In reality, signal bars only provide a very limited view of what is happening on a cellular network.
It is entirely possible to have four or five bars of signal and still experience slow data speeds, intermittent connectivity or unreliable communications. This is because signal strength is only one part of the equation. To understand how a cellular connection is likely to perform, signal quality must also be considered.

For industrial IoT deployments, remote monitoring systems, telemetry applications and critical infrastructure, understanding the difference can help avoid costly installation issues and improve long-term reliability.

Signal Strength and Signal Quality Are Not the Same Thing

Signal strength refers to how strongly a device receives a signal from a cellular base station. In LTE and 5G networks, this is commonly measured using RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power).

Signal quality measures how effectively that signal of a connection.

As a result, two locations with similar signal strength readings can deliver very different real-world performance.

Why Strong Signal Strength Can Still Deliver Poor Results

There are several factors that can affect performance even when signal strength appears good.

Network Congestion

Cellular networks are shared by many users and devices. As more users connect to a cell, the available network resources must be shared.

This means a location may show excellent signal strength while still experiencing reduced throughput during busy periods.

Radio Frequency Interference

Signals from neighbouring cells, reflections from buildings and other sources of radio frequency interference can affect communication quality.

Although a device may still detect a strong signal, interference can make it more difficult to reliably receive and decode data.

Installation Environment

Many industrial devices are installed inside control cabinets, electrical enclosures, plant rooms or utility compounds.

Materials such as metal, reinforced concrete and specialist glazing can impact radio performance. In some cases, a device may report acceptable signal strength while still suffering from poor signal quality.

Cell Selection

A modem or router will not always connect to the most suitable cell available.

Depending on network conditions, a device may attach to a cell that provides strong coverage but offers lower capacity or higher levels of congestion than neighbouring cells.

Looking Beyond Signal Bars

Professional cellular surveys typically focus on measurements that provide a more detailed understanding of network conditions.

RSRP – Signal Strength

RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) is a measure of received signal strength.

It helps determine how well a device can deect a cellular signal and is commonly used to assess network coverage. Values closer to zero generally indicate stronger coverage, whilst lower values indicate weaker signal conditions.

RSRQ – Signal Quality

RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) provides an indication of overall signal quality.

It can help identify issues caused by network congestion, interference and other factors that may affect performance.

A location may have good RSRP readings but poor RSRQ values, indicating that signal quality could become a limiting factor.

SINR – Signal-to-Interference-and-Noise Ratio

SINR measures the relationship between the wanted signal and any unwanted interference or background noise.

It is often one of the most useful indicators when assessing the potential performance and reliability of a cellular connection.

Higher SINR values generally indicate a cleaner radio environment and can contribute to improved data performance and connection stability.

A Practical Example

Consider a remote telemetry installation where two network operators both provide LTE coverage at the same location.

A basic check using a smartphone may show similar signal bars for both operators, suggesting that either network would be suitable.

However, a detailed survey may reveal that whilst both operators provide comparable signal strength, one network delivers significantly better SINR values and lower levels of interference.

Although the difference is not visible through signal bars alone, the higher-quality network is likely to provide more reliable long-term performance and fewer communication issues once the device is deployed.

Why Signal Quality Matters for IoT Deployments

For many IoT applications, reliability is more important than maximum data speed.

Smart meters, environmental monitoring systems, industrial controllers, utility infrastructure and remote monitoring equipment often transmit relatively small amounts of data, but they need to do so consistently and dependably.

Poor signal quality can result in:

• Increased transmission retries
• Reduced battery life
• Higher power consumption
• Delayed data delivery
• Intermittent connectivity
• Increased support and maintenance costs

These issues can remain hidden during installation and only become apparent once a deployment is operational.

The Value of a Cellular Site Survey

A professional cellular survey provides far more insight than signal bars alone.

By measuring signal strength, signal quality, available technologies and operator availability, engineers can make informed decisions before equipment is installed.

The same principles apply whether assessing LTE, LTE-M, NB-IoT or 5G networks.

