Smart cities are no longer just a lofty dream. With the rapid growth of connected devices, these technologically advanced urban centers are becoming a reality. From smart lighting to electric vehicle chargers, these devices have the potential to revolutionize urban living and enhance the well-being of residents.

Connected devices offer many benefits for cities

Connected devices offer numerous advantages for city administrators. They allow for better resource allocation, save power, enable efficient maintenance scheduling, and provide valuable insights on usage patterns. For instance, the implementation of smart parking spaces not only helps drivers find available spots but also reduces fuel consumption, noise pollution, and the risk of accidents.

The adoption of connectivity tech is fragmented

The adoption of connectivity technology in smart cities remains fragmented. There is a growing trend towards cellular LPWA connectivity, along with various sub-GHz standard technologies like Wi-SUN, Wm-BUS, LoRa, or any proprietary solutions developed by specific companies. 

However, these technologies, as all technologies, might face challenges such as interference, distance limitations, obstructions, and network congestion. To overcome the risk, even when it low, and establish a reliable and scalable network, cities should consider implementing devices that support multi-protocols for connectivity.

A hybrid approach to connectivity is needed

To achieve the highest level of reliability and scalability, cities need to deploy devices that support both cellular LPWA and additional connectivity protocol (usually Sub-GHz), allowing for seamless switching between networks. This hybrid approach streamlines smart city development, extends coverage, and reduces connectivity costs. For example, if certain smart meters in an area are unable to communicate using the Sub-GHz protocol, a device having multi-protocol connectivity will automatically switch to cellular to ensure uninterrupted functionality. Multi-protocol connectivity is the right choice for high-scale, critical, and interoperable devices.

AI integration is crucial

AI-driven data standardization and interpretation enable efficient data exchange and provide valuable insights for optimized operations. Predictive maintenance, traffic management, energy distribution, and citizen engagement can all be improved through AI integration.

The fusion of AI with existing IoT infrastructure paves the way for efficient, sustainable, and innovative smart cities, benefiting residents and urban landscapes.

Now is the time to unlock the potential of smart cities

As smart cities continue to evolve, embracing mesh networks will be pivotal to unlocking the true potential of connected devices. By creating a harmonious ecosystem where devices can communicate seamlessly, city administrators can optimize infrastructure, improve resource management, and create smarter, more sustainable cities for the benefit of all residents. 

Today, we look into an exciting innovation shaping the future of wireless communication: the integration of LTE-M/NB-IOT and subGHz technologies in Sony’s advanced ALT1350 chipset. This breakthrough is not merely an incremental update; it represents a fundamental shift in enhancing device connectivity and reliability. 

The World of Dual Connectivity 

Robust Fallback Connectivity: Envision a scenario where devices maintain connectivity, seamlessly switching between networks. This capability is vital in critical infrastructure applications such as smart metering systems, where continuous connectivity is non-negotiable. Many devices already shipped today with dual connectivity to support backup network connectivity. In this type of integration of the solution we reduce the overall cost and improve the robustness of the application. 

Intelligent Network Selection: These chipsets are engineered to intelligently select between LTE-M/NB-IOT and subGHz based on the prevailing environmental conditions and usage requirements, ensuring optimal connectivity and resource utilization. 

OneSKU, One Platfofom, Multiple Advantages: The convergence of these networks within a single chipset SKU not only provides technical superiority but also operational agility. Companies can now manage a universal inventory, easing distribution and deployment complexities and further substantially reducing engineering expenses by using a single platform for different connectivity options, simplifying design and integration efforts. 

The synergy of LTE-M/NB-IOT and subGHz opens many new innovative use cases. From agriculture technology that leverages deep penetration capabilities for soil analysis to urban infrastructure management using real-time data, these chipsets are at the forefront of technological evolution. 

The ALT1350 chipset can already demonstrate seamless integration of WiSUN FAN Border Router function. This means that the ALT1350 chipset can setup and continuously maintain WiSUN FAN network, connecting other WiSUN leaf nodes (implemented by other ALT1350 devices), while at the same time maintaining seamless connectivity to the cloud using LTE-M/NB-IOT.  

We’ve selected WiSUN FAN first, as it is one of the more advanced mesh technologies with open specifications, and this capability proves that the ALT1350 can support practically any subGHz standard in conjunction with LTE-M/NB-IOT connectivity, such as JUTA, wMBUS, Mioty or any other proprietary subGHz mesh technology.

The Technical Mastery of ALT1350 Shared RF 

Innovations in RF Technology: At the core of Sony’s ALT1350 chipset lies the shared RF component, a testament to our commitment to technical excellence. It orchestrates the coexistence of LTE-M/NB-IOT and subGHz networks, ensuring seamless and efficient operation. 

Independent, Yet Cohesive Network Operations: Each network operates independently within the ALT1350 chipset, ensuring that the performance of one does not impede the other. This results in a consistently stable and efficient connection, underpinning the reliability of the device. 

