Edge AI Gateway Improves Smart Grid Communication

The convergence of artificial intelligence and edge computing is reshaping how industries process and utilize data. As organizations generate massive amounts of information from connected devices, traditional cloud-based AI solutions face challenges with latency, security, and network dependencies. Edge AI has emerged as a solution to enable local data processing on devices to eliminate cloud dependencies and reduce security risks.

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, Lantronix showcased its edge AI solutions roadmap. The compact system-on-chip solution incorporates edge AI.

Edge AI in the SmartLV gateway. Image courtesy of Lantronix

What is Edge AI?

Edge artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) represent technological advancements in addressing the growing demand for localized processing and interconnected systems.

The IoT connects physical devices to enable the autonomous collection and data exchange through networks. IoT devices are generally equipped with myriad sensors that generate large amounts of data for various purposes, such as monitoring, automation, optimization, or prediction. This concept has fueled the creation of interconnected ecosystems in sectors like smart cities, utilities, and industrial automation.

By merging AI with edge computing, edge AI allows AI algorithms to operate directly on local devices equipped with computational capabilities. Unlike traditional IoT architectures that depend heavily on cloud-based processing, edge AI processes data locally in real time by removing the need for constant system connectivity. Though powerful due to its extensive computational resources, cloud-based AI is vulnerable to connectivity issues, which can cause delays, bandwidth reduction, or service interruptions. Edge AI saves time by aggregating and analyzing data at the source, eliminating reliance on external systems for communication.

Most importantly, edge AI keeps data secure by processing it locally. Cloud AI requires transmitting sensitive information across public networks to remote servers, creating greater cybersecurity risks.

Lantronix’s Edge AI Solutions

At CES 2025, Lantronix previewed its edge AI roadmap, which includes Qualcomm-based solutions such as SmartLV.

Lantronix recommends the SmartLV for applications such as substations. Image used courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The SmartLV IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway is a compact, industrial-grade solution for low-voltage substations and diverse industrial applications. Powered by the Qualcomm QCS615 Kryo 300 octa-core CPU and Hexagon V66 DSP, it features 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 128GB UFS storage, high-speed LTE, and 5G Sub-6 GHz functionality. Architecturally, it combines IoT connectivity with edge computing to support automation in energy distribution and monitoring tasks. Its central feature is security, employing Lantronix InfiniShield for secure boot, firmware updates, and communications.

Specifically engineered for utility and industrial sectors, the SmartLV supports distribution automation with robust processing power and scalability. It is suited for harsh environments With operating temperatures ranging from -30°C to +70°C and rugged aluminum alloy enclosures.

The Impact

Lantronix plans to strengthen its presence in the enterprise and smart City markets by completing its acquisition of NetComm in Q2 fiscal 2025. Integrating NetComm’s IoT portfolio will bolster Lantronix’s next-generation 5G capabilities while enhancing connectivity solutions in infrastructure, asset monitoring, and telecommunications.