A survey can help organisations:

• Select the most suitable network operator
• Identify the best antenna location
• Confirm network availability
• Reduce installation risk
• Minimise engineer revisits
• Improve long-term reliability

For larger deployments, these benefits can translate into significant operational and cost savings.

Looking Beyond the Signal Bars

Signal bars provide a useful indication of coverage, but they rarely tell the full story.

A strong signal does not automatically guarantee reliable performance, and a location that appears suitable at first glance may present challenges once equipment is deployed.

By understanding measurements such as RSRP, RSRQ and SINR, engineers can gain a much clearer picture of real-world network conditions and make better decisions when selecting operators, positioning antennas and planning deployments.

Whether deploying a single IoT device or managing a nationwide rollout, assessing signal quality alongside signal strength can help deliver more reliable connectivity and better long-term outcomes.

A strong signal (RSRP) does not always guarantee good performance. Signal quality (RSRQ) and signal cleanliness (SINR) often provide a more complete picture of real-world network conditions.

The post Why Four Bars of Signal Doesn’t Always Mean Good Performance appeared first on Siretta Limited.

End-of-life (EOL) announcements are becoming more common across the cellular IoT market. As manufacturers rationalise portfolios, merge product lines or exit legacy technologies, many widely deployed modems are being discontinued — often while customer installations are still active in the field.

For system integrators, OEMs and asset owners, this creates a familiar problem: what happens when the modem your product relies on is no longer available?

Why IoT modems are being EOL’d

There are several industry-wide reasons behind the increase in modem EOL notices:

• Vendor consolidation following acquisitions and mergers
• Technology transitions, such as the move away from 2G/3G to LTE-based solutions
• Component availability and chipset lifecycle changes
• Rationalisation of overlapping product ranges

Manufacturers are understandably focused on future platforms, but this often leaves customers managing long-life deployments with suddenly unsupported hardware.

The real impact of EOL on deployed systems

An EOL modem doesn’t just affect procurement — it can trigger wider technical and commercial risk:

• Forced redesigns of certified products
• Re-testing and re-approval for regulated industries
• Firmware changes and new AT command sets
• Stock shortages for spares and replacements
• Unplanned costs and extended downtime

For applications with 5–10+ year lifecycles, these disruptions are far from trivial.

What to look for in an EOL replacement modem

When sourcing an alternative to an EOL’d modem, engineers typically prioritise:

• Form-factor compatibility (physical size, mounting, connectors)
• Interface continuity (RS232, RS485, USB, Ethernet)
• Network longevity (LTE Cat-1, LTE-M, NB-IoT rather than legacy 2G/3G)
• Minimal firmware changes
• Long-term availability commitments

The goal is simple: keep the existing system working with minimal redesign effort.

ZETA modems as a continuity option

For many applications, ZETA industrial cellular modems are used as a drop-in or low-impact replacement when legacy or discontinued devices are no longer available.

Key characteristics include:

• Industrial-grade design for long-term deployment
• Support for LTE Cat-1, Cat-4, LTE-M and NB-IoT, aligned with network longevity
• Common industrial interfaces (RS232)
• Ultra-Low power consumption ideal for low power applications
• Simple integration without proprietary software lock-in
• Reliable and dependable technical support

Rather than pushing customers into frequent platform changes, the focus is on continuity and longevity

Avoiding future EOL disruption

While EOLs can’t be eliminated entirely, they can be mitigated:

• Choose modem platforms with clear lifecycle visibility
• Avoid over-customised or proprietary device dependencies
• Standardise on widely supported cellular technologies
• Maintain second-source or alternative options early in the design phase

Planning for lifecycle stability at the outset significantly reduces long-term risk.

Final Thoughts

EOL announcements are an unavoidable part of the IoT industry, but they don’t have to mean forced redesigns or costly delays. By selecting industrial modems designed with longevity in mind, businesses can maintain continuity even as the wider market evolves.

