Your production equipment consistently generates a myriad of data points. Effectively collecting, contextualizing, and acting on that data is where the challenges tend to lie. So. How do manufacturers surmount those challenges, particularly if the equipment in question isn’t primed for integration?
Enter edge computing: the powerful tech that’s reshaping how modern factories operate. By bringing computing power closer to the source—just beside your machines—edge devices can unlock insights from your existing systems.
While the potential is enormous, realizing the value of edge devices takes more than just plugging in a few sensors. It requires the right infrastructure, cross-team collaboration, and a platform that turns raw data into real operational intelligence.
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The Rise of Edge Computing in Modern Manufacturing
Leaders are always seeking new ways to turn their organization’s data into valuable, actionable insights. As operations become increasingly connected and data-driven, edge computing is transforming how plants capture and utilize data in real-time.
By capturing and processing data right where it’s generated—at the “edge” of the network, near machines and sensors—edge computing helps teams act faster, respond smarter, and maintain visibility even in challenging environments. While the benefits are clear, installing and managing edge (also called IIoT) devices on the factory floor can present challenges. I sat down with Parsec’s Senior MES Consultant, Nick Rivette, to learn from his first-hand implementation experience and discover what it takes to successfully set up and gain value from these devices.
Watch the full video below and keep reading to explore my key takeaways:
Common Deployment Challenges & Tips to Avoid Them
Deploying edge technology can have its hiccups. Here are the most common types of challenges Parsec clients have faced (and overcome!) throughout their rollouts:
Fortunately, there are ways to prepare your organization for edge device implementation and keep the aforementioned challenges to a minimum. Here are a few tips that really stood out:
- Know the Prerequisites: Before equipment arrives, determine what infrastructure is required for it to succeed—such as network access, IP assignments, power, and mounting hardware. These small steps can prevent costly downtime during installation.
- Expect Initial Connectivity Hurdles: Device onboarding can be frustrating. Request vendor documentation and quick-start guides in advance to ensure a smooth setup. Allowing your team time to read up and practice in a staging area helps build confidence and shorten the learning curve.
- Engage IT and OT Early: Don’t treat an edge device rollout as an operations-only initiative. OT must work with IT to align on firewall rules, subnet configurations, and data flow approvals. It’s easier to make these adjustments before devices are connected.
- Assign Ongoing Ownership: Determine who will monitor device health, apply firmware updates, and manage access. A clear support structure stacked with well-trained team members helps ensure long-term success.
The Parsec Perspective
We see edge technology as a powerful enabler—but not the final destination itself. The true value of the devices emerges when their data is fed into a platform that can analyze and contextualize it, so ultimately your team can act on it.
This is where TrakSYS comes in.
TrakSYS can serve as a central hub that collects and visualizes data from diverse sources—edge gateways, PLCs, smart sensors, and enterprise systems—using a range of modern protocols. Once in TrakSYS, data is transformed into meaningful insights that can drive better, more informed decision-making.
“Edge technology is exciting because it pushes intelligence closer to production. But it only becomes valuable when that data is usable—when you can see it, analyze it, and act on it in a system like TrakSYS.”
TrakSYS Smart Devices: Our Very Own IIoT
The TrakSYS Smart Data Collection System includes data collectors and a coordinator that are especially designed with auto-configuration software to make it as simple as possible to set up and manage, regardless of existing infrastructure.
Our Smart Devices help manufacturers quickly and affordably gain real-time visibility into their operations, enabling data-driven process optimization—even in areas where traditional automation isn’t feasible.
Conclusion
Implementing edge devices isn’t just an equipment project—it’s a collaborative transformation effort that involves IT, OT, engineering, and production. With proper preparation, communication, and the right platform in place, the payoff can be enormous: faster insights, more reliable operations, and a factory floor that’s truly connected from end to end.
Ready to connect your factory floor from edge to enterprise? Contact us to learn how TrakSYS helps manufacturers integrate edge devices for real-time performance and continuous improvement.
FAQ
What is edge computing, and why does it matter in manufacturing?
Edge computing refers to the practice of processing data close to where it’s generated—on or near the production floor—rather than sending it to a centralized cloud or data center. In manufacturing, this allows for real-time decision-making, reduced network congestion, and visibility even when connectivity is limited.
What challenges might manufacturers face when deploying edge devices?
Common challenges include outdated or insufficient infrastructure, misalignment between IT and OT teams, integration hurdles from disparate protocols, cybersecurity concerns, and a lack of organizational readiness. Addressing these early helps ensure a smoother rollout and long-term success.
How can manufacturers prepare for a successful edge deployment?
How does TrakSYS support edge computing initiatives?
TrakSYS acts as a central hub that collects, standardizes, and contextualizes data from various edge sources using modern protocols like OPC UA, MQTT, and REST APIs. This makes raw machine data actionable by providing real-time insights for operators, engineers, and decision-makers.
What are TrakSYS Smart Devices?
TrakSYS Smart Devices are preconfigured edge tools designed to integrate seamlessly with the TrakSYS MES platform. With auto-configuration features and flexible infrastructure requirements, they allow for quick deployment and reliable data collection—even in environments where traditional automation isn’t usually practical.