Putting it to Practice – Smart Meters and Smart Lighting Use Cases 

Large deployments of smart metering and smart lighting today, already use multiple types of connectivity. Connectivity protocol selection varies by cost, data throughput, latency, and other considerations.  The chipset flexibility in network protocol selection enables maximal optimization, selecting the right protocol for each node in the network. 

For instance, several dual connectivity chipsets can establish a network comprised of one device acting as WiSUN FAN border router and others as WiSUN local router (or leaf nodes). In this setup, a chosen node with LTE-M/NB-IOT connectivity acts as the Border Router, forming smaller, more resilient WiSUN mesh networks. This approach ensures a perfect mix of data communication needs, latency, and cost-efficiency, by gaining the most out of each node. It enables optimal balance between data load that needs to be sent to the network, with the latency (a big WiSUN network can accumulate significant delays in data transmission) and cost requirements. 

Benefits of using Cellular IoT Based Dual connectivity solution.  

Ease of deployment: Customers now can start off by implementing cellular IoT connectivity for their application using the ALT1350, and at later stages add mesh connectivity as solution matures. This flexibility enables a future proof deployment, to optimize costs based on the best protocol selection for each node. 

Engineering Efficiency: Utilizing the ALT1350 for different connectivity options simplifies supply chain management, reduces inventory needs, achieves better economies of scale, through simplified supply chain of the product. Additionally, it lowers research and development costs as engineers develop and integrate on a single, familiar platform. 

Robust Network Design: Dual connectivity solutions ensure the device is connected to the cloud even in challenging RF environments. Not only does it enable network selection for optimal cost/power, but also overcomes the disadvantages of each network connectivity protocol by providing the means to select a better suited protocol for the environment.  

Furthermore, the LTE-M/NB-IoT can always be connected even while other network protocols are active, which unlocks new use cases for applications. 

Real life example:  “Drive By” use case 

One of common use cases in the smart metering space, especially in Europe, is equipping smart meters with (subGHZ) wMBUS connectivity. As wMBUS does not have direct cloud connectivity (and it is non-IP based protocol), there is a need to use a separate gateway device, with cellular or other direct cloud connectivity, to collect the data from wMBUS enabled meters and send it to the cloud for further processing.  To do this, Vendors need to drive by in the proximity of the meter carrying such gateway device, to extract the data and send it to the cloud.  

The ALT1350 with it’s dual connectivity feature, is a perfect fit for such scenario, as ALT1350 based nodes in the network can accumulate the data over wMBUS from the meters in close proximity and send it directly to the cloud for processing. This approach not only enables seamless and continuous data transmission to the cloud, but also eliminates the necessity to manage manual data collection, including costly personnel and equipment which dramatically increases the total cost of ownership. 

Cost Efficiency: Dual connectivity has long been desired, but practically has been hindered by the cost associated with mounting multiple radio chipsets onto the design. When examining different radio solution we realize substantial overlap between different radio technology, all use similar RF transceivers, power management, application processors. Integration into a single chip makes the entire solution substantially more affordable.  

The ALT1350 leverages the strong cellular offering of Sony’s Altair chipsets, which have been successfully deployed in tens of millions of critical infrastructure devices worldwide and adds the same capabilities of a dedicated additional radio to support the subGHz network protocols.  

This type of integration results in cost savings for the end device design, by utilizing the solid cellular framework and ecosystem to add additional network protocols support, without the need to mount an additional radio to the design, and building on the same platform SDK 

Future Outlook: The Impact on Industry and Technology 

Beyond Connectivity: A Paradigm Shift: The innovation of Sony’s ALT1350 chipset with integration of these technologies transcends conventional connectivity, catalyzing a new era in IoT applications and efficiency. It signals a shift towards a more interconnected and intelligent technological landscape. 

Economic and Environmental Significance: This advancement is poised to drive significant cost efficiencies and environmental benefits across industries, underscoring the importance of sustainable and smart technology solutions. 

Conclusion: Embracing a New Connectivity Era 

In conclusion, the first ever fusion of LTE-M/NB-IOT and subGHz within Sony’s ALT1350 chipset is a pivotal moment in wireless technology. It shapes a future where devices are not only more connected but also smarter and more responsive to our needs. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible, the potential for these technologies to reshape industries, optimize performance and unlock new use cases to improve lives is limitless. 

Cellular IoT networks are experiencing a tremendous surge in growth as global operators recognize their potential for diverse applications. Notably, LTE-M coverage deployments have seen remarkable expansion worldwide, with 115 LTE-M (also known as CAT-M1 and eMTC) networks deployed and astounding growth of almost 100% growth in the last year alone (source: GSMA).

LTE-M Leads the Way

Leading the growth of cellular IoT, LTE-M networks have been deployed in a number of European countries, including Portugal, Italy, Ireland, and Greece, as well as gaining significant coverage in Central America.

Numerous new countrywide deployments have taken place in Asia, Europe, and LATAM regions, establishing LTE-M as the dominant cellular IoT protocol in the western world and key markets like Japan, Australia, and Korea.

The overall trend of growing momentum is driving rapid expansion and maturation of LTE-M connected IoT devices across the globe.

