Edge computing is a distributed information technology architecture in which client data are processed at the periphery (edge) of the network, as close to the originating source as possible.
To start with a modern-day cliché – data is the lifeblood of modern business. While this has always been true, it is the amount of data that has changed over time. Today’s businesses are literally awash in an ocean of data – so much that we don’t even know what to do with much of it. Just consider the huge amounts of data routinely collected from sensors and IoT devices operating in real time. The traditional computing paradigm built on a centralised data centre and everyday internet is no longer suited to moving endlessly growing rivers of real-world data. At some point the major limitations become one or more of bandwidth, latency and congestion. For clarity, let’s define these terms:
- Bandwidth is the amount of data which a network can carry over time (bits per second).
- Latency is the time needed to send data between two points on a network.
- Congestion is where the sheer volume of data overwhelms the network and outages become evident.
This is where the concept of edge communication was born.
In its simplest implementation, edge communication moves some portion of storage and computing resources out of the central data centre and closer to the source of the data itself. In other words, if we have trouble getting the data close to the data centre, we get the data centre close to the data. Utilising many devices over a much smaller LAN means ample bandwidth used exclusively by the local data-generating devices, making latency and congestion almost non-existent.
As with everything, there are limitations to edge computing:
- Limited capability. Computing resources will be less than that of a data centre, so ensuring the scope of the edge development is well defined becomes important
- Potentially an issue for remote locations – obviously some minimum level of connectivity is necessary. Hence it is necessary to ensure the design of the edge system accommodates poor or erratic connectivity.
- Data lifecycles. How much of the collected data should be retained? Most data generated by real-time sensors is unnecessary – generally it is only the critical data that needs to be retained. Hence a decision on what is retained and what is deleted is necessary – and then how to protect the retained data.
In edge computing communication technologies become important.
As Texcel continues to lead innovation in smart systems and digital infrastructure, we’re actively exploring and integrating various communications technologies. Here is a summary of these investigations:
- Cellular technologies (4G, 5G, 6G):
- 4G is still the workhorse for remote monitoring.
- 5G however is gaining traction with dense sensor arrays and high-speed video.
- 6G is still on the horizon, but it promises ultra-low latency and AI-native support.
- Medium to high power consumption is a feature of 4G and 5G systems (6G power requirements are still unknown).
- High data volumes are achievable.
- Bluetooth (5 and 6):
- Typically used for things like short-range asset tracking, handheld tools, advanced wearables, etc.
- Low power requirements.
- Operates over distances up to 300 m.
- Low to medium data volumes are achievable.
- LoRaWAN:
- Typically used in underground mines, asset tracking, etc.
- Ultra-low power requirements.
- Operates over long distances – up to 10 km.
- Very low data volumes only.
What’s Next for Texcel and the Edge?
We’re actively investing in multi-modal systems that blend these technologies – using LoRa for wide-area coverage, Bluetooth for localized monitoring, and 4G/5G for high-speed backhaul. Our R&D is focused on: edge AI models that operate within these networks to reduce unnecessary data transmission, self-optimizing communication stacks that switch protocols based on power, environment, and operational goals, and secure-by-design frameworks to keep edge communication resilient and safe.
Conclusion
As we build smarter, safer, and more connected industrial systems, understanding and leveraging the right edge communication technology is foundational. With the right combination of power, performance, and cost, we can unlock massive improvements in uptime, efficiency, and insight – whether we’re on the surface or deep underground. If you’re exploring the future of edge systems for your site or project, Texcel is here to help connect the dots – intelligently, reliably, and cost-effectively.
