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Technologies related to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) have significantly improved operational efficiency across a multitude of industries by incorporating wireless devices. However, in contrast to conventional Internet of Things (IoT), these devices require specific wireless features for effective integration.

These specific wireless features are primarily dictated by the antenna solutions they utilise, ultimately dictating the level of a devices’ capability in fulfilling their specialised roles within a network. This blog explored the differences between the two, explains the unique wireless requirements, and underscores the critical importance of antenna performance

IoT and IIoT – What’s the difference…

IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses individual devices designed to operate with one another via a wireless network. These devices vary greatly from sensors and switches to integrated software-driven devices tailored for specific tasks. These devices are versatile and often serve multiple functions as part of an interconnected network.

Predominantly targeting consumer electronics and devices, IoT applications such as smart homes, wearable gadgets, and wireless appliances, all work together seamlessly; for example, a smartwatch can communicate with heaters and kettles to turn on when the user wakes up.

IIoT

The Industrial Internet of Things adheres to similar principles as the conventional IoT, comprising a network of individual devices working toward a common objective. The key difference lies in the specialisation of IIoT networks for industrial applications, as opposed to consumer devices.

IIoT networks are widely utilised in sectors like environmental monitoring, agriculture, and construction, where they enhance operational efficiency through wireless device collaboration. In IIoT, devices typically serve specific functions, in contrast to the broader roles of IoT devices.

Wireless Requirements for IIoT:

Conventional IoT networks involve a smaller number of devices that require a balanced set of wireless features. Bandwidth, range, and latency are carefully considered, making technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi ideal for devices in close proximity that exchange substantial data.

In contrast, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) networks necessitate unique wireless features, requiring specialised wireless technologies. These networks may host hundreds of individual nodes across extensive areas but transmit small amounts of data. Consequently, increased connection range and reduced power consumption take precedence, while factors like throughput are of lesser importance.

The are a vast amount of dedicated IIoT wireless technologies available dependant on the application. Examples include LoRa, LPWAN, and narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), designed for long-range, low-power applications.

The Significance of Antenna Performance:

Industrial Internet of Things devices demand specific features from their antenna solutions. Frequently located in remote areas and required to operate over extended periods, these devices can be characterised by compact form factors. As a result, IIoT antennas must meet the following criteria:

  • Efficiency Any Antenna must offer high performance while significantly reducing power consumption, ensuring devices can operate reliably without frequent replacements.
  • Compactness Given the presence of numerous small devices in an IIoT network, embedded antennas are required to be both compact and reliable.
  • Performance Playing vital roles in various operations and processes, IIoT devices necessitate consistent high performance.

High-Performance Antennas for IIoT Without Compromise:

Presenting a unique set of requirements distinct from its IoT counterpart, designers must select antennas capable of meeting these diverse requirements without compromising on any one aspect.

At CTi we can offer high-performance antenna solutions that satisfy these multifaceted requirements. Our extensive product range encompasses various types and technologies, ensuring compatibility with any design.

Our high-end solutions can be easily integrated and consistently exhibit exceptional performance when installed in any device.

For more information on how our antennas can elevate your IIoT project, do not hesitate to contact a member of our team today.

Call +44(0)1420 470615 or email rf.eu@aampglobal.com

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In a world increasingly dependent on wireless communication, LoRa Technology has emerged as a game changer offering a unique solution that bridges the gap between short-range technologies like Wi-Fi and power-hungry cellular networks. 

LoRa, or Long Range, is revolutionising the way we connect devices and gather data, providing the foundation for the Internet of Things (IoT) revolution. 

In this blog we delve deep into the world of LoRa technology, exploring its fundamentals, applications, and potential impact on the future.

What is LoRa Technology?

Short for ‘Long Range’, it is a wireless communication technology designed for long-distance data transmission that uses a lower power consumption. Operating on the sub-gigahertz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) radio bands it is renowned for its ability to transmit data over several kilometres, even in challenging environments.

LoRa Technology

How does is work?

LoRa achieves its impressive range by utilising a spread spectrum modulation technique. 

Spreading data over a wide range of frequencies, allows it to maintain signal integrity even in the presence of interference or obstacles. 

Devices can operate in different frequency bands, such as 169 MHz, 433 MHz, 868 MHz, or 915 MHz, depending on regional regulations.