For organisations facing discontinued modem platforms, ZETA remains a practical, available option — supporting modern cellular networks while keeping existing systems operational.

The post When IoT Modems Go End of Life: How to Avoid Forced Redesigns appeared first on Siretta Limited.

Today, NTNs are already providing real-world benefits. Hybrid connectivity solutions, such as T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink, utilise Starlink’s LEO satellites to offer LTE backhaul for text messaging services in rural U.S. areas. Siretta’s SNYPER-5G device plays a crucial role in detecting these networks, providing insights into signal strength, operator details, and network availability. Its LiveSCAN feature allows for real-time troubleshooting of network inefficiencies, making it an essential tool for optimising hybrid NTN deployments.

The Current State of NTNs

NTNs are no longer just a futuristic concept—they are actively solving connectivity challenges today. As previously mentioned, T-Mobile’s collaboration with Starlink is enabling text messaging services in areas that were previously unreachable by traditional cell towers. This service is expected to expand to voice and data capabilities by mid-2025, showcasing the practical applications of NTNs in addressing immediate connectivity issues.

Beyond text messaging, NTN supports low-power IoT applications such as agricultural monitoring, disaster response systems, and industrial sensors. These use cases demonstrate the versatility of NTNs and their capacity to address diverse needs across various industries. Meanwhile, companies like SpaceX and OneWeb are deploying additional satellites to enhance coverage density and reduce latency, further solidifying the role of NTNs within the telecommunications ecosystem.

Expanding NTN Deployments: UK and Europe

Recent developments in the UK and Europe highlight the rapid evolution and adoption of NTNs:

· Vodafone UK’s Direct-to-Smartphone Satellite Service: Vodafone, in partnership with AST SpaceMobile, has achieved the world’s first satellite-enabled video call using a standard 4G/5G smartphone from a remote area in Wales. This demonstration showed that users can make video calls, browse the internet, and use messaging services in areas previously lacking mobile broadband. The service, which requires no specialist hardware, seamlessly switches between terrestrial and satellite networks, with commercial rollout planned in the UK and Europe from late 2025 into 2026. This positions Vodafone as a leader in providing universal digital connectivity and closing rural coverage gaps.

· Deutsche Telekom, Skylo, and Qualcomm’s SMS-Over-Satellite in Europe: Deutsche Telekom, alongside Skylo and Qualcomm, has completed Europe’s first operator-native trial of SMS messaging over GEO satellite using standard smartphones. Conducted on Deutsche Telekom’s Cosmote network in Greece, this trial utilised the Qualcomm Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System and 3GPP Release 17 specifications. This approach enables customers in areas without terrestrial coverage to send and receive text messages globally on their regular devices, supporting emergency communications and providing ubiquitous coverage without requiring special apps or hardware.

Challenges Facing NTNs

Despite their potential, NTNs face unique challenges due to their operational environments. Latency remains a significant concern for GEO satellites positioned 36,000 km above Earth. The time required for signals to travel between satellites and ground stations introduces delays that necessitate adaptive protocols for seamless communication.

Environmental factors also play a critical role in NTN performance. Rain fade (Rain fade refers to the attenuation of satellite signals caused by heavy rainfall, which can disrupt communications and requires careful testing and mitigation), ionospheric disturbances and solar activity can degrade signals, disrupting communication links. These issues necessitate rigorous testing under simulated conditions to ensure reliability across various scenarios.

Hybrid architectures introduce an additional layer of complexity. Modern NTNs frequently combine satellites with terrestrial systems and HAPS platforms, creating challenges related to seamless interoperability. Ensuring that all components function together effectively is crucial for delivering consistent results.

Near-Term Developments: What’s Next for NTNs?

The next 12 months will see significant advancements in the NTN landscape. Companies such as SpaceX and OneWeb are continuing to deploy satellites to enhance coverage density and reduce latency. In addition to consumer-focused services, such as rural broadband and emergency communications through satellite-enabled Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs), IoT applications will continue to grow. NTNs will support low-power connectivity solutions for remote sensors in agriculture, industrial monitoring systems, and disaster resilience efforts.