Unleashing the Power of Cellular IoT

The proliferation of cellular IoT networks in general, and particularly LTE-M, reflects a growing recognition of their immense potential and transformative impact on the world of IoT. These networks provide robust, low-power, and cost-effective connectivity solutions, making them ideal for a wide range of IoT applications. From smart cities to agriculture, healthcare to logistics, LTE-M and NB-IoT enable seamless communication, monitoring, and control of devices and assets as never before, bridging the urban-rural divide and leveraging a reliable cellular infrastructure worldwide.

Driving Digital Transformation with Cellular IoT

The accelerating growth of LTE-M networks highlights the technology’s increasing maturity. As more networks support these standards, we’re witnessing enhanced interoperability and seamless global roaming capabilities for IoT devices. This expansion fosters standardization, collaboration, and economies of scale, which in turn drive innovation and fuel the rapid evolution of IoT solutions.

Businesses and industries across various sectors can unlock new opportunities by harnessing the power of IoT to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and gain valuable insights into their operations. From remote asset management and predictive maintenance to real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making, cellular IoT networks enable organizations to reimagine possibilities and drive digital transformation to reshape our way of life. 

The Promise of the Future

Looking ahead, the future of IoT appears even more promising, with LTE-M and cellular IoT set to become even more widespread and impactful. The continued expansion of these networks will fuel innovation, facilitate new business models, and pave the way for a truly interconnected world.

Embracing this growth and the potential of cellular IoT, we can shape a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable future, leveraging the power of optimized Cellular IoT protocols such as LTE-M for the next generation of technology.

Author: Ohad Peled, Product Marketing Manager, Sony Semiconductor Israel

It may seem that SIM cards have not evolved much since their launch in 1991. Physical SIM cards are still prevalent in phone devices. However, this is all about to change. Recently, high-end smartphones have started introducing an eSIM – a non-removable version of the good old SIM card. The latest innovation in SIM card functionality is taking the non-removable SIM to the next level, by integrating SIM card functionality directly on the chipset. This implementation is called integrated SIM (iSIM). The value of non-removable SIM cards is now getting recognition all over the industry, due to the clear benefits in security, size and cost. The application of this technology goes beyond phone devices, to smart sensors, meters, and other IoT devices. This post will walk you through everything you need to know about iSIM and its role in the evolving IoT market.  

The rise of iSIM for IoT

The use of iSIM for IoT technology is on the rise, according to an iSIM online survey conducted by GSMA Intelligence. The survey shows that 77% of device makers and 79% of businesses that have adopted IoT technology are currently using or planning to use Cellular IoT. In addition, 64% of the surveyed suppliers said they are considering adopting iSIM technology as part of their IoT offering. 

What is driving this growth? 

Experts project the number of cellular IoT connections will reach 2.5B LTE-M and NB IoT by 2026 (https://www.ericsson.com/en/reports-and-papers/mobility-report). 

The goal of iSIM is to remove the drawbacks of the traditional SIM for IoT use cases, reducing the barriers to connection, deployment and go-to-market for IoT devices. iSIM will make it easier for businesses to bring their IoT vision to life.  

Manufacturers need to produce devices that consume less power, help optimize the Bill of Materials (BOM) cost, and offer improved security and smaller size devices. iSIM helps OEMs achieve all these goals. This significantly contributes to market growth at such a rapid pace. Counterpoint Research projects that 488 million consumer electronics will support iSIM by 2025. This means that iSIM will soon replace eSIM as the dominant non-removable SIM technology. 

What’s the difference between eSIM vs iSIM anyway?

Unlike embedded SIMs (aka eSIMs), iSIMs reside inside the chip. The integrated SIM moves the SIM to a secure part next to the application processor and modem. It is built as a trusted area (Tamper Resistant Element) into a System on Chip (SoC).

One of the advantages of iSIM is a full standardized embedded solution that enables interoperability across different vendors and consistent use by IoT device makers. The GSMA has released all approved GSMA iSIM specifications, integrating eUICC security while respecting SoC specificities. Today, the majority of tier-1 connectivity providers and MVNOs have also joined these efforts and have certified iSIM-based devices. 

The interoperability simplifies integrating mobile connectivity into different types of connected devices. It enables operators to leverage existing eSIM ecosystems and can be applied to almost any IoT device. 

iSIMs offer a multitude of benefits to OEMs and mobile operators

iSIM technology benefits all stakeholders in the manufacturing chain:

• Mobile network operators benefit from the ease of integration of mobile connectivity into new devices. Due to the miniature size of iSIM, it opens the cellular IoT market to new use cases for smaller, foldable, or flat devices. 
• Module makers save operating costs because they don’t need to manage SIM cards. The flexibility of iSIM enables them to serve more markets and regions. Furthermore, using iSim reduces the module bill of material (BOM), easing supply chain constraints and increasing sustainability
• Device vendors that use iSIM benefit from less complexity and reduced cost of ownership (TCO). Additionally, iSIM enables manufacturers to deliver an environmentally friendly solution. 

iSIM applications

iSIM provides a world of applications for cellular-based IoT devices. From industrial utilities and tracking solutions to consumer-oriented wearables and connected health devices, the use cases will grow as a new wave of innovations appears. One example demonstrating the benefits of iSIM can be found in the world of asset trackers.

