Gemalto is launching an LTE Cat. M1 wireless module for IoT solutions.
The new Cinterion LTE Cat. M1 solution takes network efficiency and simplicity to new heights, delivering LTE for Machine-Type-Communication (MTC) and improved power savings that enables battery life of 10+ years in certain cases.
The module is ideal for use where solutions are not dependent on speed, but rather require network longevity and improved indoor coverage as in the case of asset trackers, healthcare solutions, smart meters and industrial sensors.
The new wireless module is the first IoT solution based on a dedicated LTE Cat. M1 chipset. The low-power, wide-area (LPWA) module offers extended coverage, including improved in-building and in-ground penetration. The solution operates on the highly efficient LTE spectrum and is capable of supporting more than 10 frequency bands from a single hardware device. This eliminates the need for multiple variants providing simplified global deployment and a fast time to market.
In the future, the new module will be able to run LTE NB-IoT protocols on the same hardware, giving customers a future-proof path to the latest network standards. Sharing the same footprint as existing Cinterion products, the LTE Cat. M1 solution enables easy migration from 2G and 3G devices.
Development samples are available on the Verizon 4G LTE Cat M1 network early in 2017, which is scheduled to achieve nationwide US coverage by the end of Q1 2017.
“Gemalto’s LTE-M1, LTE Cat. 1 and VoLTE Cat. 1 solutions ensure that highly efficient 4G connectivity is available for every type of IoT application,” says Andreas Haegele, senior vice-president: M2M at Gemalto. “With steady double-digit IoT growth expected in the coming years, Gemalto is committed to delivering cutting edge products that connect, secure and monetise the expanding IoT.”