u-blox Launches Dual-Mode IoT Module With Terrestrial and Satellite Connectivity

September 18, 2024
u-blox Launches Dual-Mode IoT Module With Terrestrial and Satellite Connectivity

U-blox has made a significant stride in the IoT space with its groundbreaking SARA-S528NM10 module. This newly launched module brings forth an integrated solution combining terrestrial and satellite connectivity, setting a new benchmark for IoT modules. By leveraging both LTE-M and NB-IoT networks alongside geostationary and low-Earth orbit satellites, U-blox is addressing a critical gap in the market for robust and reliable global IoT connectivity.

Dual-Mode Connectivity: A Technological Breakthrough

UBX-S52 Dual-Mode Chipset

At the heart of the SARA-S528NM10 module is the UBX-S52 dual-mode chipset. This advanced chipset enables connectivity through LTE-M and NB-IoT for terrestrial communications and extends this capability to NB-IoT over geostationary satellites according to 3GPP’s Release 17. Additionally, it is compatible with low-Earth orbit satellites, thereby providing a comprehensive communication solution for IoT devices.

The UBX-S52 chipset is currently undergoing certification with Skylo, a leading satellite IoT connectivity provider. Skylo’s infrastructure will enable the module to offer NTN-NB-IoT services on existing geostationary satellites, expanding its practical applications and potentially reducing deployment costs for IoT solutions. This certification process signifies an essential step for U-blox in establishing the SARA-S528NM10 as a versatile and dependable module in the market, ready to support a wide range of IoT applications requiring reliable and continuous connectivity.

Compatibility and Versatility

The SARA-S528NM10 module supports multiple new NTN bands: n23 for the US, the globally applicable n255 ‘L-band,’ and n256 ‘S-band’ in Europe. This broad band compatibility ensures its utility across various regions and use cases. Furthermore, one of its most user-friendly features is its pin compatibility with other U-blox cellular-only modules in the SARA form factor, simplifying upgrades for existing IoT products without the need for extensive redesigns. This ease of upgrade is a significant advantage for developers who can now seamlessly transition to new technology without incurring additional costs or disrupting their established systems.

U-blox’s approach to versatility does not end at hardware ease; the module’s ability to support multiple satellite constellations further enhances its flexibility. This compatibility ensures that IoT devices equipped with the SARA-S528NM10 can maintain connectivity across different satellite networks, providing an uninterrupted flow of data regardless of the device’s location. Such an all-encompassing solution is essential for applications in industries where constant monitoring and tracking are crucial.

Applications and Market Potential

Target Markets and Use Cases

U-blox targets multiple IoT applications with the SARA-S528NM10 module. Key markets include global asset tracking, aftermarket telematics, industrial monitoring and control, smart metering and utilities, and fleet management. The module is designed for scenarios requiring continuous or cyclical tracking and monitoring, making it ideal for use in remote environments where traditional cellular coverage is inadequate. From tracking shipments across oceans to monitoring infrastructure in isolated areas, the versatility and reliability of the SARA-S528NM10 offer critical advantages.

The robust demand for assured global reach underscores the importance of such versatile modules. With terrestrial cellular networks covering only 10 percent of the planet, the need for reliable satellite connectivity in IoT solutions is more critical than ever. Whether it is agriculture, maritime logistics, or remote defense operations, the assured global connectivity ensures that essential data is always within reach, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making processes. This promise of continuous connectivity can revolutionize industries by enabling real-time data access on a global scale.

Overcoming Traditional Barriers

Historically, the widespread adoption of satellite IoT has been stifled by high costs, including expensive terminals, satellite airtime, and power consumption. Traditional satellite solutions also tend to be proprietary, locking users into specific satellite operators and limiting flexibility. The U-blox SARA-S528NM10 module circumvents these barriers by being interoperable with multiple satellite providers, offering users greater choice and future-proofing their investments in IoT infrastructure. This shift towards a more open ecosystem enables businesses to choose the best satellite networks for their needs, avoiding the pitfalls of vendor lock-in and ensuring long-term flexibility and cost-efficiency.

