The all-in-one cellular solution is the first commercially available LTE hardware module for IoT product developers looking to future proof their devices along retiring 2G and 3G networks. The LTE module includes built-in cloud and SIM support, and is certified for the newly available LTE networks designed just for IoT.
Long Term Evolution (LTE) CAT M1 network technologies are optimised for Internet of Things applications for a number of reasons: LTE hardware is less costly, offers longer battery life, and improved connectivity range.
These features make novel IoT applications possible, when they were not economically feasible in the past. These features, combined with LTE’s coverage, will facilitate the next wave of successfully deployed IoT products. In additionally, as 2G and 3G are phased out, Particle’s LTE E Series will provide a transition path for IoT product developers.
The LTE modules are part of Particle’s existing E Series suite — an enterprise-level collection of cellular IoT solutions (including 2G, 3G, and now LTE models) — that come bundled with the Particle Device Cloud, Device OS, and Particle’s extensive collection of developer tools.
“We launched our cellular development kit, the Electron, to give our developer community access to the power of cellular,” said Zach Supalla, Co-Founder and CEO of Particle. “The following industrial E Series line made go-to-market with 2G/3G scalable for enterprises. Now with our LTE module, businesses will evolve alongside the quickly-changing cellular landscape without missing a beat.”
The LTE lineup includes two LTE CAT-M1 models (LTE B13 and LTE B2/4/5/12) and is fully certified, low profile, surface mountable for industrial environments, and powered by Qualcomm’s MDM9206 IoT Modem and u-blox’s SARA-R410-02B module. (https://www.u-blox.com/en/product/sara-r4n4-series)
Customers can order a Particle E Series Evaluation Kit which includes an E Series Evaluation Board with LTE global connectivity, a sample IoT sensor (temperature), and accessories.