Long Range vs. Traditional Wireless Technologies

LoRa technology sets itself apart from traditional wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and cellular in several ways:

Long Range: Solutions can cover much larger distances, making it ideal for applications in rural or remote areas.
Low Power: Devices are power-efficient and can operate on battery power for extended periods.
Low Cost: Hardware is cost-effective, making it accessible for a wide range of applications.

Applications of LoRA Technology

LoRa technology has found a home in a variety of applications, including:

Smart Agriculture: Farmers can use LoRa sensors to monitor soil conditions, weather data, and livestock.
Smart Cities: LoRa is used for smart lighting, waste management, and environmental monitoring.
Asset Tracking: Companies can track the location and status of their assets in real-time.
Industrial IoT: LoRa supports efficient industrial processes, predictive maintenance, and equipment monitoring.
Healthcare: LoRa-enabled devices help in remote patient monitoring and healthcare asset management.

LoRaWAN Enabling Scalability

LoRa technology is often used in conjunction with LoRaWAN, a Low-Power, Wide-Area Network protocol. 

Providing the infrastructure and security needed for scalable IoT deployments, it enables devices to connect to the cloud, making data collection and analysis easier.

LoRa Technology

Challenges And Limitations

While LoRa technology offers many advantages, it’s not without challenges. Limited bandwidth and data rate may not be suitable for all applications. 

Additionally, interference from other devices operating in the same frequency band can affect performance.

Real-World Success Stories

Numerous organisations have embraced LoRa technology to solve real-world problems. 

Cities are using LoRa for waste management, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. 

Agriculture is also benefiting from precision farming techniques enabled by LoRa sensors, improving crop yields and sustainability.

The Future of LoRa Technology

As IoT continues to grow, so does the potential for LoRa technology. The development of more sophisticated LoRa devices, enhanced network coverage, and advanced analytics will expand its applications even further. The ability to connect billions of devices with minimal power usage positions LoRa as a key player in the future of IoT.

Conclusion

LoRa technology is changing the way we connect and communicate in a world increasingly reliant on wireless solutions. Its long-range capabilities, low power consumption, and cost-effectiveness make it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications, from agriculture to smart cities. With the ongoing advancements in LoRa devices and network infrastructure, we can expect even more innovative solutions to emerge, connecting our world in ways we’ve never imagined. LoRa is not just a technology; it’s a gateway to the future of IoT.

 For our range of antenna solutions – CLICK HERE

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The switch off of both 2G & 3G frequency bands will no doubt change the landscape of mobile communication technologies. As the UK transitions towards a more advanced and efficient network infrastructure, this move holds both promise and challenges for the industry. 


Below, we explore a number of facts, figures, and statistics surrounding the switch-off and discuss the key issues it poses for businesses across the country.

  • The 2G network, introduced in the UK in the early 1990s, enabled voice calls and basic text messaging services. Meanwhile, the 3G network, launched in 2003, introduced mobile data and internet connectivity, ushering in the era of smartphones.
  • According to Ofcom, as of 2021, approximately 99% of UK premises had access to 4G coverage, with around 85% of the country receiving 5G signals.
  • As the demand for faster data speeds and enhanced network capabilities grows, older technologies such as 2G and 3G have become outdated. This shift has paved the way for repurposing the frequency bands for newer technologies, like 4G and 5G.
  • The planned switch off of 2G and 3G networks across the UK is expected to be completed by 2025, as network providers gradually decommission the infrastructure and reallocate spectrum resources.

Key Issues for Industry

  1. Legacy Systems and Infrastructure: Many businesses and organizations still rely on 2G and 3G networks to operate critical systems, including remote monitoring, payment processing, and security systems. The switch off poses challenges for those that have not yet migrated to newer technologies.
  2. Compatibility and Upgrades: The transition to newer network technologies requires significant investment in hardware and software upgrades. Companies must ensure their devices, applications, and services are compatible with 4G and 5G networks, which may lead to additional costs and complexities.
  3. Geographic Coverage: Although the UK has made significant progress in expanding 4G and 5G coverage, some rural areas may still experience limited or no access to these networks. The switch off of 2G and 3G may exacerbate the digital divide, impacting businesses operating in such areas.
  4. Customer Base: Some customers still rely on feature phones or older devices that only support 2G or 3G networks. Switching off these networks may leave certain demographics, particularly elderly or low-income individuals, without access to reliable mobile services.
  5. Network Congestion: The decommissioning of 2G and 3G networks will result in increased reliance on 4G and 5G networks. Providers must ensure their infrastructure can handle the growing data demands and prevent network congestion, particularly in densely populated areas or during peak times.
LTE Antenna
2G 3G Switch Off
2G 3G Switch-Off

