The Advantages of LTE-M and NB-IoT Connectivity

With LTE for Machine Type Communication (LTE-M) and NarrowBand IoT (NB-IoT), two new network technologies are available on the market, both based on cellular technology - and both created to be particularly suitable for enabling global IoT connectivity.

LTE-M and NB-IoT are both excellent connectivity options for industries that want to take advantage of LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Networks) technologies, which extend device battery life and connect devices that were previously hard to reach. Both already have very good network coverage today, are standardized and built on the 4G network, meaning they are future-proof, have global network coverage and are backed by GSMA and telecom standards. Both technologies are standardized, secure and managed by the operator in the licensed spectrum. LTE-M and NB-IoT will also be the logical choices for all industries looking for 2G and 3G replacements for long-lifecycle IoT devices that require a longer battery life and better device coverage.

Comparison between the different cellular connectivity standards

LTE-M and NB-IoT were designed for IoT applications that use low to medium data rates, require long battery life, need to be low cost, or operate in hard-to-reach places. With these properties, they are suitable for many sensing and monitoring applications in the mobile sector, but also for many stationary applications in the area of smart building, smart infrastructure, or smart factory. The following graphic provides an overview about the differences between the cellular connectivity standards.

Benefits of LTE-M and NB-IoT

Connectivity is a critical part of product design and performance, the choice of connectivity technology must therefore be considered early in the development process. Given the rapid pace of technology and market development, this can be a difficult decision. For the first time, networks and standards were developed to meet the specific needs of connecting things. Previously, connected entities communicated over infrastructure designed to meet the needs of consumers. The main advantages of LTE-M and NB-IoT are:

• Global network coverage backed up by GSMA and telecom standards

• Very low energy consumption enables battery powered devices that can last for years

• Increased coverage for indoor or remote areas

• New connectivity pricing models enabling lower costs per device

• Low cost and long-life hardware modules

• No infrastructure deployment required compared to e.g. WiFi or Lora networks

• Lower installation, setup and maintenance costs compared to e.g. WiFi networks

Key differences between LTE-M and NB-IoT

You may now be wondering when you should use LTE-M or NB-IoT? The following graphic provides an overview of the most important differences.

LTE-M is a better choice for over-the-air firmware updates performed during the lifecycle of IoT devices. It is also better suited for moving devices to avoid connection/data loss and offers higher data rates that enable more use cases. NB-IoT could be the way to go if your devices are installed at hard-to-reach areas, even floors in the underground can be reached, and it also offers higher energy efficiency for battery-powered devices. NB-IoT has the better network coverage compared to LTE-M, a global map is available under https://www.gsma.com/iot/deployment-map/. Since the rollout of LTE-M started at a later date, it is expected to catch up soon in terms of availability.

Tributech OEM Module with LTE-M and NB-IoT

Want to get started with LTE-M or NB-IoT? We can help! Tributech offers an OEM solution for IoT devices, an IoT lab for prototyping, and an extensive partner network so we can support you from prototyping to mass production. The Tributech OEM Module has been designed with the aim of providing the heart of next-gen IoT devices, accelerating the go-to-market for IoT products. It provides a hardware and software backbone for the development of secure, smart, and connected products with LTE-M or NB-IoT connectivity. The module can be easily integrated into new or existing hardware designs of IoT devices.

As a simple example, it can be used to build a battery-powered CO2 measurement sensor or a telematic module for a smart and connected construction machine. Together with the integrated connectivity and IoT data management stack, this solution has the capability to reduce the development effort for such IoT applications by more than 90%.

The miniaturized 32 x 22 x 3 mm IoT module is packaged as a system-on-module (SoM) that includes Nordic Semiconductors’ low-power nRF9160 SiP with integrated LTE-M/NB IoT modem, a GPS sensor, eSIM and Infineon Techonolgies’ high-end OPTIGA™ Trust M hardware security module. Together with Tributech’s IoT and data platform, it provides all core functionalities of an IoT device like managing telemetry data, configurations, updates, provisioning, and security. Beside these core functionalities, the platform includes unique features like digital twin-based configuration and data management, blockchain-based data verification and audits, as well as built-in data sharing.

Accelerate your development with Tributech

Developing the entire hardware and software stack for new and innovative IoT applications is usually the biggest challenge for companies striving to bring new ideas to the market on time. Tributech OEM module provides a unique solution for developing secure, smart and connected devices with an incredible development speed from prototype to mass production.

If you would like to learn more about how you can develop LTE-M / NB-IoT connected devices with Tributech, contact us here.