Evolving with Standards: Siretta’s Role in NTN

As non-terrestrial networks (NTN) evolve from concept to deployment, Siretta is ensuring its technology stays in step. The SNYPER platform is designed to adapt with advancing standards, allowing users to keep pace with the latest connectivity developments.

While the current SNYPER-5G model focuses on terrestrial network analysis and does not yet support NTN detection, an IoTS version with this functionality is now released.

The SNYPER-5G already provides robust insight into terrestrial network performance, including detection of Starlink LTE backhaul links. Its modular hardware and firmware architecture make it ideally positioned to incorporate hybrid terrestrial and non-terrestrial features in future revisions.

Siretta remains committed to supporting advanced IoT applications that rely on long-range, low-power communication—key elements in the NTN use case space.

Preparing for NTN Testing

Effective NTN deployment will depend on accurate, real-world testing across a wide range of use cases. While current SNYPER models are optimised for terrestrial environments, future products will be dedicated to NTN analysis functionality.

Conclusion

Non-terrestrial networks are shaping the next wave of global connectivity by extending coverage into previously unreachable areas and unlocking new use cases.

Although today’s SNYPER-5G is focused on terrestrial networks, an NTN-capable IoTs version is now available —targeted at sectors such as agriculture, logistics, and emergency response.

As NTN services from providers like T-Mobile, Skylo, Starlink, Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom, and OneWeb become more widely available, Siretta is developing the tools needed to stay ahead of the curve. The SNYPER IoTs variant will offer customers a window into the evolving NTN space—providing clarity today and capability for tomorrow.

The post Testing and Validation: Driving Reliability in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) appeared first on Siretta Limited.

Team Siretta ready to take on The Big Golf Race – 36 holes, no buggies, one great cause.

Plenty of swings (some better than others) – but every shot helped raise awareness for prostate cancer.

On Monday, 22nd September 2025, four members of Team Siretta took on Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race at Sherfield Oaks Golf Club — completing 36 holes of golf in a single day, all on foot and without the help of buggies.

The challenge saw the team cover more than 20 miles, carrying their clubs across both courses and hitting hundreds of shots along the way. There were plenty of good swings, the odd lost ball, and more than a few blisters, but together the team pushed through and completed the marathon of golf.

This effort was all in support of Prostate Cancer UK, a charity dedicated to funding vital research and supporting men affected by prostate cancer. With 1 in 8 men in the UK diagnosed during their lifetime, raising awareness and funds for this cause is something we are very proud to have contributed to.

A huge thank you goes to everyone who donated and supported us — your encouragement made a real difference on the day

We’re proud not only of the products we deliver but also of the way our team comes together to support important causes. The Big Golf Race was tough, but worthwhile — and we’re already wondering what challenge might be next.

The post 36 Holes, 20 Miles, One Cause: The Big Golf Race Completed appeared first on Siretta Limited.

Siretta was proud to support our new Japanese distribution partner, Midoriya Electric, at COMNEXT Japan.

Together, we showcased the SNYPER-5G, our advanced cellular network analyser, to visitors from across the region.

The event provided an excellent platform to demonstrate how the SNYPER-5G can help businesses survey, identify, and optimise mobile network connectivity — supporting the rollout of advanced 5G, LTE, and IoT solutions across Japan.

We look forward to building on this exciting partnership and expanding Siretta’s presence in the Japanese market.

The post Siretta Supports New Japanese Partner at COMNEXT Japan appeared first on Siretta Limited.

That’s where custom industrial cellular modems—like Siretta’s ZETA range—are enabling faster rollouts, longer lifespans, and better data reliability.

Utility Networks Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All

Water, gas, and energy utilities all share a common challenge: they operate critical infrastructure, often in hard-to-reach locations. Standard modems can present problems:

• Wrong power input range
• Unreliable signal in rural areas
• No support for legacy interfaces (e.g., RS232)

And when you’re deploying 10,000 units in the field, every workaround adds up in time and cost.

