Here are my pointers and prognostications regarding the top automation technology and market trends that will gain traction

in the coming year.

* Industrial Wireless:

  Industrial wireless networks will quickly become integrated  with standard plant and office networks. Beyond just wire

  replacement, there are lots of applications which will contribute to substantial market growth.

* Embedded intelligence & diagnostics:

  Embedded operating information and self-diagnostics will minimize the need for scarce and expensive factory-service.

* Machine-to-machine (M2M) communications:

  M2M will unleash a wave of productivity previously unseen - improved asset-management, and enhanced service initiatives.

* Automation system Security:

  Most of today's automation & control systems use the same hardware, operating systems, and communications as broadly

  deployed networks. Security has become an urgent issue.

* Consumer tech in industrial automation:

  Internet access via cellular phones, handheld PDAs and the  like, is inevitably rubbing off in industrial environments.

  Specifically-industrial software applications are coming.

Success will come to the companies that understand how to combine and coordinate new technology, new thinking and

effective solutions for customers in global markets.

Automation.com - 2008 Pinto's Pointers - Technologies & Markets:

http://www.automation.com/sitepages/pid3268.php

Read weekly Pinto's Points published by InTech eNews:

http://jimpinto.com/writings/isapoints.html