Comparing Advantech Non-Cellular Solutions vs. HMS Networks: A Deep Dive into IoT and Industrial Connectivity
When exploring options for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions, it’s essential to understand what different players bring to the table. Two companies that regularly show up in this conversation are Advantech and HMS Networks. While both have made significant strides in enabling industrial connectivity, they take very different approaches, especially when it comes to non-cellular solutions.
This article provides a thorough comparison of Advantech Non-Cellular solutions and HMS Networks, focusing on their applications, pros and cons, target markets, and distinct value offerings. If you’re a business developer or someone involved in choosing technology for industrial automation, this guide was crafted with you in mind.
Let’s break it all down and see how these two giants stack up.
Who Are They?
Advantech was founded in 1983 in Taiwan and has since become a global leader in providing intelligent IoT and embedded platforms. Known for its robust hardware and industrial computing equipment, Advantech offers a wide range of industrial automation products, including non-cellular communication technologies such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and LPWAN-based solutions.
HMS Networks is a Swedish company established in 1988 and specializes in industrial communication and IIoT technology. It’s particularly strong in communication interfaces that allow different industrial machines and networks to ‘talk’ to each other. HMS is behind well-known brands like Anybus, Ixxat, and Ewon, which are used in countless smart factories around the globe.
What Do They Offer? Exploring Their Technology
Let’s dive into their offerings with a specific focus on non-cellular communication.
Advantech Non-Cellular:
Advantech’s focus is clearly on scalable, secure, and flexible industrial networking. They offer robust solutions in:
- Industrial Ethernet switches and gateways – Used for machine-to-machine communication within factories.
- LPWAN (LoRa, Zigbee) – Useful in remote or hard-to-wire areas for sensor connectivity.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules – Enable short-range wireless communication suitable for factory floors and warehouses.
- Edge intelligence devices – Designed to process data at the source, reducing latency and cloud dependence.
HMS Networks:
HMS approaches the market from a different angle. They specialize in protocol conversion and interface connectivity:
- Anybus – Connects field devices to industrial networks. Supports over 250 communication protocols like ProfiNet, EtherCAT, or CANopen.
- Ixxat – Focused on automotive and robotics industries with CAN and industrial Ethernet solutions.
- Ewon – Offers remote monitoring and control over VPN or LAN connections, often used in after-sales support and maintenance operations.
Both companies use non-cellular paths, but for different reasons: Advantech emphasizes edge computing and smart device integration, while HMS excels in protocol simplification and machine interoperability.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
Here’s a quick reference chart comparing both companies across key categories:
| Feature | Advantech Non-Cellular | HMS Networks |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Edge computing and industrial networking | Protocol conversion and network interfaces |
| Non-Cellular Tech | Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, LoRa | LAN, CANopen, RS-485, Industrial Ethernet |
| Notable Products | WISE-4000, UNO Edge Computers | Anybus Communicator, Ewon Flexy |
| Ecosystem | Cloud, edge devices, sensors, gateways | Third-party machine compatibility, secure tunneling gateways |
| Software Integration | Proprietary + APIs for Azure, AWS IoT | Ready-made drivers for hundreds of systems |
| Ease of Use | Great for integrators and OEMs | Turnkey solutions for industrial users |
Pros and Cons: Honest Breakdown
Let’s evaluate their strengths and weaknesses based on real-world usage, client testimonials, and independent reviews.
Advantech Non-Cellular – Pros
- Hardware-centric, highly durable: Built for harsh environments and 24/7 operation.
- Flexible integration: Works with various LPWAN and Wi-Fi technologies.
- Edge-ready: Advanced processing capabilities reduce cloud dependency.
- Comprehensive ecosystem: Offers everything from sensors to centralized dashboards.
Cons
- Complex setup: Not always plug-and-play; may require technical expertise.
- Higher upfront cost: While feature-rich, premium products come at a price.
HMS Networks – Pros
- Plug-and-play solutions: Especially with Anybus and Ewon, designed for quick deployment.
- Unmatched protocol compatibility: Useful for legacy machine integration.
- Strong remote access tools: Excellent for remote monitoring and support operations.
- Scalable across sectors: Ideal for small factories to large multi-site operations.
Cons
- Not a full solution provider: You’ll often need third-party hardware for a complete IoT stack.
- Less focus on edge AI: More about connectivity, less about intelligent decision-making.
Where Each Shines: Use Case Scenarios
Advantech is a powerhouse when your application involves environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, or smart factories. For instance, Advantech’s WISE series is great for smart energy grids and street lighting—where low power and long-distance data are critical.
Imagine a vineyard using LoRa-based soil moisture sensors connected to an Advantech edge gateway. The data is processed locally and only actionable insights are sent to the cloud—saving both bandwidth and cost.
HMS Networks excels in scenarios where machinery from different OEMs needs to talk seamlessly. For example, an auto parts manufacturer with robotic arms using different communication protocols can use Anybus to unify operations effortlessly. Another strong use case is aftermarket service—Ewon makes remote diagnostics and support nearly as seamless as being on-site.
Global Reach and Customer Support
Advantech has over 100 branch offices and industrial partners across 90+ countries. Their customer support services include online training, technical documentation, and 24/7 field assistance in high-demand industries like oil and gas, semiconductor, and transportation.
HMS Networks, while smaller, is no less international. They operate through offices in 16 countries and work efficiently through distribution networks. Their technical support is often praised for fast response and comprehensive knowledge bases.
Security and Compliance
Both companies take security seriously, though they prioritize different areas:
- Advantech focuses on device-level encryption, firmware validation, and secure boot features.
- HMS emphasizes secure remote access via VPN tunnels and ISO 27001-certified data centers.
If remote diagnostics and field service are your main concern, HMS offers a more streamlined security focus. However, for sensor-level data protection and secure local computing, Advantech is the better fit.
Customer Testimonials and Success Stories
Advantech worked with Siemens to establish an environmental monitoring system across Asia-Pacific using LoRa and edge computing. Their devices not only helped detect pollution levels but also lowered operating costs by 40% through predictive maintenance.
On the other hand, HMS enabled a major North American food processing giant to streamline their production line by connecting old machinery to a modern SCADA system in under two weeks using Anybus Communicators.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Advantech Non-Cellular solutions and HMS Networks depends on your priorities.
If your goal is:
- Building a scalable, sensor-rich edge network
- Reducing cloud reliance
- Deploying in difficult environments or remote areas
Then Advantech may be your best bet.
But if you:
- Need seamless interoperability across devices from different manufacturers
- Require fast deployment with minimal configuration
- Plan to monitor, update, and maintain machinery remotely
Then HMS Networks makes more sense.
Visit Advantech’s official site
Visit HMS Networks’ official site
And if you’re thinking about scaling your industrial operations with the right connectivity partner, it might be worth combining solutions from both worlds—Advantech for data collection and edge processing, and HMS for universal communication and system integration.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and doesn’t represent an endorsement by any party. Always consult a technical architect before making final procurement decisions.
Explore more company lists on DistriList: Browse all categories.
Geographic relevance: United States and international markets.