Tailored Modems for Utility Use Cases

Siretta works with utility providers to adapt modems specifically for field requirements:

• Power-optimised designs for battery or solar setups
• High-gain antenna support for weak signal zones
• Firmware pre-loaded with your AT command sequences

These aren’t extras—they’re enablers for long-term ROI.

Aerial view of water treatment factory at city wastewater cleaning facility. Purification process of removing undesirable chemicals, suspended solids and gases from contaminated liquid.

Case Example: Remote Pump Station Monitoring

A national water utility needed reliable, low-maintenance connectivity for pump stations in rural areas. Off-the-shelf cellular devices had inconsistent performance and required manual setup.

Siretta provided a custom version of the ZETA modem with:

• Industrial temperature tolerance
• Board integration/adaptation
• Serial interface integration ready for their PLCs

The result? Faster deployment, reduced setup errors, and consistent communication from day one.

The result? 98% uptime, reduced site visits, and better visibility across their network.

Lower OPEX, Faster Time to Value

For utilities operating under regulatory pressure and tight budgets, the combination of low-power operation, robust construction, and plug-and-play deployment makes a real difference.

With custom modems:

• Engineers don’t need to adapt their systems to fit the modem
• Install times are slashed
• Data reliability improves from Day 1

 Looking Ahead: Built for Change

With PSTN switch-offs, 2G sunsets, and the rise of NB-IoT and LTE-M, future-proofing your communications infrastructure is essential.

So, what does this all mean?

In the utility sector, downtime is costly, and reliability is everything. A customised modem doesn’t just connect your assets—it protects your investment.

Talk to Siretta about building a modem that works your way.

https://www.siretta.com/products/customisation-services-2/

The post Why Custom Cellular Modems Are Powering the Future of Utility Monitoring appeared first on Siretta Limited.

Enter Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), an emerging technology poised to fill this connectivity gap. By leveraging satellites, high-altitude platforms, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), NTN is set to redefine the boundaries of IoT and unlock its full potential.

What is IoT NTN?

Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) refer to communication systems that operate outside traditional terrestrial infrastructure, such as cell towers and fibre-optic cables. These systems utilise satellites (Low Earth Orbit, Medium Earth Orbit, and Geostationary Orbit), high-altitude platforms (like balloons or airships), and UAVs to provide connectivity.

For IoT, NTN offers unprecedented advantages:
• Global Coverage: Unlike terrestrial networks, NTN can connect devices anywhere on the planet, including remote oceans, deserts, and polar regions.
• Resilience: NTNs are less vulnerable to physical disruptions, such as natural disasters, that can damage terrestrial infrastructure.
• Scalability: With the increasing number of devices requiring connectivity, NTN can expand capacity without the need for extensive ground-based installations.

Why is IoT NTN an Emerging Technology?

The rise of NTN is driven by several technological and market trends:

Advancements in Satellite Technology:
Recent innovations in satellite design and deployment have made NTN more viable and cost-effective. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, such as SpaceX’s Starlink and OneWeb, offer low-latency, high-bandwidth connections, making them suitable for IoT applications.

Standardisation Efforts:
The integration of NTN into IoT has been accelerated by 3GPP Release 17, which introduced standards for NTN as part of 5G. This standardisation ensures seamless interoperability between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.

Market Demand:
Industries such as logistics, agriculture, and environmental monitoring increasingly demand global IoT connectivity, pushing the adoption of NTN to meet these needs.

Government and Industry Support:
Public and private investments in NTN infrastructure, coupled with partnerships between cellular operators and satellite providers, have created a robust ecosystem for growth.

The Power of IoT NTN

IoT NTN is not just about connecting devices—it’s about enabling transformative applications that were previously impossible or impractical. Here are some of the key areas where IoT NTN is making a difference:

Agriculture:
Precision farming relies on data from sensors monitoring soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health. NTN enables connectivity in rural areas, empowering farmers to make data-driven decisions and improve yields.

