French LTE chipmaker Sequans has launched the latest iteration of its Streamlite LTE platform aimed at IoT connectivity. Called Colibri, the LTE platform uses both of Sequans’ latest baseband and RF chips (SQN3221 and SQN3241 respectively), an integrated CPU for running the network and application processes in the Sequans LTE protocol stack, an IP Multimedia Subsystem client, and software for running over-the-air device management and packet routing.
Colibri claims ultra-low power consumption in a small form factor. The integration of the two communications chips with a CPU to run applications removes the need for developers to use an external CPU ‘ cutting size and BOM. Sequans says this makes the 4G module available to IoT and M2M developers at prices close to 2G modules, but doesn’t actually give prices. In the world of chips whose prices are measured in single cents instead of dollars, that may well be enough to make Colibri a success, or it may not because it depends on both the price now and the rate at which the price will fall.
Some MNOs are considering or actively shuttering their 2G services and reframing the spectrum for 4G, other’s will keep them, so GSm pricing will be low, and the low speeds of GSM networks may well be enough for IoT. But if devices really are the same price on LTE, then you can be sure that’s a better way to go.
Many dedicated M2M network operators are filling the gaps left behind, but there will be some IoT businesses who need or would prefer to operate on the networks of the major players like Orange rather than smaller dedicated outfits such as Stream, Neul or Sigfox.
There is also the speed difference between 2G and 4G. Most low-cost and small-size IoT implementations might require a very low rate of data transmission, but 2G would be a bottleneck for any IoT devices which want to transmit large amounts of data ‘ such as cameras, coordinating hubs and wearables. These devices need a 4G data-rate, which is the sweet spot the Colibri platform is aimed at – the connected CCTV camera but not so much the connected window latch.
‘In developing Colibri, our goal was to pack it with great IoT features while making it so cost-effective that it would immediately solidify the business cases for adding LTE to numerous new M2M and IoT devices,’ said Georges Karam, the Sequans CEO. ‘I’m proud to say we’ve reached our goal and Colibri offers the best price to performance in the industry, enabling 4G LTE modules to approach 2G price points.’ Colibri expects to launch in the third quarter of this year and perhaps we can get a better idea on pricing then.
Elsewhere, Eurotech has unveiled its ReliaGATE 15-10, an industrial multi-service gateway and edge controller designed to connect a range of IoT devices. Based around a low-power Intel Quark X1020D SoC designed originally for tablets, the gateway caters for GPS, WiFi, Cellular, 802.15.4 (ZigBee) and Bluetooth Smart (formerly Bluetooth Low Energy). Other I/O options include 3 USB 2.0 ports, 2 10/100 Ethernet ports, VGA, HDMI, 3.5mm audio in and out, and a plethora of serial connections.
The unit has been designed to operate in harsh conditions, meeting extreme temperature and humidity limits, shock and vibration certification and isolation protection. It is meant to form the backbone of IoT and M2M deployments while being flexible enough to meet networking needs. It can even run on battery power alone, for very remote deployments.
Running the Yocto Linux OS and pre-integrated into the Eurotech Everywhere M2M Cloud, the ReliaGATE 15-10 has a number of antenna configurations that can be added to the gateway. The aforementioned communication protocols are catered for by a port on the front of the hub, which lets businesses customize connectivity according to need.
Aimed squarely at industrial deployments, the ReliaGATE is ‘designed to seamlessly integrate with Intel Gateway Solutions for IoT and includes Eurotech’s Everywhere Software Framework (ESF), a device-resident application development framework designed to shorten time to market and extend capabilities, including remote device management.’
With the included modular Eurotech ReliaCELL 10-20 cellular adapter, the gateway can be immediately connected to cellular networks after deployment. Gateways such as this are likely customers of 4G IoT technology such as the Sequans Colibri platform.
Eurotech’s CMO, Robert Andres, said ‘the multi-service gateway approach allows customers to connect sensors, actuators and devices to the business enterprise with near real-time management and control of those devices in the field. The ReliaGATE 15-10 provides design flexibility and the ability to future proof investments by integrating and consolidating those data streams.’
That last point is important, as the ability to customize a network according to possible future developments is something that must be carefully considered before deployment. A gateway such as Eurotech’s allows a business to go back to its deployed hubs to add ZigBee (for instance) simply by plugging in an antenna and installing the required ZigBee devices ‘ a straightforward expansion plan that doesn’t require changes to old devices that may have lifespans of up to a decade. The modular approach allows an installed network to evolve gradually, instead of forcing a business to purchase and fit a completely new network should needs or standards change.