Feature

Implementing NB-IoT

Specifically designed for machine communications, NarrowBand IoT (NB-IoT) facilitates the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and enhances manufacturing, by enabling smart processes. Using a low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN), NB-IoT enables multiple devices and services, that require small amounts of data over long periods, to be connected securely using cellular bands, at low cost and low power.

02/03/2023 11:18:34

NB-IoT bridges the gap between mobile comms technologies and short-range wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. This means that an eLTE or NB-IoT chip can be added to the manufacturing terminal, so that the chip can transmit data generated by the terminal, thus enabling manufacturing data to be collected and commands issued.

As it requires only 200kHz of bandwidth and is less susceptible to interference than other unlicensed spectrum LPWA solutions, NB-IoT can easily run adjacent to existing cellular networks in the manufacturing environment. Also, as it operates in the licensed spectrum, it benefits from all the security and privacy features of mobile networks, such as support for user identity confidentiality, entity authentication, confidentiality, data integrity, and mobile equipment identification.

Read the full article in DPA's March issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.