Logistics and Supply Chain:
Real-time tracking of goods, especially across international borders or remote regions, is a critical requirement for modern logistics. NTN ensures uninterrupted communication with IoT-enabled tracking devices, improving efficiency and reducing losses.

Disaster Recovery and Emergency Response:
In the aftermath of natural disasters, terrestrial networks are often damaged or overwhelmed. NTN provides reliable communication for first responders and supports IoT devices used in search-and-rescue operations.

Environmental Monitoring:
From tracking wildlife movements to measuring climate change indicators, NTN enables IoT devices to operate in remote or inaccessible areas, providing valuable data for research and conservation efforts.

Maritime and Aviation Applications:
Ships and aircraft require continuous connectivity for navigation, safety, and operational efficiency. NTN ensures these critical assets remain connected even in the most remote parts of the globe.

There will be Challenges!

While IoT NTN holds immense promise, it is not without its challenges:

Cost:
The deployment and operation of satellite constellations and other NTN infrastructure can be expensive, though costs are gradually decreasing with advancements in technology.

Latency:
Although LEO satellites reduce latency compared to traditional geostationary satellites, it remains a concern for time-sensitive IoT applications.

Integration with Terrestrial Networks:
Achieving seamless handover and interoperability between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks is a technical challenge that requires ongoing innovation.

So, What’s Next?

The future of IoT NTN is bright, with several exciting developments on the horizon:

Hybrid Networks:
The convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks will create hybrid systems that leverage the strengths of both. For example, devices could use terrestrial networks in urban areas and switch to NTN in remote locations.

Expansion of Use Cases:
As NTN matures, new applications will emerge, including autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and even space-based IoT ecosystems.

Lower Costs:
Economies of scale and technological advancements will drive down the costs of NTN deployment, making it accessible to a broader range of industries and businesses.

Impact on Industries and Consumers:
IoT NTN will democratise connectivity, enabling small businesses, start-ups, and developing countries to participate in the IoT revolution. It will also empower consumers with smarter, more connected devices, regardless of location.

IoT NTN represents a paradigm shift in how we think about connectivity. By extending the reach of IoT beyond terrestrial boundaries, it has the potential to transform industries, bridge the digital divide, and create a more connected world. As this technology continues to evolve, it’s not just about staying connected—it’s about unlocking new possibilities and shaping the future of innovation.

The post IoT NTN: The Future of Connectivity Beyond Earth appeared first on Siretta Limited.

LoRaWAN has always been an open, versatile network standard for IoT applications requiring long-range, low-power communications. Cisco’s involvement in this technology provided a certain level of credibility, helping push LoRaWAN into wider adoption. However, Cisco’s decision to reduce its role doesn’t equate to a death sentence for the technology.

LoRaWAN remains critical for many applications that benefit from its long-range, low-power consumption and its capability to function in unlicensed spectrum bands. Major players like Semtech (the company behind LoRa technology), Actility, and The Things Industries continue to innovate and support the ecosystem. In sectors like agriculture, logistics, and smart cities, LoRaWAN has proven to be highly effective.

Why Did Cisco Pull Back?
Cisco’s strategic retreat likely stems from a desire to focus on its more lucrative and broader-reaching IoT technologies, such as NB-IoT and 5G. These technologies are better suited for high-bandwidth, real-time applications—markets where Cisco’s expertise in large-scale networking is more directly applicable.

LoRaWAN, in contrast, is more niche, optimised for low-bandwidth use cases that don’t require Cisco’s typical heavy-duty networking infrastructure. In short, while LoRaWAN is great for tracking a herd of cattle or managing a smart irrigation system, Cisco’s core strengths lie elsewhere.

LoRaWAN’s Resilience
While Cisco’s exit might feel like a blow, LoRaWAN isn’t going anywhere. The technology has a strong, established ecosystem driven by other leading players. Organisations like the LoRa Alliance, which includes hundreds of members working on expanding LoRaWAN’s potential, ensure the protocol’s ongoing development and support.