The switch off of 2G and 3G frequency bands in the UK marks a significant step towards an advanced, interconnected mobile ecosystem. While the transition promises improved network capabilities and increased efficiency, it presents challenges for businesses across the country. Legacy systems, compatibility issues, geographic coverage, customer base considerations, and network congestion are among the key concerns that need to be addressed.

To mitigate these challenges, collaboration between network providers, businesses, and the government is essential. Efforts should focus on providing adequate support for businesses to upgrade their systems, ensuring seamless migration, and addressing the digital divide to foster an inclusive and connected society.

Is your business is facing the task of upgrading your systems with the planned switch off of both 2G & 3G frequencies?

If so, dont hesitate to visit our website for a comprehensive range of 4G & LTE solutions and be at the front of the queue to avoid possible logistical challenges.

Alternatively, contact our sales team on our soon to be launched collection of 5G solutions that will offer even more possibilities and options in future-proofing your communication requirements. 

 

About CTi

We design and manufacture high quality, innovative antenna products and solutions. Our range includes but is not limited to GPS, GPRS/GSM, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Glonass, Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, 5G and DAB.

With locations in the UK and Far East, we have a reputation for engineering excellence offering end to end solutions with full support through the design, manufacturing, and installation stages of any project.

CTi is a brand of AAMP Global. For more information please visit aampantennas.com or email rf.eu@aampglobal.com

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With an estimated 620,000 electric vehicles and more than 440,000 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) currently on UK roads, the increasing demand for EV Charging Points continues to surge with more than 29,000 new vehicles registered in November 2022, an increase of 35.2% compared to the previous year and following a 23.4% rise in Oct 2022.

More EV’s mean more EV Charging points

The growth of the EV market is expected to accelerate even further in the coming years as the UK prepares itself for the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales, with the sale of electric vehicles to outstrip traditional internal combustion by the end of 2022 as drivers look for cleaner and cheaper alternatives.

With increased demand across the market showing no signs of slowing, car makers such as Nissan, Tesla, Ford and Vauxhall have all expanded their model line-ups to include affordable plug-in models meaning more than 40% of existing models are available as a plug-in option, with Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz going one step further and developing their electric-only ID and EQ models respectively.

Increased demand for EV vehicles naturally brings with it the requirement for increased EV charging points. With the number of publicly accessible facilities standing at just over 34,000 across the UK, it is clear there is some way to go to meet the target of 300,000 by the end of the decade as part of the government’s £2.1 billion pound strategy to bring EV infrastructure to the masses and build on the previously announced £1.5 billion for construction of a network on UK motorways by 2035.

Although connected to the power grid and more often than not placed in convenient easy to access locations each EV charging point requires high-quality reliable communication capabilities and whilst fixed data networks are available across the country, this cannot be taken for granted given the complexities as well as both time and cost implications of running cables to hundreds, if not thousands of spaces in charging areas.

EV Charging Point Network

Wireless communication and antenna solutions provide a cost-effective solution to rapidly connect charging sites, whilst a consistent & reliable connection is essential to allow operators to monitor the status of each site in real-time, book maintenance, understand demand and ensure correct payment. In situations where fixed line connections are available, an additional wireless back can also help ensure a charge point remains operational. In this competitive market in which customers rely intensively on access to charging, long periods of downtime for CPOs could mean reputational damage along with lost revenue from non-operational sites.

Here at CTI we have designed and developed a comprehensive range of antenna solutions perfect for use across the EV charging industry. 

From a Single Antenna such as our LTE or GNSS products, Combination Antennas or Multi-Input, Multi-Output (MiMo) solutions suitable for multiple technologies our products provide a reliable & consistent signal for data transfer.

Find out more about CTi and our communication & tracking antennas, bespoke cables and telematics solutions and accessories by clicking here