- Cellular IoT represents a significant advancement in the connectivity of IoT devices, offering wide coverage, reliability, and security.
- With industries continuing to explore and implement cellular IoT solutions, we can expect a future where seamless, ubiquitous connectivity becomes the norm, driving efficiency and transforming everyday life.
Cellular Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the use of mobile networks to connect IoT devices to the Internet. Unlike traditional IoT devices that rely on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, cellular IoT uses existing cellular networks, like 3G, 4G, and 5G, to facilitate communication. This technology is particularly advantageous for devices that need to operate over long distances or in remote locations.
Operation mechanism of cellular IoT
Cellular IoT leverages the infrastructure of mobile network operators to provide connectivity. Its operation process can be divided into 3 stages. Device connection is the initial stage where IoT devices, equipped with cellular modules, connect to the nearest cell tower. Data gets transmitted under the cell tower, which is the second stage that relays data between the IoT device and the internet or a central server. Finally, mobile network operators manage the connection, ensuring data security and reliability.
There are several key technologies in cellular IoT.
Long-Term Evolution for Machines (LTE-M) is designed for devices that need medium data rates and mobility support. Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is another technique used to optimise low-power, low-bandwidth applications, ideal for static devices. 5G promises high data rates, low latency, and the capacity to handle a massive number of connected devices.
Also read: Three layers of security required by IoT platforms
5 benefits of cellular IoT
1. Wide coverage: One of the most significant advantages of cellular IoT is its extensive geographical coverage. Since it utilises existing cellular networks, IoT devices can connect and operate virtually anywhere a mobile phone can, including remote and rural areas where Wi-Fi might not be available.
2. Reliability: Mobile network operators are established entities with robust infrastructure, providing high-quality service and ensuring reliable connectivity. This reliability is critical for mission-critical applications, such as healthcare and smart cities, where consistent and dependable communication can be a matter of life and death.
3. Security: Cellular networks come with built-in security features that help protect data transmission. These networks utilise strong encryption protocols and security measures that safeguard against cyber threats and ensure data integrity.
4. Scalability: Cellular IoT is easily scalable, making it suitable for both small-scale and large-scale deployments. As the number of IoT devices increases, cellular networks can handle the additional load without requiring significant infrastructure changes.
Also read: What can IoT platform do?
4 applications of cellular IoT
1. Smart cities: Cellular IoT plays a crucial role in developing smart cities by supporting infrastructure monitoring, traffic management, and public safety systems. For instance, smart traffic lights and congestion monitoring systems can communicate in real time, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.
2. Healthcare: In the healthcare sector, cellular IoT enables remote patient monitoring and telemedicine services. It enables doctors to consult with patients remotely, thus expanding access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.
3. Agriculture: Precision farming is another area where cellular IoT excels. Farmers can use soil sensors, weather stations, and automated irrigation systems connected via cellular networks to monitor crop conditions and optimise resource usage, which help increase crop yields, conserves water, and reduces the environmental impact of farming practices.
4. Industrial IoT: In industrial settings, cellular IoT integrates with machinery and equipment to enable predictive maintenance and improve operational efficiency. Sensors attached to machines can monitor their performance and detect anomalies, prompting maintenance before breakdowns occur. This proactive approach minimises downtime, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the lifespan of equipment.