The open nature of LoRaWAN means it isn’t tethered to any one company. Developers and businesses continue to use LoRaWAN networks through equipment from other vendors like Kerlink, MultiTech, and Laird Connectivity. Moreover, many service providers still offer LoRaWAN as a service, ensuring that connectivity remains accessible even if Cisco isn’t directly involved.

Exploring the Alternatives: CAT-M1, NB-IoT and 5G
While LoRaWAN remains an excellent choice for certain applications, Cisco’s shift towards other technologies opens the door for businesses to consider alternatives, especially for use cases that require higher bandwidth or real-time capabilities.

NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) is one such alternative. It operates in licensed spectrum, offering more reliable connections in challenging environments and better integration with cellular networks. For applications needing higher data rates, more robust security, and low latency, NB-IoT is a strong contender.

5G is also emerging as a key player in IoT, especially in applications that demand low-latency, high-speed data transfers like autonomous vehicles or smart manufacturing. Though overkill for low-data-rate use cases, 5G is expected to dominate in high-performance IoT scenarios.

What Should Businesses Do?
If you’re using LoRaWAN today, there’s no reason to jump ship just because Cisco is pulling out. Evaluate your specific use case: LoRaWAN still excels in areas that need low power, long range, and minimal bandwidth. However, if your applications are evolving to require real-time connectivity or operate in complex environments with higher data needs, it might be worth exploring CAT-M1, NB-IoT or 5G.

For most, a hybrid approach could be the best option. Different IoT solutions will coexist, and the key is understanding which technology best suits your current and future needs.

The post The Future of LoRaWAN appeared first on Siretta Limited.

In today’s IoT landscape, dependable connectivity is key for businesses using IoT SIMs. MVNOs, which provide mobile network services without owning their own infrastructure, often offer SIMs that connect to multiple MNO (Mobile Network Operator) networks. Hence naming it “Global Roaming”. However, some MVNOs use a method called SIM steering to influence which network the SIM connects to. In this blog, we’ll explore what SIM steering is, why it’s used, and the downsides it can create for businesses and IoT applications.

What is SIM Steering?

SIM steering is a technique used by MVNOs to control which mobile network an IoT SIM connects to. Typically, MVNOs offer multi-network SIMs that can roam across different networks. However, instead of letting the SIM connect to the strongest or most suitable available network, SIM steering allows the MVNO to prioritize certain networks for business or cost reasons.

For example, even if Network A has better coverage or stronger signal quality in a specific location, the MVNO might “steer” the SIM toward Network B to reduce costs.

Why Do MVNOs Use SIM Steering?

• Cost optimisation: MVNOs often have different agreements with various MNOs. They may steer connections to the MNO with more favourable rates.
• Business agreements: Some MVNOs may have strategic partnerships with specific MNOs, incentivizing them to prioritize certain networks.
• Network load management: Steering can also help manage network load, distributing SIMs across different networks to avoid congestion.

Disadvantages of SIM Steering for IoT Applications

While SIM steering might make sense from a business perspective for MVNOs, it presents several challenges for IoT users, particularly those relying on robust, always-on connectivity.

1. Reduced Network Quality

• Forced connection to weaker networks: SIM steering may force an IoT device to connect to a network with subpar signal strength, even when a stronger network is available. This results in higher latency, increased data loss, or even complete connection failures, which can disrupt critical IoT operations.

• Impact on real-time applications: Applications like remote monitoring, smart sensors, and industrial IoT solutions require low-latency connections. Poor network choices due to SIM steering can hinder performance.

2. Reduced Network Reliability

• Delayed switching: Some MVNOs implement delays before allowing the SIM to switch to a different network, even if the initial connection drops or becomes unstable. This can lead to prolonged downtime in IoT systems.

• Intermittent coverage: In cases where coverage is patchy, SIM steering can prevent the SIM from using multiple networks as intended, further reducing the reliability of the connection.

