Hirschmann Solutions, a supplier of antenna and transceiver systems, has partnered with telematics service provider inthinc to launch a new M2M Gateway module. “The module provides advanced communications and connectivity for fleet vehicles, heavy duty trucks, as well as construction and agricultural equipment – offering telematics service providers and their customers reduced time to market and reduced complexity in system design,” the companies said.“Our new M2M Gateway is the ultimate connectivity device for telematics service providers, offering a 3G upgrade from existing 2G devices today, with a migration to 4G in the near future,” said Hirschmann Solutions U.S. President Frank Homann. “Coupled with the unit’s GPS and WiFi capabilities and an open source development environment, we now can offer a single box solution that partners like inthinc can rapidly deploy for their targeted customers and applications.”The M2M Gateway module allows flexibility to use one telematics device in a variety of applications without the need to re-design and re-certifiy existing communication hardware, the company said. For example, it can be used in vehicle cabs to provide GSM communication and GPS positioning capabilities to a telematics unit without the required modems. In addition, WiFi enabled peripheral devices can connect to the Internet by taking advantage of the integrated WiFi router. The M2M Gateway also features an open source, WRT Linux-based firmware enabling customer-driven feature development, including security, logging, monitoring and tracking applications, without complicated and expensive licensing requirements, according to the company.The M2M Gateway module features a rugged metal housing and a class-leading operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. The unit also is certified to operate in several geographic regions including the U.S., Canada and Australia, with specific carrier and telematics certifications, including PTCRB, FCC, UL, ICES and RCM. “We‘re pleased to launch the Hirschmann M2M Gateway to augment our waySmart telematics solution,” said inthinc CEO Todd Follmer. “The M2M Gateway enables higher speed connectivity and data throughput, which in turn allows inthinc to deliver on our core values including driver safety, fleet operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.”