports high-resolution displays up to 8K, including DisplayPort over Thunderbolt, Apple Pro Display XDR, Apple Studio Display, LG Ultrafine, and any display plugged into a Thunderbolt dock or hub
- Braided nylon exterior over advanced internal fiber optical cable for highly durable and consistent signal reliability immune to EMI/RFI interference
OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub
Now generally available (GA), the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub is the perfect compact connectivity solution to solve the big problem of not having enough Thunderbolt 5 ports. Now you can turn a single cable connection from your machine into three Thunderbolt 5 ports and one USB-A port. With up to 80Gb/s of bi-directional data speed – up to 2x faster than Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 – and up to 120Gb/s for higher display bandwidth needs, you will redefine your productivity.
OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub – Key Features/Functionality:
- Adds more universally compatible Thunderbolt 5 (USB-C) ports to a Mac, PC, or iPad Pro to greatly expand device connectivity possibilities and productivity
- Work and play faster with up to 80Gb/s of bi-directional data speed and up to 120Gb/s for higher display bandwidth needs
- No worries or confusion…connect to Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, or USB-C machine or device with 100% compatibility
- Delivers the best performance of devices with today’s computers and the best speed possible in the future with any Thunderbolt 5 Mac or PC
- Create three separate daisy chains of devices – even bus-powered – and remove devices from one chain without affecting the other chains
- Safely delivers up to 140 watts to charge the most power-hungry notebook computer
- Connect to the latest and future Thunderbolt, USB-C, and DisplayPort displays for incredible 4K, 5K, 6K, and up to three 8K displays
- Built-in OWC reliability and dependability for Mac and Windows
- Fanless aluminum enclosure for quiet and cool operation
The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub is now generally available for $189.99
by Gary Mintchell | Jan 3, 2025 | Security
OPSWAT Acquires Leader in Advanced Data Diode Technology to Strengthen Cyber Defenses for Critical Infrastructure
Cybersecurity was a top topic for the past couple of years. I anticipate it being a top topic for the foreseeable future. One sub-trend has been market consolidation through acquisition. This news concerns OPSWAT acquiring Fend Inc. to broaden their offering in the Data Diode technology space.
OPSWAT announced its acquisition of Fend Incorporated. Fend is a pioneering data pipeline and cybersecurity company dedicated to securing operational technology (OT) against cyber threats, ransomware, and other evolving risks. Based in Arlington, Virginia, Fend is known for its expertise in protecting U.S. government agencies, utilities, oil and gas, manufacturing, and other critical industries where air-gapped environments are essential for defense against cyber incidents. The announcement establishes OPSWAT as providing the most comprehensive variety of Data Diodes and Unidirectional Gateways in the industry that utilizes proprietary technology like Multiscanning with up to 30 anti-virus engines, Deep CDR for zero-day threats, Sandboxing, and Proactive DLP technologies prevent sensitive data leakage.
Fend’s data diode technology creates a secure one-way communication channel, allowing data to flow from one network to another while physically blocking reverse transmission. This hardware-based approach is valued in high-security environments like defense, industrial control systems, and critical infrastructure, where preventing external access is paramount. Originally reserved for sensitive applications such as nuclear power plants, data diode technology has evolved to become more accessible and affordable, making it a practical solution for industries that require secure online monitoring and predictive analytics. With benefits such as increased operational efficiency, reduced unexpected downtime, and improved staff productivity, Fend’s data diodes offer protection across diverse industrial sectors.
Previous acquisition:
OPSWAT’s industrial OT offerings significantly expanded with its 2021 acquisition of Bayshore Networks. The acquisition of Fend further enhances OPSWAT’s capabilities in both centralized and distributed deployments, providing true cross domain security with connectivity to our MetaDefender Kiosk and MetaDefender Managed File Transfer to help secure solutions for remote assets and smaller facilities, such as water utilities, which have large numbers of endpoints at the edge that still require high security. Fend’s comprehensive connectivity options—accommodating Ethernet, cellular, and even serial connections for older networks—will enable OPSWAT to meet both the demands of emerging technologies such as 5G and Industry 4.0 and the vast landscape of legacy infrastructure around the world. To see the comprehensive options of OPSWAT’s variety of data diodes and unidirectional gateways, you can view the product comparison chart here.
by Gary Mintchell | Dec 23, 2024 | Security
Two topics dominated my inbox this year. AI, of course, was one. Everything cybersecurity was the other. Mostly the various cybersecurity suppliers released a variety of reports and surveys. This report comes from Dragos—the OT Cyber Threat Intelligence Report. I’ll be highlighting a few important notes from the blog post by Abdulrahman H. Alamri.
