Need for Secure Connectivity at the Industrial IoT Edge Drives Growth in Edge Controller Market According to ARC Research

New ARC Advisory Group research on the emerging edge controller market reveals that the need for secure connectivity at the Industrial IoT edge is starting to drive increased adoption of this technology. The edge controller market is still emerging, with only a limited number of products currently available.  However, there are already dedicated solutions in the field and some suppliers have integrated edge functionality into their controllers.  In addition to traditional machine and/or process control functionality, edge controllers can also perform more resource-intensive tasks (such as analytics) at the network edge, while communicating with a cloud.  This approach reduces latency and, when properly implemented, can help ensure the security of sensitive data.  ARC observes that some users and machine builders are employing edge controllers to help future-proof their control architectures.

Edge Controllers Must Provide Clear Business Value

The research also indicates that  suppliers must approach the market with a clear problem-solving mentality and start with specific use cases.  Quantifiable success in early proof-of-concept studies and pilot installations that validate specific applications, such as reduced machine downtime or incremental performance and service improvements, can then be leveraged to more pervasively scale future installations.

“Thought leaders and innovators increasingly view connected products and Industrial IoT edge capabilities as the means to add value for the customer, achieve competitive advantages, and reduce operation and service costs.  Suppliers have responded by providing secure connected systems and solutions that ease deployment and management of these connected solutions.  Market growth will benefit as early proofs of concept migrate to widespread implementation of connected product capabilities,” according to Stefan Miksch, Analyst at ARC Advisory Group and key author of ARC’s Edge Controller Emerging Global Market Research report.

About the Edge Controller Market Research

In addition to providing a five-year market forecast, the edge controller market research provides detailed quantitative current market data and addresses key strategic issues.

For more information on this and other available ARC market research, go to www.arcweb.com/market-studies.

About ARC Advisory Group

Founded in 1986, ARC Advisory Group is the leading technology research and advisory firm for industry, infrastructure, and cities. ARC stands apart due to our in-depth coverage of both operational technologies (OT) and engineering technologies (ET) and associated business trends. Our analysts and consultants have the industry knowledge and the first-hand experience to help our clients find the best answers to the complex business issues facing organizations today. We provide our technology supplier clients with strategic market research, and help our end user clients develop appropriate adoption strategies and select the best technology solutions for their needs.