EDITOR ’ S QUESTION
Let ’ s start understanding what we are talking about when referring to Edge Computing . Edge Computing is the processing ability close to the source where the data is generated , used , processed and decisions are taken .
In other words , Edge technology becomes the bridge between the physical and the digital world . At Lenovo , we are committed to computing on the Edge and seek to simplify the operation of the IT department .
For this , we offer a portfolio of solutions with a hybrid , open , scalable and automated infrastructure to face business challenges by transforming the way to store and process data , and meeting each client ’ s specific needs with capacity , speed and the necessary security .
To understand how to implement Edge Computing , from Lenovo , we share the above recommendations based on situations that may arise and examples of how to solve them :
• You cannot always count on permanent and reliable connectivity . We have clients that use Edge servers on fishing boats , where connectivity is by radio or satellite , and external factors can affect it . In that case , this technology can do real-time analysis of fishing , estimates of usable protein and even analysis of the maintenance and fuel consumption of the boats since this type of analysis does not require a permanent connection .
• Sometimes the transmission capacity may be shortened . In a European city , we develop applications for the Edge and add 5G . One of the applications is associated with detecting traffic incidents and through video analytics and cameras at traffic light crossings , we can warn in real-time if there is an accident . Also , we can supply the video to the authorities allowing quick decision-making . Due to the number of cameras , it makes no sense to transmit the video to a centralized location or a public cloud . Instead , we process close to the cameras avoiding congestion in the city ’ s data network .
• Sometimes we need the response at the shortest time possible . If decisions are in industrial environments , the difference between milliseconds and seconds can be highly risky . In Canada , one of our clients processes recycled material , such as metals and on occasions , they stopped the operation because they found propane containers , which would cause severe accidents if they were not empty . Today , an Edge solution allows hazardous materials to be identified and separated in less time without the need to stop operations .
• Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) requires more power . Either train a computational model that identifies things , people or actions , or run that model in the real world . During the pandemic , some customers deployed models to verify the correct use of masks , security elements and social distancing .
These models are available in the market , for example , to identify if people are gathering while waiting to pay for a purchase , so the store can open a new line
Edge technology becomes the bridge between the physical and the digital world .
of service , improving customer satisfaction . This technology will expand computing to solutions and locations that we consider impossible or unfeasible .
Lenovo has a broad and growing portfolio of ThinkEdge devices and servers designed for the Edge , with a presence in more than 160 countries and an ecosystem of specialist Edge Computing Partners , with various use cases and ready-made solutions . p
ALEJANDRO PÉREZ QUINTERO , SOLUTION SALES
EXECUTIVE AT LENOVO ISG LATIN AMÉRICA
www . intelligentcio . com INTELLIGENTCIO LATAM 35