IoT solutions provider Sierra Wireless has launched two new cellular modules to support low-power wide-area (LPWA) technologies.
Sierra Wireless’ new AirPrime HL and WP Series cellular modules are designed for use with Category-M1 (Cat-M1) and Category-NB1 (Cat-NB1) LTE networks. Both modules support the industry standard for low-power wide-area (LPWA) technologies.
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Sierra Wireless to ‘reduce cost and power’ of IoT devices
For businesses developing Internet of Things (IoT) applications, Sierra Wireless’ LPWA solutions will help reduce the cost and power usage of connected devices, simplify wireless integration, and offer “reliable and resilient connectivity for locations with coverage challenges”, such as rural areas.
“Having shipped more than 120 million cellular modules, no one understands the challenges that businesses face in deploying IoT services better than Sierra Wireless,” said Dan Schieler, senior vice president, Embedded Solutions for Sierra Wireless.
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“LPWA technologies eliminate many of those challenges because they allow cellular to address a broader range of use cases, making it cost effective to connect billions more devices. Our essential and smart application processing LPWA module options make it easy for existing customers to expand their deployments and for new customers to begin designing connected IoT products in applications where cellular previously wasn’t a fit.”
LPWA networks to enable a more connected world
The commercialization of Cat-M1 and Cat-NB1 LPWA technologies means that cellular is now a strong alternative for IoT applications previously restricted to shorter-range networks because issues surrounding of battery life and cost. LPWA technologies are expected to connect more objects in cities, homes, hospitals and stores, and on roads and remote infrastructure, enabling a more connected world.
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“LPWA will greatly expand cellular’s IoT market because it was specifically designed to meet the cost, power and coverage requirements for not only traditional markets but also new, untapped markets for IoT applications,” said Dan Shey, managing director and vice president at ABI Research.
“As the market share leader in cellular modules, Sierra Wireless is well positioned to help their customers execute on the new business models and opportunities that LPWA will bring.”
Speaking exclusively to Internet of Business, Robin Kent, director of European operations at Adax, highlighted the potential for extended coverage offered by LPWA networks.
“LPWA networks will vastly improve indoor coverage; support a massive number of low throughput devices; provide low delay sensitivity; ultra-low device cost; low device power consumption and optimised network architecture. They can work alongside 2G, 3G and 4G mobile networks and will be supported by all major mobile equipment, chip set and module manufacturers. Based on 3GPP standards and operating in a licensed spectrum, they will ensure stability, reliability, and security in the future,” he said.
“The networks are ideal for smart gas and water meters. With the ability to deliver deep indoor penetration, they can provide a strong, reliable connection where mobile reception might be poor. Away from the city, the solutions can be used for monitoring livestock in farming. In rural communities where coverage is poor and there is no power supply, the health and location of livestock can be monitored and alert farmers to the spread of disease.”