This new module allows users to maintain connectivity in areas without cellular coverage
Swiss technological developer u-blox has unveiled its first combined 3GPP-compliant terrestrial network (TN) and non-terrestrial network (NTN) IoT module, the SARA-S528NM10, for use in satellites.
Currently, cellular networks reach only 10% of the world, despite increasing demand for maximum connectivity. Satellite IoT can support areas without cellular networks.
The network supports global coverage with accurate, low-power and simultaneous positioning, these are useful as the demand for guaranteed global coverage is surging. It is especially necessary for telematics, fleet management, smart metering and utilities, and industrial monitoring and control. Overall, those involved in asset tracking in remote or maritime environments require cellular networks with maximum global connectivity such as that provided by satellite IoT.
“The new u-blox satellite IoT-NTN cellular module is designed to maintain connectivity in areas without cellular coverage,” said Stephan Zizala, the u-blox CEO. “The integrated u-blox GNSS solution consumes less than 15mW of power in continuous tracking mode and has high RF sensitivity that reduces the time required to establish a position fix. It provides concurrent location data without interrupting the cellular or satellite connection, which further helps to minimise power consumption owing to the shortened active time of the device.”
The current satellite connectivity solutions require proprietary hardware and software that lock the terminal to a specific satellite operator. This leads to geographic gaps in connectivity, as the user would need to replace their satellite terminals to move to a different satellite operator.
The u-blox solution, based on global 3GPP standards, challenges this current system and can jump around multiple satellite providers, providing users with more flexibility. The module is powered by u-blox UBX-S52 cellular and satellite chipset and GNSS M10 platform and complies with the 3GPP Rel-17 standards, including a readiness for low-Earth orbit satellites. The UBX-S52 is currently undergoing certification with global NTN service provider Skylo, which will help support cellular and Skylo satellite connectivity.
u-blox’s SARA-S528NM10 module supports all three new NTN bands, the n23 (United States), n255 (L-band global) and n256 (S-band Europe). It is pin-compatible with other u-blox cellular-only modules in the SARA form factor. This allows engineers to easily advance their IoT products using legacy technology without expensive redesigns.
Since satellite terminals, high-power consumption and satellite airtime are expensive, the adoption of the u-blox solution has been slow. However, technology intelligence firm ABI Research predicts that the satellite IoT market will exceed over three billion pounds by 2030.