Keeping a step ahead of your supply chain

Enforcing traceability of consignments is a key part of the supply chain today. However, engineers face several challenges when it comes to designing an asset tracker that will be truly global. The device needs to authenticate and operate globally, regardless of the operator. 

Devices need to operate on battery power for years which means low power consumption is a key element in the product design. iSIM power savings help serve this purpose.

In order to support mass scale adoption, which entails placing asset trackers on each container, pallet, or even product case, the overall cost needs to be low enough to justify the operational efficiencies. iSIM is ideal for asset trackers, providing a highly integrated solution, reducing Bill of Material (BOM) costs.

iSIM is shaping a new IoT future 

The growth of IoT devices such as sensors, trackers, intelligent traffic systems, smart meters, and wearables has led to a rise in the demand for cellular IoT technology. With the increasing adoption of 5G technology for the new wave of devices, technologies such as the LTE-M and NB-IoT Cellular LPWA protocols, enable the low-power, wide-area advantage needed for these new devices. 

Physical SIM card slots take up precious board space, while eSIM solutions are based on an additional electrical component which not only adds to the cost, but still takes up board space, and is a much less sustainable solution. iSIM combines all these benefits to offer a comprehensive solution simplifying cellular IoT device design efforts, enabling device vendors to focus on their core skills and drive market innovation. 

As IoT adoption goes mainstream, users and manufacturers are looking for secure and seamless connectivity to be included in the device as part of the chipset. iSIM provides secure authentication and device identification at a lower cost than other methods. 

In traditional SIM technology, each SIM connects to a single network. If a user wants to change networks, they need to change the SIM card.  While this is less of an issue for mobile phones, for mass scale IoT devices deployment it becomes a practically impossible task. iSIMs provide operational flexibility, enabling out-of-the-box connectivity. 

iSIM technology is the future for IoT. It can be used on a connected device without geographical restrictions, it reduces the costs of materials for manufacturers, is more sustainable and opens a wide range of opportunities for network operators.  

The iSIM solution is perfectly suited for smart metering applications.

It ensures data integrity, for reliable measurement readings, as well as reduced power consumption and lower bill of materials (BOM) by eliminating additional hardware components as well as an external SIM card slot or eSIM chip.

Another benefit the iSIM brings is the opportunity to provision devices before being deployed, using one hardware product reference SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) to support different regions and carriers. This is particularly important for ease of installation and deployment of mass scale smart metering solutions.

Security is an ongoing issue with any IoT device, and particularly for smart metering as it is part of the critical energy infrastructure. The iSIM solution boosts the overall smart meter security grade by providing a tamper-proof solution, certified and compliant with all major Tier-1 MNOs SIM rigorous security requirements.

Sony

Simplification of cellular IoT deployments is the foundation of Massive IoT acceleration

At Sony Semiconductor IL (Sony), we address connectivity and security requirements with an out-of-the-box fully functional, secured and connected device. Our ALT1250 and ALT1255 devices integrate a dedicated and isolated hardware sub-system within the modem. This gives it the ability to run the SIM function in a highly secure manner, as expected by the market.

The Integrated SIM (iSIM) was born in collaboration with our ecosystem partners, enabling a new generation of cellular IoT solutions that are affordable, simple and quick to deploy with a small footprint.

Gisecke+Devrient (G+D)

At G+D, we have developed a highly secure SIM operating system for the integrated SIM. This meets the security requirements as well as the functionality of classic SIM solutions. The solution is designed to enable secure personalization in the production environment of the IoT device manufacturer. Our iSIM solution has been commercially established in the market since 2021.

SWI

At Sierra Wireless, for the past 5 years we have provided cellular modules to the market with embedded SIM cards inside. We have witnessed first-hand how much many of our customers appreciate the ability to use an internal rather than an external SIM and improve on materials, logistics and security. The iSIM – integrated SIM – takes it one step further, allowing greater hardware optimization, silicon material savings and even further reduced energy consumption. In addition, it is extremely simple to deploy and use.

The combined offering that Sony, G+D and Sierra Wireless brings is optimized for smart meter applications, enabling reliable network connectivity on the 450/410MHz bands, with out-of-the-box connectivity powered by the integrated SIM to ease mass scale deployments typical to smart meter applications.

Authors: Bill Harrison, product manager, Twilio and Dana Cohen Mizrahi, product marketing manager, Sony Semicon IL.

Voice is still the preferred choice for people who want to communicate, and millions of developers already know how Twilio gives them the power to add voice communications to their products with just a few lines of code. These products, such as wearables, IoT, and smart devices are getting smaller and smaller and becoming more a part of our lives every day. Now with Sony Semiconductor and Twilio, you can quickly and easily add voice communications to your small-footprint, low-power, and low bandwidth IoT device. All you need is an ALT120 chipset within your device, a SIP or WebRTC client and a microphone and speaker. This new capability means simplified design and reduced cost for portable, low-power IoT devices with global voice functionality.

