Networked Objects With NarrowBand IoT

NarrowBand IoT / LTE-M

The machine and sensor network
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Trailblazing for the Internet of Things

Connected things are the basis of an intelligent world. The basis for this Internet of Things? The right network. LPWA (Low-Power Wide-Area) networks are the right choice for many IoT applications, especially when energy consumption, building penetration, battery life and, above all, costs play an important role. Basically, two standardized mobile radio technologies are available for such IoT applications: NarrowBand IoT (NB-IoT) and LTE for Machine Type Communication (LTE-M).

Many IoT applications only send small amounts of data occasionally, making the networking standard NB-IoT ideal for them. Simple wireless modules providing stripped-down and focused functionality makes NB-IoT affordable and energy efficient. This, in turn, will enable IoT applications in many areas where networking was previously too expensive and difficult.

LTE-M scores exactly where slightly higher data throughput and lower latency are required, with at the same time good building penetration and low energy consumption as with NB-IoT. LTE-M is even more suitable for mobile applications because, as with LTE, the so-called "handover" between cells is supported.

Your benefits with NB-IoT and LTE-M in overview

Low energy consumption
NB-IoT and LTE-M chips concentrate on wireless functionality for specific applications and have energy-saving capabilities like standby mode, long-periodic tracking area updates and extended discontinuous reception, which ensure optimal energy efficiency.

Extensive range
NB-IoT provides a link budget of +20 dB (NB-IoT) and +15 dB (LTE-M) over the GSM wireless standard. Narrow-band modulation allows repeat broadcasting depending on the reception situation, ensuring better signal penetration deep inside buildings.

Low cost
Both LTE-M and NB-IoT score with low module costs as well as low opertation and service prices. This is ensured by the simple chipset design, in which unnecessary LTE functions have been dispensed, as well as increasing production volumes.

LTE basis
NB-IoT and LTE-M are based on LTE and can be integrated in preexisting LTE infrastructure with a software upgrade. Since NB-IoT and LTE-M can operate within both GSM and LTE spectrum, no new spectrum licensing is required.

Simple installation
Unlike sensors that can’t communicate over long distances, NB-IoT and LTE-M work on a plug-and-play basis. This means sensors are connected directly to the NB-IoT and/ or LTE-M networks, making the installation of local networks and gateways unnecessary.

Extremely secure
NB-IoT and LTE-M are globally standardized technologies using LTE security measures approved by 3GPP. Bothe NB-IoT and LTE-M benefit from a large pool of international experts, who are constantly monitoring and improving its security functionality.

We always have the right network for your application

Mobile communications: Use Cases & Features

NB-IoT applications

Remotely reading meters (e.g. for heating, gas, water and power) is convenient for both housing management companies and private households. NB-IoT fulfills all the necessary requirements.
- Only small amounts of data must be transmitted
- Meters are normally found in the cellars buildings, where reception is poor
- Gas and water meters are not connected to the electric grid and therefore need their own power source
Intelligent waste management means that garbage cans are no longer according to a rigid schedule, but rather when they are full. Sensors monitor the trash levels and transmit this data via NB-IoT to a cloud server to be analyzed.
- The modules do not require recharging or frequent battery changes
- The garbage cans are not tied to one location
- Thanks to optimized waste collection routes, logistics fuel costs sink
- Individualized billing
Studies show: Drivers searching for a place to park cause up to 30 percent of all city traffic. The result? Traffic jams, unhappiness, air pollution. Thanks to its lower operating costs and longer battery life, NB-IoT enables innovative solutions like “Park and Joy.”
- Conveniently find and pay for parking places
- Reduce unhappiness among drivers
- Boost revenues for communities via efficient parking usage
- Decrease environmental pollution by lowering auto emissions
More convenience and new business models: There are many to networking so-called “white goods” like refrigerators, dryers, ovens and dish washers via LTE-M.
- Manufacturers receive user data for market research and service purposes
- Consumers no longer have to buy an expensive washing machine, affordably renting instead and paying per wash
- Good building penetration of LTE-M signals ensures reliable data transmission even from inside the building
Where are my goods right now? Everyone ever sending something has asked themselves this question before. Logistics firms can offer their customers better service by providing tracking solutions allowing them to follow the entire shipping process.
- Tracking for logistics normally requires sending only small amounts of data and not necessarily in real-time, here NB-IoT can show its advantages. If more and more often data has to be sent, LTE-M comes into play
- Besides the location, customers can also monitor the condition and safety of their goods
- Improved flow of information for customs authorities and insurers
Light exactly when and where it’s needed – that’s the promise of smart lighting managed via NB-IoT or LTE-M. Communities and operators of everything from motorways to shopping centers can profit from these new wireless standards enabling affordable solutions.
- Sensors recognize when no people are present, so street lights can dim to increase energy efficiency
- Comprehensive network management provides detailed information about changes to the power grid
- Reduces energy usage and optimizes maintenance
Air pollution is a ubiquitous and complex issue that affects our environment and therefore all of us. To fight them, you have to recognize them first. Efficient air quality monitoring helps.
- Sensors connected via LTE-M measure pollution levels in buildings and in public spaces
- Early identification of dangers allows timely countermeasures
- Higher quality of life in urban areas due to safe clean air

Would you like to check if NB-IoT or LTE-M is also available at your location?

Overview of the status of the NB-IoT and LTE-M networks in Germany
Detailed availability check
NB-IoT / LTE-M at your specific location

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You want to know more about the possibilities and benefits of NB-IoT or LTE-M? Please feel free to contact us – our IoT experts will be happy to help and advise you.

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