NB-IoT vs LTE-M Which is the best technology for your IoT project?


Differences between NB-IoT and LTE-M: Which is the best technology for your IoT project?

NB-IOT and LTE-M are two Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technologies developed for IoT applications. Both are low-bandwidth cellular communications protocols that connect devices that need to transmit data to the internet, at low cost and with high battery life.

In the world of the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors play an essential role in collecting and transmitting valuable data. To connect these sensors to cellular networks, two emerging technologies stand out: NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) and LTE-M1 or LTE Cat-M1 (Long Term Evolution for Machines).

We show you the differences between these two technologies to help you choose the one that best suits your IoT sensor applications.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT)

NB-IoT is a wide-range network technology specifically designed for IoT applications that require low power consumption and low-speed connectivity. It uses a narrow bandwidth, allowing it to provide excellent signal penetration through obstacles such as buildings and underground areas. NB-IoT is ideal for IoT sensor applications that require long battery life and reliable connectivity over long distances.

LTE-M1 (Long Term Evolution for Machines)

LTE-M1 , also known as LTE-Cat-M1 , is also a cellular network technology suitable for IoT applications. It offers higher data rates than NB-IoT while maintaining low power consumption. LTE-M1 supports applications that require two-way communication and higher data transfers, such as security systems and vehicle tracking. In addition, LTE-M1 offers better latency than NB-IoT, which is essential for IoT applications that require real-time responses.

Key elements to compare

When choosing between NB-IoT and LTE-M1 for IoT applications, it is critical to consider the specific requirements of each project. Here are some key points to consider for a more detailed comparison:

Coverage map


Source: https://www.gsma.com/iot/deployment-map/

Power consumption

Battery life is a crucial factor for IoT sensors, as they typically run on limited power sources, such as batteries or rechargeable batteries. NB-IoT features low power consumption, enabling longer battery life for IoT sensors. This makes it an ideal solution for applications where sensors are deployed in hard-to-reach or low-maintenance locations. Although LTE-M1 consumes slightly more power than NB-IoT, it is still more economical than traditional cellular technologies and offers sufficient battery life for many IoT applications..

Latency and bidirectional connectivity

Latency, the delay between sending a request and receiving a response, is an important issue in IoT applications. LTE-M1 offers better latency than NB-IoT, which means IoT devices can communicate faster and get real-time responses. This can be essential for applications such as security systems or connected medical devices, where fast responsiveness is crucial. In addition, LTE-M1 supports two-way communication, allowing IoT sensors to send real-time information and updates, as well as receive commands. NB-IoT, on the other hand, is optimised for one-way communication, which may be sufficient for certain IoT applications that do not require real-time feedback.

Data rate

Data throughput is an essential factor to consider, depending on the needs of the IoT application. If the application requires sporadic, low-speed data transmission, NB-IoT is a suitable solution. For example, sensors used in environmental monitoring or meter reading applications can operate with low data rates. On the other hand, if the application involves higher data transfers and more information-rich communications, LTE-M1 offers higher data rates, suitable for applications such as vehicle tracking or video surveillance systems.

The cost

LTE-M offers higher throughput and lower latency than NB-IoT, which makes this technology generally more expensive. It is therefore essential to carefully assess the specific needs in order to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution.

In conclusion, the decision between NB-IoT and LTE-M1 depends on the specific requirements of the IoT application.

NB-IoT is ideal for applications requiring low power consumption, long-range connectivity and low data rates.

LTE-M1 is better suited to applications requiring higher data rates, reduced latency and bi-directional communication.

Careful evaluation of these key factors will help in choosing the right technology.

 

 

Season´s greetings and a successful year 2024!

Matrix Electrónica team wishes you Season´s greetings and a Happy New Year.

This year has been a year of many challenges, but also of great achievements. Thanks to your trust and support, we have been able to continue growing and consolidating our position as a leading company in our sector.

We would like to thank you for your collaboration and commitment throughout this year.