The Sony and Twilio ingredients to enable VoIP on LTE-M

Sony ALT1250 – Small size, low power, endless possibilities

Designed for cellular IoT applications from the ground up, the Sony ALT1250 drives devices which prioritize battery life, security, and small size, ensuring compliant and reliable network connectivity. This full-solution, 5G-ready, Dual-Mode LTE-M & NB-IoT chipset with 2G fallback is built to evolve along with the IoT service and cellular network.  Ultra-low power, small size, security and high level of integration make the ALT1250 attractive for designers of alarm panels, access control systems, trackers, child & adult wearables, fitness & patient monitoring devices, smart metering and many other IoT applications.

Twilio Programmable Voice, SIP, the AMR-NB Codec, and Super SIM

Twilio’s SIP Interface functionality allows you to augment your VoIP Infrastructure using cloud-based capabilities. Customers use it to build out their communications and voice applications, then change, improve, and scale the deployment across different office sites and numbers. Multi-site installations, BYOC, and more are all possible using industry-standard SIP solutions.

Now, Twilio has added a key feature that will enable low-power, cellular network voice communications. With the addition of support for the AMR-NB codec (in Limited Availability, contact us to try it out), it is now feasible to use SIP solutions over Sony ALT1250-based cellular LTE-M devices, without the need for Voice over LTE (VoLTE). AMR-NB allows for a low-bandwidth media stream, which is effective for use with ALT1250 low-power devices on cellular networks.

To complete the picture, Twilio Super SIM can give you access to LTE-M networks that provide the low-power features required for battery-operated device longevity.

Mixing it all together for a functional setup

Twilio and Sony set out to test the viability of integration voice communications on a device built using the ALT1250 chipset over an LTE-M commercial network, connecting through Twilio Super SIM.

We had two basic SIP clients, registered to Twilio using the Programmable Voice SIP interface:

1. SIP Client A: Sony proprietary interface, running on Sony’s ALT1250 demo board
2. SIP Client B: Open-source MicroSIP client, running on a PC

On the Twilio side, we set up a Programmable Voice SIP Domain (for the purposes of this blog let’s call it ‘ourdemo.sip.twilio.com’), and registered both SIP clients to that domain using the SIP Registration functionality. Then, just the simplest of applications; TwiML that bridges an inbound call from Client A to Client B using the <Dial> verb and <Sip> noun:

<?xml version=”1.0″ encoding=”UTF-8″?>
<Response>   
  <Dial><Sip>sip:ClientB@ourdemo.sip.us1.twilio.com;transport=tls</Sip></Dial>
</Response>

Then, we enabled the new AMR-NB codec on the Twilio account we were using for testing, and had the client on the ALT1250 device (Client A) set that codec as its primary codec.  As mentioned above, that change allows a low-bandwidth media stream, which is the key functionality for this LTE-M network solution.

Admittedly, this was a very simple test scenario, but it worked very well. Calls completed, and both parties were easily able to communicate with each other. The low-bandwidth codec performed well on the LTE-M network, and we saw minimal packet loss and jitter over the course of the calls.  Obviously, performance can vary with network quality and availability, but in areas with consistent cellular network signals, the expectations would be clear audio communications.

To understand the resulting call flow better, please have a look at this short video demonstration. In our video, we assume a mobile phone on the other end vs. a PC.

Conclusion

With this simple connection to build from, you open up a myriad of possibilities and scenarios of how you can digitally transform and power up your voice communications using Twilio and Sony’s ALT1250 based devices. Customize your experience the way you want; build an engaging voice experience that you can quickly scale and modify with a wide array of customization options and resources. Add on features like Interactive Voice Response (IVR), recording transcriptions, and speech recognition to create an experience that you and your customers will appreciate.  Build alerts and notifications into your device solutions.  Use call tracking to unlock the data embedded in your calls.  Or build something nobody has before and only pay for what you use; no long-term contracts or minimums.

How do I get started?

For more information about the Sony’s ALT1250 chipset, visit the Sony website, and fill out the Contact form. For ongoing information follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter.

We can’t wait to see what you build!

by Sierra Wireless and Sony Semiconductor Israel

Many factors, including new government regulations, increased pressure to generate and deliver utilities in a sustainable way, a need for more accurate billing, and a growing customer demand for better services, are driving utilities to digitally transform their operations.

One of the key aspects of these utilities’ digital transformation efforts has been smart meter deployments. In fact, Mordor Intelligence estimates that smart meter shipments will reach 198.5 million units by 2026, a CAGR of 6.6 % (2021-2026). With smart meters, utilities can collect more detailed and up-to-date data on customers’ electricity, gas, and water consumption, providing them with new and more valuable insights on how to optimize their operations. In addition, smart meters can show more accurate billing for multi-dwelling units such as apartment buildings or other shared spaces.

As they evaluate the next generation of smart meter solutions, lessons learned from previous rollouts, the growing threat of cyberattacks, and the need to future-proof these smart meter solutions are leading utilities to look at several factors such as coverage, data rates and resiliency to ensure a successful deployment. 

