How Socket Modems Change the IoT Device Development Cycle
By Ken Bednasz
April 16, 2020
How to Take Your Connected Device Design from Idea to Prototype with IoT Modems
As the world embraces the revolution of simplicity and efficiency revolving around the Internet of Things (IoT), electronics distributors around the world are working hard to provide technology that works smarter, harder and faster.
With more IoT solutions using 4G LTE networks, the arrival of socket modems, such as the MultiTech SocketModem® Cell, Janus LTE910XF v7.00 (LTE Cat-M1), GateTel SWH-ME910C1-NA and Embedded Planet’s Chronos, means IoT technology is becoming more cost-effective and accessible. Socket modems, also called plug-in modems and cellular modems, are board-level electronic assemblies that incorporate a cellular engine, such as a cellular module, and all required peripheral circuitry (e.g., power supply, SIM card holder, pushbuttons, status lights, mic and speakers, and RF-paired antennas) to make it a plug-and-play device. They are a complete, carrier-certified device that can be easily connected to the application hardware, adding instant cellular networking capability without the need for complex and costly tasks like certifications and compliance and antenna engineering.
What role do members of Telit’s IoT-enabling xE910 module family inside these socket modems play in taking your connected device design from idea to prototype or proof of concept?
Difficulties in IoT Prototyping
Not every socket modem is created equally, especially when it comes to making it easy to test and qualify concepts across different LTE operating categories. Building an IoT device for wide deployment means frequently trying and iterating many times. Therefore, designing with an easy-to-integrate device that does not cause development to be distracted from the core requirement specifications is very important.
IoT Solutions Offered by Socket Modems Designed with Form Factor Family Modules
Adaptability
Socket modems frequently utilize LTE members of Telit’s xE910 module family as their cellular engine, given the availability of a wide range of variants, which include LTE Cat 4, Cat 1, LTE-M and NB-IoT. Socket modems using this type of a module family can provide prototype engineers instant access across a variety of network types and speeds. Socket modems designed with modules in this type can help bridge the gap for businesses that want test IoT solutions quickly in a variety of regions and communication speeds.
Prototyping Costs
Socket modems designed with uniform form factor family modules also deliver cost efficiencies compared to other types on the market. Pairing a prototype IoT device with a socket modem based on families rather than a single module means casting a wider net, testing for a broader range of market conditions. Easily accessible testing for multiple standards and mobile networks enable cost efficiencies during proof-of-concept and downstream in the device’s mass production phase.
Telit has multiple regional and global variants of its modules, meaning that one design for a socket modem can yield several variants of the modem that developers can have available to test product concepts across geographies or different features inside on geography. A broad family of modules allows modem designers and proof-of-concept engineers to select from a combination of price points and capabilities that’s right for their needs.
Application Areas
Application areas benefiting from socket modems for prototyping and proof of concepts include but are not limited to:
- Fleet and asset management
- Vending and security
- Health and safety
- Remote monitoring
- E-maintenance
- Many more telemetry applications
Ensure Success for Your Next IoT Proof-of-Concept Cycle
Look at the module powering your socket modems before you make your final selection. Telit is a global leader in IoT enablement with SIM cards, comprehensive data plans with simplified roaming, IoT platforms , a broad portfolio of modules and more aimed at making IoT solutions easy and cost-effective across any network. Telit integrated offerings deliver end-to-end IoT security that transforms businesses across industries like telemetry, automotive and transportation, smart city development , smart energy and utilities, security and surveillance, healthcare, retail, agriculture, and more.