🎄 Season´s Greetings and a Happy New Year 🎄

The Matrix Electrónica team.

Antennas Catalog Matrix 2023 -2024

New Antenna Catalogue 2023/2024

Antennas Catalogue

 

New antenna catalogue 2023/2024. We have a wide variety of models, Simple, Combi and  MIMO Antennas, 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, 5G, GNSS, Wifi, ISM 169, ISM 433, ISM 868, ISM 915, RFID, TETRA, UHF, VHF. Connectors.

Need help choosing the right antenna? We will be happy to help you find the antenna that best suits your needs. Contact with us

 

Download the latest catalogue of Matrix Electronics Antennas

LEZ – Low Emission Zones for smart cities and urban areas

Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE) para ciudades inteligentes y áreas urbanas

 

A low emissions zone (LEZ) is an urban area in which vehicle access, circulation and parking restrictions are applied to improve air quality and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions , in accordance with the classification of vehicles by its emissions level in accordance with the provisions of the current General Vehicle Regulations.

Law 7/2021, of May 20, on climate change and energy transition establishes that municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, municipalities with more than 20,000 inhabitants when the limit values ​​of the pollutants regulated in Royal Decree 102/2011 are exceeded. , of January 28 and the island territories will adopt sustainable urban mobility plans before 2023.

These zones are delimited by specific signs and apply access, circulation and parking restrictions to vehicles according to their environmental label.

Matrix Electrónica in collaboration with our partners offers a range of products to efficiently manage EPZs, improving their effectiveness and efficiency.

Our products include:

  • Access control: Switches and sensors identify vehicles that comply with restrictions and allow them access to the EPZ.
  • Mobility management: Sensors and industrial computers collect traffic data in EPZs and optimise vehicle circulation.
  • Air quality: Sensors collect data on air quality in the EPZ and assess the impact of restrictions..

If you are interested in finding out more about our ZBE products, please visit the web section or contact us.

 

ASUS continues Intel’s NUC Mini-PC line

ASUS continues Intel’s NUC Mini-PC line

 

Intel has announced that it has granted a non-exclusive licence to ASUS to develop and sell 10th to 13th generation NUC Mini PCs. This means that ASUS will be able to manufacture and sell new models of NUC Mini-PCs, as well as support current models.

«Our NUC systems product team delivered unique products that spurred innovation in the ultra-small form factor market. As we pivot our strategy to enable ecosystem partners to continue NUC systems product innovation and growth, our priority is to ensure a smooth transition for our customers and partners. I am looking forward to ASUS continuing to deliver exceptional products and supporting our NUC systems customers.»,Sam Gao, Intel vice president and general manager of Intel Client Platform Solutions

NUC mini PCs are compact and powerful devices that are ideal for a variety of uses, including work, entertainment and gaming. They are popular with users looking for a small, lightweight computer that they can easily carry with them.

Intel’s decision to license its NUC line of business to ASUS is good news for NUC mini PC users. ASUS is a trusted manufacturer with a long history of developing and selling mini PCs. ASUS is expected to continue to innovate in design and development and deliver products that are even better than current models.

In addition to the licence to develop and sell NUC mini PCs, ASUS has also announced the creation of a new business unit called ASUS NUC BU. This business unit will focus on the development and sale of NUC mini PCs, and will be headed by Joe Hsieh, chief operating officer of ASUS.

«Thank you, Intel, for your confidence in us to take the NUC systems product line forward. I am confident that this collaboration will enhance and accelerate our vision for the mini PC – greatly expanding our footprint in areas such as AI and AIoT, we are committed to ensuring the excellent support and service that NUC systems customers expect.». Joe Hsieh, ASUS chief operating officer

ASUS’ decision to create a new business unit for NUC Mini PCs is a sign of its commitment to this market. ASUS is determined to offer users the best NUC Mini PCs on the market, and is working to develop new models that are even more powerful and versatile than the current ones.

