Mobile IoT is a dynamic technology that uses some of the same principles as cellular networks. They have the potential to improve existing networks that use traditional IoT connectivity. This is important for many reasons.
In general, IoT devices help harness the power of data in ways that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. However, many projects that use the Internet of Things (IoT) fail to configure their software and hardware correctly, and energy use and security become an issue.
If this is not done correctly, the entire project has a high risk of failure. Data processing might end up becoming problematic, consuming many resources from your IoT devices. This means that your devices’ battery life may be reduced significantly due to a high level of power consumption. Aside from the operational challenges this poses, it also ends up producing high costs.
In this post, we discuss how the right IoT app can help your organization reap the benefits of a mobile IoT strategy by guaranteeing a low cost and low data operational model.
What is a Mobile IoT Strategy?
Not all IoT systems are the same. Depending on the specific IoT connectivity required, some systems may need to operate under a low-cost, low-data model. When this is the case, a mobile IoT model becomes a great alternative.
This model uses a Low Power Wide Area Network, also known as LPWAN or LPWA. This is a standardized, secure operator licensed spectrum granted by mobile operators, resulting in a more secure network when compared to traditional IoT connectivity alternatives. It is very similar to the network used by mobile phones. One of its most important benefits is that it helps reduce power consumption, helping extend the battery life, thanks in part to how the data is managed by IoT devices.
Some of the most common alternatives of this type of system include LTE-M and NB-IoT networks. This will most likely be the best alternatives for your low-cost, low-power project. We will discuss them further ahead.
IoT Applications for Mobile
IoT networks are not only made up of devices, which make up the hardware component of the system. The software is also an essential component. IoT applications make it possible to perform different tasks and process all sorts of data in efficient ways. Because of this, IoT apps are an essential part of the Internet of Things.
An IoT system is not truly complete without the right app and its corresponding configurations, and yet, most companies fail to consider this when developing a system based on IoT technologies. If your organization is considering a mobile IoT strategy, one of the first steps should be to analyze both the software and hardware requirements.
IoT applications configured with a low power solution help companies that use the Internet of Things implement low cost, low data models, resulting in cost-effective and secure systems. Thanks to their low power consumption, these systems can help extend the battery life of devices in the network. This makes them suitable for projects where traditional IoT devices with high power consumption are not a feasible solution.
Developers building these apps should consider the technical requirements of LTE-M and NB-IoT networks in order to make them work optimally.
Mobile Internet of Things Security
IoT networks that use mobile technology tend to be more secure than traditional ones. Thanks to their dedicated spectrum bands and SIMs granted by mobile operators, they can avoid potential interference.
Given the importance of security when working with the Internet of Things, it is essential that companies understand the benefits that this technology has to offer them.
LTE-M and NB-IoT Networks
LTE-M and NB-IoT networks are some of the best mobile IoT solutions available. To make the most out of them, it is important to use the right devices, partner with trusty mobile operators, and sometimes, even more importantly, deploy the right IoT applications.
Both LTE-M and NB-IoT have different characteristics that may serve different purposes. Depending on what your project needs, one or the other may be better suited.
Long Term Evolution for Machines (LTE-M )
LTE-M is a low-power network technology that uses the LPWA standard. One of the key features of this type of network is its use of low-complexity devices. Because it is capable of reusing the installed LTE base, it can considerably extend battery life, sometimes even lasting up to ten years.
Narrowband – Internet of Things (NB-IoT)
The NB-IoT network is a standards-based technology that uses the LPWA standard, just like LTE does. Battery life is significantly improved using NB-IoT technology thanks to its efficient use of the spectrum. Like LTE, NB-IoT offers the possibility to extend battery life to more than ten years for several use cases.
Benefits of a Mobile Licensed Spectrum
A licensed spectrum that uses an LTE-M or NB-IoT network can support devices that require specific technical requirements, enabling many different types of projects.
These are some of the benefits of using a licensed spectrum solution:
- Low power consumption, helping extend battery life
- Cost-effective project implementation and operation
- Secure licensed network granted by mobile operators
- Good coverage throughout different environments
- Support and authentication for IoT applications
- Scalability compatible with long battery life
The Right IoT Applications
Make sure to keep in mind at all times that the right IoT applications can make or break your mobile network. You want your software to be able to optimally handle LTE-M and NB-IoT networks in order to guarantee long battery life and a high level of security.
If you have specific requirements for your project, contact a qualified app development company. By doing so, you will be able to fully understand what your mobile IoT system needs.
