CHICAGO -- nPhase, a leading global provider of machine to machine (M2M) solutions, announced today that it was selected by ABB (NYSE:ABB) to develop and deploy a SmartService enterprise wireless monitoring solution for ABB Robotics products that will dramatically reduce service costs and deliver enhanced value to ABB customers.
The nPhase SmartService M2M wireless solution interfaces with the robots control system at the operating system level, delivering vital data to centralized information systems with Internet access. This will enable a service technician to proactively administer repairs and adjustments to the robot, typically over the phone. This SmartService initiative will increase machine efficiency and minimize downtime.
Tony Wisniewski, Vice President/General Manager, Aftermarket Services explains, "ABB provides aftermarket services to customers in support of ABB robotics products including on-site troubleshooting, maintenance and repairs services, telephone support, replacement parts and refurbished units. The concept of SmartServices represents a top strategic opportunity for ABB Robotics. As a leader in industrial robotic products and systems, a strategy that will embrace SmartServices is the next logical step in the evolution of our business. Through the nPhase solution, we will be able to deliver a more responsive and effective service that will deliver significant economic benefits to our customers and allow our aftermarket business to operate more efficiently "The relationship being forged between ABB and nPhase around SmartServices is yet another indication that we are approaching an inflection point in the realm of pervasive computing," says Glen Allmendinger, President and Founder, Harbor Research. "Today's manufacturing leaders recognize SmartServices as a strategic growth driver and are proactively taking action in increasing numbers to implement these types of solutions to their competitive advantage. nPhase had been tireless in promoting the benefits SmartServices can bring to manufacturers -- their strategy workshops are rareified events that allow for honest and open exchange among business executives."
"ABB is in a unique position to leverage SmartServices as a strategy to deliver enhanced value to their customer base," says Steve Pazol, CEO of nPhase. "The program is launching to the North American install base in March 2006 and we are very excited about the possibilities of this important new business partnership"
About ABB
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 104,000 people.
About nPhase
nPhase is a recognized leader and pioneer in providing comprehensive high-value Machine-to-Machine (M2M) business solutions. M2M is about connecting widely dispersed machine or physical assets to information systems and people to extract information advantages. It is an exciting new industry predicted to exceed $100 billion by 2010. nPhase clients include Gardner Denver (NYSE:GDI), Air Products (NYSE:APD), ABB Robotics (NYSE:ABB), and others.