If you need more information about the new ASUS NUC BU or the Intel® NUC line-up

Source: ASUS

Layer 2 Switch and Layer 3 Switch Which Switch to choose?

What is a Switch?

A switch is a device used to connect several devices in a local network. The switch allows communication between them and the exchange of information and resources.

There are different types of switches, two of the most common are Layer 2 switches and Layer 3 switches. These designations refer to the operating levels and processing capacity of the switches in relation to the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) reference model.

The choice between a Layer 2 and a Layer 3 switch will depend on the specific needs of the network and the functions required for its proper operation. A Layer 2 switch focuses on communication within a local network using MAC addresses, while a Layer 3 switch goes further and can perform routing between networks using IP addresses.

Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Switch: Features and Differences

– Layer 2 Switch

A Layer 2 switch (also known as a data link level switch) is used to connect network devices in a LAN (local area network). Its primary function is to send and receive data frames between devices on the same local network. Layer 2 switches use the MAC address of a device to determine which port to send a data frame to.

– Layer 3 Switch

A Layer 3 switch (also known as a network level switch) is used to route data packets between different networks. Layer 3 switches are able to analyse data packets to determine the best network path to send them to their final destination. These switches use IP addresses to make routing decisions.

The main difference between a layer 2 switch and a layer 3 switch is their ability to operate at different layers of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. While a layer 2 switch focuses on the data link level, a layer 3 switch operates at the network level.

When to choose a Layer 2 switch and a Layer 3 switch?

 

Characteristics Layer 2 switch Layer 3 switch
Principal function Connect devices on a LAN Route data packets between different networks
OSI model layer Layer 2 (data link layer) Layer 3 (network layer)
Addresses used MAC addresses IP addresses
Make decisions of Destination port based on MAC address Network route based on IP address
Traffic management Congestion control and loop prevention Congestion control, loop prevention and QoS (quality of service)
Scalability Limited due to the size of the LAN Higher, due to the ability to route between networks
Security Limited as all devices can be accessed on the same LAN Increased, due to the ability to filter and control traffic between networks
Cost Minor, due to its simplicity and limited functionality Higher, due to its routing capability and advanced functionality

Network Switch Applications for IoT

  • Connect IoT devices: Switches can be used to connect and manage IoT devices on a network. With the number of devices expected to be connected, switches must be able to handle large amounts of traffic and provide high availability.
  • Real-time data processing : To process large amounts of data in real time, which is essential in IoT applications such as temperature control, lighting, etc.
  • Improved energy efficiency : To optimize the energy consumption of IoT devices. This can be accomplished by turning devices on or off as needed, and by allocating resources based on power consumption.

Network switch applications in different verticals.

La elección entre un switch de capa 2 o uno de capa 3 dependerá de los requisitos específicos de la red y las necesidades de cada industria.

The choice between a Layer 2 or a Layer 3 switch will depend on the specific requirements of the network and the needs of each industry.

– Data Center

Layer 2 switch:

  • Connection of servers and network storage devices.
  •  Segmentation of virtual networks (VLAN) for greater security and efficiency.

Layer 3 switch:

  • Implementation of virtualization and cloud technologies.
  • Traffic control and packet prioritization to ensure optimal network performance.

– Industry 4.0

Layer 2 switch:

  • Connection of IoT devices, sensors and actuators in industrial environments.
  • Communication and control of machines and automated systems.

Layer 3 switch:

  • Remote supervision and management of processes and production lines.
  • Implementation of industrial Ethernet networks to improve efficiency and monitoring.

– Transport

Layer 2 switch:

  • Communication systems in public and private transport.
  • Connection of security cameras and video surveillance systems.

Layer 3 switch:

  • Traffic control and intelligent signage.
  • Network management for vehicle fleets and logistics.

– Energy

Layer 2 switch:

  • Monitoring and control of energy distribution networks.
  • Integration of smart meters and energy management systems.

Layer 3 switch:

  • Communication between power generation and distribution devices.
  • Implementation of smart grids for efficient energy management.

