Edge Computing makes it possible to process data at the periphery of the network, that is to say as close as possible to their source. Due to the proliferation of devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is experiencing tremendous growth. MEC is an advantageous solution for real-time analysis, since it can process data locally to reduce latency and unclog the network. But its usefulness is much larger and many other technologies can benefit.
MEC and Virtual/Augmented Reality
In order to use this technology to its full potential, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) must have an excessively fast response time, which is not always the case on today’s networks.
For example, RV / RA requires a latency of less than 20 milliseconds to prevent the user from experiencing nausea or other undesirable effects. To achieve this, the power and speed of Mobile Edge Computing are essential.
Virtual and augmented realities are now spreading across many sectors.
For Enterprise
When a company is about to take a technological turn, it must consider VR / AR. These optimize the efficiency of workers by reinventing processes. For example, a manual task can be performed while the information is scrolling in front of the person who executes it. Or, by having access to what everyone sees, several colleagues can work together on a project, even if hundreds of kilometers separate them.
In concrete terms, we are moving towards reducing the risk of errors, injuries and fatigue, as well as increasing efficiency and productivity.
Training
This more immersive technology has shown information retention at a rate that is 4 times higher than traditional training. Virtual excursions, using simulated situations, virtual environment and more. The possibilities are endless to improve and maximize training.
VR/AR reduce the costs and risks associated with different learning situations.
Medicine
Improvement of virtual and augmented realities thanks to the computing in mobile periphery has repercussions in the medical world. A medical specialist can now treat patients all over the planet. But to do this, a very low latency is crucial.
This technology is also used at the heart of therapies, while the patient faces certain conditions that require pain management or rehabilitation, as an example for the treatment of a phobia or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Mobile Video Games
MEC is literally revolutionizing the world of mobile gaming. With its increased reaction speed and decreased latency, it opens the door to the use of VR / AR for recreational purposes. Instead of going through the cloud, the rendering task is shared between a mobile device and a low latency server at the edge of a network.
Result: an incomparable rendering for a better experience.
The Relationship Between CDNs and Edge Computing
Basically, Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) store data from an origin server in multiple Edge Computing Servers so that they can be sent to a requesting user from the geographically closest server from its location. This infrastructure makes it possible in particular to reduce the costs of using bandwidth and to increase the speed of broadcasting.
The technology in Edge Computing differs in, that it can increase the speed of computation by processing some or all of the data as close as possible to the user. Beyond the diffusion of content, it acts at the level of the analysis of the data. CDNs therefore find opportunity in Mobile Edge Computing optimized, such as VR / AR, beneficial due to the generated speed of diffusion.
There were 8.4 billion devices connected to the Internet in 2017. By 2020, it is estimated that this number will jump to 20.4 billion. The phenomenal amount of data generated by these devices requires ultrafast processing for the user to receive the information in real time. Data is increasing; the patience of the user decreases!
For mobile Edge Computing requires, peripheral data centers to be built. CDN will be able to exploit them to meet the cloud computing needs of IoT. The combination of these two technologies combines the performance of Edge Computing with the speed of CDN broadcasting.
Source: ZDNet YouTube Channel
Conclusion
Thanks to its many advantages, the utilities of the Mobile Edge Computing multiply, and this is only the beginning. You will hear more and more about it and, if you have not already done so, you will probably be tempted to take the technological turn it represents.
If you are considering the implementation of such a system, check out our scalable systems solutions for Edge Computing. State-of-the-art equipment such as the CIARA ORION RS620Q-G4 server can make all the difference.
Do not hesitate to contact one of our experts to find out more about Mobile Edge Computing and its benefits.
This post is also available in: FR
