Let’s make a mental list with all the connected devices that we can find in our most immediate environment… Done? Now let’s add all those objects that, although they are not, could connect to the Internet. I’m sure there are just few things left off the list, right? This is a simple exercise, but it demonstrates the power of the Internet of Things (IoT) sector.
When we thing about the future, we envision a complete coexistence with intelligent devices, where the Internet is the main character of our relationship with the world. It is a step forward that is making our lives, generally, a little easier. We are immersed in an authentic technological and digital revolution.
Deploying IoT globally, does not only depend on the willingness to connect more or less devices, but on the existence of networks that support these connectivities and allow all these objects talk to each other (machine to machine communication –M2M-) or report their activity to the cloud.
One of the networks that has emerged in recent years and is presented as the spearhead of Low-Power Wide Area connectivity (LPWA) is the LTE-M. This network is specifically designed to develop IoT applications on a large scale and to make M2M connections at the industrial level, using secure mobile networks for long-range communications.
Let’s see what are the main features of LTE-M network and why it is worth betting on this technology when we plan to develop a project:
- It is designed to connect to the Internet low-complexity devices that transmit small amounts of data over long periods of time.
- The battery can last up to 10 years, depending on the use case and the device configuration.
- One of the features that make it stand out above other similar technolgies is that it supports voice messages, thanks to its VoLTE service.
- This communication protocol also allow mobility, so LTE-M technology is the perfect solution to develop IoT devices designed for asset tracking.
- It also offers a much more precise device positioning; it provides wide coverage and high penetration in buildings and underground.
- The cost of the module and, thus, the final device is lower than with other technologies.
The LTE-M network, which is part of the 3GPP standard, coexists with the already consolidated 2G, 3G and 4G mobile networks. The intention is that in the short term the deployment of this technology will be global.
If you’re thinking about developing an IoT device, maybe LTE-M can be the ideal technology. We can help you in consultancy and in the development process. Contact us and we’ll talk about it.
Accent Systems is an engineering company that turn your ideas into connected devices. Just contact us and explain us all your needs.