The move towards interoperability also means that IoT developers can adapt faster to technological changes and evolving market needs. As new satellite constellations are launched and existing ones are upgraded, the SARA-S528NM10’s ability to seamlessly integrate ensures that IoT solutions remain relevant and effective. This focus on overcoming conventional barriers is a critical aspect of U-blox’s strategy, positioning them as a leader in offering practical, future-ready IoT solutions.

Cutting-Edge Features

Low Power Consumption and High RF Sensitivity

A standout feature of the SARA-S528NM10 module is its energy efficiency, achieved through the integration of U-blox’s M10 GNSS platform. This technology ensures low-power operation, using less than 15mW in continuous tracking mode, and offers high RF sensitivity. These features are crucial for minimizing the device’s active time, thereby conserving battery life—a vital aspect for IoT applications operating in remote or challenging environments. The low power requirement makes it feasible to deploy sensors in remote sites where changing batteries frequently is impractical, enhancing operational sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

The module’s capability to establish quick position fixes thanks to its high RF sensitivity further elevates its performance, making it a reliable choice for applications demanding precise and continuous tracking and monitoring. Rapid and accurate positioning is essential for use cases such as navigation aids, wildlife monitoring, and disaster response, where real-time data can be life-saving. The SARA-S528NM10’s efficiency in these critical areas brings a new level of reliability and performance to satellite IoT applications, addressing both current and future needs.

Standardization and Interoperability

The U-blox SARA-S528NM10 module embodies the industry’s move towards standardization and interoperability in IoT technologies. Designed to work seamlessly with multiple satellite providers, the module does away with the need for proprietary hardware, which has historically hindered widespread adoption. This facilitates easier adoption and scalability, broadening the horizons for IoT developers and significantly reducing costs. The commitment to open standards supports the broader industry trend towards democratized access to advanced technologies, enabling a wider range of businesses, including smaller enterprises, to leverage sophisticated IoT solutions.

Standardization also ensures enhanced compatibility with a wide array of existing and future technologies, making integration smoother and more straightforward. The SARA-S528NM10’s compatibility with diverse satellite networks and its adherence to 3GPP Release 17 guidelines highlight its forward-thinking design. Such a focus on standardization and interoperability not only future-proofs IoT investments but also accelerates innovation by providing a stable and flexible foundation upon which new solutions can be built and scaled efficiently.

Market Outlook and Future Prospects

Industry Growth Projections

According to ABI Research, the satellite IoT market is set to exceed $4 billion by 2030. This growth is fueled by increasing demand for versatile and reliable IoT solutions capable of operating beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. U-blox is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend with the SARA-S528NM10 module, potentially setting the stage for future innovations and expansion in the satellite IoT space. The projected growth reflects the expanding opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, logistics, environmental monitoring, and public safety, where satellite IoT offers unmatched advantages.

The strong market outlook is supported by the growing recognition of IoT’s role in transforming traditional industries and creating new business models. As more organizations adopt IoT solutions, the need for reliable, scalable, and cost-effective modules like the SARA-S528NM10 will only increase. U-blox’s early entry into this evolving market with a product that addresses critical pain points positions them not just as a vendor, but as a critical enabler in the ongoing digital transformation across multiple sectors globally.

Strategic Implications for IoT Development

U-blox has made a remarkable advancement in the IoT sector with the release of its cutting-edge SARA-S528NM10 module. This innovative module introduces an integrated solution that combines both terrestrial and satellite connectivity, setting a new industry standard for IoT modules. By harnessing the power of LTE-M and NB-IoT networks, along with geostationary and low-Earth orbit satellites, U-blox is filling a significant market gap by providing robust and reliable global IoT connectivity.

The SARA-S528NM10 offers unparalleled versatility and coverage, catering to diverse applications ranging from asset tracking and remote monitoring to smart agriculture and environmental sensing. Its hybrid connectivity ensures that devices can maintain communication even in remote or underserved areas, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of IoT deployments. The module’s compatibility with multiple network standards further simplifies deployment across various regions and use cases.

U-blox’s innovation underscores its commitment to driving the IoT industry forward, delivering solutions that empower businesses to achieve seamless, worldwide connectivity.

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