• Broad coverage: Utilities want smart meters to deliver their data even if they are located deep inside a building or in a rural area with spotty cellular network coverage.
• Suitable data rates: While utilities do not generally need smart meter solutions with very high data transmission rates or very low latency, they do need enough speed and low enough latency to support both current and future electricity, gas, and water smart meter applications.
• Long-lasting Resiliency: Smart meters require low power consumption in order to operate in the field for 10-15 years using only battery power. They also need to be able to receive security and other firmware updates over the air during this time period, without consuming all their battery power receiving the large amount of data associated with these updates. 

Two of the most important factors however in helping to ensure a successful deployment are security and the low power requirements.

End-to-End Security and FOTA

Security is an ongoing issue with any IoT device, and particularly for smart metering which is part of the critical energy infrastructure. New threats can appear at any time – tomorrow or years from now – so it’s important to be prepared and ready to react. Firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates make it easier to maintain a robust deployment and ensure transmissions are protected and safe. Whenever new threats appear, FOTA updates let you take immediate action.

However, there are some critical security considerations in a FOTA update system regarding: 

1. The platform-side, including secure key infrastructure where the updates are stored, signed, and deployed from;
2. The device side, which must securely store keys, receive the update and includes the software that implements the FOTA update;
3. Key rotation to ensure that over time the FOTA process remains secure. 

One of the first decisions when deciding on an IoT module and FOTA solution for smart metering is where the FOTA platform system is hosted. National regulations on data privacy and security are becoming more and more stringent, and concerns are arising from cyber-criminal organizations. This makes it vital for energy infrastructure providers to be able to identify where the encrypted security keys and FOTA platform is located and who may have access, since access to these two components could enable the hacking of any IoT device. 

As a result, more and more designs are using FOTA platforms that are physically located both in Europe and the US, providing the advantage of being locally hosted and controlled, and making sure that encrypted security keys are issued by servers located in these locations.

For devices, an encrypted connection between the device and the server using LwM2M and CoAP protocols -particularly suited for power and data transmission efficiency in cellular connectivity- with DTLS 1.2. should be used to ensure the privacy of data. A pre-shared key should be pre-loaded in the factory, and RSA signatures used for mutual authentication, to retain download integrity and ensure authenticity of the firmware. Also, logins must be restricted by IP address and only accessed with DTLS and mutual authentication keys allowing client devices to verify the identity of the server, and the server to recognize it is a valid IoT device authorized to communicate with.

If a FOTA update is interrupted, due to poor signal strength or a loss of power, the system should be able to automatically resume or restart it. It is vital that if the update fails, the system supports retries, and if the newly installed update doesn’t work properly, a fallback option recovers the previous version. Also, embedded modules can be configured to accept or delay firmware upgrades based on application priorities – so there’s no interruption in device operation – and the modules can monitor their own status during the upgrade, so any problems can be addressed quickly.

Finally, rotating keys on a regular basis helps to meet cryptographic best practices. Automatic key rotation at a defined period, such as every 90 days, increases security and helps to meet security regulations that require periodic, automatic key rotation.

When choosing a cellular module supplier, we recommend utilities review these critical factors as they are part of their entire meter security chain, and may impact the economic equation and customer trust should a security breach occur. 

Power Considerations for 20dBm and 23dBm

When evaluating the power needs for smart meters, most utilities will look at 23dBm and 20dBm options. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of each? Let’s look at the technical requirements, data transfer rates, and the cost analysis to understand.

3GPP defined the LTE 23dBm power class in Release 8, the first release of the LTE standard. This has led mobile network operators to optimize and deploy LTE base stations optimized for 23dBm. These LTE base stations also support Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) LTE-M and NB-IoT networks– the same networks that utilities are increasingly using for smart meter solutions. The impact of this network deployment can be seen in Figure 1 in the Transmission (Tx) Power Cumulative-Distribution-Function (CDF) showing that transmission powers of 23dBm are very commonly used (i.e., often above 50% of the time). The reason for such a distribution is for spectral efficiency optimization. When using maximum power –maximum throughput is achieved for the allocated spectrum resources (frequency and time allocated for the device).

3GPP then later added a 20dBm power class specification to its cellular telecommunications technology standard. Devices that use 20dBm have lower signal levels at the base station antenna input than 23dBm devices, but the standard lets them make up for this lower signal level with additional repetitions or lower data rates. 
 
dBm is a logarithmic unit. This means that while a decline of 3dBm might seem small, a 20dBm signal is half as strong as a 23dBm signal. This means that 23dBm device transmissions can more easily pass-through obstacles and provide a greater coverage range than 20dBm devices, making it easier for these devices to connect to cellular networks when they are located inside a building, underground, or in rural areas with few cellular towers. 