Which switch to choose? 

The choice between a Layer 2 or a Layer 3 switch will depend on the specific requirements of the network and the needs of each industry.

At Matrix Electrónica we are specialists and we can help you choose the type of switch you need. Contact us and we will find the best switch option on the market for your specific needs

It may interest you:

Managed Switch vs Unmanageable Switch Which Switch to choose?

With Matrix Electrónica SECO increases its presence in the Iberian market

 

Arezzo, April 18, 2023 – SECO and Matrix Electrónica proudly announce their partnership agreement for the distribution of SECO product portfolio in the Iberian region. This strategic cooperation will facilitate customers’ access to SECO technology while receiving highly targeted support in the selection of the most suitable solution for their project.

With more than 30 years of experience in the distribution of high-tech products for the industrial market, Matrix Electrónica is a leader in providing electronic equipment, modules and components to developers, system integrators and manufacturers in Spain and Portugal. Its team of specialized R&D engineers can also provide customers with qualified technical support in the implementation of their design.

Through this partnership agreement, SECO now provides Matrix Electrónica access to a comprehensive portfolio of leading edge devices, from standard form factor Computer on Modules and Single Board Computers to ready-to-use HMI and fanless embedded computers. Matrix Electrónica’s know-how and proven expertise will bring added value to this cooperation, not only facilitating access to SECO technology but also delivering the most effective support. With a highly skilled R&D department and specialized vertical competencies, the company can provide customers in many industries with tailored solutions both in terms of hardware and accompanying operating system and BIOS.

Matrix Electrónica has proven to believe in SECO’s business proposition by establishing a strong, positive relationship since the beginning. Through common technical expertise and knowledge of vertical market needs, I truly believe we will achieve excellent results in a short time.” says Rocco GagliardiSales Manager Southern Europe of SECO, who adds “We are proud to work side by side with this team to improve the presence in the Iberian region, one of the main focuses of both SECO and Matrix.

The partnership of Matrix Electrónica and SECO to promote embedded processors in the Iberian market is a natural process, as Matrix has long been the leader in this sector in the market it covers and SECO is already the European leader in this product line. Now Iberian region users will enjoy the best service and the most advanced technology available today, with the guarantee of the top companies in this industry.” says José María Vilallonga Presas, chairman of Matrix Electrónica.

Source: seco.com

Tinker V and Tinker Board 3N

ASUS IoT announces Tinker V RISC-V SBC and Tinker Board 3N with Rockchip RK3568 SoC

ASUS IoT has added two new members to the Tinker board family with the SBC (Single Board Computer) Tinker V and Tinker Board 3N powered by the Renesas RZ/Five single-core RISC-V SoC and quad-core Arm Cortex-A55 processor. Rockchip RK3568 , respectively.

ASUS Tinker V RISC-V SBC

ASUS Tinker V is the  first SBC with a 64-bit RISC-V processor.
It has 1 Gbyte of DDR4 memory, a microSD card slot for storage, and optional support for a 16 GB eMMC module and SPI flash.

  • 2 Ethernet GbE
  • 1 micro USB
  • 1 micro USB (OTG)
  • 2 CAN Bus (6-pin terminal block)
  • 2 COM RS-232 (5-pin terminal block)
  • 20-pin GPIO header
  • JTAG debug pin header
  • DC power input connector

ASUS Tinker V is ideal for industrial IoT applications, specially designed to run Debian Linux and Yocto. With an ultra-compact size, it offers high power, full functionality and great connectivity, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of industrial IoT applications.

Tinker Board 3N

The 100 x 100mm board incorporates the Rockchip RK3568 , which integrates four ARM Cortex-A55 cores and a Mali-G52 GPU . LPDDR4X RAM memory, with 2 GB, 4 GB or 8 GB available in dual channel.