The third quarter (July – September) of 2024 brought transformative shifts to the ransomware landscape, emphasizing its dynamic and continuously evolving nature. The ransomware threat ecosystem remained highly active in the third quarter, fueled by new groups, rebranding of existing entities, expansion of initial access broker operations, and proliferation of illicitly traded tools. Ransomware operators increasingly demonstrated their ability to pivot in response to disruptions during the third quarter, leveraging technological advancements and strategic realignments to maintain their operations.
This period witnessed a critical shift as dominant groups like LockBit faced significant setbacks due to coordinated international law enforcement actions, including Operation Cronos, which dismantled key infrastructure elements of LockBit. This led to a decline in their activities and forced affiliates such as Velvet Tempest to transition to other groups, including RansomHub.
Concurrently, the ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) model continued to mature, with an expanded reliance on Initial Access Brokers (IABs) that exploit vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and stolen credentials that facilitated entry into targeted environments. These brokers acted as force multipliers, enabling ransomware groups to scale their operations by focusing on payload deployment and extortion strategies. In general, this industrialization of ransomware has continuously lowered the barriers to entry for new actors, fostering a competitive and dynamic threat environment, and the third quarter of 2024 was no different.
Adding to this complexity, escalations in geopolitical tensions during the third quarter introduced a new dimension to ransomware threats. Specifically, conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe spurred a rise in hacktivist personas employing ransomware to disrupt industrial operations. Unlike traditional financially motivated ransomware campaigns, these actors appear to prioritize operational sabotage, posing a distinct and potentially catastrophic risk to critical infrastructure.
There is a significant amount of information on the post. If this is your area of concern, you can check it out here.
by Gary Mintchell | Dec 18, 2024 | Automation, Robots
The Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in early January not exactly your cup of tea? Try a January conference specifically on collaborative robots. Discover ways these technologies can help your manufacturing plant survive in this era of difficulty finding workers.
Universal Robots Announces the Nation’s Largest Cobot Conference and Tradeshow: Collaborate North America 2025
The nation’s largest cobot conference and tradeshow, Collaborate North America 2025, takes place in Novi, Michigan, January 28, 2025 and is free to attend. This one-day, in-person event brings together 500+ manufacturing professionals from across North America, automation specialists, educators, and industry thought leaders from renowned institutions and companies such as MIT, Siemens, and the Association for Advancing Automation (A3).
“Whether you’re exploring cobots for the first time or looking to expand your automation capabilities, this event will provide the inspiration, tools, and connections needed to succeed,” said Jonathan Sbert, Vice President of Sales, Americas, Universal Robots.
Event Highlights:
Hands-On Demonstrations: Attendees can explore 30+ different cobot-powered solutions for applications such as welding, quality inspection, material handling, machine tending, assembly, painting, and palletizing. The hands-on demos are presented by UR and its UR+ ecosystem partners including A.I Automation, Schmalz, Magswitch, PIAB, Zimmer, Schunk, Flexline Automation, Acumino AI, and SICK.
Keynote Presentations: The opening keynote will be delivered by Universal Robots’ Chief Commercial Officer, Stacey Moser. She is joined by leading voices in robotics and automation, including a few surprise speakers from dominant automotive and AI chip making technology companies delivering insights on industry trends and practical applications. Additional speakers include:
- Ben Armstrong (Executive Director and Research Scientist, MIT): Ben Armstrong specializes in innovation and operational performance in manufacturing, focusing on how companies adopt advanced technologies. His work at MIT involves researching the intersection of robotics, workforce development, and operational efficiency to ensure sustainable growth in the industrial sector.
- Jake Hall (The Manufacturing Millennial): Jake Hall is a prominent advocate for modernizing the manufacturing industry through automation and emerging technologies. Known for his engaging social media presence and thought leadership, he bridges the gap between traditional manufacturing practices and future-forward innovations.
- Alex Shikany (Vice President, Membership & Market Intelligence, A3): Alex Shikany provides data-driven insights to guide businesses in adopting robotics and AI technologies. His expertise includes market trends, industry growth analysis, and strategies for integrating automation into existing operations.
- Bernd Raithel (Director, Factory Automation, Siemens) Bernd Raithel leads the development of advanced automation solutions that drive efficiency and Industry 4.0 adoption. With expertise in robotics, AI, and smart technologies, he focuses on creating intelligent, connected factories. A champion of innovation, Bernd works to accelerate automation adoption and shape the future of manufacturing.
Networking Opportunities: Attendees can engage with peers, decision-makers, and industry influencers to exchange ideas and foster collaboration.
Registration Details:
For signup and more information about Collaborate North America 2025, register for a complimentary pass here.