3. Lack of Control

• User has no visibility: Many businesses using IoT SIMs have no control over or visibility into the networks to which their devices are connected. This makes troubleshooting connectivity issues more challenging, especially in cases where SIM steering is causing the problem.

• Limited customisation: Some businesses may want to prioritize certain networks based on their own service requirements, but SIM steering removes that flexibility.

4. Increased Costs

• Roaming inefficiencies: If an IoT SIM is steered toward an international network when a local one is available, it may result in higher roaming fees, unnecessarily increasing operational costs.

• Data usage inefficiencies: Connectivity issues caused by steering can also lead to retries and excess data usage, further driving up costs.

How to Mitigate SIM Steering Challenges

1. Choose IoT SIM providers with transparent policies
Opt for MVNOs or IoT SIM suppliers that provide transparency about their network steering practices and offer a choice of networks without forcing connections based on price alone.

2. Opt for Multi-IMSI SIMs
Multi-IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) SIMs offer enhanced flexibility by allowing the SIM to use multiple profiles, ensuring better network choices and less susceptibility to steering.

3. Test network performance
Before committing to an MVNO, test the performance of their IoT SIMs across various regions and environments to ensure that SIM steering does not negatively affect your operations. The SENTRY and SNYPER will capture this data for you to ensure that the right network is for you.

The post SIM Steering: Disadvantages for IoT SIMs appeared first on Siretta Limited.

5G RedCap – 5G Reduced Capability, is a variant of 5G technology that was introduced as part of the 3GPP Release 17 specifications in 2022, which aimed to expand the reach of 5G technology into a wider range of IoT and low-power applications. The primary target applications for 5G RedCap include low-power IoT devices, sensors, wearables, and other battery-powered devices that do not require the highest 5G performance but can benefit from the improved power efficiency and reduced cost.

The key aspects of 5G RedCap are:

Reduced Complexity

5G RedCap is designed to have a simpler and more streamlined architecture compared to the full-fledged 5G New Radio (NR) specification. This focuses on essential functionalities, removing unnecessary features to minimise device complexity. This is achieved through techniques like reduced OFDM numerology, simplified channel coding, and a streamlined protocol stack. This reduced complexity helps lower the cost, power consumption, and size of 5G RedCap devices, making them more suitable for IoT and low-power applications.

Lower Performance Targets

5G RedCap targets lower maximum data rates, typically up to 150 Mbps for downlink and 50 Mbps for uplink. – The reduced throughput requirements are suitable for IoT devices that do not need the highest 5G speeds. This is a significant reduction compared to the multi-gigabit speeds of the full 5G NR specification. However, these speeds are still definitely higher than what 4G LTE CAT-1/CAT-M can provide, making 5G RedCap a viable option for many IoT and low-power use cases.

Comparison of 5G, 5G RedCap, LTE CAT-1 & LTE CAT-M

Enhanced Power Efficiency

5G RedCap devices are optimised for improved power efficiency, with features like extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) and power-saving mode. eDRX allows devices to enter longer sleep cycles, reducing their overall power consumption and extending battery life. This enables longer battery life for IoT devices that need to operate on limited power sources.

Narrowband Operation

5G RedCap utilises narrowband operation, where devices can operate on smaller bandwidth allocations. This narrowband approach reduces the complexity and power requirements of the radio frequency (RF) front-end, as well as the digital signal processing (DSP) components.

Reduced Feature Set

5G RedCap devices have a reduced feature set compared to the full 5G NR specification, focusing on the essential capabilities required for IoT and low-power applications. This includes simplified mobility management, reduced beam management, and fewer MIMO layers, among other optimisation techniques. The reduced feature set helps optimise device complexity, cost, and power consumption, making 5G RedCap more applicable for a wider range of IoT and low-power applications.

5G RedCap enable a more diverse ecosystem of connected devices. This variant of 5G is expected to play a significant role in the continued growth and adoption of the IoT.

The post 5G RedCap appeared first on Siretta Limited.