  • 32 GB and 64 GB eMMC options.
  • MicroSD card reader.
  • M.2 2032 E-Key for connecting Bluetooth/Wi-Fi modems
  • M.2 3042/3052 B-Key for 4G/5G modems.
  • SIM card slot
  • 2 HDMI USB 2.0 and USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports
  • 1 USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C connection
  • 3.5mm Audio
  • 2 RJ45 ports and a 40-pin GPIO header.
  • Compatible with Android 12 and Debian.

Do you need more info? Our team of specialists is available to help you find the best option for your project. Contact us.

 

Source: “ASUSIoT”

LoRaWAN Solutions – LoRaWAN Devices: Gateway and Sensors


Standard Wireless Technologies for Smart Buildings

SOLUTIONS BASED ON LORAWAN DEVICES

LoRa is a wireless modulation technique derived from Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS) technology. Encodes information into radio waves using “chirping” pulses

LoRa is an ideal technology for connections over long distances, where information is communicated that involves little volume of data and the sensors do not have network power.

Due to its high penetration and low cost of implementation, this technology is increasingly used to transmit information inside buildings.

LoRaWAN is a Medium Access Control (MAC) layer protocol built on top of LoRa Modulation. It is a software layer that defines how devices use LoRa hardware.

A typical LoRaWAN network architecture is made up of nodes and gateways .

Characteristics

  • Ultra low power  – LoRaWAN end devices are optimized to operate in low power mode and can last up to 10 years on a single coin cell battery
  • Long range  – LoRaWAN Gateways can transmit and receive signals at a distance of 10 kilometers in rural areas and up to 3 kilometers in dense urban areas.
  • Deep indoor penetration  – LoRaWAN networks can provide deep indoor coverage and easily cover multi-story buildings.
  • License free spectrum  – We do not need to pay a license for the use of the frequency spectrum to implement a LoRaWAN network.
  • High capacity  – LoRaWAN Network Servers can handle millions of messages from thousands of Gateways
  • End-to-end security – LoRaWAN ensures secure communication between the end device and the Network Server using AES-128 encryption.
  • Firmware updates over the air  – Firmware can be updated remotely for a single end device or group of end devices.
  • Low cost  – Minimal infrastructure, low cost end nodes and open source software.
  • Certification program – The “LoRa Alliance certification program” certifies end devices and gives end users the confidence that the devices are reliable and compliant with the LoRaWAN specification.

» LoRaWAN device solutions. Check out our LoRaWAN Gateways and Sensors.

Need more information? Our team of experts is available to help you find the best option for your project. Contact us if you have any questions.

Trends in IoT for Smart Photovoltaic Plants

Smart Photovoltaic Plants

The smart PV industry has been experiencing steady growth in recent years and is expected to continue in the near future. With the increase in demand for renewable energy and the need to reduce environmental impact, IoT solutions are becoming an essential part of the monitoring and control of these plants.

In 2023, IoT trends for Smart Photovoltaic Plants are expected to include the use of gateways and sensors to improve the efficiency and profitability of these installations. IoT gateways act as a bridge between the sensors and the plant monitoring and control system, allowing two-way communication and real-time data analysis. Sensors , meanwhile, collect information about solar panel performance and environmental conditions, allowing plant operators to make informed decisions to improve performance.

IoT sensors and smart gateways, such as WebdynSunPM , allow constant monitoring of energy production, panel performance and early detection of failures.

IoT solution developers and integrators have great potential in this ever-growing industry and need to be aware of these trends in order to take full advantage of them.

Do you have a photovoltaic solution project? Our team of experts is available to help you find the best option for your project. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need help. Make the most of the advantages of solar energy!
Contact us

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Let’s get into the history of innovation.

Development of IoT solutions. Manufacture and distribution of modules and electronic equipment.

IoT Routers | IoT Modems | Industrial Networking | Embedded Computing | Wireless IoT | Sensors | LED Lighting

RECEIVE OUR NEWSLETTER

This contact form is deactivated because you refused to accept Google reCaptcha service which is necessary to validate any messages sent by the form.