Miniature embedded device server is a complete internet server built into an ethernet (RJ-45) jack.

A device embedded with a fully integrated miniature device server can provide the internet data communication capability such that

• The user can access the device setting through a standard internet browser.
• The manufacture can upgrade the system software / firmware of the device via the internet.
• The technical support personnel can do remote configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting, including real-time device performance notification without in-house service visit.
• A dedicated co-processor, if available in the device, can be used to optimize network activities, permitting the host microprocessor to function at maximum efficiency.

For example, if the miniature device server is embedded in every house appliance, one can easily do the following:

• Schedule the recording time of VCR, pay-per-view or video-on-demand programs on the more user friendly internet browser.
• Coordinate the coffee maker and toaster with the alarm clock in the morning.
• Coordinate the air conditioner, water heater, oven, bread maker, and/or rice cooker with his/her office computer that takes effect when he/she checks out from office in the afternoon.
• No need to change clocks between day-light-saving and standard time (in fact, all clocks will be synchronized and always report the accurate time).
• Automatically inform the technician or plumber for maintenance or repair, when needed.

In short, the miniature embedded device server makes devices "network enabled." Once devices are connected to the internet, it is a whole new world.

The miniature embedded device server comes with a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet connection, an operating system stored in flash memory, an embedded web server, a full TCP/IP protocol stack, and 128-bit standards - based (AES) encryption.

Courtesy: Lantronix, Inc.

By adding the miniature embedded device server device, one could:

• Remotely diagnose or upgrade a product
• Remotely control or automate a product
• Allow products to communicate with one another
• Obtain real-time information such as inventory, temperature, or status
• Allow a product to regulate power, speed, or other states based on information being sent to it
• Deliver personalized content

• Point-of-sale terminals, Barcode scanners, Cash registers, Vending machines, Weight scales, Lottery machines
• Home audio/video devices, Clocks, Gaming machines, Lighting controllers, HVAC controllers
• IT equipment, IP phone systems
• Fire controllers, Elevator controllers, Movie theater projectors, Access controls, Kiosks/concessions
• Test equipment, Medical equipment, CAT scanners, Security screeners, Power adapters, Battery monitors
• Gas detection equipment, Food service equipment, Storage mgmt. controllers, Scrolling signs
• Motor drive controllers, Programmable controllers, Security controllers, Process controllers, Air power tools
• Robots, Human machine interfaces

Common specifications for commercially available Miniature Embedded Device Servers are listed below:

	Network Interface:	RJ45 Ethernet 10BASE-T or 100BASE-TX (auto-sensing)
	Compatibility (Ethernet):	Version 2.0/IEEE 802.3
	Storage capacity:	384 ~ 512 KB
	Weight:	9.6 grams (0.34 oz)
	Material:	Metal shell, thermoplastic case
	Temperature:	Operating -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F) Storage -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
	Relative Humidity:	5% to 95% non-condensing
	Shock/Vibration:	Non-operational shock: 500 g's Non-operational vibration: 20 g's
	Supply Voltage:	3.3 V ±5%
	Input Voltage:	Low level 0 ~ 0.8 V High Level 2.0 V ~ Supply Voltage
	Output Voltage:	Low level up to0.4 V High Level no less than 2.4 V
	Leakage Current:	Input or Output 10 µA
	Typical Supply Current:	Idle 130mA 10BASE-T activity 140mA 100BASE-T activity 210mA

•	Pros:
	-	Small, light weight (thumb size)
	-	Fully integrated
	-	Shorter development time
•	Cons:
	-	Wired