In addition to offering broader coverage than 20dBm devices, 23dBm smart meters also transfer data at a higher rate in challenging coverage scenarios, supporting a wider variety of smart meter applications than 20dBm smart meters. For example, Figure 2 shows that a decline of 3dB in MCL which is similar to 3db drop in transmission power consumption (maximal coupling loss – attenuation between the base station and device antenna) reduces uplink data throughput as much as 50%. This will limit the devices ability to transmit a significant amount of data and will increase the delay of such transmissions.

There are other drawbacks beyond weaker coverage and slower data rates associated with 20dBm devices. Though 20dBm devices have lower power, in challenging coverage scenarios 23dBm smart meters consume less power (lengthening their lifetimes) than 20dBm smart meters. This is because lower power 20dBm devices have slower data rates and thus can take twice as much time to transmit their data as 23dBm devices. 

Perhaps counter intuitive, however as illustrated in Figure 3 when device transmission power is decreased and compensated with additional transmissions – overall power consumption will increase since the device will be active for longer periods of time.

In simple terms, the power used in a transmission is equal to the (Power Amplifier’s Current + Digital and Analog Circuits Current) * Time of Transmission. Since the 20dBm device will only lower the “Power Amplifier’s Current” and not the other components, when the “Time of Transmission” is increased, the overall power is higher. This leads to the 20dBm device using more power than a 23dBm device for transmissions when they are inside a building, underground, in rural areas or other challenging coverage scenarios, and they end up consuming more from their battery.

As an additional example, Figure 4 illustrates that under certain challenging coverage scenarios a 2dB difference in a smart meter that transmits 10 kilobytes of data a day will increase power consumption of the device by 60% to 70%. For 20dBm versus 23dBm systems, the power difference is even bigger due to the increased time it takes to transmit this data.  

Designing IoT devices to use 20dBm rather than 23dBm can marginally reduce the cost of the devices’ chipsets but, when considering the total cost of ownership, a 20dBm device could be higher. 

The overall cost of a cellular module includes digital processing, a radio transceiver, secure element, memories, RX/TX switch, passive elements, PCB, shielding and power amplifier and the cost of manufacturing. In the power amplifier, the cost saving by reducing the transmission power from 23dBm to 20dBm is arguable and depends on the technology and level of integration, however even the most expansive GaAs based power amplifier cost is still a fraction (5-7%) of the overall module cost. Therefore, any cost saving achieved by reducing the transmission power in the PA, is not very significant in the overall cellular module or product cost.

As mentioned above, a 20dBm device is less spectral efficient than a 23dBm device, which means it takes more spectral resources to send a kilobyte (KB) of data. This is very important to MNOs since spectrum is a huge capital investment, so having devices which use more of that very valuable resource ends up costing the MNO more per KB to service. Finally, as mentioned above, the fact that 20dBm devices use more power than 23dBm smart meters in challenging coverage environments means that, for a similar lifespan, these 20dBm need larger (and more expensive) batteries. 

Due to the minimal chipset savings, the increase in battery costs, and the potential increase in monthly service costs, the overall total cost of ownership for a 20dBm meter often exceeds that of a 23dBm meter.

Understanding Security and Power Requirements 

Security is a requirement in any industry, but there are additional challenges with implementing smart meters. Utilities should consider key features such as FOTA system updates, (including platform and device), and key rotation to help ensure optimal security of their devices.

For power, smart meters that transmit data using signals with 23dBm (200mW) of power generally have a leg up on smart meters that transmit data using lower power 20dBm (100mW) signals. Given these advantages, and the minimal smart meter chipset and device cost savings associated with using 20dBm smart meter solutions, 23dBm smart meter solutions can better address utilities’ smart meter needs.

For utilities that want to accelerate their digital transformation, understanding the security and power requirements of smart meters can be the key to making this transition successful. 

By: Ohad Peled, Product Marketing Manager, Sony Semiconductor Israel

Compute power gravitates towards the edge

As IoT ecosystems evolve, end-to-end cloud solutions designed to generate insights based on the analysis of IoT devices’ ambient data are being created and deployed. Processing data at the network edge in devices that have the requisite computing power enables autonomous valuable operation, even when offline, by generating local insights that can trigger immediate actions. Traditionally, we tend associate increased compute power with increased power consumption. However, in some cases, boosting the device’s compute power leads to significant power savings in end-to-end IoT solutions.

In most wireless IoT devices, network connectivity consumes the major share of the power. Even for the most efficient and optimized devices, powering up the modem and the RF chain to send and receive data from the network is very expensive in terms of energy consumption. Therefore, when devices can intelligently manage communication interactions and limit unnecessary connections, they save precious power over time – resulting in longer device lifetimes.

Network edge devices require lower bandwidth connectivity

In typical applications, devices gather data from their environment and transmit it back to the cloud for analysis. There is a growing need to control the amount of this data.  The ability to process data at the edge helps minimize network communication by sending only pertinent data to the server. It also improves cloud analysis performance and accuracy. Devices can use their integrated processor to continuously monitor collected parameters and use network connectivity less frequently. For example, employing it for regular status updates or when a preset threshold is crossed, thereby reducing network traffic and saving power. Another, more complicated application example, could be a device that collects continuous data from a machine for preventive maintenance purposes, analyzing it using dedicated AI algorithms and updating the cloud only about the state of the machine or when unscheduled maintenance could be beneficial.

