TrueNet Communications has been chosen by M2M Spectrum Networks (SN) to manage the construction of what will be the USA’s first purpose-built all-IP machine to machine communications (M2M) network. It will use ‘creatively sourced licensed radio spectrum.’
Work is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2014, aiming to cover 75% of the US population by the end of 2015 and 95% by the end of 2016. TrueNet will be responsible for the logistics, construction, provisioning and commissioning of the network build-out. It has previous experience in CableWiFi projects and 2.5 million smart meter installations.
Doreen Trant, Senior Vice President of Network Implementation at SN, said that ‘partnering with TrueNet allows us the scale, resources, speed and flexibility we require in order to meet our aggressive build-out plans.’
M2M Spectrum Networks was founded in 2013. For its network construction it has partnered with several companies, including GlobeRanger for its iMotion Edgeware platform, Crown Castle for tower leasing and site development, Raveon Technologies for custom-built wireless modules, Commdex for engineering and technical expertise, 4G Unwired for the nationwide cellular RF system, and now TrueNet to manage and coordinate the project.
TrueNet Communications President and CEO, Frank Del Col, said ‘industry pundits had foreseen the need for a purpose-built network whose core function is to power the Internet of Things, but until now, no one had put together the nationwide spectrum necessary to deliver on that vision. M2M SN will be the first and only dedicated and licensed machine-to-machine network in the nation.’
The announcement comes amidst a general trend of mobile operators decommissioning ‘sunset’ 2G network equipment or converting it to 4G. Many current M2M networks use the legacy 2G equipment, but as the MNOs are not looking to provide M2M services it leaves room for the likes of TrueNet and SN to step in.
Del Col added that ‘we believe, as do many others in our industry, that the availability of a stable, low-cost nationwide M2M network on which developers can base their applications will serve as a platform and catalyst for the next wave of innovation in this country.’
So while MNOs are focusing on the more profitable 4G and video delivery services, there is now room for the smaller cellular players to fill in the M2M gaps. SN is now hoping to be the first national US network for dedicated M2M and IoT communications.