ALT1255: NB-IoT with 2G Fallback

Ultra-Low Power, Highly Integrated Cellular IoT Modem for NB-IoT Network

NB-IoT is fast emerging as the leading LPWA technology for a wide range of IoT use cases that were previously not feasible. The ALT1255 single-mode NB2 (NB-IoT) modem, with its optimized cost, ultra-low power consumption, and small form factor, is designed for seamless integration across various verticals, including smart meters, logistics, telematics, wearables, utilities and smart city solutions.

The ALT1255 is the most integrated, cost optimized NB-IoT modem with 2G fallback available in the market. This 5G-ready modem incorporates an integrated SIM (iSIM), advanced MCU, and rich application layer, all backed by a reliable GSM/GPRS fallback modem. The built-in iSIM eliminates barriers related to cost, size, and power while enhancing security.

As part of the low-power cellular IoT ALT125x family, the ALT1255 shares a common software architecture, modem application, networking layer, and APIs with other modems in the family, enabling quick and easy integration within the Altair product ecosystem.

The ALT1255 offers out-of-the-box secure cloud connectivity, using multiple industry-standard communication protocols, including power-efficient constrained application protocol (COAP) and lightweight machine-to-machine (LWM2M) to ensure standardized interoperable device management across vendors.

ALT1255 - Highly Integrated

The ALT1255 modem incorporates all the essential components needed for rapid development of functional Cellular IoT applications, including an LTE baseband processor, RF transceiver, memory, cellular-based location, MCU subsystem, and a hardware-based integrated SIM (iSIM). The modem also features a low power ARM Cortex M4 Application MCU, fully separated from the modem and designed to run user applications, as well as an adaptation layer for seamless interconnection within the existing ecosystem.

Integrating the ALT1255 into your device is straightforward — simply connect the primary or rechargeable battery and antenna.

Ultra-Low Power Consumption

Designed with a strong emphasis on ultra-low power consumption across various modes, including PSM and eDRX, the ALT1255 enables optimized power usage for relevant Cellular IoT use cases. This results in exceptionally long battery life for real-world applications, ranging from weeks for smart wearables to 3 years for trackers and up to 15 years for smart meters.

2G Fallback Capability

Recognizing the crucial role that 2G still plays in certain markets, the ALT1255 was developed to complement our Cellular IoT solution portfolio by addressing both NB-only and NB/2G applications. The integrated GSM/GPRS modem ensures comprehensive LPWA network coverage and enables future-proof technology deployment in regions with mixed 2G/NB coverage.

Cost Optimized NB-IoT Modem

The ALT1255 is the ideal solution for cost-sensitive, low-power IoT applications. This next-generation NB-IoT modem enables device manufacturers to develop cost-effective, low-power connected devices that can be deployed globally for monitoring, control, and management of utilities and smart cities, as well as in m-health devices, next-generation supply chain trackers, and a wide variety of other LPWA applications.

High Quality and Reliability

Developed in-house by Sony and based on our LTE-M/NB ALT1250 modem, the ALT1255 leverages mature, widely adopted, and globally certified technology. Designed with Sony’s quality pledge, this modem has received Global Certification Forum (GCF) certification, allowing accelerated module and device certification.