Reducing the amount of data that is transmitted also allows devices to use network protocols that are specifically designed for low power and low data rate applications, namely LTE-M and NB-IoT. These protocols allow the device to stay connected to the network when the power-hungry modem and RF chains are not communicating for extended periods of time.  Less network traffic also translates directly to cost savings on data usage, which enhances the business case and the margins.

Sony’s Altair ALT1250 and ALT1255 integrates all the necessary components for cellular IoT applications.

Network edge devices pros and cons

Obviously, the benefits outlined above come with a tradeoff. In addition to the rigorous security and device management capabilities, which are fundamental to any IoT device, devices now need to allocate precious compute power to analyzing, screening, and compressing the data it aggregates. This drives more integrated solutions across the supply chain down to the IoT chipset level.

Sony’s Altair Edge Offering

Sony’s Altair IoT chipsets are built from the ground up to support edge device requirements, enabling much of the data processing to be executed on the device side. Their dedicated core for application development is detached from modem operations. This allows the application to take full advantage of a robust Arm Cortex-M core, including AI engine capabilities, which facilitate real-time analysis, and corresponding actions on the device side. In turn, this reduces the amount of data needed for communications over the air and improves the accuracy of the data analysis process that is conducted in the cloud.   

The other major advantage of Sony’s Altair ALT1250 and ALT1255 cellular IoT chipsets is the security architecture. Security in the IoT era is crucial. Sony Altairs IOT chipsets employ a multi-layered security architecture that enables the highest level of security for applications running on the chipset. It features chip and device hacking-protection as well as a robust service access layer. Sony’s Altair chipsets provide the most advanced hardware-based tools to further ensure end-to-end security. This gives our customers the ability to develop applications on the device side without worrying about the majority of security threats, as they are secured by design.

By Avishay Shraga, Head of Security Technologies

According to a Mobile World Live survey published a few months ago and sponsored by Sony Semiconductor IL, Kigen and Vodafone Business, adoption of integrated SIM (iSIM) technology and cellular IoT is set to grow rapidly. If you missed it, would like to get some highlights or simply want a refresher, we’ve summarized the key findings in this blog. Feel free to dive in…

In terms of background, the report presents key findings from an online survey of over 750 respondents, to understand market perceptions of Cellular IoT and Integrated SIM (iSIM) technology.

Unsurprisingly, the vast majority of the supplier respondents in the survey regard the new wave of SIM technologies as critical or important.

Here are some key takeaways:

There is strong demand for cellular IoT

79% of businesses adopting IoT technology and 77% of device makers are planning to leverage Cellular IoT within the next 18 months, showing a significant acceleration for massive IoT. As 53% of the device makers in the survey said they are already using the Cellular IoT and another 24% plan to use it in the next 18 months, there will be significant growth in the Cellular IoT in the near future.

The main challenges facing cellular IoT adopters

The highest ranked obstacles to wider adoption of Cellular IoT were connectivity coverage/reliability and the need to develop sustainable business models.

Flexibility to change operators is regarded as important

Almost half of the user respondents said it is important or very important to have the flexibility to change operators during a connected device’s lifespan.

The top benefits of the integrated SIM (iSIM) are its low power consumption and small size

The research found that users value iSIM’s low power consumption and small size, followed by its simplicity and lower cost of ownership.

As iSIM is designed to be simple to deploy, this lowers the barriers to entry and speeds up time-to-market by making it easy for the device maker to harness connectivity.

The simplicity and ease-of-deployment means iSIM is likely to be used to support a broad range of IoT use cases, including asset tracking applications, telematics, smart meters, wearables and monitoring consumer appliances. With its small form factor and low power consumption, iSIM paves the way for a new set of applications.

Standards are important for wide adoption of new technology

Most of the respondents in the survey regard standardisation activity as important for wide adoption of new technology. The majority of Cellular IoT users said they wait until standards work is almost completed and stable before starting implementation of new technologies.

Ecosystem support for new SIM technologies

64% of the supplier ecosystem respondents are considering adopting iSIM technology in their IoT offering in the future, with increasing demand for low cost and prepackaged solutions enabling speed to market.

Large organisations deploying hundreds of thousands of IoT devices at a time will see the benefits of the lower cost of these new technologies. Although the cost advantage of iSIM, on a per unit basis may be small, it can result in major savings for an enterprise IoT deployment.

Security is paramount

Security is the main driver for the mobile ecosystem’s continued investment in SIM technologies. The ecosystem generally regards a dedicated hardware security element as essential.

Call for low cost, convenient solutions

The survey asked all the respondents what would drive greater adoption of low power cellular connectivity. Almost 40% of the respondents selected: More pre-packaged solutions designed to meet cost and customer experience aims.

To sum up, as iSIM simplifies the manufacture of trusted devices and supports remote SIM provisioning across network technologies, such as NB-IoT, it is set to usher in a new chapter of efficient, globally available massive IoT.

>> iSIM & Massive IOT – Full report <<